This might sound strange but I did not know how well I could ski until I jumped on this ski. It absolutely rips through the groomers, has unbelievable edge grip and is so stable at speed you don't realise how fast you're skiing sometimes. Have to be in shape though, have to stay on top and well centered over the ski at all times and its that that brought my skiing to new levels. Serious upgrade from my old K2 apaches, great ski but now retired. 60+ years old and still ripping. Peace!
@@SkiEssentials I watched a video on Deb Armstrongs channel where she talks about how upgrading your equipment can lead to improved skiing. For me this ski was a case in point. Maybe this could be a topic of discussion in one of your shows (which I thoroughly enjoy). Take it easy! Cheers.
Got this last year and man has it easily become my favorite ski in my quiver. Would have to agree that this is a strong ski and not everyone will enjoy it. But If you KNOW that you can ski this thing then hardly anything on the market holds a candle in this category. Best feeling is charging down some freeride bumps, launching off the last one at an angle, and immediately landing into an on piste gs carve. That is what this ski is born to do.
"Best feeling is charging down some freeride bumps, launching off the last one at an angle, and immediately landing into an on piste gs carve." Love that! That's easily one of my favorite things to do on the Brahma (or Bonafide). It's so strong and so trustworthy, you can launch yourself and completely trust the ski's ability to hold even if you're landing into a high edge angle. Skiing's fun.
Mine just landed today! Can’t wait to mount them up. I didn’t jive with the Enforcer 88 and really like the idea of the new Kendo. Truth be told, my Daily Drivers are Liberty V82’s and looking for something a little burlier than those. Hoping the Brahma 88’s will fit my “used to be a ski racer” dad-charger style. As long as my 10 year old thinks I’m cool, I’m happy!!
I beat my top speed on this ski last week in zermatt. It truly is a all mountain ski, I was charging crazy off piste line on this. It gave me the confidence to do stuff I’ve never done before and it’s a blast on piste and it was like a hot knife through butter in the fresh stuff.
my favorite ski and i spent 70% on ungroomed terrain. if you like to turn and ski edge to edge even in technical terrain there is no better ski imho. But i will be demoing the wingman i want to be able to relax a little (hum keep up with my daughters withought having to be in race mode all the time :) )
Thoughts on this as a ski to support developing/refining technique, or best for those who have strong fundamentals already. Thinking about this a front-side ski to replace an aging set of Salomon Xdrive 8.3s (and alongside a pair of bent chetler 100s that I’ve been using for trees, soft snow and some touring). I’m a bug guy (6’ 240lbs) and a strong intermediate, but only started skiing more seriously in my 30s, so don’t have the effortless technique and muscle memory of my friends who’ve grown up in the mountains. My partner, who similarly didn’t grow up skiing, landed on a pair of black pearl 88s last year and found they really helped her move from an eager beginner to a stronger intermediate. I’m looking to continue my progression from intermediate to advanced but this review has me wondering if these would encourage consistency in my technique or punish me for the occasional lapse (and if that’s the case, what other skis to look at).
I think your size and your desire to improve puts the Brahma in the discussion for you for sure. I would recommend going with the 177 over the 183 since they're stable naturally, and there's no need to size up to access performance. Experts and former racers will have better success overall on this ski as they're able to access the entirety of the performance level, but intermediates who want a stable and strong ski will be fine, just with the understanding that they are on the heavier and stiffer side of the spectrum. For a bit less of a ski, but still all there, Volkl Kendo, Salomon Stance 90, and K2 Mindbender 89 Ti are excellent options. Have fun! SE
They're always in the same conversation, but Brahma is a little stiffer and more powerful, while Enforcer is a touch more playful and maneuverable. Kind of splitting hairs there, as they're more similar than different in the grand scheme of things, but those are the differences you'd feel.
Hey Jeff/Bob. I know this isn’t the best comparison but if you guys were going to grab a ski on a 70/30 on piste off piste day would you grab the Brahma 88 or the enforcer 94? Thanks! You guys are the boys!
I (Bob) would take the Enforcer 94 for a 70/30 split. I really don't find a lot of forgiveness in the Brahma when it comes to off-piste. It'd have to be a 90/10 split for me to go Brahma over Enforcer 94.
