Hey Jeff and Bob, I really like every single review you guys doing. It is the most professional and setisfying reviews out there in the whole world of ski reviews. I learned so much about the skies! Thanks a lot mates and just keep on doing what you are doing.
I think its funny that Jeff said he didnt find the sweet spot. He tearing it up on these things. Making it look easy. This looks like a real competior to skis like the Ranger 90, K2 Mindbender series.
I'm 71, 160lbs and 5'8" on telemark (NTN) gear. I have a quiver and am looking for a carver to add in. At 168cm the Cross 88 seems like a good candidate given its 13m turn radius!
I think one of the reasons people tend to overlook a lot of dynastar skis is, well, as silly as it sounds, is they're kind of "uncool". I remember being told by an older skier, "don't get Rossignol's get Dynastar's they're made in the same factory and they're cheaper", it's like when you were a kid and you wanted an iPod but your parents got you a Zune. Or like Marge buying Bart that golf game. Maybe it's just something as simple as them jazzing up their topsheets, I don't know. They always seem like the ski that's a sensible choice but not the one you really want. The practical 4 door with good mileage vs the red sports car.
Yeh that’s possible in different circles…my uncle has spent roughly the last 30yrs skiing Chamonix and says Dynastars are big over there…he skied the North face of Aiguille du Midi in a pair of them so they can’t be too uncool😅
@@YehShano I don't think they're bad skis at all, just they have a bit of an image problem. I think these things change over time, I remember everyone wanting Salomons like 20 years ago and they seem far less popular now, still great skis though.
@@oitoitoi1 absolutely, I wasn’t too familiar with many brands of skis a few years ago and really gravitated toward Atomic Bents purely because of Chris Benchetler videos and Blizzard skis purely because of Marcus Caston videos 😅
@@YehShano yeah we're all influenced by these things. I always liked Rossi as my childhood coach was sponsored by them, and then Bode Miller skied them, and no other racer has ever been as cool as Bode 😂
I agree, that these things are cyclical. For one reason or another, be it sponsored athletes, graphics, adoption of new technology, there's a lot of factors here.
I made an earlier comment to your reply, but it looks like it did not stick, so making a new comment instead. Thanks for the suggestions of the QST 92 or Line Blade Optic 92. I liked your review of the QST, and it's a great deal as well. I was wondering how the Declivity 92 and Kore 93 would compare to these. Maybe more technical, but less "fun"? Or even a Stormrider if I want to stay in the Stockli family (but variety is usually a good thing). Fyi - I'll continue to only purchase through you guys :)
Thanks, Richard! Declivity has more horsepower than anything else on your list, and that's a good thing for more aggressive skiers who are looking to rip. The Kore shares a lot of the same shape, but has a much different feel as it's carbon-powered rather than metal-powered. I really like the Kore 93 because I can use it easily at slower speeds as well as it having a high performance ceiling. I'm heavier, so I can bend the ski easier than lighter skiers. While the Kore has a pretty short radius, it's nowhere near that of the M-Cross, which is a whole lot of fun when coming across the fall line. It does so with much more ease than Declivity or Kore, so it's slightly different character. If fun to you is carving clean turns across the hill, then M-Cross should be on top of the list. For more versatility and power, the other skis have more to offer, and that includes the Stormrider (all of the above apply, but with more silence and smoothness).
I’m an fast aggressive 190lb skier looking for a frontside ski. I’ve been on a Ripstick 88 for 3 years now but I feel like I over ski it. Not sure if I would be more in tune with a black edition or possibly this M Cross. I just feel the ripstick is a little too easy to turn lol! I like a more energy in energy out type of ski…
M-Cross isn't particularly stiffer than a Ripstick. I'm not sure about that one for your application. Keeping in the Dynastar family, do check out the M-Pro 90, or moving to Volkl, the Kendo 88. I think you'll find what you're looking for here, with the M-Pro leaning slightly more versatile while the Kendo more centered in the front side.
Another enjoyable video! I'm getting ahead of myself since I haven't even skied my new Montero AXs, but in general, how wide a ski do you think I might consider adding to the mix down the road. I was an advanced skier in my teens when I lived in Vancouver BC, but I would say I'm an upper intermediate in my late 50s. Until this past season, I took about 20 years off from skiing. I don't expect to be doing a lot of off-piste, but since I'll be spending more time in Utah and Idaho, I have a feeling I'll be looking for additional powder capabilities in the future. Is high 80s the next logical step, or will mid-90s make more sense? Thanks.
