Backcountry Ski Reviews
Ski testing season is upon us. 2011 is our twelfth season of testing and reviewing backcountry skis. We have already been able to get on a few skis, but the bulk our testing happens in late March and early April. I will post more information about our ski line-up as they begin to arrive, but the list includes backcountry skis from Voile, Black Diamond, K2, Volkl, La Sportiva, Dynafit, G3, Armada, Faction, Prior, Movement and more. We just got word from the crew at Backcountryskiingcanada.com that they have been out on a variety of the new G3 skis and posted beta on some of G3's new skis here
There are a surprisingly large number of new backcountry skis for the 2011-12 season and quite a few holdovers from this season. We conduct most of our testing up at Mt. Hood with a dedicated crew of experienced skiers. A handful of select boards then head up to BC for a final hut trip of the season where we put the them through rigorous field testing and discuss their merits on the uptracks. Yes, it is a difficult job, but we manage.
We get more requests for our ski review issue than any other copy of the mag all season (it is always in the October issue). We always hold off on setting the review loose on the web until our publishing season comes to a close. The idea here is that you subscribe to get the mag - thereby supporting our dedicated efforts. We definitely appreciate your support.
Comments
1. Jonathan Shefftz said...
Looking forward to the review, and really liked the most recent issue’s climbing skin review.
Speaking of which, one attribute that wasn’t covered is whether G3's little bilateral toe clips interfere with removing skins while keeping your skis on? I saw one skier having trouble with this, as the little clips seem rather tenacious.
3. steve said...
looks like the voile charger on the sled. you like?
4. dave said...
The Charger has been great. It is super responsive with just enough new school feel. Float is great, and it is definitely light for its dimensions. One of my favorite fat touring boards for sure.
5. sledneck said...
what kind of snowmachine is that?
6. dave said...
i think it is called a yamaha phazer? It is a 4-stroke machine that belongs to a friend. I am no sled expert.
7. Doug said...
RE: 'fat' waxless skis. I like your mention in the ski review of uphill grip, as well as downhill glide and turning. But I wonder if there are differences in kick and glide efficiency apparent? (for next year's review) Like, the Fischers seem to be designed for good K&G.
Not a concern for many of us of course.
2. dave said...
Glad you enjoyed the review. Regarding the G3 tip clips, we have actually been running the G3 skin for over a year with multiple testers and have never had any trouble releasing the tips with the ski on. Perhaps some tip shapes are more prone than others.
3/11/2011