Seems like a really good ski I am looking for an all mountain I am 58 love sking the moguls trees I ski with my son and his friends who are in their 20s I fly around with them all over the mountain time to retire my Solomon screams an upgrade could you suggest something thank you
Brahma 88 is certainly an excellent ski! For some, it can be a bit demanding in bumps, so something to think about, but anything easier in the bumps won't match the power and overall feel on a groomer that the Brahma provides. If you did want something a little easier in bumps, K2 Mindbender 89Ti would be an interesting choice, Atomic Maverick 88 Ti is another good one, or sticking within Blizzard's line, the Rustler 9. Lots of other options too, but I'd start with those as some potential options.
Great Video! I am thinking of going with the Brahma 88 but after watching the video, I wondered if you would make a recommend. I am 58 years old and skiing on and off for 30 years so advanced, but older so not doing bumps or alot of rough terrain anymore. Looking for nice all mountain ski as I still ski pretty fast, but need more control. Currently skiing on old Hart "Only One" skis, 173cm. Pretty lightweight and need something more solid. Waist Width: 96 Tip/Tail/Waist: 132-96-122 Lengths: 166, 176, 182 The video made me think I might want to try something not as heavy or taxing to ski on other than Brahma. Let me know thoughts and great job!
I'd check out the Head Kore 93, Elan Ripstick 88 or 96, and the Atomic Maverick 95. All blend high-performance characteristics with lighter weight than Brahma. Have fun! SE
@@SkiEssentials Thanks for the response, since posting I did a deeper dive and almost pulled the trigger on a pair of Rustler 9's. They seemed more my type of ski for mostly front mountain groomers of the west coast resorts. Will look into these!
This sounds like the ski i'm looking for, maybe! I got a Völkl Deacon 84. And i love it! its a ski for the whole day! But i think of upgrading to 2 ski. One for carving hard in the early hours, and one for having big fun on bombed out slopes! Sometimes in the afternoon, when there are big mogules building up and the piste is kind of f*****, i feel the need for a bit more playful ski to just jump and play around! Should be still be good carveable but not as sporty as the deacon 84! Little less edge, little less carvy, more playable and easier to bash through bombed out terrain. Could this be my ski?
I'd say the Brahma is more work than the D84. The Brahma is stiffer tip to tail and much stiffer torsionally. The Brahma is also a significantly heavier ski. So sure the Brahma can plow through crap but I'd argue the D84 is more playful. You could get close to the D84 in carving chops while also getting the playfulness you are looking for out if one ski: a Kendo.
The Brahma still keeps that power and stability at a top level. If you go that route, you'll be rewarded with very strong edge grip and a high-end feel. You could split the difference and go with something like K2 Mindbender 89Ti, Dynastar M-Pro 90, or even Blizzard Rustler 9 for slightly more of a freeride feel. Have fun! SE
I mostly ski in Scandinavia where there can be alot of ice. I tried The Rossignol Experience 82 Basalt's last week in the alps. They were nice on groomers, but they didn't like speed and ice as much as I do. Note that they were rental ski's though so perhaps not the sharpest edges. The Brahma 88's seems like a better ski for my preferences, but I would like to know how the ice grip on these compares to Experience 86 TI and Enforcer 88.
The Brahma has some of the best edge grip around, not just for 88's but really most skis. It's supremely grippy on the firm snow, but is also pretty heavy. The Rossignol or the Enforcer are slightly more friendly and versatile. For top-end stability and grip, it's hard to argue against the Brahma.
@@SkiEssentials Thanks! Also thank you for making awesome videos and actually responding to a question on a 6 months old video :) A follow up question: how does the Völkl Kendo 88 compare to the Brahma 88's and the Experience 86Ti's?
Brahma is stiffer and more precise, but also more demanding. Enforcer 88 still has a lot of stability, but it's not quite the powerhouse of the Brahma. It is, however, more forgiving and more user-friendly, as well as more versatile for most skiers. Hope that helps!
I’ve been on my current Brahmas since 2015 so I guess that’s first gen. Still love them but thinking of going with the Bonafide next season as my one ski quiver. Looking for a little more stability at speed and a little more versatility. I push the Brahmas pretty hard but prefer a pretty carve to a snappy quick turn. Thoughts?
Seems like a logical and really fun progression! The new Bonafide is incredibly stable and powerful, yet somehow they still manage to make it feel playful if you're willing to put in the work. I'd keep the sizing about the same if you can.