Thanks, Richard! If you're on an 80 right now, I'd start at at least 90 moving forward. There's a lot of great skis in the mid-90's underfoot range that have a mix of on and off-trail capabilities. Salomon QST 92 is an easy choice, as is the Line Blade Optic 92. Elan Ripstick 96 represents a slightly wider choice, but still a whole lot of fun!
There is a video of yours that I started to watch and didn't finish it.. I have not seen it since.. I think it was the K2 Mindbender.. I think it was the 88.. Now that it is too warm and slushy to ski it is a good time to reflect.. To me the 88s need a hard surface.. They don't work well in warm weather and slush..
It is weird that Bob liked this more than you Jeff did.. With the shorter turning radius I would think that it would be less stable.. What length was Bob on?
Bob was on the 176, but would have opted for the 184 for himself. We covered how Jeff likes the more symmetrical skis like the Mirus Cor, while Bob's style is more in line with pressuring the front of the ski rather than the mid-point.
Jeff and Bob what’s up fellas? I hope all is well. Was hoping you guys could tell me what you personally own for a powder ski. I have a blizzard rustler 9 172 (that I love thanks to you guys)as a daily but was looking to buy a second set of skis for powder day. Hoping you guys could suggest.
Personally, my widest current ski is a Nordica Enforcer 104 Unlimited. Jeff has an Enforcer 110 Free and a K2 Reckoner 112. For where we ski, that's generally enough width. I really enjoy it in the trees here in VT when we get snow, and it's stable enough for some faster skiing through the crud and chop. If you like the overall nature of the Rustler, you could either go wider in that model or if you're looking to go lighter, make a quick shift to Hustle. I'd think the 11's in those would be better than the 10, but if you're looking to go wider and more playful, Check out Fischer Ranger 116 or Elan Ripstick 116. Have fun! SE/Bob
Looking for a ski for a not fresh snow day where I spend time on groomers and in the bumps. Leaning a touch towards the Moguls rather than the groomer. What would you suggest.
Mid-80's is a great place to be for this application. This M-Cross 88 also comes in an 82, so there's two great options. Even in the Dynastar family, the M-Pro 85 is an awesome ski that has a longer tip rocker profile and a stouter tail that blends on and off-trail performance quite effectively. Volkl Kanjo, Salomon Stance 84, and Elan Ripstick 88 all make good sense in this realm.
I own a WRT Pro, Montero AS, 2024 Stormrider 95 plus the Fischer Ranger 102. As i am missing the carving and short radius performance on the new Stormrider, i think about an additional ski in the 80-90 mm range: Dynastar M cross 82/88, Atomic Q9.8, Blizzard R15 WB….mostly used in wet/spring sbow conditions that we are facing here in Austria. no off-trail. Any additional models you have in mind? Thank you!
Kind of an odd one, check the Black Crows Mirus Cor! Short radius, great in variable conditions. It's a playful slalom ski. New Rossignol Arcade 84 is another great choice!
I tried the mirus cor, i am missing the very directional stoeckli feeling on the black crows. it is simply to „playful“ and nervous for me, especially in the icy morning conditions. Arcade 84 might be interesting….M-cross or Atomic Q9.8 would be available too…..thanks guys! you are THE reference for ski tests. Even for the ski sales guys here in Austria
The style is still relevant in that they offer a shorter turn radius for a wide ski. Salomon QST Blank and DPS Kaizen 112 are modern versions of this style of ski.
is the build the exact same on the 82/88? after skiing the hybrid core with my mfree 108 im sold on dynastar. im looking to add something as the no snow days narrower than my ripstick 96 black in that 82 range but definitely want a bit of support i like this in the 82 or the divus but not much info on the 82 anywhere
Dynastar claims it's the same build. We haven't spent much time on the 82, but the 88 was right in my wheelhouse--loved that ski! I'd also check out the Rossignol Experience 82 Ti as well.
Whats your take on M-cross 88 vs M-Pro 85 vs Nordica Steadfast 85. Or other skis i should look at? Groomer use mostly but 1 ski quiver mentality. Both good at speed and fun/easy with kids. Between Intermediate and advanced and 6'2 215lbs. Thanks!
