2023 K2 Mindbender 89Ti Ski Review and Collection Overview with SkiEssentials.com

K2 tweaked the Mindbender Ti skis for 2023 and we're psyched with the changes. New Mindbender 89Ti, 99Ti, and 108Ti. We talk mostly about the 89Ti in this review and touch on the 99 and 108 quickly. Enjoy!
www.skiessentials.com/Chairli...
0:00 - Intro
3:25 - First Impressions
5:15 - Construction
9:30 - Shape
14:45 - Performance

[@olivermcevoy1967]

Absolutely love your reviews, very professional and informative. Thank you.

[@SkiEssentials]

Thanks, Oliver!

[@vincentmuggenburg6172]

I absolutly love your Collection Videos!

[@vincentmuggenburg6172]

I‘d love Tor See the MB 99 ti comparison

[@SkiEssentials]

Thanks Vincent!

[@christophermagnuson1270]

Tuesday drop. Oh boy is this great !

[@adventureswithrocket1]

I just got a pair of these new 2023 Mindbender skis. Soo excited to try them out with the Mindbender boots to go along with them ❤🙏

[@SkiEssentials]

Have fun!

[@tommywolfe2110]

I had the chance to try the new 2023 89 TI on icy, hard as cement condition... and they were amazing! I can't agree more on how well they edge grip and quick respond, very powerfull and precise but none the less very playfull. A good all rounders, very enjoyable all mountain. Could not test it on fresh pow, but how fun they were! Probably my go to everyday ski for next year! Can be for most people a prime ski! I'm 6'0" 220lbs. Tested a 182cm (I could not have longer available), also pleasently surprised, and enjoyed the short radius! Could also probably be a slalom hero/redster type killer for many on groomers, but ready to knock muggles and woods! Kudos K2!!!!! Excellent review guys!!!

[@SkiEssentials]

Thanks for the feedback Tommy! K2 certainly did a great choice on these new Mindbenders.

[@jamesbgreat]

I’ve had the 89ti for a month now and I couldn’t be happier with its performance. This ski BEGS you to be pushed hard and it will give you the confidence to do it too. Super fun ski!

[@SkiEssentials]

Couldn't agree more!

[@ellukeaduke]

I know this is an old video, but FWIW I detuned the tips on my Mindbender89Ti after the first time I had them out. I definitely noticed a hookiness in the factory edge.

[@SkiEssentials]

I don't think you're alone in the K2 factory tune camp--also the fact that the metal arms extend well into the tips puts a lot of power in the front end of the ski, making de-tuning a bit more of a necessity.

[@timdavis2903]

Volkl and K2 share technology. This year they used the program to tailored metal in mantra and new Kendo. K2 Mindbender 89Ti. Didn't copy anything they tailored their own topsheet metal. Creating a great turn initiation in the front and the tail is easy to load bend and power out of turns. I personally think it rips... I think it like a sawed off Pinacle with metal where it always needed it. Result a very energetic maneuverable ski. In the Northwest they are a perfect everyday driver. Crud busting and early morning hard snow.

[@SkiEssentials]

I always liked the Pinnacle as well, but definitely a new sense of edge grip and on-trail performance from this 89.

[@Little.R]

Looks like it'll handle the crust and dust, that Colorado resorts are notorious for, pretty well. That snow shot at 21:10 🧊.

[@SkiEssentials]

Totally grippable ice.

[@AndrewGustyn]

Thanks for these, question about future content. Are you guys going to cover the new K2 Dispatch skis in a future review?

[@SkiEssentials]

Definitely. We've been on them a handful of times this season, will continue to test them, and we'll have them in our big Ski Test in 2 weeks.

