2025 Men's 110 mm Freeride Ski Comparison with SkiEssentials.com

[@3pedal372]

Babe wake up new Ski Essentials video just uploaded

[@dekjezanis3747]

😃

[@erinb4919]

This is the best comment

[@justing7953]

I’m here just to say you guys are awesome, and need some Moments.

[@benjaminbrown7580]

Just bought the M-Free 108 2024 edition. Thanks a lot for your videos guys!! Best on youtube

[@Nomer77]

Ha I was considering the discontinued 172 but may size up to the 182. I only just saw the 2025 came in sizes below 178, they've apparently expanded the model from 3 lengths to 5 (and the Dynastar website shows as sold out for 162 170 185), that's crazy

[@SkiEssentials]

Very popular skis!

[@r.leeryan8755]

These are high on my list too. What others did you compare against?

[@benjaminbrown7580]

@@r.leeryan8755 Black crows corvus and anima, sender 110, qst 106 and qst blank. Ultimately I liked the top sheet of the 2024 M free and I found a big discount. Also like the twin tip for 360s and 540s.

[@ryansutton5904]

You'll love them. I've had them ever since they've come out and I'm buying a second pair. They are so buttery

[@4frnt_skis]

Let's get some of our skis in there this season!

[@SkiEssentials]

Okay! You know where to find us!

[@batman50ish]

No Hype. The Blank does everything the guys says it does... and then some. The only caution, if you're in between lengths... think about sizing up if your an aggressive skier who likes to ski fast in deeper powder with rolls and drops. In the shorter length, it can feel a little hooky or divey in these conditions given the turning radious and effective edge. For reference, I'm 5' 9", 170 lbs. I had the 178 centimeter length in year one and then switched to the 186 in the second season. I was happy in season one... and way happier in Season Two with the additional length. Still plenty maneuverable in trees and steeps. Thanks to the SkiEssental boys for the orginal recommendation. Its AWESOME.

[@lorenroot7667]

100%. I’m heading into my 4th season with my pair, and have probably 70+ days skiing all kinds of conditions on them. Park City local with occasional Cottonwood visits. These guys nailed this short review of this ski. Crazy fun powder ski on anything 4”+, but it just shouldn’t be that much fun on the flat groomer back to the lift, and yet it is! It’s the one ski I’d hate to be without during a full season. I would add just a couple things: the weight and design of this ski really helps it continue to shine once the snow gets chewed up. Perhaps not a true tank like the Blackops 118 or similar, but it gets the job done well. About the only negative I’ve experienced is when the snow is a touch heavy and SUPER deep (18”+), then I often experience tip dive or perhaps the “hookiness” you describe. 6’2” and on the 186, so I’m guessing that would be less likely on the 194. Either way I got the QST X to cover me this season should we get that much snow 😊. Keep up the great work gents!

[@batman50ish]

@@lorenroot7667 Perfect combo with the X for deeper conditions!

[@kiwifruit5603]

@@batman50ish same, i'm 181 and heavy, on the 194, so rockered not an issue, just more float.

[@olejeffrey]

Same on 186 for me. 185lbs and 6'. Carving always a pleasant surprise and makes it possible to travel with

[@erinb4919]

@@batman50ish thanks for the info re length. I would really like to demo this ski. I am 5'9, 155lb...not sure which length would be best for me, I hate hooky...

[@erichharvey]

You always do a great job with these video's, keeps me comming back. Well done.

[@cams3425]

Another great ski comparison video! You guys and gals do such a great job of reviewing skis. I have complimented Bob's bump skiing in the past, but honestly you're all great skiers in your own way. Thank you for the work you do and keep'em coming. I'm getting stoked for this season!

[@SkiEssentials]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@sgoldie3235]

not really in the market for a 110mm ski but,as the leaves fall off the trees and the temp drops, I love listening to you 2 skiolilogists discuss skis

[@cams3425]

Congrats to you Jeff and your new bride!

[@bearclaw5115]

A testament to the QST Blank's popularity is the fact that it never went on sale this past summer, 799 all the way baby. So I picked up some QST 106's from Skiessentials instead for a very nice price -thanks guys! 106 probably better for me living on the East Coast for pow days anyway. But you can't deny the versatility of the Blank for a Rockies trip.

