Tory Hayssen is clear about her preferred direction of skiing, saying, “I like the downhill best.” When asked what conditions she most enjoys, she told Backcountry that she prefers to go to “Pow Town,” but that “it’s all fun”—a good attitude to have no matter where you choose to shred. Here is what she thinks of the Black Crows Corvus Freebird.
VÖLKL V-WERKS BMT 109
Eric Tiffany is more interested in the downhill performance of his gear, but admits that as he gets older, he looks for that balance between weight and chargeability. Really, all he needs to have fun, however, is a few inches of fresh snow. Here is what he thinks of the Völkl V-Werks BMT 109.
The Splitboard Boot Revolution: Burton’s Tourist
Meet the Burton Tourist, a new, touring-specific splitboard boot due out this month. Built off the design of the iconic Ion, Burton’s team-favorite freeride boot, the Tourist offers a rearward flex for more efficient skinning and a crampon-compatible Vibram sole featuring a heel welt, positioning it as the ultimate all-around splitboard boot for going up and down the mountain.
Testers’ Choice: Armada Kufo 103
“The less weight on my feet going uphill means I can carry more Grey Goose for my Black Russians,” says tester Jamie Krakowiak. She wants a skis that is “efficient and trustworthy at a reasonable price point,” and looks for deep snow in open bowls, but is willing to hunt a little for fresh in the trees if she has to. Here is her review of the Armada Kufo 103.
Category Killer: Freerider’s Choice
Sometimes you just want to go fast, and for that you need power and stability in a ski. These sidecountry chargers value performance over weight savings.
G3 Issues Voluntary Avalanche Probe Recall
Genuine Guide Gear (G3) has issued a voluntary recall of their Carbon Speed Tech Avalanche Probes due to potential failures in their function upon deployment. According to G3, these failures are a result of force used when pulling the T-handle that tensions the internal cable. In certain models, excessive force with this action can weaken and possibly break the internal ferrule, causing the lower segment of the probe to disconnect.
Category Killer: Ski Mountaineering
These narrower skis weigh in at the featherweight level and are great for spring steeps, corn and go-far missions. Channel the goddess Nike and skin like the wind.
Testers’ Choice: DPS Wailer 112 RP2 Tour1
Tester Gregg Davis looks for what he calls “the lightest big skis I can find” in his preferred conditions—fluffy Wasatch pow. He wants the benefits of flotation without sacrificing speed on the up, and he has found the tool for the job.
Testers’ Choice: Dynastar Cham 97 2.0
“The 2.0 is much improved over the 1.0. They are effortless to initiate and incredibly fun turn to turn. This ski held an edge on the boilerplate just as well as it navigated the bony tough spots.”
Category Killers: Telemarker’s Choice
For those of a freeheel persuasion—these four skis were chosen by our testers as standouts in the telemark category.
