SKI TEST 2021
VOLKL BLAZE 106 * Editors’ Choice *
BEST FOR: Mount a Marker Duke PT and you’ve got a freeride and touring quiver of one.
The Blaze is part of a growing category of skis that blend do-it-all performance with backcountry-capable weight. Reports from the front line suggest the Blaze might be one of the most approachable of the bunch. “Stable at high speeds, playful and turns with ease in the tight trees and bumps,” said Drew Hitchmough from Urban Alpine, a Squamish ski shop. While Iain MacMillan found “a solid, full-bodied, trustworthy freeride ski that can be pushed around with confidence by lighter bodies and would likely be loved by heavier, stronger skiers.” A key feature is a plate of metal under the binding for edge grip without too much weight. A strip of TPU along the edges helps the ski track through chunky snow and absorb vibrations on firm stuff. Three distinct arcs in the sidecut give it versatility. In the trees and bumps it pivots like a 17m-radius ski. Going faster engages the tip and tail and therefore the longer arcs built into the front and back of the ski. “Stay tall and snap off short, round turns, or lay it out and rip longer turns at speed,” said Ian March.
LENGTHS: 165, 172, 179, 186
DIMENSIONS: 146/106/128 @ 179
RADIUS: 17 @ 179
OTHER MODELS: 94
SUGGESTED RETAIL: $800
