2023 Volkl Deacon 84 Skiing and Short On Snow Review with SkiEssentials.com

[@BrandonMeyer1641]

Sitting in i-70 traffic perfect time for a skid essentials review

[@SkiEssentials]

Ha! Say hi to Georgetown for me!

[@sucapizda]

I have a set of these, and one thing I can say is they are suuuuuper predictable. I carve hard on them at speeds in mostly man made icy snow conditions, and they never screw me over bay doing something threatening. Especially when I'm flying next to the tree line ( looking for some better snow ) Love these. Cheers.

[@jmmmmj1]

I skied these at Steamboat as a demo for 3 days and didn’t even bother trying any other pair. I am a 65-year-old x-racer in good shape. I absolutely loved them! They will take whatever you throw at them.

[@SkiEssentials]

Great feedback, thanks for sharing! When you know, you know!

[@thomasmedeiros5722]

I am a long time ski shop guy so I have lots of choices in brands/ models. I got a Nordica Pro Machine boot that has GripWalk soles but my old front side carving ski is pre GripWalk. Replaced it with a Deacon 84 this year and absolutely love this ski. I had skied the New Brahma 88 as my everyday driver the last two seasons but the Deacon 84 has become my favorite for firm snow. These ski love firm and hard pack but ski great in variable snow. Although the waist is 84 mm the shovel is relatively wide so they handle loose and variable snow. I find it easy to make different turn shapes. Although they love to go fast they are very easy to turn at low speed in family zones or skiing with a group of friends socially.

[@SkiEssentials]

Deacon is such a fun ski! I still am surprised you don't see more of them. See about 20 Kendos every time I go skiing, and maybe 2-3 Deacons.

[@Reiberle]

Love these episodes!

[@SkiEssentials]

Thanks, they're fun to make!

[@balsheme2613]

Great review, thanks for sharing guys

[@SkiEssentials]

Was fun to make!

[@jerl.980]

2 year ago i tried all the skis at the test with my son ( ski coach, top 20 racer sl/gs a really solid skier) we tried maybe 20 skis in the race and carving category. We took note and we always do our top 3 at the end. We don’t share until the last run. When we ened our day he looked at me and said deacon 84 and i said yep by a mile. I waited for the end of year sale and got a pair. Best allround mid 80 carver out there. I prefer it to my sl racer because when it is more soft i don’t boot out and it is almostbhas powerfull but take half the effort to bend it. It is a really thin ski under foot i am alway amazed that it hold that well on pack snow. If you have skied something that beat the deacon 84…i want to know and try it. Good review and the conditions you skied it in are the one I would choose that ski in my quiver . Keep the review coming guys! I bought a pair of K2 disruption sti for my other son, I will try those tis weekend they seemed to ski very well.

[@SkiEssentials]

Thanks so much for the great feedback!

[@eMJay718]

Thanks for the review. What is your length suggestion please - advanced skier, 179cm, 68kg, I like going fast, but also want something maneuverable in the afternoon moguls. Thank you for your answer.

[@SkiEssentials]

I'd go 172 based on your stats and application.

[@nicchex10]

I’m looking for a complement to my Atomic Maverick 88TIs. I’m in the Midwest and found the Maverick’s shovel wash out on me on hard icy snow conditions so considering something else for this type of conditions. I’m 6’-1”, 215 and an advanced skier but at 53, I ski groomers 90% of the time. The options have definitely increased from when I worked in a ski shop about 25 years ago, so the choices are a bit overwhelming nowadays. I’m considering the Deacon 84 mainly because I used to ski a Völkl Supersport S5 (115/69/100). I’ve also considered the Blizzard Brahma 82, Elan Wingman 82 cti, Rossignol Experience 82ti. I usually ski shorter turns at the beginning of a run and then open it up to higher speed and wider turns as I go. Any of the skis I mentioned preferable or I’m open to other options too? Appreciate any suggestions.