[@KRZ-786]

Hi Jeff, First of all thank you very much for such amazingly informative videos that you and Bob make. I am 37 years old, 6' tall and 190 pounds Intermediate level skier and almost all of the time I ski on hard pack groomers on East Coast of Canada where mostly the conditions are icy and the runs become crud mid day. I love carving and making a mix of short and long turns at medium speed but sometimes I like to ski fast too but definitely not a racer and would like skis that would hold its edge while being damp at higher speed. I recently purchased 2019 Atomic Vantage 90Ti in 184cm length (I personally believe I should have got a little shorter skis) and they are super fast in my opinion, holds the edge nicely, very playful and very light in weight but you feel the ground below your feet and they are not damp at higher speed. I did hear in one of your reviews that Atomic did soften the tail of the skis in 2021 model which improved its performance. What would you recommend me that would better suit my style of skiing and also that I could grow into them as I do more practice? Thanks in advance :)

[@idlogin]

The K2 Disruption line would be a good option or look out for the new Atomic Redster Q9 or Q9.8 skis for next year, you can't go wrong with the Head E-rally super shape either, although it's a bit more demanding. Any of those in a 170cm length would be great

[@SkiEssentials]

Hello! Atomic made some major improvements to their all-mountain skis in the new Maverick collection. I would feel pretty confident about you skiing a Maverick 88 Ti and preferring its feel compared to your Vantage. It's still lightweight, but it's more forgiving in the tail, has more vibration damping, and in general is a more versatile, better ski overall. I'd start by checking out that ski. This Mindbender would be a good option too, although I personally find the Maverick more forgiving for an intermediate skier.

[@faceinthecrowd5810]

The 89Ti sounds a lot like the 2016 rictor 90 that I ski the snot out of here in the northeast…..love my vintage Rictor. Will get another season out of the 2016’s but will be following this 89Ti for my next 90 all mountain, also starting to shop for my under 75 ultra-carver ski my elan amphibio 14 fusions are feeling old skool. Too bad you two have not reviewed EVERY SKI since the dawn of time!!

[@SkiEssentials]

Ha! Our friends at skitalk.com have been doing some retro reviews, maybe worth an ask to them?

[@michaellucock7074]

Great review as always. I was considering an MB 90 previously. And am now looking at these and thinking the changes sound good to me. But I'm also considering the Dynastar M Pro 90, which I'm thinking is my preferred choice based on reviews, availability and price point. And also possibly the Declivity. How do these three compare with each other. And are they enough to steer me away from the M Po 90. I'm an upper intermediate into advanced skier. 5'11 230lbs A strong 53 years old, but also want to look after my knees 🙂. Thanks in advance

[@SkiEssentials]

Hi Michael! The M-Pro kind of sets itself apart from the Mindbender and Declivity with its unique ratio of tip rocker to tail rocker. Long tip rocker, but almost no tail rocker. It gives it an interesting feel. From what we've seen, some skiers love it, some prefer something a little looser in the tail. That's really the biggest difference among those 3 skis, the M-Pro gives you more feedback out of the tail and gets it soft snow capabilities from the long tip. Declivity would be the most versatile out of that group, in my opinion. Very easy to ski in a wide range of snow conditions as it's a little wider and more supple in the tips and tails. Mindbender 89 is almost as versatile, but stronger and more precise on firm snow. Hope that helps!

[@patgottshalk8808]

Thanks for this review. I am holding out replacing my 2nd pair of Alluvits that I love. I have skied the W88Ti but they were not as much fun as my Alluvits. The 89Ti sounds like it may be the one. What is the difference between the men's and women's version other then graphics?

[@SkiEssentials]

As far as I can tell, there aren't any differences between the men's and women's versions of these skis, at least from a construction standpoint. Shorter lengths will result in slightly different dimensions, but that's about it.

[@idlogin]

I've skied these and they're are much of an improvement over the previous model, I've also skied the 99ti and have the same feeling

[@SkiEssentials]

Yeah that 99Ti is awesome too. 108 as well. Good improvements across the board.

[@Alaix27]

Thanks for the review, you compare with ranger 90 and kendo, but how compare to the declivity 92 Ti ? Moguls, hard pack, stability. Have good ride !

[@SkiEssentials]

In my opinion, the Declivity 92 Ti is a great comparison to this Mindbender. They feel different, mostly from how the metal is used, but they basically accomplish the same things. I personally own a pair of Declivity 92s as I just love their directional all-mountain versatility, and I feel the same about these new Mindbenders.

[@robbevanderauwera7314]

Great review! I recently tested the 89ti in 170 (i'm 178 and around 150lbs). I was wondering if this is the right length for me or should I go with the 176? I'm an advanced skier and mainly ski groomers but also like to do some off piste and some jumps.

