New snow, new skis!
The Vail Valley was greeted with over three feet of snow last week, and it sure was a welcome sight! Vail’s opening day is now only two days away. As an added bonus, there is more snow in the forecast for this weekend.
Last Thursday, November 13th, two of Black Tie Vail’s very own took their boots and poles and made the trek over to Loveland Ski Area for their annual November demo day. With representatives from all of the major ski and snowboard brands, it was a great opportunity to not only test out and get a feel for all of the equipment that we carry here at Black Tie, but also try out some other equipment that we might not have a chance to try otherwise.
It was a cold and stormy day – and while there still wasn’t too much terrain open, the snow stayed soft for us all day. While we could talk forever about every different ski we tested, we’ll randomly pick out a few to touch on – all of which we offer.
Atomic Automatic 102
This is a new ski from Atomic that replaces the Access. It has a rockered tip and tail with camber underfoot. Very versatile ski that was plenty stable on the groomed runs that we tested it on. Mid-fat width (combined with its rocker) provides plenty of float in deeper snow.
Dynastar Cham 97
With a big, wide tip, this ski offers plenty of float in deep snow. With its tapered tail, though, it remains nimble and any type of turn shape is possible. Even with significant tip rocker, the Cham was plenty stable at high speeds on groomed runs.
Dynastar Powertrack 89
More of your everyday all-mountain ski. Surprisingly easy to ski. With its five-point sidecut, the Powertrack effortlessly engages in the tip, while allowing the skier to release the turn with ease – making any turn size and shape a breeze. Plenty stable at high speeds, and again, just an easy ski to ski.
Nordica Soul Rider
One of the most playful skis we offer. A twin-tip, 97mm underfoot all-mountain ski. This ski has a nice pop to it, which makes for a fun time when really laying them over on edge and linking together turns – or playing around on jumps or knolls. An excellent (and fun) do-it-all ski.
Salomon Q 105
This ski has rocker in the tip and tail, with camber underfoot. While the tail rocker is less substantial, the tip offers a good amount of rise – providing a fun, surfy feeling. With a moderately upturned tail, the ski also held a great edge during high speed carving. With its tapered tip, as well as a honeycomb insert to reduce weight, this ski felt like it would do anything you wanted – with ease.