Always great content! Are the Brahmas a good complement to my Rustler 10s (188), or should I look narrower? I need to replace '15 Rossi Pursuit HP (2 x Ti) that I love but ultimately bought too short (170). Rustlers are great for play so I want something I can really lay down on hardpack/corduroy and push a little. Brahma (177) are calling my name but I don't know if they fit far enough on the frontside spectrum to truly complement my Rustlers. Me: 5'10", 225lb, amateur powerlifter, advanced + (level 1 instructor), boot Tecnica ten2 120, ski mostly out west.
I think the 88/104 split is great. For a front side ski in an 88 mm waist, the Brahma is about as strong and grippy as it gets. Unless you're really looking for that front side ski for groomers ONLY, the Brahma is a great blend of on-piste performance and all-mountain versatility without encroaching on your Rustler. I'd go 177 in the Brahma.
My main ski now is a race Blizzard WRC 175. I mostly do well-groomed slopes and GS- carving is my main technique. But I'm looking for a second pair of skis which would be more appropriate for less well-groomed slopes or worse snow conditions, for off-piste skiing, and for having fun with trees, jumps, etc. Do you think this ski would be a good choice for me? I'd consider myself an intermediate+. Thanks!
Yes, you'll love both the on-trail carving performance as well as the all-mountain versatility. They're so incredibly stable and solid for a variety of skiers. I'd say you can keep the length on the short side given your stats, but if you're used to the WRC, the Brahma will be awesome!
Hi, just purchase Brahma 88, it haven’t arrive yet, my question is would Brahma ski edge slice in the icy snow? The ski resort that is set as home base practice for me most of the time is very icy and therefore I got tire of the rental ski because I am the kind of skier who likes to have grip at all time.
hey, I'm not sure if I should get the brahma 88 or declivity 92 ti...I tested both but I am not sure which one is a better daylie driver. both are 70/30 both are fun, both for high speed runs...can you give me a decision support-wich one would you take ? thank you - greetings from Germany
If I may, to me the Brahma is a ski that you know you want (skinny, stiff, negligible rocker, heavy all mtn ski). It's really very different from all other ~88 in that it has many attributes that the majority of ski shoppers DON'T look for. The 92ti is a softer and lighter ski, but still tons lots of camber and not much rocker (although more than a Brahma). I've not skied the Armada, but I know it would be an "easier" ski and thus more versatile. If you grew up racing and still ski really hard on edge, then the Brahma.
I would say it depends how often you're in off-piste terrain and/or softer snow conditions. The Declivity is going to be more maneuverable and forgiving off-piste, and also with better float and overall performance in soft snow. The Brahma absolutely excels on firm snow, but can be somewhat demanding off trail. If you're spending most of your time on groomed slopes, however, Brahma might be a better choice. Hope that helps!
Hey SE, I just wanted to point out that the '23 is noticeably softer in the tips and tails than the '21 / '22 models. I guess this will be good, bad or irrelavent but make no mistake, it is a softer ski than that outgoing model. It's a slight bit lighter too (~50g per ski). It should be better in nasty bumps but I'd argue not as powerful everywhere else.
It seems it was only the tails that were noticeably softened on the '23's. The highly accurate pick-it-off-the-rack-and-hand-flex-it method is not so accurate after all. Carry on.
Hi! Nice video and thanks! Need some advice. I have been skiiing once and im kind of a beginner and want to get better. I wonder if I could go wrong with this ski? I only am in the pist all day. I do green slopes easily and some blue. Im 180CM, weight like 84kg. One store has these for sale at size 177CM and 171CM. What would fit me best?
It's a pretty burly ski for a beginner. The shape is fine, but the build is pretty burly and will likely hinder your development. I'd say something like the Elan Ripstick 88 or the Atomic Maverick 86 C would be better options for your stats and application. I'd look to the low to mid 170's for length in any of those skis. SE
I am an ex racer (raced to my 20s) and I am looking for something that will give me that feedback of a stroong push, but that I can also jump around in powder when i get a chance. I have my race ski but it is a bit too exhausting since i havent been in full ahtletic shape. I wonder if its different than the race slalom in powder. For me powder skiing is probably a few days a year but I will still want to dive in that steep powder with a bit of a wider stance and turn around and jump around. Whats your take on that?
The Brahma will certainly give you quite a bit of on-trail carving performance, and while it's not as floaty or drifty as some other skis out there, it's still going to be way better than a race ski. you could stick with the same build and go one wider with the Bonafide 97 if that's of interest!