[@SkiEssentials]

Since the Blank is a carryover model from 2024 to 2025, retailers are technically not allowed to drop price. Even though the 106 only changed graphic, it was not beholden to Minimum Advertised Pricing policy and could be discounted. But agree 100%, it's tough to deny the versatility and performance of the Blank--an amazing 112.

[@yinze425]

1:17:05 I don't know if it's me but I did ask the same question. Finally got the unleashed 108, it's a great twin tip carver. Thank you again for the great video 👍

[@ludwig.o]

You guys satisfy all my gear-nerd needs

[@sgoldie3235]

Kastle MX 118, perfect powder ski for a ski racer!!!! That would be what i'm lookin for! I'll bet that could be a category of its own! and... BIG congrats on getting married Jeff...bravo!

[@sgoldie3235]

Kastle 108... sorry

[@benharsha7505]

Just arrange the wall from skis Jeff likes most to skis bob likes most, but put them on opposite sides

[@SkiEssentials]

We've done a "draft" organization before and it's worked well, but it seems that the slarvy to carvy ones we've done this year have helped a lot of skiers home in on a zone or range that will suit them well.

[@ericaminoff]

Blank is one of the best skis i have ever skied, no doubt… But you guys need to try and get your hands on a few pairs of “Norse skis” Founder Patrik used to design skis for faction but now makes what could be one of the most all round best skis at the moment

[@bstrac77]

Guys!!! Thought I was going to have to wait until tomorrow for this one 😀 Made my night gents!

[@SkiEssentials]

Enjoy!

[@clementjoubert9750]

Could you guys do like personal top 5 videos for each categories ? Not based on special criteria but just feelings and excitement skiing them ? That would be cool cause your reviews are great but it’s hard to see skis that are just better than others ;)

[@SkiEssentials]

We're always on the lookout for fun and fresh ideas like this!

[@alpenjodel24]

Max Hitzig won last years FWT on the Reckoner 110s, very capable ski

[@sethvicious]

he could win the FWT on snowblades

[@SkiEssentials]

This should be a requirement--one FWT athlete draws the "Snowblade" straw each competition and has to compete that event on blades.

[@thefabulousplatypus8956]

Automatic 4th place points?​@@SkiEssentials

[@ronaldp4]

Great reviews! Have either of you skied more than one length on the Rossi Sender Free 110's? If yes, what input would you give me as a comparison, or choice?

[@SkiEssentials]

Just the 184! I bet the longer one is a missile that's harder to control and the 176 will be good for smaller or less aggressive skiers.

[@riptape]

great review! Looking forward to the powderskis :D Would have loved to see the vision 114. Read the newschoolers review of it, and they said it was one of the surfiest skis they ever tried.

[@SkiEssentials]

In our experience on the Vision 96 and 104, it's not surprising to hear that about the 114. They are incredibly fun and engaging.

[@EindjuhMU]

Looking for a daily driver, it will be a my one ski quiver and i’m leaning towards a few different options: Sender Free 110 Dynastar m-free 108 and 112 Salomon QST blanks Head Kore I want it to be steady on and off the piste, in powder or chopped up snow, and if possible also alright on the groomers. Can you give me some advice, love these videos every year 🫶🏼

[@SkiEssentials]

You have a great list here. I think the M-Free 108 and the Sender Free 110 make the best sense for being great in off-piste, powder, and groomers. Blank is a good next choice if you want wider and turnier. Overall, I like the well-roundedness and high performance level of the Rossignol, but like I said, all great choices here.

[@phrides]

I think Jeff needs to get on a 178 Ranger 108 this year.

[@MartCubeX]

lets have a ton of snow this year !

[@vanakunn]

I'm not even skier, but still watching this video. Last winter tried k2 mindbender 116 as my first skis for a day and I was surprised how nice and easy it was to ride pow, chopped off piste and even kinnda groomers (in georgia tetnuldi) so now thinking of buying a pair of skis next to my snowboards. But seems i'd need to test some more skis before buying as theres so many options 😂 and mby something suit better for occasional off-snowboard day with mainly powder and off-piste

[@jonfigley1846]

I bought a pair of these sight unseen, absolute favorite pair of skis I own now. I use them every chance I get

[@trevorcorey8134]

You're missing the best ski in the category. The 4FRNT Devastator.

