Ski Canada Test 2019 On-Slope Reviews
HAVE IT YOUR OWN WAY
No single turn size or shape works when skiing the entire mountain, so DPS gave its Cassiar family of skis a variable sidecut. From a wide tip the curve of the ski progresses smoothly all the way to the centre of the ski, allowing for aggressive and early hookup for powerful carves. Under the foot the sidecut flattens out to ambivalence. DPS says this allows the skier to more easily choose how he or she wants to finish a turn: drive it hard and fast on hardpack or let it slide in the steeps and bumps. The Cassiar family, DPS’s most resort-oriented offering, is available in four sizes between 94 and 79, as well as two builds—the wood and fibreglass Foundation or lighter carbon Alchemist. ($1,399; dpsskis.com)
DPS CASSIAR 94
$1,399 * BEST FOR: The definition of a one-ski quiver.
LENGTHS: 165, 171, 178, 185, 191 * RADIUS: 20@191 * SIDECUT: 133/94/113
Trust a powder-focused company to build a resort ski that testers praised for its versatility. “Anyone from a strong intermediate to an expert could jump on this ski and have a good time,” said Ryan Stuart. Others found it was light enough for a backcountry set-up, held an edge on groomers and, with plenty of tip rocker, floated in powder and spring slop. Testers noted its responsiveness, quick edge-to-edge feel and lively turning. The only con was a fluttery tip at really high speeds. It was James Jamieson’s favourite ski at the Whitewater Coldsmoke demo: “So great on the groomers, and totally at home in the trees and deep snow. This ski let me feel safe and confident because of how well it handled quick direction changes.” The widest in the Cassiar family, the 94 is perfect for deep-snow ski areas. In drier destinations or for firmer-snow performance, pick from the 87 through 79mm models.
DPS Cassiar 94