[@SkiEssentials]

You've got a good list here. The Experience and the Brahma fall more on the narrow all-mountain side while the Wingman and the Deacon are more like wider front side options. I think the Experience/Brahma realm makes a bit more sense for what you're looking to do, and of those, the Experience has a more friendly overall feel than the Brahma, and I think more capable of making those shorter turns.

[@vecalion]

Thanks for the review! I'm currently choosing between Deacon 84 and Atomic Rester Q7.8. I wonder if you could share your thoughts on how these two models compare.

[@SkiEssentials]

the Atomic feels like more of a traditional shape and style, with a lot of positive camber underfoot and with the resulting energy. In the Volkl, you do have to push it a bit harder to get the same rebound and pop, but I do think the Deacon has a higher performance ceiling, as well as better soft snow application because it is flatter/longer rocker for basically a front side ski. For carving clean and round turns of the same shape and style, the Atomic is more predictable, but for all other skiing, I think the Volkl has a bigger upside.

[@Bushwackerinpa]

How many rocks were hit during this review :P ? Love the split on lower lord.

[@SkiEssentials]

We've been skiing those runs pretty consistently now for weeks. Pretty sure we both know exactly where all the rocks are. There was a stick sticking out on lower T-Line the other day that caught us off guard!

[@sucapizda]

Bob with his GIGANTIC legs can skid turn for a week straight.

[@SkiEssentials]

Ha! Sure, I can do that, but I do miss out on quickness and flexibility. Working on it though!

[@pewpewpew8390]

on my 4th pair, best small quiver ski, limitless on softer even for big guys, limit on hard is the rockerish

[@SkiEssentials]

Thanks for sharing!

[@stevek9943]

Great review. Thoughts on the Deacon 84 vs Wingman 86 CTI?

[@SkiEssentials]

Deacon has always felt more precise, very much in line with how I think of Volkl. The Wingmans feel more supple and I'd say it's easier to load up energy in them, but they feel more playful and less precise than Deacons. Hope that helps. Definitely similar skis, but there is a difference in how they feel. It's more feel than performance, if that makes sense...

[@stevek9943]

@@SkiEssentials Thank you. I bought the Wingman 86 CTi in 178. Much too long for me at 176 cm tall. I found a demo pair of Deacons 84 at 167cm. Think that will be a better fit since I like to turn and not ultra aggressive.

[@gsmikla]

Question - I had Deacon 80's last year and ended up getting rid of them. I found them to be kinda lifeless and at speed the tips chattered. They carved great and edge hold was really good IMO, just didn't have the energy I was looking for. How would you compare these to the 80s? I'll also add I have a pair of M6 Mantras for the wider/floatier needs. My old everyday skis were the AC30 and I LOVED those - probably the favorite pair I've ever had. I'd still have it if I hadn't just wore it out (last time I took them in for a base grind.....it ground through to metal)

[@SkiEssentials]

The 84 uses a metal frame vs. the 80's fiberglass. This makes them more stable and powerful at speed. I'd imagine you'll see a big uptick in performance with the 84 over the 80.

[@gsmikla]

Thank you!!

[@ttruong225]

I just demoed these and I found them better at speed than skis like Nordic’s enforcers, Brahmas and mantra.

[@gc3-]

How do these compare to the Volkl Kanjo? They about the same size from the same brand.

[@SkiEssentials]

Kanjo is the narrowest ski in their all-mountain line while the Deacon 84 is the widest ski in their front side line. As such, the Kanjo shares more shape and profile characteristics with wider skis while the Deacon's footprint is a lot more like a race ski. Deacon is a better ski in carved turns and on firmer snow at higher speeds while the Kanjo is more versatile for softer snow, bumps, and trees.

[@blade1535]

Love my Volkl Deacon 76's for groomers.

[@SkiEssentials]

Totally amazing ski with an awesome build. Love that they put rocker in it as well so that it's not totally a race ski.

[@tyler_]

Dumb question, but where do I find a set of solid red poles like that? Not as easy to find as I thought.

