2024 Volkl Blaze 86 

Leaving the dampening element of titanal out of the construction not only makes for a slightly more lively ride, it also saves weight and eliminates the need for plastic inserts (a small, but positive environmental step forward). The Blaze 86 is designed for fast, shorter turns, but the three different radii that the sidecut supports can handle the most ambitious terrain and demands. The shock-absorbing Suspension Tip and Tail ensure not only resistance, but also provide great lift, protecting and assisting the ski off-piste. 

For the backcountry skier who is happy to withstand 100g extra weight for a significantly improved skiing experience, the Blaze 86 W is a real ski touring contender. Built with a light, capable, continuous tip-to-tail woodcore, uphill travel is totally doable, and downhill terrain is still completely rippable. An extremely versatile setup, the combination of all this technology makes the Blaze 86 W an intuitive ride that revolves around playfulness.

PRODUCT FEATURES

ABILITY LEVEL

Intermediate to Advanced

PRODUCT DETAILS

• Length: 159/166/173/180
• Sidecut: 129_86_111 
• Radius: (R1) 22, (R2) 12, (R3) 19 @ Length 159

 

Intermediate - Advanced

• If you are a seasoned skier learning new skills, or a twice a year veteran taking on new challenges both on and off piste, you will probably fall into this category. Skis for this individual will usually be designed with a stronger wood core and sandwiched-sidewall construction. They will generally also offer both a wider profile and stiffer flex than a beginner - intermediate ski. 

All Mountain

• An all mountain ski is engineered to be dependable in most terrains you have in mind. This could include heavy snow, steeps, font-side groomers, ice, and powder. If you have one ski in your quiver, this would be a good choice. 

Touring

• Touring skis are engineered to climb uphill (generally with skins) as well as ski downhill. They will generally have a lighter weight to width ratio; wider designs rocking deeper snow and skis thinner at the waist being more appropriate for spring/east coast/distance touring. These skis will work well with either telemark or alpine touring bindings.

 

Rocker / Camber / Rocker

• A rocker/camber/rocker profile has both the playfulness and float of a rockered ski while adding the edge hold of a cambered ski. This profile moves the front and rear contact points medial, but still not under your boot. A rocker/camber/rocker profile is excellent for an all mountain ski, giving you float in deeper snow and crud, with a good edge hold on piste.