[@SkiEssentials]

We miss a lot of great skis, unfortunately. There's simply not enough time or space on the wall for every ski in this category!

[@samolson8381]

Already bought my skis new skis for the season just wanted to watch this anyways

[@darinsmith2458]

I think the reason that I got rid of my Kastle FX 96 HP was that they were soft in the tip and very reactionary.. The last time I skied them I literally went head over heals.. It sounds like I would do that with these ZX skis.. Maybe my style of skiing is like Bob's and I ski forward and I need stability in the front of my skis.. My DPS Foundation 100 have the RP shape.. I have different carbon and my skis are a little thicker than that Kaisen 112 so my skis aren't as reactive.. I have to stay forward on them or my tails will catch.. It is between those skis and my old race skis for early season.. I get more tired skiing a 100mm over a 70mm but if it is cruddy they will go over it better.. I see a lot of people out here in Colorado skiing DPS.. I went up the lift with someone in the military who got a great deal on some Alchemist.. He asked me if they were great skis and I told him that if he asked other DPS skiers they would probably say they were great skis if you could learn on them.. To me it is that reactionary part of the ski that has to be learned.. Like Bob said.. Similar to Head Kore.. I am trying to wrap my mind around the Unleashed.. I think that I would be more comfortable on my Enforcer 104 Free.. It even sounds like they are the same weight.. I have read all of the comments and it does sound like this blank is different from QST 106 that I demoed.. I had just got done demoing the Head Kore 99 and it was getting stuck in the crud so when I went to the shop I said give me the biggest thing you got to get me above it.. I think we got 4 inches but what impressed me about the ski was how it would go over and through anything.. I think it was the 187 length and I am 5.9 230.. That ski had a longer turn radius.. My only thing was that I got tired and I broke my arm on it.. I think I would be happy with the 180 length.. I agree with everything you said about the Kore series.. I demoed the 99s and they were reactive and they got stuck.. From everybody I talked to about sizing up they start getting more floaty and more damp.. It is very possible the energy is still there but the ski becomes less reactive..

[@ryansutton5904]

Hands down the best ski on that wall is the dynastar free 108 that thing is like butter skiing out here at kicking horse on a 192 that thing actually tears the hill apart

[@baptistehure7078]

Hi guys ! Once again thank you for your job on these video ! Following your advices I bought the QST Blank last season and I've probably never been that happy and conviced on a ski. So thank you for your advice ! I somehow had the chance to get a Candide BC111 for almost free this summer and i'm wondering how different they feel with the Blanks. Idk if it's worth to keep them or if they will be too close to the Blanks. What do you think ?

[@SkiEssentials]

In soft snow, specifically powder, the BC 111 is more mobile and surfy than the Blank, mostly from a rocker and weight perspective. The Blank handles everything else considerably better. If you're on the 111 and encounter non-powder, the flat profile is tough to get into a turn. But in deep and fresh snow, it's tough to go against a fun and flexible ski like the BC 111 with that flat profile. They feel very different.

[@Sck519]

The ARV 106ti is one of the best skis ever. Once my pair finally fall apart what ski should I get? I live out west and drive my skis but ski a lot of trees and like something that releases easy too.

[@SkiEssentials]

If you want to stay in that 106ish range with some sort of twin tip, I'd look at the Line Optic 104, Nordica Unleashed 108, or the Dynastar M-Free 108

[@kylesharbrough1817]

Yall should review the moment deathwish 112

[@michaelrose5204]

Does the Unleased have a surf-y feel to it? I'm liking what I'm hearing about the Mfree 108 and it playfulness, but I also like how you say the Unleashed carves. I skied the Enforcer 104 Free for a few years, a couple years ago and enjoyed it. Is the Mfree a good carver?

[@SkiEssentials]

M-Free is a fine carver but it's more smeary and playful than the Unleashed. The Unleashed takes a bit more effort to throw sideways than the Dynastar, but I really enjoy the smoothness and connectivity to the snow even though it's a twin tip with a freeride focus.

[@ВладиславКононов-л5н]

2.15? Really? I need extra...no! I need two extra beers!

