BLIZZARDFIREBIRD HRC

These skis are well known and highly regarded, but… this season they have been fitted with the completely new aluminium FDT Race Plate Pro B, and that changes a great deal. Many testers considered them the best in the group, although others were not quite so enthusiastic. Either way, they deserve close attention. Comments included: “One of the best skis in the test. Extremely secure on edge, with a powerful platform underfoot. Solid, yet lively and supple. Exceptionally versatile across different turn radii. Good-looking too!” Another tester wrote: “Superb turn initiation. An excellently judged, highly versatile radius. Smooth and packed with energy, yet that energy is easy to meter out precisely.” We also heard: “Rockets for dynamic, high-speed skiing. They pull strongly down the fall line. Their rebound demands work if you are to keep the turns safely under control, but they deliver enormous fun.” This was followed by: “Really enjoyable, hugely versatile skis – and surely that is what this category is all about. Good in skidded turns and excellent on edge. The adaptation period is short. They would work as an instructor’s ski, but also for skiers who are not quite at expert level.” Another tester added: “A wonderfully pleasant surprise. Beautiful on freshly groomed corduroy. One of the best skis in the category. Secure, predictable and easy to steer, but with a welcome touch of bite as well.” The grumblers refused to concede: “They stirred no emotion in me. I expect more sporting intent from skis in this category. Too slow and not responsive enough.” And: “Composed skis for an older gentleman. I miss the energy. Pleasant and perfectly competent, but nothing exciting.”