[@SkiEssentials]

It's a pretty sturdy ski, so I don't think there's a huge need to upsize if you're in the middle. Your stats and application do point to the shorter size.

[@JayantW55]

Hey guys, thanks for this review. Lot of information. It is going to be difficult to justify the graphics after the solid design. You mentioned some other skis have better edge grip than these. Are they any other than Kendo and Brahma? How about Stance, Declivity and Kore?

[@Tirppa]

Yeah I have to agree on the graphics.. to but it bluntly they are but ugly :D

[@SkiEssentials]

Hey Jay! Yeah, you're on the right track. Kendo and Brahma for sure, I'd put Enforcer 88 in there too. Basically anything with full sheets of metal is going to have slightly better edge grip, so Stance 90 as well, although the Stance has a little more rocker than those other 3 so maybe not as noticeable. I would say Declivity is pretty even with the Mindbender in edge grip. Kore is an interesting comparison because it has quite a bit of edge grip, but less vibration damping, and lighter, so edge grip doesn't necessarily translate to overall stability as it often does in other skis.

[@mattmorris2379]

Great review guys. I'm over in the UK and considering this as a more all mountain option compared to my fatter skis. On length...I'm 200 lbs, 5 feet 10 aggressive skier. would you think the 182? Thanks and keep up the great work. I'm subscribed now! matt M

[@SkiEssentials]

Hi Matt! Thanks for subscribing! Yes, I think 182 cm would be most appropriate for your size. Fantastic skis, K2 did a great job with the new model.

[@richardmichaud6091]

Hey guys, awesome videos! I had this same post on the 2022 skis but figured you might see it here. I have gotten out skiing a lot more lately and looking to upgrade. Currently on a pair of Blizzard Bushwacker 173cm. Love the ski, super fun but I'm finding the tip gets caught up on snowy, heavy or cruddy days and it feels chattery with bigger turns at speed. I'm not the guy that wants bumps or trees just want to get on edge with some speed and have fun. I'm 5'9 about 190lbs an advanced skier but no expert. I was considering the mindbender 99ti or the enforcer 100, please let me know your thoughts. Also I see the 2023 has a 172 is that where I should be or 178. Also I only ski the east, Small CT places near home or Killington. I appreciate any help!

[@SkiEssentials]

Thanks, Richard! The Enforcer is a bit more well-rounded, but the new 2023 K2 99 Ti catches up a bit. Both are fantastic carvers for their respective widths, but the Enforcer is more versatile in off-trail situations and applications. I'd go 172 in that ski. Have fun! SE

[@stormjosef]

You mentioned more energy relative to the outgoing 90ti. How does that compare to the 90C (and 85)? The energy from those is my favorite attribute of them (I have both). I’m really interested in upgrading to the 89ti Mindbenders for next season, but am concerned that I’d lose that aspect. How does it compare to those?

[@SkiEssentials]

It depends on how much energy you're putting into the skis. The 89 Ti requires more input to get the metal to bend, while the 85 and 90C offer better feedback with less input. While you can push the 85 and 90C too hard sometimes, that does not really happen with the 89 Ti. There is a minimum, though, and that's why it's a better choice for advanced and expert skiers.

[@WorldBeater123]

I have the Mindbender 90ti in a 170 and love it, however I wanted to add a longer ski to my quiver. Was thinking the 2023 Kendo 88 177 or get the new Mindbender 89ti 176. Any thoughts?

[@idlogin]

You could also look at the Atomic Maverick 88Ti 176cm, it's a great ski

[@SkiEssentials]

Both good options. Kendo is going to feel more precise on trail. Quicker carving turn initiation, more responsiveness from the ski on firm snow. Mindbender has some of that, it's just not quite as precise, but then you gain some off-piste maneuverability and a little bit of forgiveness over the Kendo. Hope that helps!

