What's the best Ski width for you?

[@kilianortmann9979]

Great overview, the only caveat is that there are two very different types of Ski in the narrow category. Balls to the walls bone breaking race carvers and wet noodle foam core beginner skis, that have to be narrow, because the construction is not strong enough to support larger width.

[@MountainVibes]

Yes, I realized I neglected to mention this in the video. Thank you!

[@sarakajira]

I would say there's a big third category: park skis. Though many of those come in many widths these days.

[@rich7447]

Add bump skis to that list too. My Hart Fusion WC are 64mm.

[@Peter-tc3ep]

Id say three there’s also frontside all mountain or resort skis in the 70-80’s.

[@jimking2299]

@@Peter-tc3ep Best skis I ever owned would fit this description. 72 mm underfoot, hardwood core to hold on the nastiest ice, and flexy, well dampened tips and tails for flotation. Guess they were Euro cruisers, not beginner noodles. Wish I still had 'em.

[@T3PinR]

I'm a shop owner in the East. You provide a very good analysis. I especially appreciate your plug at the end to support your local shop. If everyone bought on the internet, we won't be here to do that base patch you need or find a solution to your bad fitting boots.

[@MountainVibes]

Thanks so much! As a shop manager, local support is a vital part of the industry. Shopping in person may not be the most convenient for some, but it so important when finding the right gear, and having professional services.

[@fullsendskiandoutdoor]

preach

[@dinospd]

@T3PinR, where are you located? I'm in the Raleigh area and I'm looking for skis for this season.

[@T3PinR]

@@dinospd Lancaster,Pa Era Ski and Bike Shop

[@DrCmoments]

Ironically, you are selling your stuff online too, and your are one of those "online stores". However, you do not ship your stuff overseas, so I in Australia will not be able to order skis from your store without using a freight forwarding service. Further, a quick comparison shows you are selling Kastle PX 81 at $799 with extra $10 handling and shipping fee, while skiessentials for example sells it at $749 with free shipping. If I were in the states, why would I purchase from your store rather than from skiessentials? Note that skiessentials also has an "offline" store, and they offer international shipping too. Go figure.

[@briancastora769]

He’s absolutely right. Do you need a single ski to do everything.? Do you need a couple of pair? How often do you ski? Where do you like to ski and what trails are you skiing? This is something the local shop will ask. Most likely they will know the area and the trails you like.

[@theBear89451]

People who ski with an all season ski are the same people who drive with an all season tire.

[@Fortnite.Farsan]

@@theBear89451what does that mean?

[@shevek5934]

I love that you talk about the differences between regions. Too many guides and reviews don't take this into account.

[@jefftinney3131]

70+ here. This is the best review I have heard in my life. My longish 88's work great in piste up to knee deep powder and great in the trees. Congrats !

[@Nutle159]

As a recent beginner/intermediate, from personal experience I can say that a good gripping slalom radius skis can be a game changer when compared against typical rentals or cheaper skis. I found that small turn radius and good grip on icier conditions give so much additional confidence, which one initially lacks when learning! Whatever the conditions or steepness, you quickly realize that the skis will grip and hold you well, so as long as you work with your body position and face the descend, you will get down successfully, however slow that might be. Which, IMO, allows you to grow faster, since then only your technique and confidence needs work, no more battling with the gear, it is now working with you! Found this by trial and error through numerous rentals and demos.. For some reason, most of the cheaper stuff wouldn't grip the ice (or anything resembling it) well, making you lose control and skid, which leads to hating and avoiding the ice altogether.

[@MountainVibes]

Cheaper skis are usually made with composite cores, not wood, which don’t provide the stiffness to grip well. They’re intended for slower speeds and are made easy to slide. I good set of edges go a long way too.

[@timmark4190]

Any model names pls

[@Sqwivig]

@@timmark4190 Get some Rossignol or Dynastar slalom skis! They are great! Or consider supporting local brands.

[@Elizabeth-mn6lm]

Can you recommend skies like that?

[@Puzzoozoo]

@@timmark4190 Salomon ski's these last few years have got a good reputation that is second to none.

[@drhandle4498]

I have come late to skiing (starting about 50 years later than everybody else, but better late than never), so I don't yet ski well enough to know what suits me best. However, I have found that ski hire places are able to fit me with something suitable if I tell them that I'm a novice, and I need skis that are just like me: short and wide with plenty of rocker in 'em.

[@johncontreras7886]

I snowboard and my wife is looking to buy a new more aggressive ski but it's only her second season. This help a lot thank you

[@metsaveikko]

Maybe, but personal experience will tell the truth. Advices will help, but are always guided by the supplier (brand available). When trying your self you can change the brand and the width/length and immediately get the personal opinion yet the gear might look just the same. Testdays are the best (free), but I'd even pay for the ability to test 3-6 different skis before buying my own pair. Enjoy and have fun! ⛷️🏂🤘

[@stephenpleasant9257]

With such high quality content it blows me mind how few views this channel has. Keep up the great work!

[@MountainVibes]

Thanks for the feedback! I really appreciate it.

[@AtomicB-zq2cw]

Just for a reference point, the amount of time you spend on figuring out how wide your ski should be, should be about 1/100th of the amount of time you are thinking about learning how to manage the relationship between your center of mass and base of support, the success of which will result in a ski width’s diminishing importance.

[@johns3106]

Totally agree! Way too many people look to their gear to make up for fundamental flaws in their technique! If you can’t distribute weight properly..flex ankles, knees and hips..pressure through the ball of your foot etc., it’s not gonna matter if you’re on a 80, 90 or 110 mm ski!

[@mauriciorosales1259]

Back in the 90’s we skied everything on the same pair, deep powder in Utah, ice in the east. The only thing I’m interested in now is a powder pair ( for real powder, not ice with a foot of snow on top) and quick snappy pair for everything else ( woods, moguls, carving).