[@harryolofsson6159]

Great vid as usual! What are the differences and similarities between the Atris, Corvus and Draco? Except that Draco is a “touring” ski

[@SkiEssentials]

New Corvus and Draco are very similarly shaped, and the Corvus only has about 50-100 grams on the Draco depending on length. The flex of the Draco is more consistent while the Corvus has a softer shovel and tail with a sturdier mid-foot zone. Corvus also has less rocker and a flatter profile than the Draco, so it's easier to throw sideways in powder. Atris is surfier and a bit lighter feeling overall, especially in deeper snow--that's the surfy one of the three.

[@TRlCKERY]

This is consistently the best ski review channel on youtube, thanks for the great content! I just ordered the 2024 Bent 110 on your website! As a Utah based skier that doesn't care for speed/charging all that much and am on a mission to progress my park/freeride does this quiver make sense? Ripstick 96 for carving Bent 90 for park Bent 110 for pow

[@SkiEssentials]

Thanks and great deals on that Bent 110! Three great skis right there, with the Ripstick a very fun option for on-trail skiing in Utah.

[@AndrewJohnFord]

You guys do a great job with your reviews! I looking at getting the QST Blank, I am 177cm and was considering the 186cm but I am concerned it may be too long? I will be replacing my Armada 118 Tracer at 180cm.

[@SkiEssentials]

I think the Blank is a good ski to size up on if you're in the middle. The shorter turn radius keeps it mobile, and if you're skiing in fresh and deep snow, it's nice to have the surface area.

[@hughdavidson4069]

Hi there. Great comparison as always! Looking at getting a corvus to complete my quiver of Black Crows with the Serpo and old gen nocta and fill the spot of something that can ski the leftovers of storms and still handle variable snow. I tested the new atris (in less than ideal conditions) and found I didn't really click with them. How does the new corvus compare to the atris in terms of overall feel? If not the corvus then what other skis in the 105-115mm range would you suggest? I'm 6'0 175lbs directional fall line skier that likes to go fast skiing mainly west coast. Thanks

[@SkiEssentials]

In non-powder, the new Corvus feels a bit plankier than the Atris, which is more playful. It's up to the skier whether you like this feel or not, as the long turn radius does great at attacking the fall line and throwing it sideways, but not a ton when it comes to making clean or smooth turns. We found that they were more substantial than the Atris in a good way, just a departure from what we knew of Corvus in the past. As far as alternatives are concerned, I'd check out the Armada Declivity X 108 and the Salomon QST Blank. The main difference here is the turn shape, with the Declivity running a bit long and fast with the Blank having a more active turn style with a shorter radius due to increased taper and rocker.

[@PabloDiabloPL]

I tried Ranger 108 and loved it off piste. Just bought a pair and mounted bindings +1cm forward. I hope it was wise, any experience with that? (I wanted to make it more responsive while carving as I felt like a passenger, almost like the skis dictated the turn radius)

[@SkiEssentials]

Let us know how it goes!

[@patryka11]

I am looking for real freeride skis (not powder) for Europe like Chamonix (more like high East Coast harder snow). So, for different conditions, sometimes pow but sometimes very hard freeride snow and things like that. Crazy stiff I do not want so nothing crazy like Katana or 108Ti. Still stiff for hard conditions. What would you recommend? I am sorry, I like color so thinking about: Armada ARV122, Salomon QST 106 and Blank, and maybe K2 106C, Volkl Revolt 114, BC Anima.

[@SkiEssentials]

If you're not looking for crazy stiff, I'd say the Blank is a good place to be. Nice turning capacity and a smooth and powerful feel, but also somewhat accessible.

[@patryka11]

@@SkiEssentials Thank you very much! You are the best !!!

[@owenjohnson7948]

We gotta start throwing the Moment Wildcat 108s or the Countach 110s in here. Can’t have a real list with the boys from Reno

[@SkiEssentials]

We would love to get on the Moment skis and see what they're all about!

[@owenjohnson7948]

@@SkiEssentials yall gotta! Wildcats are absolute rippers and I just need to see a good review on the Countachs because they’re fresh off the block and no one seems to carry them yet lol.

[@ronaldp4]

right on! Fat-ypus D-Vices are also contenders in my opinion.

[@jeffbooth6962]

Which would be better for holding up against chopped up powder the elan playmaker 1:11 or bent 110? Which one has a stiffer flex?