[@crazydude1900]

Hi great review. I’m upgrading from my 2015 K2 amp80x 163cm that I stated with when I was an intermediate skier. Thinking to buy the 89ti in 170cm as I have improved over the last 8 yrs. I’m advanced skier love to carve short and long turns, playful with my turns when I want to be, bumps and crud and some trees. Is going from 163 to 170 too much? I have skied longer skis out west, these would be for my home area in VT. I’m 48 5’7’ 156lb advanced skier

[@SkiEssentials]

I don't think that's too big of a jump, especially if you consider the shorter turn radius of the ski. It might feel a bit long at first, but if you are comfortable with your skills and ability, I think 170 is fine.

[@paganskier]

Old MB 90Ti is super versitle, but scrubing speed on steep hardpack = lots of tail vibration. Did K2 fix that? Otherwise its a really good ski. However, I did some back to back runs with my Enforcer 88's yesterday and the dampness on roughed up groomers, and end of turn kick of the Enforcers was on a whole different level. If the new K2 89Ti is closer to that level of performance while maintaining the ease of skiing off-trail, and bumps then I will be looking to upgrade.

[@SkiEssentials]

That's a good way to think about it. Yes, this new Mindbender has more vibration damping, especially noticeable in those situations where you're scrubbing speed on super firm snow. At the same time, it's a little more agile than the Enforcer 88 in my opinion.

[@wallstreetoneil]

Unless your Enforcer 88s are done, my opinion is that if you ski where you need that hard ice, heavy crud Enforcer dampness and performance, you really can't beat it - especially if you've found a skiing position (more centered) that brings out the Enforcer magic. I have the 179s and my ex-racer lady has the 172s (which we both find stiffer) - they're our goto skis when our SL & GS race skis aren't appropriate

[@thirdpedalnirvana]

Loving all the videos. Just in observing the way the ski looks on video, it seems like the closest competitor to the Declivity 92ti I've seen. How does the Mindbender 89ti compare to the Declivity 92ti?

[@thirdpedalnirvana]

I also love watching these videos because you guys are really friggin good skiiers.

[@SkiEssentials]

Thanks, Max! I think the 92 to 89Ti debate is more interesting than Declivity 92 to 82. The new 89Ti is a sharper turner due to the shorter radius, so it does fit more into the front side category for skis of this width. It is still all-mountain capable, but not quite as much as the Declivity. If you're looking to complement the Origin, the K2 offers more of a difference. I still think the Declivity is a better choice overall, but not by a whole lot. The K2 carves cleaner. SE

[@jesseholshouser7445]

Love and ski mostly in NC with a yearly trip out west to more powdery snow. Intermediate skier looking to push to advanced. Would you recommend the 89ti or 99ti?

[@SkiEssentials]

I'd say the new 89 Ti is the way to go. If you're mostly NC skiing, the 89 will give you more days that are better than the 99 would. Even in fresh snow up to a point, the 89 is a pretty decent floater. Have fun! SE

[@jmanswat2457]

How do these ski in comparison to the Dynastar M-Pros? The metal construction is conversely opposite yet people describe their performance attributes like they're the same (except tip float in pow and crud)? I got a pair of m-pros on a calculated whim and they blew me away with fun and capability factor. But there are times I waffle on if I really like the stiff trails or not. The MBs got me wondering if I'd like their style.

[@SkiEssentials]

Mostly they're quite similar--the K2 has a shorter turn radius, and combined with the metal along the sides in the forebody, it makes the ski come around in a turn quite nicely and easily. Great rebound and energy out of the tails, but they're not quite locked in like in the Dynastar.

[@francescoalbertini1494]

Hi there, I was looking for the MB "C"... being 54 1,78cm in height and about 69Kg... what would you recommend, a 170 or 177cm? Consider it would be my one-ski fits all quiver, from piste to off tracks. Thanks a lot!

[@SkiEssentials]

Hi Francesco! I would go 177 cm in the Mindbender 90 C.

[@wallstreetoneil]

Sounds like an Enforcer for the masses - which should make it pretty popular. I think the move to a full sidewall is far better from a marketing perspective - just makes it look like a better-built ski. I don't need any more skis, but I would recommend this type of ski to most recreational athletic skiers.

[@SkiEssentials]

I agree 100% Paul. Basically an Enforcer for the masses, which is a valuable product for the market in general. It's amazing how much different they look with a full sidewall. I think everyone will perceive them as being a better built, higher quality ski.

