2025 Dynastar M-Free 99 - SkiEssentials.com Ski Test Review

[@peterwurst290]

Hey, I'm looking to replace my M5 Mantra with a more playful fun ski. I want to ski off piste, powder and groomers when there is not enough snow in Austria. I'm 6'3 185lbs. Wondering if that ski is a good fit or if 185 is too small. How does it compare to the M Pro 99, Qst 98, Unleashed 98

[@adamg3343]

What do you prefer between the Mfree 99, arv 100 or elan playmaker 101 for a playful all-mountain CO ski?

[@SkiEssentials]

I got along great with the ARV 100 this year. I loved the grip, energy, and flotation. The M-Free is wonderful, but I wanted to like it more than I actually did. Playmaker is certainly the lighter option of the three, so if you're looking for sheer mobility and smearing nature, that's a good one. I personally prefer the ARV out of these skis due to the predictability and pep.

[@christianmcneil6523]

Hey, I got a pair of 2024 99s. I mostly do all mountain/trees but like side hits and doing 360s and stuff too. I think I’m going to get them mounted at +3, so -4 from true center. Will that be good for my application or should I change it?

[@SkiEssentials]

I think that's fine, nice mix of playfulness and all-mountain.

[@ErikGustavTerrell]

Would you use these if you had to have only one ski? I ski Silverstar in BC, from slight amount of park (jumps), to a bit of groomed, to lots of steep soft chunky chutes. intermediate/advanced level. And how are they for skiing switch? Edit: I am looking at the 2023 model, not 2025, what are the differences?

[@SkiEssentials]

No changes from 2023 to 2025. Next year, the 99 gets the upgrade Hybrid Core and new sizing. For now, I think it's a great option and they do great switch as well. I find them to be uncommonly good at trees and are competent in groomers. Park and trees are highlights here.

[@ErikGustavTerrell]

@@SkiEssentials Ok that's good to know. Thanks!

[@paull6678]

when are you going to review the M free 108? Mainly looking to hear how the sizing has changed. they used to do a 182cm 108 that measured the same as my current 2023 m free 99 185. now the m free 108 has grown to 185 or 178 for the shorter option. im 5'9 160 skiing out west but am rehabing a knee injury atm so don't want a super demanding length. the 185 m free 99 i currently have feels great length wise, so im worried going 178 in the new m free 108 might be too short. Any thoughts, particularly from jeff? (similar size)

[@SkiEssentials]

We're waiting on the 108--must be popular or something! The 185 is more true to size than in the 99. I'd think the 178 is going to be a better fit for your stats and application.

[@guspachio4977]

M-free 99 or Rustler 9?

[@paull6678]

@@guspachio4977 depends what feel you want

[@SkiEssentials]

@@guspachio4977 The Rustler has more precision in a carved turn, and if you go longer in length, you're getting more stability and power. I do think the M-Free is one of the most fun and most mobile skis for woods and softer snow so it does depend on your application.

[@guspachio4977]

@@SkiEssentials thanks for your quick reply, and your response is definitely helpful …much appreciated!

[@ChristopherWelchIsBatman]

Thoughts on using this for touring or would you go with the m-pro or m-tour?

[@SkiEssentials]

I think if you're prioritizing touring and uphill efficiency, then the M-Tour is the best option here.

[@ChristopherWelchIsBatman]

@@SkiEssentials it would be a touring setup, but wasn’t sure if downhill would be enjoyable afterwards?

[@jeffbooth6962]

Mfree 99 or qst 98?

[@SkiEssentials]

I prefer the shorter turning agility of the QST 98 and the flotation per width ratio. The M-Free is a smearier and slightly more playful ski and is a lot of fun in the trees and powder, but the QST 98 is more well-rounded in a resort setting.

[@ColoradoGooner]

Recco on sizing? Looking to progress in trees and bumps. 5ft 8 160 Colorado! Thanks!

[@SkiEssentials]

I'd go 171 in this ski, especially if you're looking to progress in trees and bumps.