[@SkiEssentials]

Poles just seem to materialize for us. Keep your eyes open and good things will happen!

[@exothermal.sprocket]

Who remembers the Volkl Unlimited AC40 Carbon? Is the Deacon 84 similar in focus?

[@SkiEssentials]

It's basically taking a similar spot in the catalog, although you could argue the Deacon 80 with the glass frame vs. the titanal of the 84 is a slightly closer comparison.

[@exothermal.sprocket]

@@SkiEssentials The AC40 has a 82 waist and 17.8m radius. I still have the skis but have been looking at modern tech and trying to equate whats happened in the brand.

[@trevorkraemer2901]

So im looking at purchasing a new set of skis, i skied the deacon 84 last year and I loved how it felt. But im very interested in the Armada declivity 82 ti. But no local hill have them available to rent. How does the deacon 84 compare to the declivity 82 ti? If you could explain some it would be much appreciated!

[@SkiEssentials]

The Armada shares it's shape and character with the wider skis in the Declivity line, so that gives it more of a freeride personality but in a narrower and more precise package. The Deacon, on the other hand, is the widest of the Deacon front side line, so it's the most all-mountain of the carvers. If you're more carving and front side focused, the Deacon will provide more upside, but if you're looking to get more all-mountain versatility out of your skis while still providing excellent on-piste performance, the Declivity represents a very intriguing option.

[@snowcat256]

How does this compare to the Deacon 80 or RTM 84? I’ve been using my old RTMs a lot lately, and while they are pretty good, they definitely prefer longer turn shapes. I would love something a bit snappier and quicker turning, ideally with even better edge grip. I don’t need much all-mountain versatility, I’ve got Kendos and others for that. This would be 90% for ripping tight, fun turns on icy groomers. Thanks!

[@pewpewpew8390]

you want the deacon 84

[@Michael-jf9dw]

Yes, no question about it...

[@snowcat256]

​@@pewpewpew8390​ Seems like there’s conflicting opinions out there. SoothSki says the Deacon 84 actually has a softer flex than the RTM. One guy on SkiTalk wrote that “it felt like they cut the balls off of the RTM 84 and called it the Deacon”. Meanwhile, SoothSki says the 80 is nearly the same stiffness as the RTM, at least starting in 21/22. It feels like the 80 is more RTM-like and the 84 might be more Kendo-like. I dunno if SoothSki is wrong or if Volkl silently tweaked the 80 for the 21/22 model year. Any of that ring true/false in your experience? Thanks!

[@pewpewpew8390]

​@@snowcat256 it skies stiffer, than it flexes, same for v-werks deacon 84, flexes soft, skies stiff, with massive backbone and ability to handle heavier bigger skiers. no idea how. I've owned misc RTM84 year skis before this, and I prefer this. I also owned 2021 kendo, its not very similar

[@kokibr91]

@@pewpewpew8390 I am curious to know what's the difference with the Kendos?

[@Andyange]

These look fun and fast. Are they similar to the K2 disruption 82ti?

[@SkiEssentials]

Yes, although the K2 is a bit faster, I'd say--more of a true tip to tail edge contact with the K2. The Volkl actually has some decently long (albeit pretty flat) rocker to it that makes it a bit more accessible and amenable to softer snow.

[@daves3396]

What length are you guys skiing in this video, please? 177?

[@SkiEssentials]

Jeff's on the 177 and Bob's on the 182.

[@Jan-gj8bm]

Are the deacon 80s a better option for the terriain you guys skid if i dont plan to go off the groomers

[@SkiEssentials]

It's more about how you want the ski to react. The 80 is a lot more responsive and quick while the 84 and its metal frame makes it more damp and powerful, but it takes more to wrangle. If you're sticking to mainly on-trail skiing and prefer shorter and quicker turns with greater ease, go with the 80.

[@darinsmith2458]

It has to be in the same waist width as the Stockli Montero.. How does it compare to the AX and the AR?