[@rachaelmirvish5635]

I am 160cm 120lbs expert skier pnw. I have the Santa Ana 104 free in 165 and 110 in 170. I'm looking for a narrower ski for between storms and for my older knees. But also need to be able to handle bumps and trees and steeps when my kids drag me around in less than ideal conditions. I demoed the SA 88 in 158 and 165. The 165 felt too long and 158 slightly too short.. And the k2 89ti in 159 felt short but they didn't have a 164. The shorter skis did feel very fun and easy compared to my longer ones. Any suggestions between the SA 88 and k2 89ti and sizing between both?

[@SkiEssentials]

The K2 is a bit sharper of a turner with a shorter turn radius and more of a flex. The increased flex allows for easier accessibility to that sidecut while the Santa Ana has to be pushed harder to achieve the same results. I'd lean to the 159 in the K2--my guess is that the 164 would feel long, but don't let me talk you out of a good time!

[@usmcculp]

90c or 89ti. I don't want to be fatigued at the end of the day, but the stability of the TI sounds nice. Are the new 89s less demanding than last years. Will it perform just as well at slower speeds as fast, or do you need to push them. Thinking 170s for 5'10, 180lbs

[@SkiEssentials]

I'd say the C is a better option if you're mainly dealing with blue/groomed runs. It has an upscale feel, and unless you're looking for top-shelf performance, I don't see a huge need to go to the Ti version. In the 90C, I'd look to the 170, based on your stats and application.

[@jakesimunovic3837]

Are you planing to test Apex ski boots?

[@SkiEssentials]

I tested them a few years ago. Bob did too. I personally thought it was one of the scariest skiing experiences of my life. It felt like a completely different activity and I felt like I had no control over my skis whatsoever. It honestly was terrifying, and it's somewhat hard to describe. Bob, on the other hand, didn't have nearly the same issues as me. He tends to ski more upright while I (Jeff) prefer higher edge angles and stuff like that, so maybe that's where the difference in our experience is coming from.

[@profegcsstudentchannel6259]

Hey guys! Man, I love your reviews. I'm late to the convo but hoping you all will see this (read through all the comments, haven't seen my question yet). Having a tough time deciding between the 89Ti or 99Ti for my all-mountain daily driver. Expert skier, strong and aggressive... but "compact" in stature (5'5", 140lbs). My playground is Mammoth, but I also get around the west (Vail, Copper, Jackson, Bachelor...). Pretty sure I'd ski the 89Ti in 170 and the 99Ti in 172 (coming from 2019 Enforcer 100 @177... feeling a bit too long lately). Would love your insights on this question! -Thanks

[@SkiEssentials]

The 99 will feel more like the Enforcer in terms of dampness and power. The 89 is a lot more active in a carved turn and is a very energetic ski. If you're looking for more difference than Enforcer, I'd lean to the 89. Most of the time, especially if you're on groomed trails or bumps, the 89 will be plenty wide. The 99 excels in crud and chop because it's so smooth, but overall, the 89 might be a better fit for most days. I'd say 170 is appropriate.

[@user-ey9wi3jt5t]

@@SkiEssentials Hey y’all, thanks for this advice (and for responding over at the MB99Ti thread too). Very appreciated. Very interesting… I was just starting to lean towards the 99, actually, but now I’m going to think harder on the 89. Just to be sure I’m following you guys: so you think the 89 will still be versatile enough for an all-mountain daily driver out West? Obviously will be quicker edge to edge and more solid on the hard stuff than the 99; just want to be sure I’m not going to feel underserved when conditions are a bit fresher, softer, more chopped up, etc (though I do have my Havocs: they’re 110 underfoot).

[@trey7039]

Do you feel that the updated tail on the 89ti makes the ski anymore playful than the outgoing 90ti?

[@SkiEssentials]

Yes and no, and I think that's by design. The longer and lower rocker make it smoother out of the turn, but the added metal back there makes up for it by supplementing the power. I like the tail of the 89 more than the outgoing 90, just for the extra kick at the end.

[@usmcculp]

What differentiates the women's model other than length. Would the 170 in the women's be the same as the men's other than graphics?

[@SkiEssentials]

Just graphics and lengths, so yes, the 170 should be the same. Women's graphics look AWESOME in person, in my opinion.