[@SkiEssentials]

Both are pretty flexible, but I'd say the Atomic is a bit better at chopped snow than the Playmaker, mainly due to the heftier feel.

[@Mr_Dusty]

Are you guys not including any Candide skis in any of your comparisons because they didn't get you any skis to sell last season?

[@SkiEssentials]

Not in a vengeful way, or anything like that, but yes, it's fair to say that Candide skis are not included because we do not have them.

[@masoukamil]

I have an old pair of Salomon rocker 2 108, i love them. How would they compare to the Bent 110? I've been eyeing those skis for a while, because of their playfulness and weight. Thanks!

[@SkiEssentials]

The Bent 110 is very light and mobile--there's a lot of rocker in both tips and tails and the ski is pretty flexible. If you're looking for high-performance or hard-charging out of the 110, you need to have good skills and balance because there's just not a lot of substance other than directly underfoot.

[@masoukamil]

@@SkiEssentials thanks. I'm not looking for charging hard, I will use it to ski in powder days east and west coast, and just have fun around trees, small to medium jumps, some switch and just screwing around. I'll do double diamonds but not full speed ahead. I have a feeling they would be good for that

[@chrisgravel7157]

New Corvus - hmm wasn't on my radar till now. Atris is too narrow for my pure soft snow ski and want a bit more umph. Was thinking Blank/ Rustler 11 but maybe I need to demo a Corvus. Which is the most quiet and capable in mixed and heavy snow?

[@bstrac77]

Same boat….was thinking Blank, Rustler 11, but the Corvus is calling.

[@SkiEssentials]

The Blank is the most quiet and capable in mixed and heavy snow. Corvus is right there, but is more flexible in tips and tails and the turn radius is vastly different from Blank. This makes Corvus a very fun slashy and smeary ski while the Blank is more enthusiastic about making rounder turns.

[@dylanharmer4019]

Love your guys vids, did you guys manage to test the Scot SEA 108s by any chance?

[@SkiEssentials]

Nope! Looks sweet on paper (website) but have not skied it on snow yet.

[@samedhadzic3630]

I just got the new Stance 96 and could not be happier for an all-around great ski, was just wondering between the blank and the 112 free rides which one would perform better primarily in powered and and feeling surfy. Looking forward to getting into powder skiing in the Midwest area. Love the helpful reviews.

[@bearclaw5115]

Powder skiing in the Midwest? I think both of those skis a quite a bit too much for the snow you get there. QST 106 might still be too much even. You said you're getting into powder skiing. That means you want something loose and forgiving to start with. I'd consider the Playmaker 101 for your application. It's plenty floaty for your application, and easy to whip around. It also works great as a tree ski and let's face it, if you are finding powder it's going to be in the trees! Have fun!

[@samedhadzic3630]

@@bearclaw5115 Thank you for the information, I do travel to the Tahoe area sometimes would you say as a beginner around 110mm is just to much

[@SkiEssentials]

The Blank is a better ski overall while the 112 will be more surfy. When you get in non-powder situations, the Blank still holds up, so I consider it to be a more versatile ski.

[@erinb4919]

How do you feel the justis vs new corvus ski? I still love the old atris for fun, soft snow powder skiing, but without any metal in ski, it's not great on harder snow/fast carving... Justis is my daily driver... Does this new corvus bridge the gap for powder skiing? Ie a bit more surfy feel because of the tip and tail rocker, but still some power with the metal in the ski? How do you find the float with corvus?

[@SkiEssentials]

The Justis is more powerful and precise while the Corvus is much happier in softer snow. I'd say the Corvus goes beyond the Atris in terms of pure flotation and drifty skiing while the Atris was a bit smoother in crud and chop. Corvus in deep snow was incredibly playful, floaty, and rewarding--more so than older Atris or many other skis in this 110 range.

[@erinb4919]

@@SkiEssentials cool... Thanks for the insight... Very interested in this new corvus

[@jayceanderson7892]

I’ve been trying to decide whether I should go ARV 106 or ARV 112 for a ski to use this year grand targhee resort, what width and length should I go. I’m 6 feet and 205 pounds

[@SkiEssentials]

I think the 112 is the way to go--this way you'll never regret getting the wider ski when it snows while if you get out on the 106 and it feels too narrow, you'll never forgive yourself. Go 185 here.