[@SkiEssentials]

The AR feels more damp, powerful, and stable while the Deacon has more of a metallic sound to it and feels a bit more jittery, but in a fun way.

[@darinsmith2458]

@@SkiEssentials so jittery is more of a reactive feel to it? my kastle 96 hp are reactive.. the snow was grippy yesterday and i tried doing a jump turn down a fall line.. it was like i jumped on a trampoline.. i totally flipped head over heals.. at least the snow was soft;) but this was the second time that i was on those skis when the snow was grippy and i had problems..

[@DrCmoments]

I have been sucessfully brainwashed by you two guys... unfortunately my length has been sold out on your website. So i have to wait for your review for the new Stance 84 (it is avaialble here in Australia, but I dont want to risk without watching your reviews) and Kanjo 84 (dont know if there will be a new Kanjo...)

[@SkiEssentials]

Both of those skis are automatic--so fun and energetic. Very surprising performance ceiling for both. I find the Kanjo to be a bit more quick and agile.

[@Rakingclaw4]

I love the ‘hops’ you have in your turn transitions. My Deacon 84s prompt a similar “oh you’re about to launch me into the next turn? Sweet!” Type of ride. Glad I’m not the only one. Thanks for all the vids.

[@SkiEssentials]

Sometimes I'll yell "jump carve!" when performing or recording this maneuver. Very fun!

[@jefftribiano1875]

I purchased this ski two years ago and currently have skied it for over 150 days. I'm in my mid 60s and found it very difficult to embrace the new technology. After trying many many pairs of skis I finally had to settle on buying. I ended up purchasing the Deacon 84 and not for one moment ever considered it a mistake! I grew up skiing 65 underfoot and never had a problem skiing deep powder once I figured out the proper technique so for me the deacon is more than sufficient in deep snow not to mention a totally ripping ski in any other condition including bumps but only if your technique is very good. Yes for me this is my one and only ski in the quiver!

[@sandraoviedo6377]

Good points . Learned powder on 200s 68mm K2s . When I switched to the Volkl Snow Ranger 80mm 190 cm it was so easy cause I had the technique . Look forward to the Deacon .

[@SkiEssentials]

Great feedback, thanks for sharing!

[@MeanLaQueefa]

I got this ski for Christmas, I don’t see how you could make a better ski. Wasn’t sure about the binding system, but it’s fantastic I. Wish they would highlight this more on their videos. I love this ski. Great video

[@SkiEssentials]

While we certainly fell short of discussing the bindings in this video, in the past when we've talked Deacon 84, we've definitely noted the amazing system, not only because it's a bit lower than most, but also because it's built in to the ski so you get a very direct transfer of energy from boot to ski. Thank you for bringing that up!

[@TankVgryazi]

My coach recommended I try these after seeing me flounder a bit on my water-ski-size FR102s (which I adore, but he wasn't wrong). The Deacon 84s completely revolutionized my skiing. Two years later I am a stronger, faster, and much more technically proficient skier than I ever could have been trying to push the powder boats around. Plus I now know how and when to use the Fischers for maximum fun. I'm so happy I bought a pair of Deacons.

[@SkiEssentials]

Glad to hear, great skis!

[@snomse2993]

Hey I'm gonna be a ski instructor in Big White next season and I'm looking for a ski that is good on-piste but also able to go off-piste when the conditions are good for it. I am a tall guy 6'4 and weighing around 200 pounds. Would you recommend these skis or any other, and which size would you recommend I should go for?

[@SkiEssentials]

I feel like maybe I already replied to your question somewhere else? Maybe not. These could work, but I'd bring in the Kendo 88 as a potential option too. A little more versatility out of the Kendo, and still really good for instructing too. Both are great for demonstrating different radius and style turns with the 3D.Radius shape.

[@scollyutube]

This vs a Kendo 88?

[@Michael-jf9dw]

this for front side, kendo for backside of mountain...