[@assafdasdf]

Has Jeff been on the 182 or 176? I'm 5'10 and a pretty strong skier, but if Bob is on the 182 that makes me think i should grab the 176

[@SkiEssentials]

I mostly skied the 182 cm length through our testing, but if I was to buy a pair, I do think I would get the 176. The older I get, the more I prefer slightly shorter lengths, shorter turn radii, and the more I value round carves at moderate speeds rather than blasting around at 50 mph making Super G turns.

[@mrportarlington]

Will the '24 version of the Mindbender 89 Ti have Construction changes and if so how will performance change?

[@SkiEssentials]

The 24 will be the same structurally as the 23 but with a new graphic.

[@tomasaro4910]

How are this K2 Mindbender 89Ti compared with the new Fischer Ranger 96? Are they similar in any way or if not what makes them different form each other?

[@SkiEssentials]

The metal is shorter in the Rangers, leaving the tips and tails a little softer and lighter. Ranger 96 definitely takes versatility to another level, although I think the Mindbender feels more precise on groomers. I do think the Ranger 90 is a better comparison. Those skis are pretty close, although I'd give the nod to the Ranger in bumps and to the Mindbender on groomers.

[@tomasaro4910]

@@SkiEssentials 👍 After weeks of comparing maverick 95Ti, Declivity 92Ti, Ranger 96, rustler 9, Ripstick 96 black, Deacon 80 and some more. I found your video and how good this ski seems on groomers (I ski 90/10, 80/20 on/offpist). I sacrifice some versatility but get more carving (same with Declivity 92 and maverick 95). Seems that the mindbender 89Ti with its shorter radius and really good icegrip are a really good alternative for me. Live in Sweden and we have icy conditions often in the groomers so Declivity 92, maverick 95Ti looked like good options (but maverick 95 wasn’t so good in low speed). Then I saw this video and it looked like something between the versatile Ranger 96, icegrip like Declivity 92 and a flexpattern that helps in to turns and also to release. Sounds so good for me that don’t ski in so deep powder, not so much offpist in trees or bumps but manage that good to but also carves really good? Have I understod it right or missed something? Are they also good on longer turns (they have short radius)???

[@PlaneImpactGolfStoneridge]

I always likes K2 , skied the Amp Ricter and Ikonic 84ti , how is this Mindbender 89ti compare to those? Thxs

[@SkiEssentials]

I'd say it's a wider, more modern iteration of both of those skis, in a lot of ways. Similar application of metal, similarly powerful on firm snow, but the Mindbenders are far more versatile and feel much better off-piste than either of those skis.

[@tomasaro4910]

I recently found this video after I was considering new skiis for this season. Looked at Armada Declivity 92ti, Atomic Maverick 95Ti, Elan Ripstick 96 black, Blizzard Rustler 9, Fischer 96. I got some advice and thought about it. Then I found this video that you really like the Mindbender 89Ti and that you had icy and bad weather conditions and you still felt that the ski delivered with stabilitet, grip on ice, fun, good energy and so on. I almost ruled the ski out because of that I didnt like the look of it but when it have so much pros for what I need. Easy to Carve and like to turn Good ice grip Fun and freeride oriented Not the most stiff but energy Good release from turns Not the heaviest but have titanal and also good width that manage some powder but also rocks on groomers. Works offpist too. Fun and forgiving So after this video I had the Ripstick, Declivity, Ranger 96 to choose from. I ski 90/10, 80/20 pist/offpist and wanted something fun that a intermediate skier can handle make progress with. My closest dealer gave me a price that I couldn’t ignorera so I had to but them. I this a good choice or should I have got any of the other or the safe bet Rustler 9?

[@Andyange]

Hi I currently own the 90ti, thinking of upgrading to the 89ti or the Kendo 88. Who are these skis for? And what’s the differences?

[@SkiEssentials]

The 89 feels like a more composed on-trail version of the 90 Ti. The Kendo takes it slightly to the next level. The 89 Ti has a shorter turn radius than the Kendo, so it feels like it wants to hook up through the turns with more urgency. The Kendo can be corralled to do those shorter turns, it just takes more effort.

