2025 Line Optic 96 - SkiEssentials.com Ski Test Review

[@matuspavlik8091]

How would you compare these in terms of carving, edge grip, on firmer snow, ice with unleashed 98?

[@SkiEssentials]

The longer camber of the Unleashed makes it a smoother performer on-trail than the Optic, but it's pretty close.

[@mycentralasiavideos6281]

Love these reviews! How would you say these are for tail butters? Is the tail too low/stiff? I’m a fairly hard charging but playful tele skier. Tele means I cannot nose butter, so I really want to get tail butters down this season. Also considering volkl Revolt 96s but wonder if they’re too soft for high speeds in the hard pack/lumpy snow that we get here in Europe. Thanks! Also I’m 180lbs, 6’2” so was thinking the 184 lines would be best size? Thanks!

[@SkiEssentials]

While the Revolt 96 will be an easier tail buttering ski, I do think the Optic provides more upside overall. I suppose I wouldn't advise buying a ski solely on its ability to tail butter, which puts me firmly in the Optic category--I think that'd be a great tele ski overall. 184, yes.

[@koenig12]

Are these only for advanced /expert? What about intermediate to advanced? And compared to mindbender 96c, or blackops?

[@SkiEssentials]

I think advanced skiers who are athletic will be fine on the Optic 96, but an intermediate may find it to be on the cumbersome side. The Blackops is in a similar light while the Mindbender 96 C is a great intermediate option.

[@antoinecollignon5010]

What would you say the difference is between this one, the Faction Studio 2 & Nordica Unleashed 98? Thanks!

[@SkiEssentials]

The metal used in the Unleashed and the Optic put those skis on a different level in terms of stability and dampness. the Studio has more of a symmetrical shape, making it more playful, creative, and freestyle oriented. I'd also say that the Unleashed is a bit more energetic and peppy while the Optic is smoother, quieter, and with a heftier feel.

[@antoinecollignon5010]

@@SkiEssentials Thanks! Is the Studio suitable for a 70/30 on/off-piste skier who wants to start being a bit more creative, or not at all ?

[@SkiEssentials]

@@antoinecollignon5010 Suitable, yes, but on-piste is not a notable strength compared to skis like the Unleashed or Optic.

[@jeffbooth6962]

How would you compare this to the enforcer 94? I want something a little less demanding than the enforcer, but still good stability and edge hold

[@SkiEssentials]

I think you're right there. You get more of a twin tip shape and style but still a good amount of metal for damping and grip. The Enforcer will hold on tighter to the turn, but isn't quite as versatile from a freeride perspective.

[@jeffbooth6962]

@ thank you