2024 Atomic Maverick 88 Ti Ski Review with SkiEssentials.com

[@jamescacciabeve3654]

Hands down, you guys do the best reviews. Even if i can find gear cheaper online (which is rare) I will always support skiessentials because of the great content you peeps put out!

[@SkiEssentials]

Thanks so much!

[@edog623]

I demoed a pair of these in March 2021 and bought them on the spot. I have 50+ ski days on these now and I still love them. Your review is spot on all the way through, with honest feedback on the few weaknesses. The combination of light weight, quick turns, and a great carving feel make this a winner. Now what do I get next for the handful of days where I want something that floats better? I've been wanting to try Ripstick 98 or Bent 100 but haven't had a chance yet. There's also part of me that thinks the answer is the Maverick 95 plus something narrower and more front side oriented is the more practical east coast choice.

[@SkiEssentials]

I'd try the Maverick 100 if you like the 88 and want wider. Same overall character and is quite predictable as a result. You could go a bit wider to something like the Blizzard Rustler 10 if you're looking for more of a push into the freeride realm.

[@timcline2799]

Thank you for excellent, very thorough reviews. I really wanted Maveric88 but opted for Bent90. I don’t have enough ability to max M88, would just frustrate me. Yous Rule 😊

[@journeywithstu7199]

Just amazing seeing the difference in conditions in the east vs. the west.

[@treeflip7]

This is a particularly bad year for the northeast

[@SkiEssentials]

We're getting there! It's always interesting here in Vermont, that's for sure.

[@kylesmith4653]

Tough winter for snow this year in the East! We are all feeling it for sure! At least they can see you on the hill this year, nice colour!

[@SkiEssentials]

You got that right!

[@bradleyrounds9148]

Hopefully snow coming this weekend into next week for you guys

[@SkiEssentials]

Today was pretty good--still very little base, so it'll be nice to see some consistent snowfall roll through.

[@mahatmacane3466]

Awesome review ! You convinced me this is the ski for me. Can you advise me about which length you would recommend please ? I usually ski on 169 to 171cm front side style skis. I am 5'8" 174cm and weigh 210 lbs. I am an intermediate to advanced skier, not afraid to go fast or steep, but spend 80% of my time on groomed runs due to my ski-buddy's (my wife's) preference. Thanks for the advice !

[@SkiEssentials]

I'd go with the 169 in that ski, mainly because the 176 would be on the long side. Have fun!

[@colinnoel7715]

So I absolutely love my new pair of Bent 100s for their playfulness but I almost wouldn't consider them all mountain skis due to how they handle chopped or tracked snow. I mounted them +2 from factory so I know this is partly my fault, but I knew I didn't want them to be my only pair of skis. So, I'm looking for something that is considerably more stable and damp. Do you think these 88 Ti are stable at speeds for an aggressive skier, especially in variable conditions? Or too similar to the Bents with the softer shovel, as mentioned in this video? If not, what are some good comparable options to these 88 Ti but on the damper side? Thanks in advance; this is my #1 source for researching skis, thank you for doing this and making it free for everyone to access.

[@SkiEssentials]

If you particularly want stability in variable speed, I would probably go with the Maverick 95 or 100 over the 88, but yes, the Mavericks perform quite differently than Bents despite the similarities in tip shape/construction. Some skiers still want to go heavier for crud-busting, but I find the Mavericks do a good job. Nordica Enforcer still is one of the leaders in that category, but you're lugging around an extra few hundred grams per ski, so it's a toss up. I expect Maverick would accomplish what you're looking for.

[@BabTheBabs]

Hey guys thank you for your amazing reviews again. I'm trying to decide between the Mavericks (88 or 95) the Faction Dance (1.0 or 2.0) and the Head Kore (88 or 93). How would you compare the 3? I'm also unsure about the length between 176 and 184. I'm 6'1", 165lbs, agressive intermediate - advanced looking to explore the more of the mountain.

[@SkiEssentials]

Hello! Sorry for the delay getting back to you. Kores are the lightest and quickest in that bunch, but some people don't like how stiff they are. Mavericks are still very quick, and arguably the most playful out of those skis too. Softer flex and the shape gives them more forgiveness, although you could say the Kore is stronger on a groomer. Dancers feel quieter and more damp than both. Fun on groomers, but can feel sluggish at times off trail. From what you've said, I think Maverick 88 Ti would be great. In that ski, at your size and given your aggressive nature, I would go 184. Hope that helps!

[@ricercr44]

Thanks for always making quality content for everyone, but especially us on the icecoast. How do the compare to the Salomon stance line?