[@rodneyzaumetzer3626]

Growing up in the 80s same thing one ski does it all/you make it do it. I just got new skis/been on same straight skis for last 20 yrs. Got gs race skis 69 and 76. Then got 94 east powder all terrain skis. See if this combo does the trick

[@neddward]

My take: A "beginner ski" that is narrow and therefore a good carver means that it is also good in crud and off piste. It's all about how agile the ski is and hence more controllable. I'm 52 (live in northeast)and bought a narrow carver last year. I can shred moguls, crud and just about everything better than with a bulky "all mountain" ski that I previously had.

[@joannacho388]

Which one did you get? I’m about to buy new skis this year and looking into narrow carver as well

[@neddward]

@@joannacho388 Blizzard XCR.

[@KlintonSilvey]

With more experience I have gone a little shorter, a little wider and more flexy over time. I actually have learned I don't need a "hard charging" ski. I ski with kids a lot and I like to bop in/out of the trees and a good bit of time in the park. Have come to appreciate more chill/slower-paced skiing. I am also convinced that beginners do better with shorter, fatter skis as well. They need forgiving/easy to smear skis, not great carvers. My wife instantly became more confident moving from a carving-style ski to an atomic vantage 85

[@cmccarrick10]

Coming from riding slalom and giant slalom skis with my racing team, I have had a great time using the 2018-2019 Armada ARV 96. This is my 4th season with them and they've held up well against quite the beating! Living in the northeast, I love the tight tree runs and natural trails, but the cover is thin and I hit things all the time. The 96mm underfoot feels amazing, it's more work to turn on groomers but I love to make wide sweeping turns, and they can go 50mph+ without much issue. In the trees, it's truly amazing. Plenty of flex, easy to make tight turns, truly nimble.

[@ljshoreslokal]

I'm on the 2018 ARV106 and I love them but I'm thinking about picking up the ARV96 to shave some swing weight on jumps and in trees.

[@tomdekker99]

@Corey do you recommend to buy the Armada ARV 96? Im interm/advanced piste skier, like to take some offpiste from time to time and tbh kind of a beginner in the park.

[@cmccarrick10]

@@tomdekker99 I'm not that picky when it comes to my gear but I haven't had any problems with them up to this point. They're still in great shape despite the poor conditions I usually ski. Overall yes I would recommend them, you'd probably have a great time with them.

[@SCmatium]

@@tomdekker99 I bought the ARV 96 21/22 and can say that i absolutely love it.. i had a hybrid fischer ski before and usually ski piste, park or backcountry depending on the snow.. the armada arv 96 can be used for any of these easily

[@rodneyzaumetzer3626]

What length do you use for off trail? Is it shorter then your normal length would be.

[@thomasmedeiros5722]

That Blizzard Brahma 88 with True Blend Wood Core is my everyday driver in New England. Love the feel and flex from the True Blend in the 171 cm length for my 5’5” 145 lb. when I am skiing at Alta, UT the Nordica Enforcer 100 has been my everyday driver for 6 seasons. The Volkl 100 eight with full rocker and wood core has been my go to ski for those deep Alta powder days.

[@MountainVibes]

The Brahma 88s are my go to when the conditions are a bit firmer out. Wicked skis.

[@mtadams2009]

No ski does it all so if you can afford it having multiple pairs of skies is the way to go. Most people I ski with have a daily driver and a pair of powder skis. When I was younger I also had a pair of bump skies and twin tips. Now in my 60s I have a pair of Enforcers 88 and an old pair of K2 Side-stashes for the pow, I think they are 108. I am a east coast skier so having the latest powder ski is no big deal. I skied out west last year for two weeks and I used both skies. After a storm the K2 were awesome. The whole Enforcer line is great and very popular on the east coast. I think on the east coast many people have gone a bit to wide, but I could be wrong. Skies are important but it’s more important to be fit AF and have good form. I grew up skiing pow on very narrow skies so I find skiing pow super easy now, even now that I am older. It’s a great time to be a skier.

[@MaxRank]

I ski in Montana and run a 110 under foot but shorter. Conditions at Whitefish and Big Sky can change by the hour so having a wider ski is great for groomers and pow.

[@mtnmanchad]

For bigger skiers that charge and wear packs I think the west coast the 114-118mm range is the sweet spot covers all

[@snowyroo6907]

already got my perfect ski width (95) but i still love watching these😂

[@sharoncruz9901]

Thank you for the great explanation. I am so happy with my new skis and boots - I went to a great shop in Vancouver and got outfitted, and I recommend anyone who isn’t sure to do the same. I’m intermediate but need to ski various conditions here on the west coast of Canada, especially Whistler and Blackcomb. But even Cypress here in Vancouver - one day icy, one day fresh snow, one day slush, one day crud etc… I really found a huge difference when I went with a stable, but responsive front side ski that is still slightly wider, and also a little shorter than I was used to. (Nordica Wild Belle). What a difference. I’ve had so much fun skiing this year and my husband even notices how smooth and confident my turns are on all sorts of terrain. It pays to seek expert advice ❤❤❤

[@lindaweidner5124]

What width & length are your new skis?

[@g3orgie764]

Hey! Me and my partner just moved to Vancouver, what shop was it? Just looking for a recommendation as I'm buying my first pair this season!

[@sharoncruz9901]

@@g3orgie764 I went to West Side Ski Bike Board on 4th Ave. Vancouver (Kitsilano).

[@sharoncruz9901]

@@lindaweidner5124 84 mm width and 162 cm length. I’m 5’8”.

[@sarakajira]

One thing to note too: you can go shorter in a powder ski, and gain back much of that maneuverability. Lots of people go up a size in a powder ski, but if you go a size down you'll still be plenty agile but have tons of float. Personally, I'm all about the wide skis. I use my 116 JJ's and VJJ's as my everyday ski, even on ice. Here in the PNW they are awesome!

[@giancarlocostanza1916]

Same but with my 105s lmao

[@CliffdropChad]

JJ's FTW!