[@zenvisuals1]

Gentlemen... Atris vs Unleashed 108 as my freeride ski that's also fun on groomers. Which one would you go for and why? I also really consider going wider and picking QST Blank for the same purpose. Would love your thoughts on this.

[@SkiEssentials]

I prefer the Unleashed due to its groomer performance. The Atris is surfier and a better floater but the Unleashed is an uncommonly good carver for being such a wide and playful twin tip. The Blank is a superior floater to the Unleashed, and similarly, a very good on-trail ski for the weight. I would be more than happy on either the 108 or the Blank, but the 108 likely has a higher level of versatility and usefulness for me personally as a skier.

[@RogerBradshaw-dc1hm]

I found the Hollowtech on the ZX was noisy (kind of like a drumhead) on chunky or icy snow. No reviewer has ever commented on this, so maybe I had a defective pair.

[@SkiEssentials]

No I think that's a limitation of the ski as it is quite rockered and pretty light. I find the Kastle skis to be noisy in general, even in MX line, but have not found it to impede performance, just a sound complaint.

[@moter8926]

Have you guys tried the Faction Studio 3s? If so, how do they compare?

[@SkiEssentials]

We've skied the older Faction Candide 3 and they feel very symmetrical and park-oriented for being so wide. Kind of like the Rossignol, but flatter and more central.

[@jeffff18]

Bob fineagled the rustler 11

[@SnowsailorB]

Bob, between the Declivity 108, QST Blank and Revolt which would you personally choose as your dedicated resort powder ski?

[@SkiEssentials]

I'd say Blank but only slightly over the Declivity, and especially here in Vermont with tighter trees. I also really like how the Blank carves a shorter radius turn if the snow becomes scarce or smooth. Revolt is a distant third for me personally.

[@This_puckinguy99]

I’m looking for a tree/mogul ski. I have some trouble when it comes to tree skiing. I can handle the rest of the mountain with a chargey/jibby style, but once in the trees I stiffen up and slow down a lot. Would something like the elan playmaker be a good fit? Maybe the black crows Corvus? I skied J skis masterblaster last season, and it felt great everywhere, but the trees

[@SkiEssentials]

While the Playmaker and Corvus are great tree skis, with the Elan sticking out as very mobile and fun, they're not great in the bumps, mainly due to the width. Playmaker will be better because it's lighter and more flexible, I'd take a stronger look there.

[@This_puckinguy99]

@@SkiEssentials I just watched your -90 free-ride video…it sounds like the dynastar m-free 99 should check all the boxes for my style and add some help in tress/bumps?

[@samokham]

Hello. Great review and comparison as always. I see you do not longer have Scott pure 109 skis in a quiver. But anyway can you compare them with last five skis (from Kore to Katana)? Thank you very much.

[@SkiEssentials]

I think that Pure 109 fits right with the Dynastar M-Pro 108. Both of these skis have that thick, woody feel to them and do not get bounced around by anything. They're not as agile or peppy as the Kore, nor are they as truly planky as Mantra 108. But very thick, and very powerful.

[@samokham]

@@SkiEssentials Thank you very much. i just bought Katana 108 185 and i already have Pure 109 190 and 182. I can not wait to compare them. Interesting how lighter the pure 109 are. Am interested to see how this apply on the slope.

[@dimitrisparaskevopoulos5162]

As a ski instructor the last 2 year's I've had the reckoner 112 in 184cm. I'm 5,7 feet and 155 lds. I like the ski a lot in deep snow but when it gets variable i feel like it gets deflected and as a result too much work(also I'm more of a directional skier and i like to ski more forward). As a replacement i consider the new Corvus in 181 or new declivity x 108 ti 184. Any recommendation? The Blank sounds also interesting but i feel between sizes.

[@SkiEssentials]

The Declivity X 108 was one of my favorite new skis this past year. Both that and the Corvus have LONG turn radii, so be prepared for that, as it's a bit different from a lot of other skis out there. As such, and with the sturdy build, the Armada is so incredibly smooth and predictable, you just can't expect clean and round turns--they like to be more fall-line oriented. Blank is great, but opposes the Corvus/Declivity in that it has a very short radius for such a wide ski--very different characters as a result but all a lot of fun!

