mantra 102 191cm!!!! also look at CT 3.0 190cm
I own the jskis hotshot 189cm, its not really that much of a charger in comparison.
You and Greg are really turning me onto a pair of the 2021 CT 3.0s. I've been waiting to find them under $500, but it doesn't seem they'll drop lower than 550ish. These might be my next ski, but I hesitate because of all the durability issues I hear about Faction, including these 2021 candides
I was intrigued by the HotShots, as a softer playful ski, that's still damp and stable in terms of the weight if you can ski it centered/balanced.
I’ve got these….2014 Völkl Katana (191)…I “could be persuaded” to let go of…..they are soo good.
View attachment 137377
I bought these from
@AEV a few years back….still in excellent condition, but have a couple mounts.
Those were some serious skis! I wish they called the new Katana 108 the Gotama, and made a 112 real new Katana. That being said, I still want the 108 version.
Sender Squad and Moment Commander 108 in the 188cm or 194cm lengths along with the M Pro 105 are the current kings or charge. Katana 108 up there too. All with nicer shaped tips than the Monsters or Mantra 102 had/have for high speed crud busting.
IMO, the 191 Monster 108s absolutely obliterated the M Pro 105s in every category except 40m turns and maybe deep powder. Pro Riders are in a different class compared to the current crop of skis, yes, but the Monster 108s were in an even higher class in terms of stability busting crud. I currently have M Pro 105s, and while they're still skis I'll never let go of, they are much floppier/softer than Monster 108s were, and significantly lighter. I get bucked a bit more on the M Pro 105. I also get bucked around a bit more on the Dynastar, than on those old 112 Katanas or 191 On3p Wren 115 Pro. I don't actually know the intended purposes from the designers, but to me the M Pro 105s seem like big mountain Euro/AK powder charger that can also handle firm smooth snow very, very well. M Pros are terrible in bumps or trees though. Monsters, old Katanas, older Wrenegades, were all less bouncy everywhere and also better all mountain in bumps and trees. The M Pro seems like a slightly outdated design, although I still love it and will never let go. It's currently the king for stability of 2022 skis, I would assume, so it still has it's place. I think they are replacing it for 2023, no?
Seems for huge turns in smooth firm or soft snow like this video at 10 seconds in
not for all mountain in the resort
I was absolutely blown away with the Völkl Katana 108. That ski motors through anything, works good enough on groomers and is maneuverable and enjoyable in bumps and trees. The Cochise meets your requirements as well.
I'm currently debating the Katana 108 or Cochise 106 for "big skis" that can still pick their way through the tightest spots. I always found the old Katanas and Cochises good for this purpose
The fire last year was in the Ukraine Fisher plant and I think 2021 Faction skis were made in the Austrian Fisher plant in Reid. The 2021 Factions were much heavier, stiffer and better constructed than ever before
For 2022, Faction moving production to the Amer plant(Atomic/Armada/Black Crows) and using lighter materials so back to being lighter, more playful skis again. That’s why I just bought a second pair of 2021 Candide 3.0 skis as I love this years “heavy” builds.
I though I still read one or two things on durability problems with the 2021 skis. I really like the CT3.0 on paper, and want to buy, but am worried about reliability. What can you say to console me?
I pulled the trigger late the other night on the mantra 102’s. Didn't want to miss out. Im going to keep looking for some pro riders on sale. Speak up if you see any!
Great buy! I have been eyeing those for a while too. Thinking the Katana 108 would suit me better. Despite some of the things I say about the M Pro 105 that may be perceived as negative, I still love the ski and think it deserves a spot in any chargers quiver.