[@SkiEssentials]

Stance 90 has always had a more burly feel to it, and slightly more stability at speed. It's quick, but not quite as quick as Maverick 88 Ti. There's more of a supple feel to the Stance while the grip of the Maverick is pretty impressive.

[@sulydog]

Hi! How would u compare these to the new Kendo 88? I’m looking for a ski for Ice Coast firm conditions and bumps, and which inspires confidence to go faaast. I’m a big guy, 6’1”, 240, former competitive powerlifter, advanced, but not expert skier. I currently have Nordica Unleashed 98s for snowy/softer east coast days, and looking for a ski to compliment those.

[@Waffleir0n]

Any chance you could make a group review of funny skis like the Sakana, Stranger, Blade, Mirus Cor etc.?

[@SkiEssentials]

I like that idea. We've thrown around the concept of "outlier" skis, and these certainly fall into that category.

[@sepultubob]

Wow that's promising ! Light, with great carving abilities but still poppy and playfull. It reminds me my 2018 QST92 !

[@SkiEssentials]

Pretty cool skis. I will say the tails are a lot stiffer than your QST's, so there's more confidence in the rebound of the turn for sure.

[@sepultubob]

@@SkiEssentials Thanks !

[@MakiPix]

Looks amazing! Do you think it makes a good ski for an intermediate skier, not too physical but wanting to improve its technique ? Also what size would u recommend for 5'67 180lbs ? thanks !

[@SkiEssentials]

Yes, that's the beauty of the light weight of the ski. I'd think the 161 would be the best option for your stats and application.

[@ScottIngram-lq6gy]

Early on in your review, you mentioned that this ski was not as popular as you had thought it might be. Unless I missed something, I didn't hear any discussion about that. Are skis this light a tough sell for Atomic and the retail outlets that sell them? If I didn't have the opportunity to demo skis, I would be wary of a ski that is this light. 1700 is like a feather.

[@SkiEssentials]

We didn't look at any sales reports, but based on what we see moving through our warehouse, it's just not as popular as some of its competitors. Any lack of stability in this ski was felt at the total top end, so it's not quite going to touch Kendo, Brahma, Enforcer, but it certainly goes beyond Ripstick 88 and Head Kore 87 in this realm.

[@NikosPer]

Hello there! Thanks for another excellent review... I still ride on an old Atomic GS ski from at least 15 years ago! I basically learned to be what i am today on these skis and i consider myself as an advanced or advanced to expert category ONLY on piste. In the last recent years an expert friend of mine tries to drag me to off piste territories but the old GS just refuses to cooperate and its super frustrating...(it bites and screws in everything like a knife). The questions are : would these Atomic maverick serve my speedy style on piste(80%) and the off piste (20%) ? How you would compare these to Black Crows Serpo? Are Serpos more stable at higher speeds on piste? Thanks in advance.

[@SkiEssentials]

I think the Maverick makes a great choice, especially since you bring up the knife analogy, which we've often used in reference to the Maverick 88. Compared to the Serpo, the Maverick is a bit better in an on-trail situation due to the width and the fact that it has more metal in it. I'd rather ski the Atomic at higher speeds on piste, but the Serpo is very precise and reactive in shorter to mid-range turns, as well as being more versatile in off-piste situations. Have fun! SE

[@rayan3797]

Excellent review, Im looking into buying a ski for the upcoming season and this is on my list. I ski 50% piste and 50% off-piste and I'm wondering if this is a good option to go with. Other skis on my list are the Salomon QST 92 and Black Crows Captis, which would you recommend? (PS, I ski in Canada and Europe)

[@SkiEssentials]

You're in the right zone for sure! If you're on firmer snow more often than not, the Maverick makes a lot of sense as it has tremendous edge grip. You move down in this regard as you go to QST and then to Captis, so if you're wanting the performance, lean to the Atomic first, then the Salomon. The Salomon is better for softer snow and is a very versatile and well-rounded ski for sure.

[@rayan3797]

@@SkiEssentials Thank you, so the Mavericks will be good for some off piste and free riding (Trees, drops, and jumps)? Also, are they poppy/energetic skis?

[@SkiEssentials]

Yes and yes. Totally versatile, especially because they're light and you can put them anywhere. Since they have a thin/stiff blend going on, yes they are certainly energetic.@@rayan3797

[@rayan3797]

@@SkiEssentials Im 173cm, 140lbs, and an advanced skier. Would you recommend the 169 or 176 length?