[@nickv3085]

116’s as your every day ski? Hacker-ville lmao Get on a performance ski and learn how to ski well

[@sarakajira]

@@nickv3085 Hahaha I do well enough in the half-pipe, cliffs and trees, and other♦♦ terrain! Hahaha I carve pretty darn well too, can lay my hand down when I carve. But yeah, I should learn to "ski well" hahahahaha Also in the Pacific Northwest, we have some of the best off-piste skiing in the world, and 116's is a pretty common width here. It's a good width if you want to float in the steep and deep. I mean honestly you're not going to be riding anywhere except the groomers in the PNW if you don't have a fatter ski.

[@bulgarianb3ast]

@@sarakajira I have stance 102’s and I felt pretty good in the backcountry in heavy powder but I wanna get a proper PNW ski. I was skiing PNw and east coast so the 102 were narrow enough to ski the ice hills

[@kusotare9559]

One consideration you don't cover is how skier age and fitness can factor into it. As you get older, your knees can become the limiting condition on how long your ski day is. Wider skis put more lateral pressure on your knees and can fatigue them faster than narrower skis, so if you're prone to sore knees, consider a narrower ski (2-3mm) than you might otherwise.

[@mickpowell8503]

Great shout, I am 61 and the knees are shot so I go for a narrower ski with more flex to give me a bit of suspension to ease ze knees.

[@Sqwivig]

Woooaaahh really!? I've been skiing for like 10 years and I didn't know that!

[@DaleMcGregor]

Age and fitness are definitely factors. On the other hand, older skiers who are forced to ski the heavier "powder" on the west coast benefit from that extra float from a 90mm - 98mm width....especially if you can find a ski that is a little more forgiving in the tip and tail, with some rigidity in the waist, underfoot. I picked up some Rossignal Sky 7 HD's a few years ago as a one-quiver ski and am amazed with how versatile they have been. I learned to ski in the interior of BC - the Monashees, Selkirk and Purcell ranges. Started to ski in Kimberley when I was 3. Have been spoiled by chest deep interior powder in the steeps offered by out-of-bounds skiing out of Rossland, Kelowna, Fernie, Revelstoke, Nelson - back in my younger years. Am now 60 and my days at Whistler/Blackcomb are necessarily shorter - but I noticed a huge positive difference in enjoyable duration ski-days with residual stamina into the afternoon when I changed from 80mm width to 98mm skis. With the added width, and lighter materials, you can make west coast powder feel more like the fluffy stuff in the interior - back to that feeling of flying again, instead of all the focus and effort needed to keep a narrower ski on the right plane in "powder"....and I can still enjoy how they perform in soft bumps and on groomed runs when out for a day with new skiers. The combination of rocker and camber, with advanced materials to lighten tips and tails for easier turns and floatation in newer skis has made my old knees appreciate the tech and thought going into ski design. Encourage the 60 yr olds who still enjoy trees and fresh powder to explore the new skis available - surprised that I don't see more marketing directed to the aging population, with promotion of skis that optimize what our old bones are still capable of.

[@markdezuba]

I’m 65 and I ski under foot 64 to 86. I can only do 2 to 3 bump runs a day now. But I have fun.

[@tankerlutz11]

I'm 65 and I can Fuk like puma! My skis are long and girthy. I get the job DONE in fresh powder. I smash pelvis' like no ones business!

[@jimbyrne1246]

One of the best videos i've seen on the topic. Understandable and relevant to me in Oregon. Helped me understand why I enjoy my current skis so much, and also their occasional "limitations." Good insight on directions I might want to head when updating.

[@chrisj7663]

May I please ask for some advice and I guess I can't be the only person out there with this or a similar issue..... I currently have piste skis which are narrow under foot. On the skis it states the following: Variable Radius: 11

[@alant5757]

I change skis every 2-3 years (I’m 60) and right now on Blizzard Bonifide’s. I like a ski that will turn on groom runs and can still go off-piste. This and I can still make quick turns on this ski. In my opinion….you have they off that narrow ski because there are tons of wider ski’s out there that will do so much more for you… in darn near all conditions. Maybe the Brahma 88’s… test them out.

[@MountainVibes]

You can look at the Rustler 9 (92mm under foot). Has a bit of metal to provide stability at speed, and has dual rocker, to give easier float. If you want something less aggressive, yet still performs well, there’s the RipStick 96 Black Edition.

[@mattwoodford1820]

I've been using the Rossignol Soul 7's (I'm not sponsored by anyone) for the last 5 years in Europe and find them light and playful in the powder and yet able to put down big carving turns on the groomers and have saved me on a few occasions. They make a fantastic all terrain ski but slightly more cumbersome on the moguls and a bit more effort. Deffo recommend these "west coast" skis (106 underfoot) if you're looking to leave the piste. Did the all terrain route and they were a double compromise that went straight to the bin after I got the Soul 7's. I find them great everywhere and was surprised how well they worked on piste when I first rode them. If you can't take a quiver with you, these seem to span the largest range of "all" mountain of the ski's I have used

[@rhoonah5849]

I have Head Core 93 under foot skis and I have been using those as my "all mountain" ski here in the east. If it is really icy then I might go to something more narrow but I just skied a mountain this past weekend that got 18" of powder and they performed well on the groomed and ungroomed trails and then was pretty decent on some of the icier trails.

[@rizzivideocollection1902]

Good content. I am amazed at how many East Coast skiers are on 100 mm boards when almost all skiing is packed powder groomers. Even out West, I see folks who spend 95% of their time on groomed slopes skiing wide skis with lots of front and back rocker......i can only assume that people are watching ski movies and seeing their heros and saying yeah, that is how i want to ski, i use the same skis........or being upsold at ski shops (you ski the whole mountain, right.......you need a freeride ski....). Makes no sense.

[@urbanrunoff]

so true, and i end up on the ungroomed terrain with my 76 because i am sick and tired of not being able to carve , everybody just going straight with occasional butt wiggle on their 110 mm floppers on groomed slopes ;). if you do a turn you have to constantly watch your back.

[@noworries3117]

I think a big part of this is that people buy skis for conditions they hope to be skiing, rather than what they actually ski. I’m guilty of this myself. I have a quiver of about five skis, and I get very excited about trying out new mid fat or powder skis, even though the narrower skis are the appropriate tool for 80% of ski days.