[@SkiEssentials]

The Deacon feels decidedly more like a groomer-only ski that has some width, while the Kendo feels like a freeride ski that carves insanely well. If you do not plan on leaving the groomers, I'd go 84, but if versatility is more in line with what you're looking for, the Kendo is amazing.

[@stevedrulias9888]

How would you compare these volkl deacon 84 to the stockli ar. 84?

[@SkiEssentials]

While the Stockli is decidedly damper and more stable, the Deacon is more grippy and twitchy, but in a good way. The Stockli feels more planted on the snow while there's a bit more snap to the Deacon.

[@streamofmight]

Hi I'm a beginner-intermediate skier. I bought a Rossignol Experience 75 in 2018 when I first started and I am looking to upgrade as the 75 chatters a lot at faster speeds and turns. They are also quite soft. I tried the Deacon 80 and love it. Do you recommend getting that or the Deacon 84? I am looking for a ski that I can grow into as I hone my techniques. Can't really carve yet but doing the drills and trying to. There wasn't any 84 to test and I'm not sure if I can handle it at the moment. Would like to hear your opinions. I tried the Nordica Navigator 90 2019 (the one with Titanium) but not the newer 85 versions as the shop didnt have it. Love it as well. I'm 5 feet 11 and 150 pounds. Thanks in advance!

[@pewpewpew8390]

84 is way more fun than 80, but 80 is decent

[@Michael-jf9dw]

84! any more narrow version has different technology.

[@zanaevans7403]

Go for something 90mm under foot. Any thing less is racing on piste or remedial entry leval. I feel all mountain starts at 90 under foot or better

[@SkiEssentials]

Based on your stats and application, I don't see any real need to go to the 84--the 80 is likely more than enough to grow into--we've seen some very high-level skiing done on the 80. The 84 is considerably stiffer and heavier. I'd go with the 80 in the 172. Have fun! SE

[@xenomorphelv4265]

the experience 82 ti may be a good option.

[@lukamarusic7883]

Great reviews! How would you compare Decon 84 with Atomic Q9.8? Thanks! Cheers

[@SkiEssentials]

While the Deacon has more of an all-mountain feel to it while remaining true to on-piste performance, the Atomic is decidedly more race-like but in a wider bodied format. The Atomic feels very planted to the snow and makes shorter turns while the Deacon is equally as happy to open it up and let it run--not so much with the Redster. Additionally, the Deacon has a flatter overall profile with long and low rocker while the Atomic has a lot of positive camber and a longer effective edge.

[@joyfred100]

How would you compare these to the new Kendos? I feel like the Kendos are being nerfed and Im looking for another hard charging carver for all mountain east coast skiing. Is this it? Thanks guys, love your reviews!

[@Michael-jf9dw]

I had a monster 78 for about 10 y and was surprised how little happened development wise. This ski worked perfectly well on hard groomers in the morning and moguls in the afternoon and high speed any time in between. When using it i was in good shape with strong legs. Now i am getting a little weaker but the deacon gives me the same kick. It is better in any discipline. Not by much but by a bit. Don't buy it to short and it will allow you really good speed...

[@SkiEssentials]

The Deacon certainly feels more like a front side ski, and that's nothing against the Kendo when it comes to carving turns. The versatility of the Kendo stands out, though, as it's got a rounder shape and personality to it while keeping the short turn radius fully intact.

[@BobGilman-in3wh]

Nice boards testers keep hands in front!

[@SkiEssentials]

Always!

[@philippefagnant1841]

Kind of find it funny that in the deacon world those are the" all moutain" ones.I own a pair of deacon 74 and in soft snow they are easyer to turn than the 84.Those are pretty stiff and to me are more a hard pack larger carving skis.

[@SkiEssentials]

The longer arc of the Deacon 84 was one of the surprising parts about getting back on this thing. I totally felt like the shorter turns were harder and the longer turns were easier--something I did not remember from the last time I skied it a number of years ago.