[@SkiEssentials]

I'd think the 169 will give you a better chance of overall success and happiness, unless you know you prefer longer skis. The weight might be a bigger indicator for you than the height that going with the 169 is a better choice. @@rayan3797

[@mikaelvellmun7228]

Hey there guys great review. Im looking to grab these this year- 5foot 11 200lbs. Was thinking 172 or 176cm. Also, ive skied since a kid but prefer blues and greens and im sure my technique isnt amazing. Will i still enjoy these skis or are they going to be less enjoyable if my carving technique isnt great? I do know i sometimes put my weight leaned back at times when i get lazy and enjoy doing this😂 or do you think the 86c would be a better choice? Thank you!

[@SkiEssentials]

The Ti version is a bit stiffer and heavier, but I think it's a better choice than the 86C. If you go with the 172, that'll increase your enjoyment level and progression speed!

[@m4wood1]

Another great review guys! I have been back and forth considering these vs Declivity 82 or 92 ti. 6'0" 170lbs advanced-but-not-expert skier in the PNW. May start skiing Vermont again soon too 👀. I gave away my old Experience 88s to a friend and now looking to reload! I have QST 106s for the soft days, so looking for something that can rip groomers on the firmer (concrete) days and handle moguls/trees pretty well too. Pretty playful style, but still love to carve. What do you think?

[@SkiEssentials]

Both Atomic and Armada will have the same performance level, but they go about it slightly differently. The Armadas, in your case I think the 92 is a better option, are a lot quieter and smoother than the Atomic. That said, the Maverick has more jump and snap to it, especially in more of a z-style shape. The Armadas are rounder in nature, if that makes sense--more like the QST. The Atomic feels more energetic rebound to it while the Armada rolls better. I equate the Armada with more of a playful style that can still carve while the Atomic is more business-like.

[@m4wood1]

@@SkiEssentials Thank you so much!

[@carterfan80]

I'm looking for bump ski( for VT particularly ) besides the Maverick 88, What are 2 or 3 other options i should consider? (Maybe some narrower options??) I'm an Advanced skier. I've been on the maverick ninety five t I and really liked it, but I Own multiple skis. (86mm and 92mm wide) This would basically be a ski to improve my moguls skiing. But still use all mountain without sacrificing too much overall.

[@SkiEssentials]

Bent 90 from Atomic is great. Black Crows Captis and the Volkl Kanjo are all really good at bumps and all-mountain.

[@HuckBerry208]

Having a hard time choosing between this and the kendo 88. What do you guys think of each and what would you go with?

[@SkiEssentials]

The Maverick is a few hundred grams lighter, yet is also a bit stiffer, so the ratio is a bit different when it comes to that blend. Another big difference is the turn shape--the Maverick prefers a longer arc while the Kendo is a bit more at home in a shorter-turn format. For skis this reactive, one meter of difference can feel like a lot. Personally, I'd lean to the Kendo for what I'm doing around here in Vermont--just a bit more stability and power for the firm stuff.

[@bradleyrounds9148]

Great review. I just may be stupid enough. Going to my demo guys. Thanks

[@SkiEssentials]

Have fun!

[@SerafeimSkouras]

Hi guys, thanks for this amazing review. I am struggling on deciding between the kendo 88 and the maverick 88. I am intermediate level skier who's looking to progress and build technique. I am currently on the Rossignol black ops sender ti 180 length. That was a bad choice for my first skis. They are great but I feel they are big and they are holding me back in my progression. Do you think the kendo's or the maverick 88 at around 170 length would work for me?

[@SkiEssentials]

I feel that the lighter Maverick makes for a better intermediate option. You still get the stability, stiffness, and power of a high end ski but the lighter weight to make it more mobile and agile. I'd go with the Atomic and slightly lower than head high for length.

[@phrides]

I love the how-stupid-you-can-be criterion. I love being stupid on predictable pistes on my old gs race skis and in deep snow on my fat boards. Not sure I want to go there in mixed conditions on my daily driver at this age.

[@SkiEssentials]

Thanks! I think it's a fun way to describe skis. Some support a lot of stupidity, some don't! ;)

[@chrisfoley.design]

Those are both sweet I would def grab those for bomber days much better looking than the stance

[@SkiEssentials]

They've certainly sharpened up the look!

[@DrCmoments]

almost any decent skis look better than the stance, maybe except for mindbender 89ti ;)

[@hotskillet]

Jeff, looks I you rode switch for a few seconds; is there enough splay to ride switch in various conditions? Also looks like they lost their grip causing you to lay down.

[@SkiEssentials]

No, that was just a test. Not a good switch ski.

