Dynastar Huge Trouble Skis 2008/09

140-115-130, if that ain't big enough for you then you need to go water-skiing. An all-new and very cool looking freestyle offer from Dynastar. At present only available in one size, 185 cm, but that is about perfect for most back-country freestyle huckin'.

With a 33m radius this is going to be one fast pair of skis, great for the expert, pro or team rider but not for the faint hearted or debutante. Dynastar have emphasised the pop on this latest model for higher kicks, smoother and more controlled landings plus that extra strength in the tail will give you a stronger ride just in general free-skiing.

Should be good, may have to wait a few months till I can get my hands on a pair though.

skireviews.co.uk rating: N/A

The manufacturer says this about the Dynastar Huge Trouble Skis 2008/09:

Troubl e: the name echoes with notorious skill! The Dynastar
freestyle range encompasses backcountry to park and pipe styles.
It is at the cusp of urban design, but still has all the skiing quality of
a Dynastar ski.
To answer to the needs of backcountry skiers in search of even
bigger trouble, try the Huge Trouble (115 waist)!
HUGE TROUBLE
SI ZES CM 185
RADIUS M 33
WEIGHT GR 2450
SI DECUT MM 140 115 130
Great float on all kinds of snow: Ultra-wide sidecuts,
backcountry shape, wide super-raised tip and tail
Impressive jump performance: Graduated spring
blade mechanization, wood core
Switch stability: Ultra-raised tail
ref DA8MC01
PARK BACKCOUNTRY
PX Racing 14 XXL
B lack
BIG TROUBLE
Great float on all kinds of snow: Backcountry shape,
wide super-raised tip and tail
Impressive jump performance: Graduated spring
blade mechanization, wood core
Switch stability: Ultra-raised tail

PARK BACKCOUNTRY

PX 12 Jib Wide
T rouble
ref DC80011
iso 3,5-12
PX Composite Technology
Full Drive Concept
AFC Plus
Absorber 3 mm
Wide Brakes
23 mm
2nd Option - RE F DC80005
PX racing 15 Wide Trouble
SI ZES CM 166 176 186
RADIUS M 17 20 23
WEIGHT GR 2240
SI DECUT MM 124 92 114
ref DC80006
iso 5-14
PX Racing Technology
Micrometrical adjustment
Full Drive Concept
Teflon
18 mm

Dynastar, Skicross, Skis, 2008/09

The Speed Course and Speed Skicross skis share identical construction and profiles for 2008 - they are also very close in structure to the Speed but the main difference here is that the tail is much more powerful. Although the profile of the tail doesn't change the additional strengthening enables the expert skier to use the tail to accelerate as the ski grips for longer in its arc.

As such for the advanced skier they are less versatile whereas for the expert the only difficulty in their use would be in tricky low-light or bumpy conditions - either way the fun you can have with these skis on a flat, well-groomed run outweighs any of the extra work you may rarely need to put in with that stronger tail.

If you prefer your graphics louder then grab a pair of the Skicross, or if you wish for a cooler, more race-bred feel grab the Speed Course; both are great for the expert skier wanting GS feel without the GS work-load.

The manufacturer says this about the Dynastar, Skicross, Skis, 2008/09:

The Speed range is to skiing what Formula 1
is to auto racing. The skis in this range come straight from the
competition department and are equipped with all the latest
technological innovations, to provide expert skiers, instructors and
clubs with speed and performance. les skieurs experts, moniteurs et
clubs. In accordance with new rules from the Internal Ski Federation
(FIS), Dynastar is launching the Speed Course World Cup with a 27m
radius.