[@johns3106]

I am an “east coast” skier and always find it odd (and amusing!) that so many skiers (both east and west) think that ALL skiing in the east consists of sliding around on packed, icy, crowded trails. I know for a fact (because I’ve experienced MANY times) that here in northern Vermont, we get our fair share of epic powder days! There have been many times when we’ve gotten 15”-24” of powder that I’ve been very thankful for having my fat powder boards for getting first tracks on side-country lines. We have our share of crappy icy or crusty days (that require different skis) but they’re definitely not all like that!

[@rizzivideocollection1902]

@@johns3106 I grew up in New England and those powder days are few and far between compared to other places regrettably. Do not disagree that powder skis on powder days makes perfect sense but when if you only have 1 pair of skis on the East Coast, why would you pick a pair 110mm wide underfoot? It is like driving an ambulance for a the few times when you need to take someone to the ER......just saying.

[@johns3106]

@@rizzivideocollection1902 Oh, I would never pick powder skis as my boards if I could only have one pair. But the great thing about living in snow country is being able to go to ski swaps and find good skis for cheap $. I’m lucky to have been able to build a full quiver of good used skis for about the same price that most people would pay for ONE brand new pair of skis. “Horses for courses”…I have skis for hardback, powder, all-mountain and backcountry…and they ALL get used! And, I still think that northern New England gets a lot more powder days than most “New Englanders” realize…Boston, Hartford and Manchester are a LONG way from where the good stuff is…and unless you get out a LOT, you’d miss a lot of those local storms that folks that are 50 miles (or more) away don’t even realize have hit!

[@danieltsarenko5679]

I personally ride some armada arv 116s and they are an awesome ski. Super flexible, a ton of camber and front and tail rocker. They shred powder awesome, ride park and do rails great. And surprisingly handle ice and moguls very well. Also the control on them on groomers is awesome considering how wide the ski is.

[@sarakajira]

SAME! I have the 175 length VJJ's that I rode last season, and just went down a size to 165 JJ UL's for this winter so I have more maneuverability in the trees. The JJ/VJJ 116's are hands down I think the best "True" all mountain ski for the pacific northwest. They float like a dream in powder, and they handle very well on ice. They are also pretty darn stable on groomers and crud. I have no complaints about mine from last season only wanted a shorter size so I got a second pair!

[@derekderedin5242]

I just found this video, but I am from New Brunswick Canada and I want to travel in the backcountry on old logging roads, on lakes and some forests. I really don’t plan on going downhill unless there’s some small slopes or ridges, but overall just to travel the backwards I thought the skis would be better than snow shoes.

[@vadergrd]

tried for the first time over 80 skis , what a revelation regarding stability vs mid 70s .. deffo going 80 more time from now on. also for heavy people don't be affraid of stiffer sky and higher boot flex!!... couldn't even carve on yor regular ski found on rental( 80 90 flex for boots , mid 70s and somewhat soft)

[@diannaMV]

Wow! Wish I had this when I was trying and buying skis in 2020. Very clear explanation. I love powder and bumps, but moved East from CA and may have made the "All Mountain" mistake. I purchased Kenjas, which I love in the right conditions, but of course I'm mostly on icy packed powder these days. I didn't understand why I was working harder to hold an edge through the turn - not as easy as my old Atomics. Thought it was just me. I'm off to try a some narrower options to see how it goes. Thank you!

[@mtnmonk2301]

Overall, pretty good overview. I see a lot of comments below about how you forgot this or that aspect. There is a great deal more to selecting a ski than can be put into an 11 minute video which is why a knowledgeable, understanding ski shop owner/worker is very important (and they are not as common as you might hope). I'd also highly recommend "demo-ing" several pairs of skis that you are considering buying so you can get your head around how they "feel". After all, it's all about how they feel when you're skiing, not how they look when you are standing in the lift line. I see a lot of people on skis that are way too wide for them because they want to look like their favourite movie star but if you're not straight lining huge lines in Alaska or hucking 100 foot cliffs, then you probably don't need to go quite as wide as you think. Be honest with yourself about your ability and where, and in what conditions you are mainly going to be skiing. Finally, you North Americans just don't get Europe! You're missing out!

[@tycojewel7979]

Thank you! This was the best video I've seen to explain to me the meaning and experience of wider skis in relation to my ski experience level.

[@jimstuart9052]

it's easy to see you know what you're talking about. Thanks, that was very informative

[@bman6502]

First time I ever strapped on a set of skis was back in 1927.. I was 10yrs old and have been skiing ever sense.. still run the black diamonds but only half day…

[@riddlerandsa8161]

I missed a bit of discussion of radius on the narrow skis. That makes such a difference on your carving experience. I telemark most of the time (on all terrains) but a couple of years ago went for a weekend skiing in Italy. The first day I had some short carvers with a very low radius (and me at the weight limit for them) and the carving was amazing but I struggled to keep up with the group of friends who just wanted to cruise. The skis were were unstable at speed. The next day I tried the same model 10cm longer and speed performance was greatly improved but now I lacked the weight to really get them carving and the bigger radius clearly didn´t help either. So there is more to it than just the width under foot...

[@viffer94]

I find 100 underfoot makes for a good daily driver out west. Wide enough to float in light to moderate powder, stout enough to bash crud off piste but still not too unwieldy when carving a groomer on icy hardpack.

[@kostyafedot551]

I started skiing in eighties. Back then all of those wide skis were considered for water skiing.

[@michaeldbhawker3556]

exactly and you had to actually know how to carve. Nothing but training wheel skis now. The design will come back around because longer thinner skis are faster. Thats science. Once the world cup ditches the water skis the rest of the public follows suit.

