2024 Head Shape E-V8

[SkiTalk Test Team]

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Andy Mink:
Size tested: 170cm
Location tested: Mammoth Mountain, CA
Conditions tested in: First run groomers, firm but not bullet proof

Head has changed the nomenclature of the V-Shape series to Shape. The idea is it's more of a stepping stone name to the very popular Super Shape series. I got on the Shape E-V8 as the first test ski of the two day demo because I have been a proponent of the original V-Shape V8 since the first time I skied it. The Shape E-V8 is very reminiscent of the original in that is ridiculously easy to ski yet has a good performance envelope. With the same measurements as the original, the Shape E-V-8 carries forward with the 13.2 radius in a 170. The skis are really easy to get on edge with the wide tip pulling you into a turn even at very low edge angles. Don't let the ease of initiation fool you into believing this is only a ski for beginners; oh, no. Lighter expert carvaholics can have a great time on these skis. Even us larger folks can enjoy a solid performing ski that allows for a relaxing, less demanding run every once in a while.

The demo pair I was on were equipped with the Tyrolia Protector bindings. The combo remained light and flickable. With the same Energy Management Circuit technology found in the Super Shape e-series, the Shape E-V8 has become perhaps a bit more quiet on the snow while retaining its light weight.

• Insider tip I: I still contend many people on Super Shape series skis would be just as happy or perhaps more so on the Shape series. Less demanding with a substantial part of the performance.
• Insider tip II: Get the skis with the Protector bindings.
• One thing I would change: Nothing. The ski looks great and skis to its design expectations.

 

[MarkG]

I know Phil and Andy have commented that this is a great teaching ski. Can it do well for clincing/l2 exams as well? I think it sounds like a very intriguing ski to add to the quiver. My other obvious alternative is to repair the core shots on a Latigo, maybe throw new bindings on it. Use the Latigo to teach and clinic on the Laser AX that I’ve been using for years (but then no new skis AND I lose that nice 13m radius)

thoughts from the knowledgeable folks who have yet to steer me wrong?

 

[Andy Mink]

I know Phil and Andy have commented that this is a great teaching ski. Can it do well for clincing/l2 exams as well? I think it sounds like a very intriguing ski to add to the quiver. My other obvious alternative is to repair the core shots on a Latigo, maybe throw new bindings on it. Use the Latigo to teach and clinic on the Laser AX that I’ve been using for years (but then no new skis AND I lose that nice 13m radius)

thoughts from the knowledgeable folks who have yet to steer me wrong?

I'll let @Philpug answer that as I don't know what goes into L2 exams.

 

[Philpug]

I know Phil and Andy have commented that this is a great teaching ski. Can it do well for clincing/l2 exams as well? I think it sounds like a very intriguing ski to add to the quiver. My other obvious alternative is to repair the core shots on a Latigo, maybe throw new bindings on it. Use the Latigo to teach and clinic on the Laser AX that I’ve been using for years (but then no new skis AND I lose that nice 13m radius)

thoughts from the knowledgeable folks who have yet to steer me wrong?

Depends how big of a guy you are ... 190 lb and above, no, I would err to the eRally, below that, the E-V8 should work.

 

[MarkG]

Big guy penalty. Thank you Andy and Phil

 

[GA49]

Depends how big of a guy you are ... 190 lb and above, no, I would err to the eRally, below that, the E-V8 should work.

@Philpug, I'm 6', 210-220 (aiming for 190 by end of winter). I'm finding the e-v8 at 170cm a good learning ski but do think I'll replace it at the end of this season or earlier as it does seem to be light. Is eRally the next logical step, or should I not even really be on this ski given my size?

 

[Philpug]

Is eRally the next logical step, or should I not even really be on this ski given my size?

Yup, it is the next step.