2024 K2 Mindbender 96 C Ski Review with SkiEssentials.com

[@ADHski]

I will definitely be picking up a wider set of ski's for next season. And I will surely be watching every review and video Ski Essential's puts out to narrow my selection down! Thanks for all you do, and pumped VT finally got the snow you deserve. Keep up the good work team!

[@SkiEssentials]

Thanks so much! Hope you find what you're looking for!

[@benshorthouse2979]

Pretty sure I've seen you as a big community member for Lucas Catania, love the K2s also!

[@ADHski]

@@benshorthouse2979 Yes sir!! That's wild! Definitely eyeing this set of K2's!

[@CC-ys8qq]

Nice! Psyching on this. The 89TI is an on piste ripper and these new carbon will hopefully be more compliant in the softer snow, trees, and bumps. Thanks boys!

[@SkiEssentials]

You got it! Great skis for sure.

[@raymondsiewert2720]

Man that snow in the first segment was awesome ! 2 foot of pretty dry looking powder and still coming down ! The best snow is when it is snowing. 😊

[@SkiEssentials]

Storm skiing is the best for sure. We had about 40 hours straight of snow this week so we got plenty of it!

[@billiam3367]

I just bought the 96C (178 cm) and I thank you for the detailed reviews which helped a lot. I have not skied it yet, as my last ski day in the Tahoe area was May 4, 2024. But, it was between the 96C and the Elan Ripstick 96 -- all based on reviews and comments and not demos. I picked the K2 because I felt it was a safe choice to be the all-mountain, nearly fat ski I want. My existing skis are 80mm, 90 mm, and 107mm so this fits in between those -- and the 107 (Rossi Soul 7) is softer and more of a pure powder ski. So, I expect the K2 96C to be better on groomers and hardback, as well as being a quicker turner than the Soul 7. I feel that it will handle some pow and crud, as well as moguls and trees. Basically, I wanted a ski that could go 35-45 MPH and not chatter and hold a good edge, but be a quickish turner and bit of a powder ski too. Interestingly, side by side with the 180 cm Soul 7, the K2 96 looks at least as long. I am hoping it skis more like a 175 ski than a 180 ski, and I assume it will due to the rocker, but I can deal with it due to the light weight and quickness. I am an advanced skier and sometimes ski expert terrain and almost the whole mountain in CA, UT, OR.

[@SkiEssentials]

K2's have historically measured a bit long, so this is not surprising to hear. I think you're all set here--the shovel of the K2 is very forgiving so that does take some swing weight off the top. While they measure long, I do think they can ski a bit short.

[@billiam3367]

@@SkiEssentials You guys are so good at responding to comments and questions. I have recommended Ski Essentials to all my ski buddies because your reviews are the most helpful I have ever seen on the Web. BTW, I am about to turn 73, so this was likely the last quiver in my arsenel. My 90mm ski is the Salomon 1080 Gun (the grandson of the Pocket Rocket) which is my fav ski of all time. And, I am retiring this Fall so I hope to go from my usual 5-10 days a year to 30-40. Hence, my hankering for a wide range of choices.

[@SkiEssentials]

@@billiam3367 Happy retirement! Now's your time to enjoy MULTIPLE skis!

[@matsnordvik1542]

would love to always see a flex test when reviwing skis. any how great video.

[@SkiEssentials]

I feel like we mostly do the flex thing--sometimes it skips the mind.

[@raymondsiewert2720]

Glad that you guys got some good snow. Us in California.....we almost got too much snow, because you can't even get to the mountains ! 😮

[@SkiEssentials]

Amazing to see the pictures and videos of the poor houses buried in snow!

[@plgard]

RE: 0:50 “You Can’t Win ‘Em All Jeff!” 😂

[@michaeldiamond7063]

How would this compare to the QST 98? you kind of touched on it but why would you get this 96c over the qst98 or the QST over the mind bender c?

[@SkiEssentials]

Skiers who are looking for a bit more heft and stability will likely gravitate to the QST while those that are looking for more of a mid-range of directional skiing will feel more at home on the K2. I'd say the QST has a slightly higher performance ceiling when it comes to deeper snow and more aggressive skiing, especially since it's offered in a 189.

[@michaeldiamond7063]

@@SkiEssentials Thanks for the reply! There are just too many good choices and having a hard time choosing my next ski.