I think it's fine to size down, the True Blend just makes the skis more consistent through the sizes. With the Brahma and its performance, even more reason to look to the smaller ski. Have fun! SE
Thanks for the replies. I have the Bonafide. I live in UT and ski little cottonwood canyon. I got the Bonafide to use during long dry spells, when the snow is firm/hard, and off-piste is a brutal mess. But I find it to be a little heavy for what I wanted. I think I'll keep looking for something a bit lighter, a bit more forgiving.
FlimFlam nailed it. Basically the same exact ski, just a difference of almost 10 mm. If you're off-piste a significant amount of time or live somewhere that gets a lot of snowfall, Bonafide could be better. If you want quicker edge to edge feel and more of a carving focus, go Brahma.
The Kendo is livelier at a greater range of speeds. The Brahma has more of a speed minimum because it's so darn heavy and strong. If you ski fast, most/all of the time, the Brahma will provide a better return on investment. The Kendo is still very high-performing, but has a broader range. I love the re-design of the Kendo and had an absolute blast on it this year. No love lost for the Brahma, but Kendo has come a long way over the years. Have fun! SE
@@scollyutubeI’m one of the people who didn’t get along with the ENF88. While it had some great qualities, it didn’t want to be driven as hard on the tips as the Kendo (‘21) and Brahma. It was very maneuverable, but skied pretty short. I was happy I tried it and can definitely see the appeal for a more neutral stanced skier.
This might sound strange but I did not know how well I could ski until I jumped on this ski. It absolutely rips through the groomers, has unbelievable edge grip and is so stable at speed you don't realise how fast you're skiing sometimes. Have to be in shape though, have to stay on top and well centered over the ski at all times and its that that brought my skiing to new levels.
Serious upgrade from my old K2 apaches, great ski but now retired.
60+ years old and still ripping.
Peace!
The Brahma 88 is an amazing ski! Spot on, you have to be on it, but if you are, oh boy does it respond well!
@@SkiEssentials I watched a video on Deb Armstrongs channel where she talks about how upgrading your equipment can lead to improved skiing. For me this ski was a case in point. Maybe this could be a topic of discussion in one of your shows (which I thoroughly enjoy).
Take it easy! Cheers.
Got this last year and man has it easily become my favorite ski in my quiver. Would have to agree that this is a strong ski and not everyone will enjoy it. But If you KNOW that you can ski this thing then hardly anything on the market holds a candle in this category. Best feeling is charging down some freeride bumps, launching off the last one at an angle, and immediately landing into an on piste gs carve. That is what this ski is born to do.
"Best feeling is charging down some freeride bumps, launching off the last one at an angle, and immediately landing into an on piste gs carve."
Love that! That's easily one of my favorite things to do on the Brahma (or Bonafide). It's so strong and so trustworthy, you can launch yourself and completely trust the ski's ability to hold even if you're landing into a high edge angle. Skiing's fun.
Mine just landed today! Can’t wait to mount them up. I didn’t jive with the Enforcer 88 and really like the idea of the new Kendo. Truth be told, my
Daily Drivers are Liberty V82’s and looking for something a little burlier than those. Hoping the Brahma 88’s will fit my “used to be a ski racer” dad-charger style. As long as my 10 year old thinks I’m cool, I’m happy!!
Awesome reviews👍
My Brahmas are a couple years old but I love them…the ski is incredible.
So stable and sturdy--hard to beat in this category!
I beat my top speed on this ski last week in zermatt. It truly is a all mountain ski, I was charging crazy off piste line on this. It gave me the confidence to do stuff I’ve never done before and it’s a blast on piste and it was like a hot knife through butter in the fresh stuff.
Thanks for the feedback!
what speed r u talking about (just to get some reference)
@@rr.1288 69.5 kph
my favorite ski and i spent 70% on ungroomed terrain. if you like to turn and ski edge to edge even in technical terrain there is no better ski imho. But i will be demoing the wingman i want to be able to relax a little (hum keep up with my daughters withought having to be in race mode all the time :) )
Thoughts on this as a ski to support developing/refining technique, or best for those who have strong fundamentals already.