[@PlaneImpactGolf]

You’ll see my questions on several reviews, looking to change from Mpro 90 to another ski, find the Mpro 90 has too much splay and feel I don’t have enough edge , like metal in my skis but want a softer tip without the amount of splay that the Mpro 90 has . Are the Atomic maverick 88 Ti the answer?😅

[@SkiEssentials]

The Maverick 88 is great--light and agile while still providing a long effective edge and metal. That Experience 86Ti takes the performance to the next level, although it's maybe not quite as all-mountain oriented as the Maverick.

[@christophertkach6836]

Sounds like this might be a good ski for 50yo washed up college racer who has lost the muscle, athleticism and desire to ski on a race inspired ski anymore and is looking for a good cruiser that can crank out some GS-sized carves on the frontside but still play in the powder on the sides. Thoughts? How would this compare to the Deacon 84s?

[@SkiEssentials]

I think that's a GREAT way to think about this ski! Yes! Deacon really feels more like a wide frontside ski to me. There's some versatility to it, but not Maverick 88 versatility. More precision as a carver, far less playful anywhere else.

[@jpc4378]

Nice review! I'm currently on a pair of 2018 Vantage CTis, which I enjoy, but am browsing. Can you offer any comparisons of that ski to the Maverick?

[@SkiEssentials]

The Maverick feels less jittery and more refined without adding weight. They did a nice job of building the Maverick in a more traditional manner without jeopardizing the light weight feel of the Vantage.

[@jpc4378]

@@SkiEssentials Great thanks! Really enjoy your reviews!

[@whoisthe1412]

if you look for direct competition isn't the Kendo or 89ti?

[@SkiEssentials]

Not necessarily, no. Certainly in the same conversation, but both of those skis feel quite a bit heavier when you ski them. Not as bouncy as the Maverick, or rather as energetic. Mindbender is an interesting comparison, but it gets its maneuverability from longer tip and tail rocker, while the Maverick gets is maneuverability from its snap, lightweight feel, and energy. It's one of those scenarios where they sort of accomplish the same things, but feel way different while doing so. Hope that helps!

[@pietrocecchin-f9x]

I am 6’1” and 165 lbs and an advanced skier that likes to go fast which size would you recommend?

[@SkiEssentials]

Since they're on the light side, it's okay to size up if you're caught in the middle. In that light, as well as your stats, I'd think the 184 is a better choice than the 176. Have fun! SE

[@paulgray9551]

I am having my maverick 86c replaced under warranty. They have given me an option to get the 88ti for an extra $180. Do you think it would be worth the money? Advanced skier but limited off piste experience.

[@SkiEssentials]

It is a more advanced ski, so make sure it lines up with your style and ability. The 86C is lighter and quicker, so if you value those attributes, I wouldn't upgrade.

[@tuckerdunagan8565]

How would you compare these to the maverick 95? Which is better in trees and which is better on groomers?

[@SkiEssentials]

I'd take the 88 on groomers and the 95 in the trees.

[@danbraden4401]

Hi Guys, Coming off Nordica 94 Enforcers too heavy but awesome ski. Tried the Elan Ripstick black bought the wrong size but it didn't work like I thought. I'm 5'8 190lbs and ski in Colorado. Advance skier that hits the trees and bumps and some black runs but the front side is where I ski most.I do ski the front of my boots and like to charge. Was looking at the 169 but thinking 161 would be better. Any feedback would be great!!!

[@SkiEssentials]

I'd go 169 in that ski. They're pretty light so it's okay to go a bit longer.

[@christianmelin8648]

How does the Maverick compare to the Kästle MX? I got MX83s and I am looking for a bit more versatile option without losing too much on-piste performance.

[@SkiEssentials]

The MX 88 is a much higher-octane ski with a race-like build and a very firm flex. The Maverick is toned down, but it's not a precipitous drop in performance. If you have the MX 83 and are looking for more versatility, I do think the Maverick makes more sense than the MX 88.

[@Valhalla-at-ya-boy]

What would you guys choose between this and the enforcer 88? Looking for a good strong ski for hard pack but can go off trail a little. 80/20 on/off piste. 6’3” 215lbs.

[@SkiEssentials]

I (Bob) really like the Maverick, and I own an Enforcer 88. I would likely trade, mostly because I find the Nordica to be on the stiff/heavy side, and I'm your height plus 10 pounds.

[@Valhalla-at-ya-boy]

@@SkiEssentials thanks Bob! With that being said do you like the Maverick 88 or Mindbender 89ti? Let me know!