[@tomtellem]

@@michaeldbhawker3556 what World Cup are you talking about? For me, people who buy very wide skis are most probably inspired by events like the freeride world tour. And in these events, the riders could easily choose narrower skis if they made it easier to go fast. But 90% of them go for 116+ in every condition. The junior world champ Martin Bender, an incredibly skilled skier, even chooses 122mm skis over 112s

[@tomtellem]

@@michaeldbhawker3556 but I get what you’re saying. For 90% of people that aren’t professional or have a racing background and a very high skill level, skis that are wider than 110 just don’t make sense. The problem is not that wide skis don’t make sense in freeride competitions, because they definetly do, but that people in the resorts blindly choose the same widths because they see these skis in the competitions

[@paulblichmann2791]

​@@tomtellem😅

[@nemoniemann7936]

I’m older (approaching 70) and have skied since I was 12. I’ve started on the original long Head metal skis. And currently have two pair of Rossi skis - the old is 70 underfoot, the newer is 84. While the newer skis are forgiving, they aren’t as stable or quick to turn and carve as my older Rossi. I’m still a big proponent of narrower shaped skis if you primarily ski the East. Let’s face it. In the East, we rarely get powder days. More frequently we deal with “hard pack” (read icy) with patches of show. The narrower ski lets you hit more tightly those snowy areas the snowboarders haven’t shoved down the slope. But, yes, the wider skis are a bit better in the slush and rare “powder”. For all the years I’ve skied the West, I’ve never skied powder deeper than my shins, so skinny is my way to go. 😂

[@TonyGill1000]

Im looking for powder skis. That was a good summary. Thanks.

[@dalidarak7262]

I’m seeking advice on purchasing a new pair of easy-to-control and forgiving skis, as I’ve recently developed some knee issues and would like something more helpful for all-day skiing. I own the 2020 K2 Mindbender 99Ti and the 2024 Blizzard Brahma 88, both of which I enjoy. However, I’m now looking for a ski that is less demanding, not focused on speed, and versatile enough to handle various conditions, including some fresh snow. Here are my details to help with your recommendation: • Height: 180 cm • Weight: 98 kg • Skiing level: Advanced Essentially, I’d like an all-mountain ski that prioritises comfort, ease of use, and some forgiveness without sacrificing versatility. I’d greatly appreciate your insights on what models might suit my needs.

[@FrootNinja]

Love your info and videos, as reliable as angry snowboarder for skis. Thank you!

[@artthompson3958]

Wow! I feel like I finally understand ski design a little better now. This information will be very helpful when shopping for my next set of skis. Thanks for doing this video.

[@kristinkwit8162]

I’m in my 50’s (woman) skiing on Vokyl Race Tiger slalom skis. I’m an ex racer and mainly ski out west. I seem to have to work much harder than the average skier who pass me up not because they are a better skier but because of wider skis less turns. I love the quick response of these skis but am wondering if I’m missing out of more enjoyable skiing if I didn’t have to work so hard.

[@cantstartit]

Very helpful even as an experienced skier but now 73 solo for easier pistes.

[@TheBiggerGoon]

Great Video. Was wondering if you could recommend a pair of skis for me to pick up for the west coast. I’m abt 6’5, 210 lbs I would say intermediate below advanced. Looking for the most versatile skis possible

[@MountainVibes]

Thanks! Look at the new Nordica Enforcer line. The 94 if you're a more on piste skier, and the 104 if you want a more 50/50 on/off piste ski. If you want something a tad more playful, the Rustler line from Blizzard is a great option as well.

[@stevenalbertwood9090]

CT 3.0X is an excellent big mountain ski with incredible control on all terrain. Most playful ski when mounted in the middle

[@MountainVibes]

I love my CTs. Was very surprised how well they handle almost everything. Wouldn't use them on hard pack though.

[@AccordionJoe1]

How many of us ever ski ungroomed deep powder in the back country or off piste? Almost none. But people keep buying those wide, unforgiving skis thinking they will be the next Bode Miller or Glenn Plake. My Dynastar 4x4s are 30 years old but on the rare occasion when I take them off my ski rack, they outperform most of the junk foisted on skiers these days.

[@mbal4052]

I have one pair of skis, 2022 kendo 88’s. Hope to try them for the first time next month

[@recon7580]

I have Armada's ARV 106 2022 and they're great

[@ljshoreslokal]

I have the 2018 ARV106's and I love them, thinking about picking up a pair of ARV96's to add to my quiver

[@monsword]

the 88-108 we call it "big mountain skis" in AB.

[@TheNeolium]

No doubt this subs counter will blow up, I'm glad to be one of the firsts ! What are your content plans ? I'm not really a beginner but lack a lot of theories around skiing, whether technically, regarding equipment, mountain behaviors and so on :)

[@albertoesteban8312]

This is such an amazing video and channel that I just discovered. Thank you so much!

[@grantlingley5099]

Thanks so much for this video and really all of your great content. I Patrol on the East Coast re lots of groomed and hardpack but at the same time would love to have those wider skis for the occasions that I get to ski that broader terrain.

[@tainicon4639]

Another important thing that I would point out is that especially for us East Coast skiers in the United States, you almost never use fat boards to their fullest. I see far too many people using these things to ski on icy East Coast trails. But the mechanics of the fat word make them very difficult to carve on, and essentially just make it harder to ski. There is a reason that racers have extremely narrow skis on when they’re on the glare ice surfaces. But I think a lot of the Skiing magazines and gear guides use places out west, which really don’t have any ice as a basis for what gear to use. This isn’t to say you shouldn’t have a pair of wider them out on a powder day, not to carve around on ice

[@nemoniemann7936]

Well said! I couldn’t agree with you more.

[@yevgeniyshevchenko9120]

Hey! Thank you so much for this video. You are the first who explained WHY narrow waist is more for beginners. I have only one set of ski (mantra m6 ) with 96mm waist and turning radius 14m! I would say that my level is close to intermediate ( I started to carve but my carving level is beginner ) and it seems that I bought set of ski which is more propriate for advanced level. Usually I go in the morning for groomed slope. It seems that I need to by another set of ski to learn carving faster and easier. Is that true?