[@magicbossman9566]

Hello, this comment might get overseen due to being very late, but i would love to hear your recommendation on length on this ski. I'm 185 cm and about 76kg, should i go for the 182 or the 176, I'm an advanced or expert level skier. Kind of afraid that 176 will be too short. Thanks in advance!

[@SkiEssentials]

We try to get to them all! Since these skis are still relevant, and at a great price right now, it's certainly worth answering! I do think you'll find the 176 on the short side, especially given the shorter arc that they create. My guess is that 182 will be better overall--still very easy to turn but with strong performance and stability. www.skiessentials.com/products/2023-k2-mindbender-89ti-ski-w-tyrolia-attack2-14-gw-bindings?ski%2520size=182

[@MrMrSvahn]

188 vs 182 for a good skier? Same size as Bob pretty much. I know he said the 182 is good but 188 might be a good combo with the short turn radius of the ski? Or is it benefitial to go all out with short ski + short radius.

[@SkiEssentials]

I'd have a hard time wrapping my head around the 188 in that ski. The 182 is plenty sturdy for me and just because it excels in shorter turns doesn't mean it's locked into those and only those. You can open it up nicely as well.

[@airbag294]

Love the information you guys give.how would you say this compares to the rustler 9 with the shortened metal ? and what is the weight of the new ski ? if on 177 ish skis now would you step up because of the shorter radius or stay the same thanks

[@SkiEssentials]

I still think they're quite a bit different. More rocker in the Rustler and softer flexing tips and tails. Certainly a more playful ski and a little more agile in the trees and bumps. Mindbender 89Ti is kind of right in between the Brahma 88 and Rustler 9, in my opinion.

[@nazarmozan5375]

what do you think about the bash 86 whith the marker squire 11

[@idlogin]

It depends on your weight, and how heavy you are on your skis, if you're using it in the park I would always recommend look pivot 12 bindings, the extra cost is worth not having a broken binding, squire bindings are not that tough. Head attack 14 85 mm brake would be a great option. Light and strong.

[@SkiEssentials]

Perfectly good combination, but as was mentioned in the other reply, if you're heavier or hard on your equipment, it's worth upgrading to a Pivot 12, Griffon, Attack 14, etc.

[@devonpokersnik6602]

Is the 89ti a softer more forgiving ski then the Kendo?

[@SkiEssentials]

Yes, but that's kind of important because they shortened the radius from the previous 90Ti. You can bend the ski and access the whole sidecut, so it makes a lot of sense in the new 89. But if you're looking for stiffer flex, the Kendo is the way to go.

[@Valhalla-at-ya-boy]

Do you guys prefer these or the enforcer 88’s more and why? Thanks guys!

[@SkiEssentials]

I think when you're looking at skis in this range, it's good to put an emphasis on accessible carving. The K2 has that a bit more than the Enforcer, which much prefers a strong pilot that loves to operate at speed. The K2 has a better range of speeds in which it's comfortable, and that's one of the main reasons I'd choose the K2 over the Nordica. Also bumps and trees--I'd much rather ski the K2 in the bumps and trees.

[@maxsesselmann8136]

Hey guys, what a great review! I´m a ski instructor over in Europe and just recently discovered your great vids. I´m 1,9m and close to 90kg (I think that´s sth like 6'3" and 200pounds?) and consider getting a all mountain ski between my race and freeride skis. These skis I would love to carve aggressively but also take to attack some sidehits and moguls and maybe land switch on piste occasionally. I am kind of torn between the mind benders and the volkl mantra m6 at this stage even though I know its quite a stretch in the width... Could you give me an insight at what you think would be best for that? Or if I should consider totally different skis? The carving part is the most important factor though. Thank you for the great insights you granted already!

[@SkiEssentials]

Well, if you're concerned about width but like the overall build and character of each, there's the Kendo 88 and Mindbender 99 to add to the mix. I'd say decide on width first and then the brand comes next. Between the two, the K2 has more of an all-mountain and versatile personality while the Volkl's are decidedly more precise and exacting. Since you're noting that carving is the most important factor, I'd suggest leaning to the narrower option, and between the 89Ti and the Kendo, the K2 is a bit more approachable and friendly while the Kendo stands up to higher-end and more aggressive skiing. Hope that helps!

