I think if you're comparing the first version of the Rustler 10, I would choose that ski (2023 and earlier). But, when Blizz changed it two seasons ago, it became more locked in and more directional. Some skiers like that -- mostly directional skiers who want a splash of playfulness. That's my style, so I still like the Rustler 10 and think it's a bit more lively. But I actually think more skiers will get along with the Sender Soul 102, and that played out for sure at our ski test. -Matt
Depends on where you're skiing and how you like to ski (and how you define "all mountain"). I'd argue that some modern 100mm skis are more capable as all-mountain skis than skis around that waist 10-15 years ago and beyond. A lot of them are much more versatile and handle well in bumps/trees while also being strong carvers. We think of freeride skis as being the midfats, loosely around 102-112. BUT plenty of people for sure would agree with you, especially in places with less snow or generally firmer snow. And Europe, where 85mm is practically a powder ski... -Matt
My wife loves her old Rossi soul 7… can not get her off of them. Anything new out there that skis like them? The Line ski reviewed sounds interesting. Open to suggestions, she also has the elan 94w and qst92 in her quiver
Frankly, that new Sender Soul 102 will be quite similar! It'll be a little more predictable through the tip (less chatter), and just overall has Rossi's latest tech that helps dampen the ski. Just a little skinnier at 102. I also think she'd get on with that Pandora, it has a similar tip shape and ride up front, it might just feel a little stiffer underfoot than her current pair. How does she get on with her Ripsticks and QSTs? That Pandora 99 feels like a slightly heavier (and probably stiffer through the midfoot and tail) version of the QST 98. -Alex
Check out the written Buyer's Guide, you'll find all those skis in there! (Maverick 105 CTI gets featured in our big-mountain freeride video :) ) -Alex
Rossi Sender Soul 102 vs Blizzard Rustler 10. Thoughts?
I think if you're comparing the first version of the Rustler 10, I would choose that ski (2023 and earlier). But, when Blizz changed it two seasons ago, it became more locked in and more directional. Some skiers like that -- mostly directional skiers who want a splash of playfulness. That's my style, so I still like the Rustler 10 and think it's a bit more lively. But I actually think more skiers will get along with the Sender Soul 102, and that played out for sure at our ski test. -Matt
Skis which are 100 mm under foot arent really all mountains anymore. It is more like a freeride ski no?
Depends on where you're skiing and how you like to ski (and how you define "all mountain"). I'd argue that some modern 100mm skis are more capable as all-mountain skis than skis around that waist 10-15 years ago and beyond. A lot of them are much more versatile and handle well in bumps/trees while also being strong carvers. We think of freeride skis as being the midfats, loosely around 102-112. BUT plenty of people for sure would agree with you, especially in places with less snow or generally firmer snow. And Europe, where 85mm is practically a powder ski... -Matt
My wife loves her old Rossi soul 7… can not get her off of them. Anything new out there that skis like them? The Line ski reviewed sounds interesting. Open to suggestions, she also has the elan 94w and qst92 in her quiver
Frankly, that new Sender Soul 102 will be quite similar! It'll be a little more predictable through the tip (less chatter), and just overall has Rossi's latest tech that helps dampen the ski. Just a little skinnier at 102. I also think she'd get on with that Pandora, it has a similar tip shape and ride up front, it might just feel a little stiffer underfoot than her current pair. How does she get on with her Ripsticks and QSTs? That Pandora 99 feels like a slightly heavier (and probably stiffer through the midfoot and tail) version of the QST 98. -Alex
No Mindbender, No Maverick, No Stance. You guys are wild.
Check out the written Buyer's Guide, you'll find all those skis in there! (Maverick 105 CTI gets featured in our big-mountain freeride video :) ) -Alex