[@jamesdunn9714]

I returned to race skis as an everyday driver. I am a pro instructor and that's generally what most ski teachers skied on during the days of "straight" skis. My Elan Ace SLX is 164 cm length and 67 mm underfoot. Love 'em; quick edge to edge, torsionally stiff and camber rich. A good informative video.

[@cbthomas9577]

I am a former Vail Ski Instructor and Skied on Atomic Slaloms for everyday use and teaching as well a foot deep powder. I believe in buying an advanced ski and learn to ski to it.

[@ramses842]

180 length 120/100/110, enough to float and grip in all conditions, good binding is crucial!

[@Dedmuus]

I daily Bentchetler 120s but I only ski off trail in the eastern sierra.

[@ndreyey908]

Super high quality!! You could make a series where you review skis you demo or other tech.

[@mauriciom8430]

Thank you all for these great tutorial videos it helps us beginners a whole lot when we do our research

[@faceinthecrowd5810]

Great presentation! I’m a veteran Northeast skier, skied many generations of ski tech and with the modern grooming and general leveling of many trails the corduroy groomers are most typical for my days, not to mention the knees after 60 years on the hill and knee braces on both knees…..groomers are fine. I have several pairs of Elans that I go between. For quick punchy turns when I want to dissect the trail, I ski the slalom race cuts. When the conditions are more crudish , or I want to bulldoze….I ski the 128 88 108 all mountain skis. No ski is “magic” that comes from your hard work and years of training, but once you have your turns dialed in there are a lot of ski choices and no end to the fun. I’m headed to Utah this winter to ski with my kids who live out there, guess I’ll need to get something fat under my boot!!

[@francismarion6088]

I would do some research on the wider skiis, have a list and rent good demo skiis

[@kevinmcauslan-crine8564]

Awesome video. i've skied a few times now, but never understood the construction of a ski. this has made perfect sense and will help me move forward. THANK YOU!! 👍😃

[@ydwer]

Great overview! I have a question: I’m sitskiing and I want to get into all terrain / powder conditions. I know the wider I go the more difficult it gets ti switch from edge to edge. But do all the same rules apply as normal skiing or is there something to take into account? There is a fact that I’m only on one ski and therefore have less floatation I assume. Hopefully someone has some good tips and insight.

[@ben-does-random-things1117]

93 underfoot is like a New England all around ski because I tried out my new head kore from 2019 and they where 93 underfoot an they went fine through powder but definitely where not the most fun on a groomed trail but they definitely could do the groomed trails.

[@leonv1553]

Hi MV. Great talk. You cleared up the recently applied width focus. Ok what works for a hard working, biking and hiking 61 year old? 185 cm tall, 115 kg. Still missing my Olin DSK 207s, used them all over Whistler, Grouse plus a few interior hills, and loved the smooth speed and any turn radius, the snap, the limitless grip on ice, the always strived for powder turns. They also refused to flick around in trees. Now knees, hips and back is shot. Knee braces always. Down to 195 cm Head All mountain 82s. So forget expert, I try for "advanced" and consider that incredibly lucky. Still search out any possible freshies. I like what Line Skis is doing, my kids are shredding fat and fatter Armadas and swear they work everywhere. Plus my fave small shop sells lots of Line boards. The Heads work, usually. Ideas?

[@MountainVibes]

Hi Leon, I'm gonna lean towards a ski that's high 80's to mid 90s for you. Now, if you want more of a traditional yet "new school shape", I suggest the Elan Wingman 86 CTi. Snappy, powerful, yet the power is easily accessible. You don't need to go Mach 5 to make them work. The added width will give you some float in the fresh. Now, one of my faves for the local mountains is the Blizzard Rustler 9. All mountain twin with Ti under foot to give added stability. The rocker tip and tail make them easy to throw around. Hope this helps...

[@howardcameron6693]

VERY CLEAR ON WHAT TO CHOOSE

[@stap1er]

Rarely get proper snow in Switzerland anymore so I'm sticking to narrow unfortunately.

[@CoachKrajicek]

Exactly what I needed. Thank you so much!

[@paramsraman3948]

Very informative, thanks! Could you comment on your opinion about Head Kore 93 skis? I mostly ski at Tahoe, I would like to make occasional trips to Colorado/Utah/etc in future..

[@LeDore38]

I've got a racing background and been skiing with 70-75 mm everywhere forever in the Alps. Perfect for the groomer but I brought them in moguls and even pow no problem. Had to charge a lot in pow and I'm quite light tho. Last 2 years, I opted for a 2 pair quiver, a derived slalom ski (rossignol hero elite st ti 68mm), and a ripstick 88 as a daily driver. (Plus my zero g 85 touring set). The ripstick isn't the strongest ski but it's wicked fun and when I want to carve hard I take the Rossi. And it's mile better than the carving skis I'm used too in the pow.

[@urbanrunoff]

i really need to try those ripsticks.

[@synesthesiafilms]

And then there was the Apostle 3.0 from RMU who really does it all. I tried it and am blown away by it. Tight Radius, Big Rocker, Directional Twin Tip

[@jamesm6377]

Skiers today are so soft. I used to ski powder (really well no probs) with my Volkl Renntigers

[@vjr5261]

I have one of each. They go with me everywhere I drive in Idaho (where the mountains are 😉)

[@jennifersim8135]

This was a great video. May I ask you to recommend skis for me? I’m a 5’3” woman, 120 lbs. I’m an advanced beginner trying to get to intermediate. I like to turn and don’t want to go too fast. I’m likely to stay on groomed terrain for a while. I live in Colorado! Thank you

[@MountainVibes]

Hi Jennifer, Take a look at either the Head Pure Joy, The Elan Element, or the Nordica Belle 74. All are forgiving skis, but are not basic beginner skis, so you can progress with them.

[@wildrfitness]

This is an awesome overview of ski widths! Love it!