Thinking about this a front-side ski to replace an aging set of Salomon Xdrive 8.3s (and alongside a pair of bent chetler 100s that I’ve been using for trees, soft snow and some touring). I’m a bug guy (6’ 240lbs) and a strong intermediate, but only started skiing more seriously in my 30s, so don’t have the effortless technique and muscle memory of my friends who’ve grown up in the mountains.
My partner, who similarly didn’t grow up skiing, landed on a pair of black pearl 88s last year and found they really helped her move from an eager beginner to a stronger intermediate.
I’m looking to continue my progression from intermediate to advanced but this review has me wondering if these would encourage consistency in my technique or punish me for the occasional lapse (and if that’s the case, what other skis to look at).
I think your size and your desire to improve puts the Brahma in the discussion for you for sure. I would recommend going with the 177 over the 183 since they're stable naturally, and there's no need to size up to access performance. Experts and former racers will have better success overall on this ski as they're able to access the entirety of the performance level, but intermediates who want a stable and strong ski will be fine, just with the understanding that they are on the heavier and stiffer side of the spectrum. For a bit less of a ski, but still all there, Volkl Kendo, Salomon Stance 90, and K2 Mindbender 89 Ti are excellent options. Have fun!
SE
I love your guys videos I've been watching them for 3+ years now. How are you comparing these skis to the Enforcer 88's?
They're always in the same conversation, but Brahma is a little stiffer and more powerful, while Enforcer is a touch more playful and maneuverable. Kind of splitting hairs there, as they're more similar than different in the grand scheme of things, but those are the differences you'd feel.
Hey Jeff/Bob. I know this isn’t the best comparison but if you guys were going to grab a ski on a 70/30 on piste off piste day would you grab the Brahma 88 or the enforcer 94? Thanks! You guys are the boys!
I (Bob) would take the Enforcer 94 for a 70/30 split. I really don't find a lot of forgiveness in the Brahma when it comes to off-piste. It'd have to be a 90/10 split for me to go Brahma over Enforcer 94.
Seems like a really good ski I am looking for an all mountain I am 58 love sking the moguls trees I ski with my son and his friends who are in their 20s I fly around with them all over the mountain time to retire my Solomon screams an upgrade could you suggest something thank you
Brahma 88 is certainly an excellent ski! For some, it can be a bit demanding in bumps, so something to think about, but anything easier in the bumps won't match the power and overall feel on a groomer that the Brahma provides. If you did want something a little easier in bumps, K2 Mindbender 89Ti would be an interesting choice, Atomic Maverick 88 Ti is another good one, or sticking within Blizzard's line, the Rustler 9. Lots of other options too, but I'd start with those as some potential options.
Great Video! I am thinking of going with the Brahma 88 but after watching the video, I wondered if you would make a recommend. I am 58 years old and skiing on and off for 30 years so advanced, but older so not doing bumps or alot of rough terrain anymore. Looking for nice all mountain ski as I still ski pretty fast, but need more control.
Currently skiing on old Hart "Only One" skis, 173cm. Pretty lightweight and need something more solid.
Waist Width: 96
Tip/Tail/Waist: 132-96-122
Lengths: 166, 176, 182
The video made me think I might want to try something not as heavy or taxing to ski on other than Brahma. Let me know thoughts and great job!
I'd check out the Head Kore 93, Elan Ripstick 88 or 96, and the Atomic Maverick 95. All blend high-performance characteristics with lighter weight than Brahma. Have fun!
SE
@@SkiEssentials Thanks for the response, since posting I did a deeper dive and almost pulled the trigger on a pair of Rustler 9's. They seemed more my type of ski for mostly front mountain groomers of the west coast resorts. Will look into these!
This sounds like the ski i'm looking for, maybe! I got a Völkl Deacon 84. And i love it! its a ski for the whole day!
But i think of upgrading to 2 ski. One for carving hard in the early hours, and one for having big fun on bombed out slopes! Sometimes in the afternoon, when there are big mogules building up and the piste is kind of f*****, i feel the need for a bit more playful ski to just jump and play around! Should be still be good carveable but not as sporty as the deacon 84! Little less edge, little less carvy, more playable and easier to bash through bombed out terrain. Could this be my ski?
I'd say the Brahma is more work than the D84. The Brahma is stiffer tip to tail and much stiffer torsionally. The Brahma is also a significantly heavier ski. So sure the Brahma can plow through crap but I'd argue the D84 is more playful.