[@craftsmanbuilders]

Thanks for another great review Bob and Jeff! Hard to believe we’re already looking forward to 2024 skis!! These new carbon Mindbenders sound really sweet. I’m wondering, in general, how you would compare these to the new Blizzard Rustler 9’s that are coming out next year. And, more specifically, for skiing Colorado powder and trees. Thanks!!

[@SkiEssentials]

While not as grippy or poppy as the Rustler for 2024, the K2 is more maneuverable and with a more flexible shovel. This makes it easier to turn and a bit better suited for scooting around in the trees. If you're a less aggressive skier, the K2 makes more sense in the powder, but a heavier or more aggressive skier will fit better in the Rustler's build and flex when the snow gets deep.

[@brianblandford9089]

You guys are awesome, seriously great content. I currently have the ‘23 Rustler 9 (180) and was looking at maybe getting the QST 98 for a little more all around flexibility. I’m an advanced intermediate skier here in UT, ski both with little kids and with friends so the level of skiing varies. Generally looking for a fun easy to maneuver ski that’s solid on groomers and good off piste in trees etc. Would this or the QST 98 be worth the upgrade or should I stick with the Rustler?

[@SkiEssentials]

Thanks! I don't think either are truly upgrades, as long as your Rustler is still in good shape, they just offer different characteristics. The K2 is more flexible in the shovels and is esaier to use overall. The QST 98 has a lot more rocker and taper than most other skis at this width, but it surely feels like a very comprehensive and versatile ski. For easier skiing, I'd go K2, but for more of a sturdy feel without metal, we love the QST 98.

[@kod1ak30]

Thank you for another amazing review! Already pumped for next season and am likely going to pick up a 96C but not sure on length. I’m an intermediate skier who just switched over from a decade of snowboarding and am 5’9 175 lbs. West coast based, prefer to be in the trees but when on piste I’m not planning on breaking any speed records. Leaning towards the 172 but not sure if I should size up due to the rocker.

[@SkiEssentials]

You're welcome! It's going to be great for what you're looking to do--very easy to ski with a high performance ceiling. For sizing, I'd say 172 is great for your stats and application. Have fun! SE

[@kod1ak30]

Awesome thanks for the recommendation, can’t wait to try them out next season!

[@markgrabowski1192]

I love the reviews, and this is another Great review. I've going over your review of Mid-90 skis. I'm looking to add to my quiver. I've got an 88 Enforcer but I'm looking for a more playful mid-90, not for park, just playful, slipping turns, "swarvy" playful / fun ski. I don't ski super fast. I like the k2 96C, but I'm 6' 240lbs. Am I too big for this ski? If not, I'm also looking at the Ripstick Black, Rustler 9, Optic 96, Oblivion 94, ARV94 or Unleashed 98. I want a playful, easy turning, side sliding, "slarvy" not carry that turns super easy, and I can be lazy on? What do you recommend?

[@SkiEssentials]

I'd say you're on the big side. I'm 6/2 225 and felt like I could bend it pretty darn easily. In that 96 range, the Black Edition is one of my favorites, and the Unleashed is another amazing ski for what you're looking to do. I'd stay a bit further away from the non-metallic twins like the Oblivion and ARV, but the Rustler and Optic are still in play. For more all-mountain performance without going too rugged, the Elan makes a lot of sense while the Unleashed is just so well-rounded and damp.

[@ricercr44]

How comparable are these to the Solomon stance line?

[@SkiEssentials]

The Ti versions are more direct comparisons, so a ski like the 96C will feel lighter and more flexible than the Stance 96--even the 2024 version. The Stance is more precise, stable, and damp due to the metal laminates, and are better suited for more aggressive skiing at higher speeds.

[@ricercr44]

@@SkiEssentials That’s welcome news. It’s so easy to get gear envy and always search for the next thing. I love my stances and ripped ludlow a couple weeks ago with them. I’d be interested in demoing the mindbender TI at some point though.

[@valentinmakeev5856]

Thanks for the review! Are there any changes in 90c due to introduction the new carbon Mindbenders?

[@SkiEssentials]

It's a slightly different shape with different sizes. Wider shovel and tail, but same waist, so a slightly shorter turn radius. They get the Bio-Resin, but not the Flax.

[@squirrels1115]

Late to this discussion but how would you describe the “level of skier” between the 96c and the 90c? I demoed the 90’s in Santa Fe, light powder day with some wind blown crud, and they felt great. But I’m wondering if the 96’s would allow me to advance more as an intermediate skier? Thanks for your thoughts.