[@Peter-tc3ep]

Skiing on the east and west coast and in Switzerland, placing like killington or just south in NH I’ve found ski more like a lot of the Swiss resorts. Mostly fairly hard pack or granular snow, occasional semi powder days. And ski’s in the 80’s seem to be great here along with a big missed category that’s becoming more popular. For most skiers on the east coast besides extremely north you want to keep it under 90 unless you want to be one of those skiers that can’t carve and just slides their butt back and forth partly out of control with skis chattering down the hill. If your truly an advanced skier and can work the edges on a wide ski on packed snow, that’s rare and congrats on your skill. It’s the reason there’s no one ski that does it all on the east coast. I ski an 82 under foot mostly, some days 88 and on great snow days a 100 which I also use on the west coast, Black crow Justis, Black crow Divus and Brahma 88’s. I used to ski P50’s on race days, 40 now and like to ski for fun now. I just see too many shops on the east coast recommending 90 plus skis as “all mountain” to the customer stating they are an intermediate or “kind of advanced” but not expert skier. So they walk them over to a double metal sheeted 88-104 width ski and call it all mountain ski that holds edge well because of the metal. Then the skier can’t even make a real turn when they get to the mountain.

[@MK-fz4te]

What would one recommend for East Coast skiing? Like typically ice or rocks or grass?

[@janavlasak501]

Excellent video tutorial. Thanks!

[@SkiMachineAlpineEngineering]

This gives some good basic insight, thanks. Is the next episode the test on the slopes?!

[@operationgoldilocks2481]

What are the differences between these and what you use behind Correct Craft Ski Nautique?

[@DavidMadeira29]

I'd say 96 but for some narrows tracks could be too large, nose diving in fresh powder? I never heard of that. Namastè.

[@donaldblankenship5163]

Very informative thank you!

[@charliedillon6319]

I’ve always never really known what ski to get I’ve skied pritty much every kind of ski I’ve been able to get through the rentals and have really came down to the all terrain skies. Not sure why as I predominantly carve and love quick snappy turns. Which I guess my choice in ski doesn’t really reflect. But for me I feel like it’s the best choice as it gives me the flexibility to ski everything. However I am really wanting to get my own skis but have no idea what would really be the best for me as the range is big. Judging from the video I’m thinking to aim around the 84-88 mark. The past few years I’ve been skiing slightly bigger around the upper end of 92-108 all I really felt was everything too abit more effort but you adapt to suit the ski. I’m just scared to buy skis and not get on with them even tho I’ve never had that before 🤣. I’ve been skiing since I was about 4. Usually when people say that to me I take it with a pinch of salt about how good they are but ye. I’d be interested to see what people think the best ski for me would be.

[@MountainVibes]

Ask yourself where do you ski the most (terrain wise)... You mentioned you like quick snappy turns.. So, a mid 80's ski will work well for that, and give you some versatility, if you desire to wander off piste. An Elan Wingman 86 Ti will be a great option. As well, the new Head e.V10 are quite snappy, yet forgiving.

[@antoniosmonastiridis941]

Nice review ,really thanks. But, since not familiar with some terms, can someone explain what a “groomer” is ?

[@MountainVibes]

Marked, maintained runs. (on piste)

[@msm624]

And there's also something to be said about the mindset of a skier and there ability to do different things with different skis

[@besticandogolf5901]

Very helpful, thank you for this video.

[@paulobirek8276]

Great video! I have Stormrider 105s and love them on groomers and in deeper stuff. I also have Laser ARs for my groomer zoomers. Both a TONS of fun! Don't shy away from something that may be a little different than what you may consider. Just make sure whatever you get provides YOU with the fun you want!

[@vivekkumra2734]

Wonderful summary made simple.

[@cfps66]

Hi, I'm a 56 yo east coast skier who may be moving to SLC UT. 30 years ago, I was a good skier. Now, would say I'm an intermediate skier who is just looking to enjoy a nice day of skiing in Park city or surrounding mountains. Powder will be a new experience for me but only if it falls on the normally groomed slopes. In other words, now extreme skiing. I'm 5'8" 225lbs with a stocky build. Yes, I could lose 25 lbs and will but I'm still an athlete. Could you recommend a set of skis for me. From your video I gather that I should be looking for 88-92 but I'm not sure of the length and there may be more brands out there that didn't exist back then. Thank you, Chris.

[@MountainVibes]

Hi Chris, Yes, you’re not going to need something to excessively wide, but having some extra width will help you out on Here are a few skis to looks at. They are shaped differently from one another, but will provide the feel and skiing experience you’re looking for. They do land on the stiffer side of the spectrum, but you shouldn’t have trouble pushing/ engaging the skis. 1. Elan Wingman 86 Ti in 178cm 2. Blizzard Rustler 9 in 180cm 3. Fischer Ranger 90 in 177cm

[@cfps66]

@@MountainVibes Thank you very much. I will check out all three. Not sure if I'll get the job but doing research on things to do in Utah helps pass the time while waiting. Thanks again and best of luck in the upcoming season.

[@DanielGullo]

Great video. What's with the bell that keeps going off throughout? Been skiing for >46 years. Highly recommend the 2021 Nordica Enforcer 94. They are heavenly...

[@MountainVibes]

The bell went off every time I said Generally. Just a way to poke fun at myself. Great skis by the way.

[@robc361]

Wondering how to work length and binding placement and ski weight into this formule. I have 174 Atomic Nomads that I think are 81 wide. They are good on groomers but too long and heavy in tree's like Wanderlust at Breckenridge. I am average to slightly above average skier but can't control these ski's in tree's or mogul's, too heavy. Tried some Atomic 180/100 in Powder 2 weeks ago and they were quite a bit lighter weigth so better in powder and better in tree's even though longer, because I could lift them easier. Im 6' 180. I am looking for a good width, length and light weight for tree's and moguls. Should I move the bindings forwardf as well?Thoughts??

[@jaybiggs5363]

I have been a patroller for 50 years. First, make sure your bindings are installed by a certified technician at a reputable shop in the proper position. Second, and I cannot emphasize this enough, TAKE A LESSON FROM A CERTIFIED INSTRUCTOR. Finding a ski that is good for you in both bumps and trees may require serious demo testing. I ski a 12 year old Nordica Hell'n'Back, 177 cm, with 135-98-120 as my daily driver. They're good for almost everything. In deeper Pow, I use a Nordica Enforcer 104 in a 179 length. I am 5.9' and 200 lbs.