You could get close to the D84 in carving chops while also getting the playfulness you are looking for out if one ski: a Kendo.
The Brahma still keeps that power and stability at a top level. If you go that route, you'll be rewarded with very strong edge grip and a high-end feel. You could split the difference and go with something like K2 Mindbender 89Ti, Dynastar M-Pro 90, or even Blizzard Rustler 9 for slightly more of a freeride feel. Have fun!
SE
I mostly ski in Scandinavia where there can be alot of ice. I tried The Rossignol Experience 82 Basalt's last week in the alps. They were nice on groomers, but they didn't like speed and ice as much as I do. Note that they were rental ski's though so perhaps not the sharpest edges. The Brahma 88's seems like a better ski for my preferences, but I would like to know how the ice grip on these compares to Experience 86 TI and Enforcer 88.
The Brahma has some of the best edge grip around, not just for 88's but really most skis. It's supremely grippy on the firm snow, but is also pretty heavy. The Rossignol or the Enforcer are slightly more friendly and versatile. For top-end stability and grip, it's hard to argue against the Brahma.
@@SkiEssentials Thanks! Also thank you for making awesome videos and actually responding to a question on a 6 months old video :) A follow up question: how does the Völkl Kendo 88 compare to the Brahma 88's and the Experience 86Ti's?
what would you say are the distinguishing qualities between this and the Enforcer 88? I go back and forth on these two for hard pack days.
Brahma is stiffer and more precise, but also more demanding. Enforcer 88 still has a lot of stability, but it's not quite the powerhouse of the Brahma. It is, however, more forgiving and more user-friendly, as well as more versatile for most skiers. Hope that helps!
I’ve been on my current Brahmas since 2015 so I guess that’s first gen. Still love them but thinking of going with the Bonafide next season as my one ski quiver. Looking for a little more stability at speed and a little more versatility. I push the Brahmas pretty hard but prefer a pretty carve to a snappy quick turn. Thoughts?
Seems like a logical and really fun progression! The new Bonafide is incredibly stable and powerful, yet somehow they still manage to make it feel playful if you're willing to put in the work. I'd keep the sizing about the same if you can.
Always great content! Are the Brahmas a good complement to my Rustler 10s (188), or should I look narrower? I need to replace '15 Rossi Pursuit HP (2 x Ti) that I love but ultimately bought too short (170). Rustlers are great for play so I want something I can really lay down on hardpack/corduroy and push a little. Brahma (177) are calling my name but I don't know if they fit far enough on the frontside spectrum to truly complement my Rustlers. Me: 5'10", 225lb, amateur powerlifter, advanced + (level 1 instructor), boot Tecnica ten2 120, ski mostly out west.
I think the 88/104 split is great. For a front side ski in an 88 mm waist, the Brahma is about as strong and grippy as it gets. Unless you're really looking for that front side ski for groomers ONLY, the Brahma is a great blend of on-piste performance and all-mountain versatility without encroaching on your Rustler. I'd go 177 in the Brahma.
My main ski now is a race Blizzard WRC 175. I mostly do well-groomed slopes and GS- carving is my main technique. But I'm looking for a second pair of skis which would be more appropriate for less well-groomed slopes or worse snow conditions, for off-piste skiing, and for having fun with trees, jumps, etc. Do you think this ski would be a good choice for me? I'd consider myself an intermediate+. Thanks!
Yes, you'll love both the on-trail carving performance as well as the all-mountain versatility. They're so incredibly stable and solid for a variety of skiers. I'd say you can keep the length on the short side given your stats, but if you're used to the WRC, the Brahma will be awesome!
its the GS ski of all mountain skiing
Agree 100%
Hi, just purchase Brahma 88, it haven’t arrive yet, my question is would Brahma ski edge slice in the icy snow? The ski resort that is set as home base practice for me most of the time is very icy and therefore I got tire of the rental ski because I am the kind of skier who likes to have grip at all time.
The Brahma 88 is one of the better skis in its class when it comes to icy snow and firm conditions. There's no lack of edge grip with that ski.
hey, I'm not sure if I should get the brahma 88 or declivity 92 ti...I tested both but I am not sure which one is a better daylie driver. both are 70/30 both are fun, both for high speed runs...can you give me a decision support-wich one would you take ? thank you - greetings from Germany
If I may, to me the Brahma is a ski that you know you want (skinny, stiff, negligible rocker, heavy all mtn ski). It's really very different from all other ~88 in that it has many attributes that the majority of ski shoppers DON'T look for. The 92ti is a softer and lighter ski, but still tons lots of camber and not much rocker (although more than a Brahma). I've not skied the Armada, but I know it would be an "easier" ski and thus more versatile. If you grew up racing and still ski really hard on edge, then the Brahma.
