Freeride skis
Product 2027
Man
Tested in the 172 cm length (sidecut: 135-104-123 mm, 17 m turn radius), the Black Diamond Impulse 104 stands out as a fantastic surprise and a true chameleon, right at the crossroads of freeride and all-mountain skiing. Despite a relatively straight sidecut profile and a generous 104 mm waist, it instantly surprises with its on-piste behavior and the complete absence of any overbearing or hooky tail.
On the snow, the magic happens thanks to an effective double rocker profile that shortens the effective edge length. The ski pivots in a handkerchief, particularly in soft, tracked-out, or variable spring snow. In drifted and skidded turns as well as tight pivoted wedel turns, it proves extremely accessible. As soon as you lay it over onto edge for high-speed, long-radius arcs, the Impulse 104 becomes very impressive: edge grip is reassuring, vibration dampening over terrain irregularities is solid without transmitting harsh shocks to the legs, and it allows you to open up or close down the arc at will. Maintaining a line in medium-radius turns, however, calls for a more balanced and centered stance, requiring carefully metered angulation and fore-aft pressure. Special mention goes to the tail structure and its so-called “hinge” feel,where the flex pattern is perfectly respected. Far from being punishing, this tail remains supportive and delivers impressive energy return coming out of the turn as soon as you load it up late in the arc.
Off-piste and in spring slush, it is a absolute treat. The ski packs plenty of pop, floats effortlessly, and charges through terrain irregularities with authority. On hardpack, the tip proves a bit noisy (“a ski that talks a lot”), but this acoustic trait in no way compromises its edge hold.
On the finishing front, the textured topsheet is durable, its excellent glide performance (especially on wet snow) is immediately noticeable, and the subtle tail rise fits easily into gondola racks. Minor points to note include tail notches for climbing skins (with an elastomer protector that can occasionally snag between skis) and a high overall static weight—compounded by fresh snow sticking to the topsheet. While this weight is completely forgotten underfoot once moving, it is certainly felt during shoulder carries.
A complete, highly recommended freeride/all-mountain ski, capable of charging at high speeds while remaining exceptionally playful and versatile.
We used this equipment over a long period of time
These are our thoughts after intensive use:
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