[@sgolding4588]

The ski rack on the wall behind you - Details please!

[@MountainVibes]

Blizzard Brahma 88, on the left; Faction Candide 3.0 (112 under foot) on the right. The Factions are now the Mana 3.

[@garthly]

So Deb Armstrong (olympic gold medalist, skis generally 72 width) is either a beginner or only skis on groomers!

[@ricercr44]

I love her content and find her videos very helpful, but she’s old school. Seems like the type that is still resentful of snowboarders and will shame you if your S turns are a bit skidded. We need to take the elitism out of skiing.

[@garthly]

@@ricercr44 agreed about elitism. I really wanted to make the point that there are some narrow skis for experts, who can use them all over the mountain. The recent fashion for light, somewhat flappy, over 90 mm skis, has been largely a marketing ploy, in my opinion.

[@ljshoreslokal]

@@garthly Marketing ploy? I live in the PNW and we prefer a little wider under foot ski for the fresh pow days, especially if you're looking for a one ski quiver. I'm not taking a 72mm width ski in 12"+ deep side stashes and tree's, there's a better tool for that IMO. I'll take tutorials from Jens (stomp it) over Deb every day of the week.

[@Romans8-9]

@@garthly Narrow skis are useless in deep powder.

[@galatians22122]

Maybe someone can HELP me. I cannot figure out why a good majority of Skiers only ski on piste yet use FAT Skis. I just do not get it. Not long after shaped skis were produced I learned how to properly use the skis by CARVING. The Fatter the Ski the more difficult to get on edge and carve. What are we left with? A Ton of skiers skidding around on piste with Fat Skis. Why on earth do most skiers use FAT SKIS ON PISTE? Is it because its Cool? The In thing? I just don't get it?

[@erikstonesifer7326]

Love my 2020 Brahma 88's. This year bought a pair of Elan Wingman's CTI 86. I know they will carve, just wondering if they will be as versatile. One way to find out. Just need some snow here in ID. Also, do you find the newer Brahma's are too stiff with the new carbon sheething? Loading a ski at 54 is not as easy as it was 5 years ago. ;-)

[@MountainVibes]

I find the 86 CTi to be more versatile than the Brahma 88s simply because they are not as stiff. They ski very well at high speeds, but you don't have to ski at mach 1 ALL the time, unlike the Brahmas. I recently sold mine for that exact reason. The Elans are more manageable in bumps, and crud, in my opinion.

[@denton1972]

I may have missed this but what do you recommend for moguls and bumps?

[@andrewyoung8764]

usually more narrow and responsive skis

[@Tyler-mp7kh]

I have super7s for powder that I love. But I’d like something a bit stiffer and smaller to use as a daily ski at whistler. I carve great big wide turns and go fast on my super 7s fine but i def have to get very low in order to get a good grip. Do you have any recommendations for all mountain 96ish mm skis if I have back up 116mm powder skis.

[@MountainVibes]

I’ve really enjoyed the Blizzard Rustler 9s up at Whistler. 92-94 underfoot (depending on length), with some Ti underfoot to provide more stability. If you want something even more stable/ powerful, the Nordica Enforcer 94 would be a good choice. Or there the Rustler 10 (102mm), and the Enforcer 100, if you desire a bit more width.

[@ksm273]

Can we just measure the width with a ruler instead of looking up in the spec sheet, the web, or the inscriptions? Or is the physical with different from the "nominal" width?

[@JB91710]

Based on my 58 years of skiing and teaching on all types of skis and lengths, here's the deal, the reality, of skis today. 1. No matter what ski or length you buy, you have to adapt your body to it. Your upper body positioning has to be adjustable to make the skis work in all types of conditions and grades. Example: There are all types of cars from Smart Cars to Formula One. They all go forward and back and make turns but your input is going to vary to make them work in every conmdition and situation. Even cars in the same class, race cars for instance, each one will require specific inputs from you to make it work at it's peak performance. 2. Back to skis. Each ski in each class, in each available length, will need adjustments in your input to make them work on the exact same line down a given slope. 3. Basically, the slower you want to go, the shorter the ski. The faster you want to go, the longer the ski. Go karts have very short wheel bases. Land speed cars have very long wheelbases. You need the right length for the speed you plan on going. 4. When I ski, all I do is evaluate the skiers around me. 9 out ot 10 skiers ski incorrectly. Their input is all wrong and defeats the design intention of the skis. They actually ski as if they have wood 1x4's with screwed on edges and force the skis to turn instead of allowing them to perform as designed. It is NOT your fault!!! It is the way you were taught and unfortunatily, the way you are Still taught today. So, what you have on your boots doesn't really matter much. So here is the way for you to buy skis. a. Pick you favorite brand. b. Pick your favorite color to match your boots and cloths. I'm not kidding! c. Go to the best ski shop in your ski area and tell them how you ski. A video on your cell phone will be of great help. Like I said, it really doesn't matter much. d. Rent a few different skis from them and choose the ones you like the best. Understanding what skiing is and what the skis need from you is the answer, not which skis you have on. No matter what ski "I" put on, I would have to adapt to what it needs.

[@Peter-do8gy]

Hi I am an eastern advanced skier so I mostly deal with groomed , packed powder on good days, ice and our share of crud.I currently ski a Volkl RTM 81 as my everyday ski and I am looking for a ski that provides more versatility. My choices are down to the Mantra M6 2022 in the 96mm or to wait on the new Kendo 88 2023 edition .Any ideas on my best choice between the two ? I am also considering the Nordica Enforcer 88 as well but the line is more unfamiliar to me.

[@MountainVibes]

I’m not too familiar with the Volkls, so I can’t give honest feedback. However, the Nordicas will be an excellent choice. 2 layers of Ti, so they will be super stable, and the tip and tail rocker will give you a bit of float when needed.

[@katahdincloud9803]

Kendo