I would say it depends how often you're in off-piste terrain and/or softer snow conditions. The Declivity is going to be more maneuverable and forgiving off-piste, and also with better float and overall performance in soft snow. The Brahma absolutely excels on firm snow, but can be somewhat demanding off trail. If you're spending most of your time on groomed slopes, however, Brahma might be a better choice. Hope that helps!
Hey SE, I just wanted to point out that the '23 is noticeably softer in the tips and tails than the '21 / '22 models. I guess this will be good, bad or irrelavent but make no mistake, it is a softer ski than that outgoing model. It's a slight bit lighter too (~50g per ski). It should be better in nasty bumps but I'd argue not as powerful everywhere else.
Thanks for the feedback!
It seems it was only the tails that were noticeably softened on the '23's. The highly accurate pick-it-off-the-rack-and-hand-flex-it method is not so accurate after all. Carry on.
Hi! Nice video and thanks! Need some advice. I have been skiiing once and im kind of a beginner and want to get better. I wonder if I could go wrong with this ski? I only am in the pist all day. I do green slopes easily and some blue. Im 180CM, weight like 84kg. One store has these for sale at size 177CM and 171CM. What would fit me best?
It's a pretty burly ski for a beginner. The shape is fine, but the build is pretty burly and will likely hinder your development. I'd say something like the Elan Ripstick 88 or the Atomic Maverick 86 C would be better options for your stats and application. I'd look to the low to mid 170's for length in any of those skis.
SE
I am an ex racer (raced to my 20s) and I am looking for something that will give me that feedback of a stroong push, but that I can also jump around in powder when i get a chance. I have my race ski but it is a bit too exhausting since i havent been in full ahtletic shape. I wonder if its different than the race slalom in powder. For me powder skiing is probably a few days a year but I will still want to dive in that steep powder with a bit of a wider stance and turn around and jump around. Whats your take on that?
The Brahma will certainly give you quite a bit of on-trail carving performance, and while it's not as floaty or drifty as some other skis out there, it's still going to be way better than a race ski. you could stick with the same build and go one wider with the Bonafide 97 if that's of interest!
So with true blend it’s not good to size down. I kinda like being able to size down on a more performance ski.
I think it's fine to size down, the True Blend just makes the skis more consistent through the sizes. With the Brahma and its performance, even more reason to look to the smaller ski. Have fun!
SE
How does this ski differ from the Bonafide?
Brahma: 88mm 70 Pist/30 off Piste, Bonafide: 97mm 50/50
They are essentially the same ski, the Bonafide is just ~10mm wider than the Brahma. They are very, very similar flex to each other in same lengths.
Thanks for the replies. I have the Bonafide. I live in UT and ski little cottonwood canyon. I got the Bonafide to use during long dry spells, when the snow is firm/hard, and off-piste is a brutal mess. But I find it to be a little heavy for what I wanted. I think I'll keep looking for something a bit lighter, a bit more forgiving.
FlimFlam nailed it. Basically the same exact ski, just a difference of almost 10 mm. If you're off-piste a significant amount of time or live somewhere that gets a lot of snowfall, Bonafide could be better. If you want quicker edge to edge feel and more of a carving focus, go Brahma.
How would you compare this to the kendo
The Kendo is livelier at a greater range of speeds. The Brahma has more of a speed minimum because it's so darn heavy and strong. If you ski fast, most/all of the time, the Brahma will provide a better return on investment. The Kendo is still very high-performing, but has a broader range. I love the re-design of the Kendo and had an absolute blast on it this year. No love lost for the Brahma, but Kendo has come a long way over the years. Have fun!
SE
@@SkiEssentials or try an ENF 88 as slightly different but just as capable again 😉
@@scollyutubeI’m one of the people who didn’t get along with the ENF88. While it had some great qualities, it didn’t want to be driven as hard on the tips as the Kendo (‘21) and Brahma. It was very maneuverable, but skied pretty short. I was happy I tried it and can definitely see the appeal for a more neutral stanced skier.