S P E E D
COURSE / SKICROSS*
Great edge grip: Autodrive Flex plate, oversized
sidewalls
Precise trajectory: 17m radius, Titanal
Acceleration: Autodrive Technology, explosive
rebound tail
SI ZES CM 158 165 172 178 182
RADIUS M 14 15 16 17 18
WEIGHT GR 2155
SI DECUT MM 112 67 98
PX 12 TI / PX 12*
B L U E / B lack Gre y *
ref DC80010/DC70010*
iso 3,5-12
PX Titanium Technology/PX Composite Technology*
Full Drive Concept
AFC Plus
20 mm
2nd Option - RE F DC80012

Dynastar, Speed, Skis, 2008/09

Aggressive, quick and fun race-carvers. The Speed has strong, over-sized shaping of the tip to swoop into medium or longer turns. It is a fun ski for the aggressive advanced skier or expert who doesn't desire the constraints of a pure racing ski but would like to enjoy the sensations of speed and ripping some serious arcs into the hard-pack.

A lively feel under-foot, good grip and a forgiving tail give the Speed enough clout to attack icy reds but enough forgiveness that in the hands of an advanced skier they are not going to feel overawed.

A great higher-speed race carver for fast medium to long arcs.

The manufacturer says this about the Dynastar, Speed, Skis, 2008/09:

The Speed range is to skiing what Formula 1
is to auto racing. The skis in this range come straight from the
competition department and are equipped with all the latest
technological innovations, to provide expert skiers, instructors and
clubs with speed and performance. les skieurs experts, moniteurs et
clubs. In accordance with new rules from the Internal Ski Federation
(FIS), Dynastar is launching the Speed Course World Cup with a 27m
radius.

SPEED

Great edge grip: Autodrive Flex plate
Precise trajectory: 17m radius
Acceleration: Autodrive technology
SI ZES CM 158 165 172 178 182
RADIUS M 14 15 16 17 18
WEIGHT GR 2155
SI DECUT MM 112 67 98
PX 12
B L U E
ref DC80012
iso 3,5-12
PX Composite technology
Full Drive Concept
AFC Plus
20 mm
2nd Option - RE F DC80025
NX 12 Blue
BEGINNER EXPERT
PISTE ALL MOUNTAIN

Dynastar Exclusive White Womens Skis 2008/09

Dynastar make some lovely skis for women. With the new Exclusive White Dynastar have constructed a most attractive ski for your eyes whilst for your skiing they are smooth, easy to use and very manageable.

A little lighter than previous generations of Dynastar skis as the White's possess the new Ccube binding system - a slide-on binding that keeps the weight down and fatigue low.

With a 69 mm waist, easy-turning 113 mm tip and a very skiddable and non-aggressive tail the Exclusive White's are chic, comfortable and stable for cruising around the groomed runs.

The manufacturer says this about the Dynastar Exclusive White Womens Skis 2008/09:

Control, stability: New Exclusive Ccube system. Skiability: forward mounting point, lightweight. Improved balance: raised heel.

Blizzard Ski Reviews 2008/09 online @ Citizen Ski.

For 2008/09 Blizzard have a broad range of skis from raw FIS racers to a sexy, feminine Ltd Edition model Viva. Based in Austria Blizzard have been manufacturing skis since the end of the Second World War. Building strongly on the back of racing through the '70's Blizzard were hugely successful during the '80's. Skiing great Franz Klammer raced on Blizzard and through '84 and '85 they cleaned-up on some World Cup podiums with racing versions of their Thermo and, probably rally inspired, Quattro skis.

Always popular on the Austrian side of Europe's Alps Blizzard have retained success in racing throughout the '90's and into the new century. Their latest skis draw on this wealth of experience for some great all-mountain skis for any level of skier, plus a foray into the Park and freeriding with the awesome Zeus.

A bientot, Citizen Ski.

The manufacturer says this about the Blizzard Ski Reviews 2008/09 online @ Citizen Ski.:

Blizzard Magnum 7.4 IQ Skis 2008/09

Slightly narrower and lighter-weight sibling of the Magnum 76, here you have a more intermediate to advanced ski that is great on groomed runs, happy in the bumps and a nice all-rounder for the two to three week a year skier.

The manufacturer says this about the Blizzard Magnum 74 IQ Skis 2008/09:

Based on the 7.6 also this all mountain model stands out with its Powerframe Technology, IQ System, and new sidewall construction. Excellent carving characteristics on groomers, versatility and outstanding back-country performance excel the Magnum 7.4 IQ.

