Black Diamond Equipment Helio Recon 88 Skis

“Predictable, stable, fast, fun and capable.”

The Tech: Black Diamond introduces three new Recon skis this year, a price-point line to replace the Route series that mirrors the Helio models with slightly weightier constructions—fiberglass-enhanced poplar rather than carbon-enhanced balsa/flax. That layup translated to a dampened, more stable ride that shone best in the 88-mm width and, in this ski’s case, costs $200 less than its top-shelf carbon counterpart.

The Talk: “Weighing about a pound more than its Helio sibling, this ski is absolutely worth the weight,” one said. “The best sub-90-width ski I’ve ever skied,” beamed another. “Predictable, stable, fast, fun and capable.”

$630
BlackDiamondEquipment.com
123/88/112
6.9 lbs. (178)
Lengths: 158, 168, 178

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