Good job on video. I have a question. Do you ever ski the Blade Optic 96 on piste in groomed/hard packed/icy conditions? I have 2024 model of this ski and I find it doesn’t like to be going across the fall line in shorter turns to check speed on steeper runs. In such conditions I find it difficult to find sweet spot.
I did ski the Optic 96 on some groomed runs, firm but not icy. It has a strong feel right under foot which felt nice for setting an edge but is pretty loose tip/tail. Feels better skied with a more neutral upright stance verses a more traditional forward stance. I didn't notice any trouble's that you mentioned but honestly haven't had enough time on the ski to make an accurate assessment.
@@hayhead92thank you for your response. I think you’re right on the best stance on these skis. For sure they’re very solid underfoot. I still find short turns are not their strong point. They seem to prefer pointing downhill. I feel they are more of a free ride ski than anything else. Definitely better all mountain skis out there.
@@ricklachaine5406 Agree they are more free ride than all mountain. Rossignol Black Ops 98 or Nordica unleashed 98 for playful all mountain ski with strong damp feel. Great on groomers, nice round turns. Variety of turn shapes, large sweet spot. Great on and off trail. Nordic Unleased has more edge bite, Rossignol Black Ops slightly damper. I'll also throw in Armada Declivity 102. A bit more directional ski, not as damp but right in the mix with the Black Ops and the Unleashed. Thank me later lol.
Good job on video. I have a question. Do you ever ski the Blade Optic 96 on piste in groomed/hard packed/icy conditions? I have 2024 model of this ski and I find it doesn’t like to be going across the fall line in shorter turns to check speed on steeper runs. In such conditions I find it difficult to find sweet spot.
I did ski the Optic 96 on some groomed runs, firm but not icy. It has a strong feel right under foot which felt nice for setting an edge but is pretty loose tip/tail. Feels better skied with a more neutral upright stance verses a more traditional forward stance. I didn't notice any trouble's that you mentioned but honestly haven't had enough time on the ski to make an accurate assessment.
@@hayhead92thank you for your response. I think you’re right on the best stance on these skis. For sure they’re very solid underfoot. I still find short turns are not their strong point. They seem to prefer pointing downhill. I feel they are more of a free ride ski than anything else. Definitely better all mountain skis out there.
@@ricklachaine5406 Agree they are more free ride than all mountain. Rossignol Black Ops 98 or Nordica unleashed 98 for playful all mountain ski with strong damp feel. Great on groomers, nice round turns. Variety of turn shapes, large sweet spot. Great on and off trail. Nordic Unleased has more edge bite, Rossignol Black Ops slightly damper. I'll also throw in Armada Declivity 102. A bit more directional ski, not as damp but right in the mix with the Black Ops and the Unleashed. Thank me later lol.
@@hayhead92 that is very helpful. I much appreciate that. Thank you :-)
@@ricklachaine5406 No problem, glad to help.