Blizzard Magnum 76 IQ Skis 2008/09

A great all-mountain ski, in the traditional sense, for the good intermediate to advanced skier - even experts, ski instructors can use this ski as a cruisy ski that will pretty much go anywhere at a reasonable rate of knots.

76 mm is versatile, the construction solid - perhaps more so than a few of Blizzards competitors - and the overall quality of the skis performance is very good. An excellent package for the recreational all-mountain skier.

The manufacturer says this about the Blizzard Magnum 76 IQ Skis 2008/09:

The composition of the IQ system and the Powerframe Technology explain the outstanding versatility and rebound energy. A 7 mm waist carves even on the hardest snow and yet never sinks too deeply on soft groomers. The new sidewall construction gives stability at speed and is extremely forgiving.

Blizzard The Origin IQ Skis 2008/09

To be tested.

The manufacturer says this about the Blizzard The Origin IQ Skis 2008/09:

Easiness, liveliness and agility are the origin of jibbing down the mountain and playful moves in the park. This Blizzard park model is specially equipped with a solid sandwich core construction and the IQ binding system to assure the best performance.

Blizzard Viva Limited Edition IQ Skis 2008/09

A lively and lightweight carver aimed specifically at the style conscious lady. Agile, responsive and "nippy", the Viva Ltd.'s are best compared to a Roadster - sporty, fun, agile and feminine.

The manufacturer says this about the Blizzard Viva Limited Edition IQ Skis 2008/09:

Fusing advanced materials makes the Viva Limited Edition phenomenally lightweight , yet its glamourous design is unparalleled amongst women's skis. This limited-edition model will persuade you with its dynamic performance, optimum flex, perfect edge grip and unbelievable versatility.

Blizzard Viva Magnum IQ Skis 2008/09

Attractive and strong, the Viva Magnum prefers advanced women skiers who can drive a ski, power through variable terrain and want to attack the whole mountain. With a powerful sidewall construction the Viva Magnum is grippy and packs enough punch to push through the crud - they do possess some finesse though and they aren't a pair of heathens. The Viva is tailored to female skiing with specific placing of the bindings and a tuned core.

A good all-round package for the advanced to "recreational expert" skier.

The manufacturer says this about the Blizzard Viva Magnum IQ Skis 2008/09:

An excellent performing multi-condition ski, the Viva Magnum IQ is built for the high-level female skier. The 76mm waist width makes this model exceptionally versatile in soft and hard snow. Blending women's specific technologies such as IQ System, sidewall construction and Powerframe Technology guarantees a powerful ski that performs brightly in all conditions.

Blizzard G-Force Supersonic IQ Skis 2008/09

True high-performance all-mountain carvers. If you used to enjoy a slalom ski but would prefer something with lots of life yet a bit more versatility then you'll love the G-Force Supersonic. With a powerful construction it will keep the high-powered and aggressive exec skier happy all-day long.

Great fun, great performance, a pair of Cayennes's for your feet!

The manufacturer says this about the Blizzard G-Force Supersonic IQ Skis 2008/09:

The Supersonic is the kind of ski that makes you forget about all the products you've ever skied before. What a combo: the Powerframe technology combined with sidewall construction and IQ system are the guarantors of energy, quickness and stability - you don't need anything else. With the modulated sidecut, short and long turns are its forte. Great in all snow conditions, not just hard pack. It's awesome from edge-to-edge.

Blizzard Magnum 87 IQ Skis 2008/09

With 87 mm underfoot the Magnum 87 is more of a blunder-buster than finely tuned arcer. Very much aimed at the expert skier the 87 prefers a strong touch and an aggressive skier atop. Strong and powerful the 87's blast through variable conditions and maintain a strong medium to long radius carve on groomed runs.

A fair "all-rounder" but not my favourite - I would actually prefer the agility and throw-ability of the 8.1 or just opt for a freeride ski from the Titan range like the versatile and much more attractive Cronus.

