Ski Tests Freeriders
- 74-80mm Waist
Group verdict
The medals say it all, with the Fischer Watea 78 the leader and the K2 Recon also scoring enough votes to take gold. After about a decade’s absence, Kastle has made a return to the Australian market and it took silver here for its MX 78. The other silver medallist was Nordica for its Hot Rod Nitrous CA Xbi.
Target skier
An advanced/expert skier who likes to ski the whole mountain but might needs versatility when travelling. Wants to be able to handle off-piste but in all likelihood will spend most time on the piste. Skiers with a genuine preference for off-piste skiing and powder should go to the next category.
Skier ability:
On the ski school rating scale, these skis will suit strong class 4 skiers but mostly classes 3 to 1.
| Dynastar Legend 8000 |
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| Beautiful performer, confident off-piste and happy to rip the groomed; Jim, Easy to initiate, trustworthy when you get going and they go anywhere; Patrick. |
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| Elan 78 Ti 6 |
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| I would have called this the ultimate Aus resort ski, until I skied the 82 Ti; Jim. Lively and versatile, torsional strength makes it easy to power anywhere; Fabian. |
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| Fischer Watea 78 |
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| Wood core puts spring in your step; hangs and fangs whatever the turn or terrain; Jim. All good – strong, energetic and stable; Chris. Versatile but a performer at speed; Kent. |
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| Head iM78 Monster |
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| My favourite dimensions for Oz conditions; Doug. Consistent, reliable, versatile; Patrick. Really good all-rounder; Fabian. |
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| K2 Recon |
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| Solid, reliable single-ski quiver; Bill. The one ski that does it all; Fabian. Smooth ride and a forgiving flex; Doug. |
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| Nordica Hot Rod Nitrous CA Xbi |
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| Beautiful feeling underfoot, super-confident edge grip, loved it; Jim. They reward every bit of effort, lively and fun, even when the fresh gets sticky; Chris. |
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| Volkl Tierra |
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| Lively and easy turning; Sue. Nice ski – forgiving but not soft; Jo. |
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