Wondering what skis like this would be like on Tony's proposed route. I would like to ski similar routes, which are basically fire roads / trails through rolling terrain which usually end at a mtn peak (maybe 1-2K vertical from low to high spot). I have classic xcountry skis with new salomon bindings and boots. The boots are a combo skating/classic boot and feel a lot like a very light weight AT boot, a little less support, but not much less. The bindings have a wedge that goes toe to heel and keeps you in side to side when heel is down. Heel is always free to pivot, but if you keep it down, you can turn the skis really well. Without metal edges, it is easy to get out of control on any steep downs, but on soft snow I can do tele turns on them quite well. I wouldn't take them up anything steep, due to lack of edges on the down, but the control compared to my old 3pins is amazingly better. I also have an AT setup which I use for side country and will work my way into straight back country. My skins are really grippy and would make rolling terrain slow and very sticky on the gradual down. My skins are typical hybrid mix. so its just the nature of the gear.
A popular choice for hardcore backcountry skiers that want excellent overall maneuverability and outstanding downhill capabilities. Air Channel core is light, durable, and distributes pressure for excellent control. When the uphills are...
www.fischersports.com
The wider skis without bindings look interesting to be able to use whatever binding and boot you want. If the scales are not too slow on the gradual downs, these look interesting. The skis in the video glide great. For anything steep, I would like to be able to lock my heel. Really light weight AT pin bindings and light weight AT boots might be a nice combo to go with these skis. Kind of a hybrid x country / AT setup for all types of terrain. I guess they would be the ultimate compromise setup, great at nothing but good at everything you could experience.