VÖLKLMANTRA 84

In the VIP group, each company may show the ski of which it is most proud. Völkl chose its cult model, which sells across the Atlantic like hot cakes. Most of our testers agreed with the Americans, although a few were less enthusiastic. Comments included: “Choosing these skis is almost a guaranteed win. Excellent in nearly every respect. Relatively substantial, yet that does not prevent rapid transitions from edge to edge. Strong performance and comparatively light steering in varied conditions guarantee a high level of comfort.” Another tester wrote: “Surprisingly versatile. Their appearance suggests something cumbersome, but nothing could be further from the truth. They move smoothly from one turn to the next, even when the arc needs to be tighter. They grip extremely well in soft-snow turns, absorb rough terrain superbly and provide tremendous comfort. Skidded turns are very easy, with full control and smoothness. Ideal for difficult conditions with slightly deep or heavy snow. They will ski anything.” We also heard: “Very light and pleasant, and easy to steer. On soft bumps they are pure pleasure – stitching turns like the finest sewing machine. On harder snow they initiate with extraordinary ease, although they close the turn a touch too eagerly. Personally, I would prefer them slightly calmer.” And then came the others: “Comfortable, pleasant and supple, with excellent absorption of uneven terrain. They like soft snow and pistes that have already been destroyed. On freshly groomed snow they are only moderately eager to enter the turn and require plenty of input before any real energy appears.” Finally: “Stable at higher speeds. They demand more force for shorter turns. The 3D radius concept introduces a little nervousness. You must pressure them decisively to obtain a tighter arc.”