[@maxsesselmann8136]

@@SkiEssentials this helped a lot, thanks for the detailed answer!

[@williamcolavito8754]

What bindings did you guys test the skis with?

[@SkiEssentials]

A Marker Griffon demo binding.

[@phcavi]

Should I go for the 189 or the 182 standing 6'5" tall weighing around 200 lbs?

[@SkiEssentials]

I think the 182 will hold up, and is beneficial if you're looking to access a shorter turn radius. If you are aiming for more of a straight fall-line mentality, I do not think the 189 will be too long, but overall, I bet the 182 will be more fun and engaging.

[@petertsolymosi]

Watching you ski these it almost seems that the different wood core made them more unsettled and the altered metal profile tries to settle them back down. They definitely seem to have more pop from what I can see.

[@SkiEssentials]

Hey Peter! There's definitely more pop and energy out of the turn. I find them more stable and more settled overall, although I do think there's some truth to what you're saying.

[@jackjmaheriii]

Anyone know if this or the 90c would make the better “dad ski”? Or am I way off? I spend a lot of time standing and helping people put on gloves, lifting my wife up after falls, and skiing backward so I can keep an eye on the family, then at the end of the day I like to hit a few black diamonds. I short for weight and have solid fundamentals, but I’m certainly no expert so any thoughts or comments are welcome?

[@SkiEssentials]

I'd say the 90C is a better option for you. The 89 Ti has a higher performance ceiling while the 90 is more manageable and easier to wrangle. It still has a sophisticated build, though, with carbon stringers throughout, so you are getting some performance as well, it is just a lot easier to access.

[@dbquek]

Good review guys, it's a shame the graphics are so ugly though.....who does the graphic design at K2 ?

[@SkiEssentials]

I get the impression that K2 tries to strike a balance between clean graphics, while still retaining some counter-culture K2 freeride vibes. Sometimes it works, sometimes it falls short. I do think these would appeal to more people if they had a cleaner graphic, but I suppose I understand where they're coming from. This graphic doesn't bother me personally, in fact, I think I prefer it over the previous ski. Hunter vibes with the green and orange.

[@Tirppa]

This vs Head Kore 93 in playfulness and accessibility?

[@idlogin]

Mindbender skis are a bit more playful, softer nose helps, head kore is still very maneuverable as it is very light

[@SkiEssentials]

It's an interesting comparison, actually anything compared to a Kore is interesting in my opinion. As was mentioned, the Kore gets its playfulness from being light, but they are VERY stiff. Mindbenders earn their playfulness through rocker and softer flexing tips and tails.

[@Mr_Dusty]

I’m 5’ 11”, 155 lbs, expert skier and considering these as a fun groomer ski. Would you recommend the 176 or 182?

[@SkiEssentials]

Hey Dusty! That's a toss up for sure, although I'm 5'10 and about 155 lbs and I didn't have any major issues skiing the 182. Longer rocker profile in this updated version, which makes the longer lengths more manageable. As an expert skier, I think you'll probably prefer the 182.

[@nzheliking1278]

Hi, 89ti vs Brahma? Cheers Nick

[@SkiEssentials]

Nick, The Brahma has considerably more power, but that comes at the cost of weight and demand. You can relax more on the K2 (but not in the tail) so I'd say it's a better choice for a wider range of skiers while the Brahma is a pretty specific tool for expert carvers who want/need the top-end of power and stability. I love the K2's new and shorter turn radius as well as the full-sidewall build--it's a far more complete ski than the outgoing 90Ti. SE/Bob

[@joesalemi2414]

Man the ‘23 seems like a completely different ski than the ‘22 MB.

[@SkiEssentials]

Yes, there were a lot of changes--pretty much a whole new thing.

[@HelloWorld-zg3gs]

Ahh yes going down nosedive I see you!

[@gregmccandlessmusic]

So glad they went with full sidewall! That was the only drawback of the previous version for me. However, holy cow these are the ugliest skis I've ever seen.

[@SkiEssentials]

Pretty sure it's going to be a love/hate thing with the graphics. I have talked to some skiers that love the new graphics, but there are certainly others in your camp too.