[@SkiEssentials]

The build is the same in the 90 and the 96, with the difference being the width and one more available length in the 96. If you find yourself in snowier zones more often than not, then the 96 is a wiser choice, but there's not much of a performance upgrade or a skier level upgrade since they are the same build--more of an application, whether soft snow or not.

[@davidspear6682]

That's not the flax you're feeling, it's the bio-resin.😂

[@fimfengius]

Hello guys and many thanks for a very good review! However, I miss a discussion on the qualities of K2 MB 96 on icy conditions and hard pack. Could you please fill this gap for me? Take care!

[@SkiEssentials]

I wouldn't say icy conditions and hard pack are strengths of this ski, but they do just fine for a mid-90's non-metal ski. As long as you keep a pretty shallow/flat edge angle, they're pretty fun when it gets firm. The 99Ti or 89Ti are certainly better options for these conditions than the 96C.

[@Sep45]

Awesome review as usual! For 90-something 184cm ski to have relaxed fun in trees but get you down the groomers with some speed & confidence (6’2” 195)…QST 92 or Mindbender 96 C?? 🤔 …or Blaze 94!?

[@SkiEssentials]

I'd say the QST 92 has the most confidence overall with the Blaze just behind. The K2 is great--super playful and fun, but not quite the on-trail performer that the other two skis are. I think the QST 92 is about as pleasing as it gets when it comes to mixing on and off-trail capabilities.

[@Sep45]

@@SkiEssentials Thank you!

[@josephdaigneault1687]

Looking for a new tele ski in the mid 90’s. I am considering the mindbender 99ti, then I came across your video of the 96C, how does the 96C handle when it gets chopped up? Does it have enough weight to plow through crud?

[@SkiEssentials]

the 96C isn't terribly plow-ish when it comes to crud, especially in the shovel. From the midbody to the end, it's a lot more comfortable but the tips are pretty flexible. If you are looking for crud performance, the Ti version is certainly more substantial, but how often are you skiing and needing that characteristic? For tele skis in the mid 90's, I'd check out the Black Crows Camox or the Rossignol Blackops 98.

[@christophermagnuson1270]

Oh boy is this great ⛷❄️ ski reviews and ncaa hoops.

[@SkiEssentials]

Last night was great. Choices of three different games, plus the Bruins, and The Office was on two different channels as well. Add a ski video to the mix and it was a wonderful Thursday!

[@christophermagnuson1270]

@@SkiEssentials I had Arizona aaargh that’s what I get picking the west coast soft like there snow

[@TheOriginal1234]

How would these stack up against the 99TIs? I was speaking to a professional and he was saying that the carbon wouldn't ride the best on chunder and frozen chunks, while the Titanal ones just charge right through the crap snow. Thanks for the input!

[@SkiEssentials]

Pretty accurate. The Ti will definitely charge harder through more adverse conditions and terrain. They also carve better on firmer snow and in a higher speed groomer format. That said, they're heavier and more demanding, so there's a balance here. How often are you looking for top-end performance? If it's a lot of the time, then lean to the Ti, but if you're more moderate most of the time, the 96 C will be a better ski from a percentages standpoint.

[@TheOriginal1234]

@@SkiEssentials well, id prefer to stay in the trees and pow, but when on groomers i like to go as fast as possible

[@thomasmedeiros5722]

How would the 96 C compare to the new Rustler 9. I have the Original Rustler 9 and love the feel. Also have the Hustle 10 and really enjoy that carbon model.

[@SkiEssentials]

The K2 will feel somewhat in the middle of Hustle and original Rustler. The shovels of the K2 are a bit softer than either of the Blizzards, but the tail is longitudinally quite stiff. The K2 also falls more to the directional side of the spectrum, and while it can be drifted and smeared on, it's not nearly as easy to do it as the Hustle. The new 96 C is a bit lighter and more flexible than the Rustler, especially in the tips.

[@lawrencehicks9607]

Jeff, I'm about the same height and weight as you, what length ski did you like? I have other skis for groomers, Enforcer 88 179 cm, Stockli AX 175 cm. I'm looking for a ski that's easier in the bumps and trees. These and the Solomon QST 98 sound very interesting.

[@SkiEssentials]

Hard to go wrong with the QST 98 for bumps and trees at this width. The K2 is a bit lighter and quicker, but not quite as stable or floaty. If you're on the more aggressive side, I'd think the QST would be a better fit. For length, the 178 seemed to be a good choice.