The manufacturer says this about the Blizzard Magnum 87 IQ Skis 2008/09:

The remarkably versatile Magnum 8.7 IQ employs a construction originally reserved for race skis, added to a solid side-wall construction seamlessly merged with Blizzard's unique IQ system. The Powerframe technology stacks layers over each edge, and the development of the suspension control 3D allows the ski to flex smoothly in all new snow conditions. The result is unheard-of power and edge grip supported by the new IQ performance TT Binding.

Blizzard Magnum 8.1 IQ Skis 2008/09

One down from the throne in Blizzard's Magnum range is the 8.1, is an all-mountain carver. It's scope is to satisfy advanced to expert skiers, with a blend of 50% groomed, 50% back-country performance - a modern day X-Scream if any of you can remember that far back!

So versatility, pretty good grip on firm, groomed runs and adequate floatation for knee deep powder with 81 mm underfoot. The Magnum is a solid-performer rather than a virtuoso one - they are good but not searing with any passion in any one field - but that is what makes the magnum 8.1 a great all-round mountain ski for the majority of recreational skiers looking for a one ski does it all job!

The manufacturer says this about the Blizzard Magnum 8.1 IQ Skis 2008/09:

Blizzard updates its line by incorporating its best construction throughout, and the Magnum 8.1 IQ is the latest to benefit. The Powerframe technology gives extra mass above the edges. The sidewall construction brings gripping power to these higher-end skis. Together with the IQ System, this blend results in incomparable versatility.

Blizzard G-Force Sonic IQ Skis 2008/09

Blizzard's repost at Head's highly-successful Supershape range. The G-Force Sonic is a wily carver that you can arc to almost any dimension - the aim is versatility but also razor sharp performance for instructors, experts and very competent advanced skiers.

The first bunch, instructors, will love how they can shape, skid and carve their short turns - ideal for technical exams, whilst experts will love the versatility on all types of groomed runs, groomed or otherwise. I also think the Sonic would be good for many an advanced skier "stuck on a plateau", the drive and shape of ski such as the Sonic doesn't allow you to be passive - they demand input and also give you lots of output and feedback for it, so a great way to learn and improve.

There are no doubt more "all-mountain" inspired skis in the Blizzard range but the Sonic is a standout ski for the advanced to expert technical skier.

The manufacturer says this about the Blizzard G-Force Sonic IQ Skis 2008/09:

Like all Blizzard high-performance models, it features the IQ binding system, the high capacity Powerframe technology and the powerful sidewall construction. It distributes pressure evenly fore to aft, playing a key role in a solid ride, sweet and clean on the edge.

Blizzard GSR Magnesium IQ Skis 2008/09

Not so much cruisers as destroyers. The GSR Mag's are powerful and bred to tear up boiler-plate reds and blacks. Great if conditions are smooth, you are feeling fit, strong and aggressive. This is a ski built for speed, with lots of drive but a fraction more useable than their red-blooded FIS-race cousins.

Ideal for the expert, perhaps as a second pair of skis - they are not overly versatile - great fun when the conditions are right and you have a good technical level of skiing and not too many crowds!

The manufacturer says this about the Blizzard GSR Magnesium IQ Skis 2008/09:

High-end performance based on World Cup construction in combination with the IQ System and brand-new Powerframe technology. With excellent stability at high speeds, dynamic and precise power transmission and an unbelievable rebound off the edge.

Blizzard SLR Mg IQ Skis 2008/09

If you're an expert skier but find a full-blown FIS slalom ski too much to handle - which most people do to be fair - then the SLR is your pick. All the grip, life and agility of a slalom ski but a little tamer flex, lots of bite but a fraction gentler and an all-round great package for shredding the ice.

Superb in short turns, good in medium length carves but fun pretty much everywhere - the side-wall construction and 13m radius (on average) tear into hard-pack, lighting up your legs and bringing a beam to your smile as they arc with grace, draw on your technique but never feel too Pit bull-ish to make you fearful.

A great slalom-carver for the advanced skier or expert.

