The 5 Best Men's Backcountry Skis of 2011
Snowflakes have already begun to fall around the country, but before heading out to the mountains this year, you may want to evaluate your need for updated equipment by checking out the the best men's backcountry skis of 2011. Backcountry skiers are already itching with excitement about this winter's terrain, and there are several fantastic men's backcountry skis on the market this year that you must try.
Rossignol BC 125 Positrack Backcountry Ski
For polar skiers who need a ski that can easily handle deep powder or hard packed snow, the Rossignol BC 125 is the perfect backcountry ski. The 123 mm length and 95 mm waist provide stability even in deep powder and easily carves turns on more hard packed snow. In addition, progressive side cuts with air channels keep this ski light, maneuverable, and just the right amount of flex. Finally, the waxless base of these skis prevent backsliding so you will have plenty of traction during climbs and more easily glide during descents.
The Wailer 112RP Ski
Backcountry Magazine awarded The Wailer 112RP an Editor's Choice Award for 2011. This ultra lightweight ski has created plenty of buzz in the ski world for its ability to handle any snow condition, which being extremely lightweight. The 112 mm radius of these skis offers superior flotation in even the deepest of powder yet its distinct side cut provides outstanding versatility and playfulness. Whether you are spending the day in the backcountry or hitting the slopes of the resort, The Wailer 112RP is engineered to be skied at the highest level.
G3 Saint Ski
This subtle backcountry standout was created to handle anything and makes it look easy. The G3 Saint has a lightweight Paulownia poplar wood core that lets you charge up the skin side track yet is still stable enough to fly back down. These skis also feature an early rise tip with a little camber underfoot that lifts your tips above the snow when you are breaking trail and keeps you afloat during your descents. In addition, flutter and swing weight are reduced by a low-mass tip and tail and the semi-cap construction make this a durable yet agile ski.
Black Diamond Zealot Ski
Black Diamond's latest Zealot ski has the stability and durability to conquer those big and intimidating lines in bounds or out. This ski features a 3D metal construction that sandwiches a tapered ABS sidewall with two Titanium metal sheets for enhanced durability and better stability at high speeds. This extremely versatile ski also has a rockered tip, wide underfoot, and a semi-rocked tip. The Paulownia wood core keeps this ski lightweight yet durable. This 2011 Editor's Choice winner from Backcountry Magazine also uses Formula One technology which features three internal ribs for execution on hard snow and superior turn initiation.
K2 Coomback Ski
The K2 Coomback ski embodies the enthusiasm and legacy of backcountry skiing pioneer Doug Coombs. This ski features the lightweight touring capability of a solid fir and aspen wood core to maintain stability during long descents and various snow conditions. The cap construction offers easy turning and all-terrain rockers give you maximum control no matter what type of snow mother nature throws at you. Another brilliant quality of this ski is the SnoPhobic top sheet that repels snow build up. Embrace the passion and energy of Doug Coombs and truly discover boundless majesty of skiing powder caked peaks.