[@r.leeryan8755]

Guys..I need advice. I'm torn between the mFree108 (192) and the QST 106 (189). I'm 6'5/215lbs and would be my all-mtn ski. 50% groomers (fast/charger), 40% offpiste 5"-1' pow/ chopped/old crud/trees, and 10% fresh side-country. Have my 116ARV for the deep. I'm tahoe/UT/WY 99% of time. What are some differences between the two I should consider? I lean more toward TTs/smeary than directional but lay fast carves front side when off-piste is crap. Help me Skiessentials youre my only hope! :) *other variables... QST blank is a little wide but the 18M radius is appealing and on the table. And, if I try to save some $$ with last years models, does that change your answer?

[@SkiEssentials]

If you can find a last year's QST 106 at a deal, I think that should bring it closer to the top of your list. It's incredibly smooth and stable while being an awesome floater. The M-Free 108 feels more twin tippy and won't deliver quite as well on-trail as the QST. Basically, the on-trail performance of the QST is more satisfying than that of the M-Free, with the flotation and playfulness as a closer trait. Blank is great, but perhaps some overlap beginning to show in width with the 116? www.skiessentials.com/products/2024-salomon-qst-106-skis-w-tyrolia-attack-14-gw?ski%2520size=165

[@r.leeryan8755]

Awesome. This is my hunch. EHh, with or without bindings that's a fantastic deal!

[@ewananderson9257]

I’m trying to decide between the K2 reckoner 110 and the Bent 110, I want a buttery playful ski that will be used all over the mountain but mainly looking for soft snow, I like the how light the bent 110s are as they seem like they would be easier to spin but worried they might not have the same support as the Reckoner went the snow isn’t so soft and charging down choppy conditions… I understand there pretty similar but if anyone has any points that set them apart I’d like to hear them!

[@SkiEssentials]

While the Reckoner is heavier, the Bent is stiffer. Reckoner is buttery while the Bent is more energetic. I do think that in fresh snow, the Bent will hold up a bit better under more aggressive conditions and terrain while the Reckoner is slower and more methodical in nature.

[@ewananderson9257]

Thanks for the reply, still tearing me hair out 🤣 what would you say is more playful and suited to all types of snow ?

[@SkiEssentials]

@@ewananderson9257 The Bent 110 has more universal appeal. It's a far safer choice than the Reckoner. I feel that you have to be looking for a Reckoner to get a Reckoner while if you're undecided, the Bent is a better choice. To add to the push, we also have the 2024 (same build different graphic) Bent 110 at a great price with bindings at the moment: www.skiessentials.com/products/2024-atomic-bent-110-skis-w-tyrolia-attack-14-gw-bindings?ski%2520size=180

[@SnowsailorB]

Have you guys ever tried the 4FRNT Hoji? Would be very interested in your thoughts on it.

[@SkiEssentials]

We have not. Looks like a great option for surfy and playful skiers who do not want to sink. Nice long radius as well!

[@ronaldp4]

in my opinion, both the HOJI's and the 4FRNT Devastators fit into this category. And are both great skis!

[@Nico-bv6hi]

Always a joy to watch your videos! Are you guys doing a tourski comparison or something? Or freetour even better :) have a great day! Also: Seems like the new corvus is a pretty nice ski. Im looking for a new touring skis around 110mm. I was looking at the qst x but i think it is a bit wide. So whats your thoughts between the new corvus and the draco? Obv the draco is a bit lighter. Thanks guys :)

[@SkiEssentials]

They're actually not that different in weight--it's more about the Corvus being more flexible in the tip while the Draco is more consistent in flex from tip to tail.

[@Nico-bv6hi]

@@SkiEssentials ooh okay, thanks for the input. But how does that translate to skiing? Especially in powder? So id you would get a new touring ski for powder, which one would you buy?

[@SkiEssentials]

@@Nico-bv6hi The Corvus is more freeridey in nature in that it has flatter camber for a better slash/smear style while the Draco has more camber underfoot that delivers a bouncier and more energetic feel. I personally think the shape and flex of the Corvus is better for powder skiing and the minimal weight advantage is likely worth the extra effort.