The manufacturer says this about the Blizzard SLR Mg IQ Skis 2008/09:

A benchmark in terms of agility and edge hold for highly-athletic skiers. In comparison to the GSR - the SLR possesses more versatility. The outstanding new Powerframe technology provides enormous rebound and snappiness. The integrated IQ system ensures perfect flex and constant edge grip. High-strength magnesium layers guarantee stable skiing at high speeds.

Blizzard Reason IQ Skis 2008/09

Blizzard have created a park and pipe focused ski with the reason that remains useable in an all-mountain situation. Again using their Sandwich construction the Reason is not only progressive and stable in the park and gives good pop off kickers but the 20 m radius and overall grip of the ski is highly useable outside the constraints of a manicured park.

Skiable from an advanced level up and ideal for most park and pipe aficionados.

The manufacturer says this about the Blizzard Reason IQ Skis 2008/09:

Have you been searching for the perfect ski which attacks the pipes yet stays completely solid on kickers and on slopes? This Blizzard freestyle model give you enough reasons to end your quest. The IQ Inside Carbon technology has three mounting positions with inserts, high-resistant dual wood core and rock-solid side-walls - lean back and enjoy the show!

Blizzard Answer IQ Skis 2008/09

Twin-tip back-country freeride huckers will love the Answer. A strong freeride to freestyle ski with its focus on the bowls, cliffs and back-country kickers the Answer has a large 105 mm platform - so if you can't float on that then go back to ski school - and a rock-solid Titanium-Sandwich construction for reliability and surefooted-ness in harsh conditions and with strong riders.

A ski very much aimed at the dedicated skier who rides throughout the winter - although I must admit I often find back-country twins slightly more fun and easier to ride than many of the more serious freeride skis.

The manufacturer says this about the Blizzard Answer IQ Skis 2008/09:

Find the ultimate answer to your search between Freeride and Freestyle. The advanced technology of the IQ system integrates the binding deep within the ski body to create smooth and even flex for tricks, ambitious powder floatation and tremendous edge hold, with enough stiffness to boost your way through the crud.

Blizzard Titan Cronus IQ Skis 2008/09

With the Titan Cronus Blizzard have created a great all-mountain ski for the advanced to expert skier with scope for longevity and real-world skiing. If you want to ski occasionally on the groomed trails, with family, friends etc, but prefer the back-country, touring and virginal powder then the Cronus should be the first pair of skis you grab out of the Blizzard's bag.

With an 88 mm waist the ski is agile and nimble, stable yet supportive. A versatile slightly sub-20m radius sidecut keeps turns variable, you can switch from carve to skid, short to long turn. Built with a robust side-wall construction the Cronus also has a good deal of power and grip, but not too much to adversely affect the adventurous advanced skier.

Can be fitted with Marker's Duke binding for true touring capabilities - although slightly more expensive it would be my choice as it is a superb binding and versatile system.

The manufacturer says this about the Blizzard Titan Cronus IQ Skis 2008/09:

The Titan Cronus makes its way through the battle field guarded with a shield of 88 mm waist underfoot. This model of the Titan family stands out with a sublime blend of groomed, crud and deep-powder performance.

Blizzard Titan Argos IQ Skis 2008/09

Bruising big mountain skis with a super-solid construction and hefty 101 mm side-cut.
Reinforced through the mid-section for enhanced grip under-foot on firm, variable conditions the Argos IQ should handle fast freeride-all-mountain skiing like a carpenter wields an axe - they will chop, carve and power their way through. A strong ski for the expert skier looking for a fraction more flexibility rather than just plumping for the full-on back-country behemoths, the Zeus.

A touch more accessible and versatile than the Zeus, but do you compromise?

The manufacturer says this about the Blizzard Titan Argos IQ Skis 2008/09:

The Titan Argos plunders powder like an ancient hero giving epic, breathtaking rides. And true to Blizzards racing roots, its hard-pack edge hold is awesome and reliable like a sword. With unique IQ Freeski Sandwich Side-wall construction arms this ski is for unflappable performance - whatever the mountain throws at it.