[@thomasmedeiros5722]

How would this Mindbender 96C compare to the new Rustler 9. I ski and love the old original Rustler 9. I am 5’5” 145 lbs and ski the 172 cm. I tried the new Rustler 9 in a 174 cm. I think I prefer the narrower 92mm @172 cm original version. Based on your review I bought the Hustle 10 172cm and absolutely love it🙏🙏

[@jeffpatton-ni8fr]

How do you compare these to the DPS Pagoda 100 RP?

[@SkiEssentials]

The Pagoda feels considerably stiffer and more reactive than the K2. If you're looking for more energy and pop, the dual-carbon laminates of the DPS make it considerably stronger of a ski. That said, if you're interested in more of a mid-range of flex and precision, the K2 is far friendlier.

[@Aaron-bt6td]

think they are trying to compete more with the Elan Ripsticks?

[@SkiEssentials]

I don't know if "try" is the right word, but it's certainly going to compete. It was a pretty good sized hole in K2's line that they went from an 89Ti to a 99Ti and then a 90C to a 116C. There was nothing mid-90's all-mountain that falls into the accessible/fun category. Now there is!

[@NowImUnderControl]

What do you think about this vs Fischer ranger 96 ? I guess the metal in those is the obvious Factor

[@SkiEssentials]

There's a bit more oomph in the Ranger in firmer snow, but I'd rather ski the K2 for anything soft or in tighter spaces. I never really found a great energy coming out of the Ranger, but did enjoy the pop from the K2 a bit more.

[@benhall3019]

How would these 96/108 C's go up against a Volk Blaze 94/106 ? Looking for one ski with a shift.

[@SkiEssentials]

While the Blaze is a bit stiffer and sturdier, the K2's are driftier and floatier. The new K2's are a lot of fun, but operate better from a playful perspective. One ski with a shift, for both in and out of bounds, it's tough to go against the Blaze 94--that's one of my all-time favorites.

[@michaelmoran4012]

Hey, could i get your guy's help on this ? I am 6, 3" and 211 lbs (from euro so based on converters) (27years) i am a good technical skier, I ski in alpine area (austria) and i am looking to expand into become better at mogul, fun skiing as in i would like to learn switch and a few tricks like 180, 360 and a maybe a few butters. I am not a skier that has to go super fast i prefer to go a more medium speed and have some fun. i was lookin at these ski's and i am unsure if these are for me due to my height and weight. any input would be greatly appriciated

[@SkiEssentials]

The 96C might be on the flexible side if you're aggressive. I'd go one notch firmer and check out the Nordica Unleashed 98, Black Crows Camox, or Rossignol Blackops 98. You'll keep the playfulness but add some performance.

[@michaelmoran4012]

@@SkiEssentials oh super thx so much for the reply and so fast

[@kylerobertson3433]

Would this be a good first ski for as strong intermediate to advanced skier in Tahoe?

[@SkiEssentials]

I should think so! Great flotation, easy to use, and allows for comfortable progression in carving turns.

[@kylerobertson3433]

@@SkiEssentials Thank you! Would this be a better fit than the 99ti?

[@SkiEssentials]

@@kylerobertson3433Likely, especially if you're not looking to work too hard. The 99 takes considerably more effort to find the top end.

[@kylerobertson3433]

Awesome. Thank you@@SkiEssentials

[@danielhaselbach4294]

How would these compare to the poachers

[@SkiEssentials]

Poacher feels a bit more dense, but not as smooth. The ability of the 96C to flex and contour to the terrain and snow conditions is pretty impressive. The Poacher does great, but is a bit more jumpy when it comes to the all-mountain side of the spectrum. Clearly more freestyle acumen in the Poacher.

[@bermudadrain921]

imagine Jeff with a beard 🤔

[@SkiEssentials]

He had a bit of a moustache the other day and he did not like it.

[@ricklachaine5406]

@@SkiEssentialshaha 😂

[@darinsmith2458]

i saw flax... i thought that was a Solomon thing

[@darinsmith2458]

i like the lazy comment.. i hurt my back last week on my enforcers and then i skied my DPS and my back was not there.. infact i crossed my tails and spun around and thank god the snowboarder was good and was able to avoid me.. i don't think i have ever crossed my tails before... i will have to keep that in mind..

[@darinsmith2458]

flax.. QST you brought it back..