[@justinbitsie7060]

Looking at these for this upcoming season. I currently have rossignol experience 88 ti. Dont know much about how different it would feel looking for some input?

[@SkiEssentials]

The Maverick 88 has a very responsive and energetic feel to it while the Experience 88 is more of a clean and composed turner. The Maverick is quick and poppy and stiff. The current Experience 86Ti is more of a carver than the outgoing 88 or the Maverick, especially in terms of stability and solid feel.

[@Peter-do8gy]

hi how do you compare this ski to the Volkl Kendo 88? thanks

[@SkiEssentials]

The Kendo is quite a bit more sturdy, but therefore more heavy. This is good for some skiers but not so great for others. The big plus of the Maverick is that it's pretty darn grippy and energetic for its weight. It's not as stable as the Kendo, but it's easier to turn at a variety of speeds.

[@exothermal.sprocket]

Can you offer a few details about how this compares to a Salomon Stance 90?

[@SkiEssentials]

The Stance is slightly more consistent from tip to tail in terms of flex, core thickness, and weight. The Atomic has lighter and thinner tips, and this helps with flotation while the tails are stiffer and more squared-off which lead to strong and precise grip through the completion phase of the turn. The Stance feels like it runs more true through the carve with a consistent and progressive flex. I personally prefer the Stance and its more intuitive nature, but both skis are capable of reaching very high performance ceilings.

[@wagjkproduction755]

Hi, looking to buy it on you site, size recommendation for this ski for a 5’7’’ 175lbs intermediate skier?

[@SkiEssentials]

I'd go with the 161 in that ski based on your stats and application. Have fun! SE

[@Svekj]

How do these skis compare to the Stance 90?

[@SkiEssentials]

The Stance has a slightly longer turn shape and a more versatile character. The Maverick is more precise, especially in the tail, but both are relatively light and sturdy all-mountain skis that carve great. Personally I like the overall composure and well-rounded nature of the Stance, but not by a lot.

[@Svekj]

@@SkiEssentials Thanks a lot. They are probably made in the same factory.

[@swedishburrito5073]

👍

[@mcleanirish]

"Because the ski doesn't have limitless [wipes out] ...I guess stability?" :)

[@SkiEssentials]

More of a controlled sit than a wipe out? We get a chuckle out of that one for sure.

[@mcleanirish]

@SkiEssentials Yeah amazing editing to sync the VO with that moment:)

[@annuchandy4809]

Is this ski good for a beginner to intermediate?

[@SkiEssentials]

It's pretty stiff for progressing skiers, but the shape is great. Make sure to check out the Maverick 86 C--it shares the footprint of the Ti version but is lighter and more flexible for beginners and intermediates.

[@thefabulousplatypus8956]

Ok. I can't decide. This or the stance. I have a powder pair already, so this is my all mountain fun ski. either cruising with the kids, or pretending I'm a GS super Star for a couple morning runs. First comment wins!

[@SkiEssentials]

So, the Stance is quieter and smoother, but the Maverick is lighter and more energetic. As a bigger skier, I personally prefer the dampness of the Stance, and I've found that it's not that difficult to wrangle, even though its heavier. The Maverick is slightly chatterier, but it's quite a bit easier to maneuver. If you're skiing with kids and need to bring it easy, the Maverick has better slow-speed compliance.

[@kooperswindlehurst4856]

Best size for 6'3 180 pounds?

[@SkiEssentials]

Probably the 184 based on your stats. If you're not very aggressive and more meandering, I think shorter is fine, but likely the 184 is the way to go.

[@juancibert]

How it compares with the 95 ti ?

[@SkiEssentials]

Very similar but more precision and agility in the 88. If you like longer and more drawn out turns in softer snow, the 95 is the way to go, but for shorter carves and better initiation and rebound, the 88 has more torsional stiffness.

[@juancibert]

Thank you very much. So will this be a good choice for a intermediate skiier from Argentina ? 80% groomers and 20% off piste, trees, crud… Not much powder snow here. I weight 188 pounds and 5’10” tall

[@michaelacharya7126]

Size rec for 185lbs 5’11 advanced skier?

[@SkiEssentials]

I'd go with the 176 in that ski based on your stats and application.

[@whoisthe1412]

Mindbender 89ti?

[@SkiEssentials]

The K2 is turnier and has a stronger kick at the end of the turn--feels like more of a front side ski.

[@christophermagnuson1270]

Oh boy is this great!⛷❄️ seems like a perfect east coast ski

[@SkiEssentials]

The exactitude of the ski, and sharpness, make it excel here in VT for sure.