[@Nico-bv6hi]

@@SkiEssentials thanks alot for the input! Makes alot of sense, yet 2kg is alot for a touring ski. Could you just give me your thoughts how the volkl katana v werks compare to those 2? This ski looks very interesting

[@SkiEssentials]

@@Nico-bv6hi Some people who ski the V.Werks Katana swear that they will never ski anything else in any conditions ever. Others find the razor-thin sidewalls and full rocker profile nearly unapproachable. As such it's a polarizing ski that pushes the boundaries of what can and should be done in the engineering realm. For one, it's a wide, fully rockered carbon-powered ski that can float, tour, and withstand high-level skiing. On the other hand, it's incredibly unique and non-traditional.

[@69MultiDiesel]

will you be doing touring ski comparison?

[@SkiEssentials]

We'll try to fit it all in!

[@bncooly]

6 foot 280 what skiis would u guys recommend that can handle my weight. I like sking in trees and powder

[@SkiEssentials]

I'd go with the Unleashed 108 or the M-Free 108--both have sturdy builds and a fun-loving shape and style.

[@julienmaheu5368]

Just bought a declivity 108ti (last year version) what are your opinion regarding mounting point?

[@SkiEssentials]

My opinion is that this ski should be mounted on the recommended line.

[@julienmaheu5368]

@@SkiEssentials sweet! Thanks for the insight

[@paull6678]

question for jeff: Is the new m free 108 in the 178cm less capable/supportive than the older m free 108 in 182cm or does the new construction bridge the gap?

[@bearclaw5115]

You're splitting hairs bro. They have to be very close.

[@SkiEssentials]

The older 182 felt more dynamic than the new 178, but not by a whole lot. The new one is quieter and smoother, but there's not a discernable performance gap.

[@No1miya]

Where is Faction Studio 3? It was not shown in the video.

[@SkiEssentials]

We included it in the written article but did not have the physical ski to show in the video.

[@efeozaktas5080]

Hi I live in europe. I found a great deal online for black crows serpo but I am 187cm and the only size left is the 180 cm do you think I should buy It. Is it a big problem If It Is not the 186 cm model

[@SkiEssentials]

I'd say 180 is fine.

[@jeffbooth6962]

Playmaker 111 stronger than bent 110. I55 lbs and want a strong big mountain ski but not something that is too heavy that will kick my butt

[@SkiEssentials]

How about a Rustler 11? Good metal for energy and smoothness but not too heavy or stiff.

[@AudioAdvisory38]

Thank you for showing some bails. Personal yeah, for all reading and the google ai reading, so dnq. Plus wrong wall but right evolution of conversation maybe. Got some copies of the Playmaker. Going to paint it. Last year a team center mounted Bash 86. This year giving Elan the "old college try." stiff and soft. sweet sour. Remember wanting to try Trouble Makers back in the day. Can likely finally take the paint I put over the top sheet of my first gen K2 PEs. More white and red for this weirdo.

[@justinchen1512]

Hii, I wonder where the Studio 3 fits in?

[@SkiEssentials]

We have it in the article: www.skiessentials.com/Chairlift-Chat/2025-mens-110mm-freeride-ski-comparison We simply did not have the ski to include in the video.

[@BigUranium238]

Peak by Bode 110 are missing in this lineup

[@SkiEssentials]

Since we are not a Peak dealer, it's tough to justify the inclusion of the ski on our comparison lineup, regardless of how awesome they may be. We'd love to get on them at some point and if that's the case, we'll surely share our thoughts with how they compare to this selection of skis.

[@foxred2556]

Scott Sea?

[@SkiEssentials]

We didn't bring in any Scott Sea skis this year, although they look pretty sweet from what I can tell.

[@ericmehling3620]

I love jumping on these videos and seeing your choices. I'm sure you have you have a reason, but leaving out the faction studio 3 is a travesty.

[@bearclaw5115]

Sometimes they'd like to include a ski but simply don't have a pair in the warehouse.

[@SkiEssentials]

The Studio 3 is in the written article, but as the above commenter mentions, we simply do not have the ski. Our choices are ultimately limited to our stock on hand.

[@ericmehling3620]

@SkiEssentials I get it, I have watched every comparison for the last 4 years. The candide/mana/studio is a high-class freeride ski, and it would have been great ski to hear the comparison to other skis.