Three great skis here, but I had an awesome time on the Steadfast this past winter, both from a carving standpoint and an all-mountain perspective. The M-Pro is probably the most versatile in reality, but I loved how the Nordica turned and carved. The M-Cross is also a very positive ski in my book--more similar to Steadfast than M-Pro. I will say that the Steadfast is slightly stiffer and more responsive than the M-Cross, and that puts it into a better realm for me, and at 6/2 225, am pretty similarly sized to you. I'd lean Steadfast in the 179.
@@SkiEssentials thank you, much appreciated reply. Both the M-cross and Steadfast got equally stellar reviews by a Swedish magazine which solidifies your input. I was worried 179cm would be too short but Steadfast might be the way to go. I am intrigued by the M-cross playfulness however. Hope to demo them before purchase!
@@SkiEssentials great Thanks! I have been hooked on the Head E Rally as well. Sounds like a dream on groomers. And honestly groomers is what i do. How much carving experience am i giving up if i go with the Steadfast compared to a E-rally?
I'd say that specifically in the moguls, the 82 will be the strongest performer. It has the upper build, but is a bit narrower than the 88, so there'll be more quickness and agility involved. The 88 is fine--more than fine, really, as most skiers will enjoy the flex in the shovel and the predictable underfoot stability.
Jeff please reply. Nordica Unleashed 98: in one review you said to mount them - 1.5 from true center and in another one +4cm from recommended (-7.2 from true center). Please explain which one mounting points you personally liked and why. It is very important for me to know this. I ski same way and wanna buy this ski and mount it the same way you preferred most.
I'd say that's a pretty fair comparison, although they definitely changed the shovel's taper shape to be more accommodating to carving and grip. The 87 was a cool, short-turning ski, but the tip was definitely a bit flappy. This has none of that, but still keeps the short radius and fun-loving personality.
Totally! I did find that the M-Cross is a bit more sturdy underfoot and more compliant in the shovel, whereas the Navigator was more consistent throughout. I definitely miss that Nav 90, though!
don't you guys ever discuss about what to wear on camera? anyways these skis don't seem to have this key component called "titanium double laminates" @20:20 "im still learning youre still learning everyones still learning" ... totally agreed!!!
Haha, do we not look presentable in this one, or are you hung up on the combination of a Rossignol hat, Tecnica fleece, and Look t-shirt? I will say I forgot to shave, and was quite disappointed when I realized. But hey, it's authentic...? Titanal is actually 85% aluminum and doesn't contain any titanium whatsoever! Fun!
@@SkiEssentials you do look presentable and you don't need to wear bikini tops to attract viewers... again you guys are excellent presenters. "Double Titanium (not titanal) Laminate adds stiffness and response" that's why i got my 2013 Salomon Enduro 850 XT and I still love them. been skiing on them for the past 11 years probably 200 days or so... and i'm in need for a new pair of skis and i'm so glad i found this channel
Hey Jeff and Bob, I really like every single review you guys doing. It is the most professional and setisfying reviews out there in the whole world of ski reviews. I learned so much about the skies! Thanks a lot mates and just keep on doing what you are doing.
I think its funny that Jeff said he didnt find the sweet spot. He tearing it up on these things. Making it look easy. This looks like a real competior to skis like the Ranger 90, K2 Mindbender series.
I'm 71, 160lbs and 5'8" on telemark (NTN) gear. I have a quiver and am looking for a carver to add in. At 168cm the Cross 88 seems like a good candidate given its 13m turn radius!
I think that'd be a great option! Nice and short.
You need to get more forward on the ski to work it and get the “rush”.
I think one of the reasons people tend to overlook a lot of dynastar skis is, well, as silly as it sounds, is they're kind of "uncool". I remember being told by an older skier, "don't get Rossignol's get Dynastar's they're made in the same factory and they're cheaper", it's like when you were a kid and you wanted an iPod but your parents got you a Zune. Or like Marge buying Bart that golf game.
Maybe it's just something as simple as them jazzing up their topsheets, I don't know. They always seem like the ski that's a sensible choice but not the one you really want. The practical 4 door with good mileage vs the red sports car.
Yeh that’s possible in different circles…my uncle has spent roughly the last 30yrs skiing Chamonix and says Dynastars are big over there…he skied the North face of Aiguille du Midi in a pair of them so they can’t be too uncool😅
@@YehShano I don't think they're bad skis at all, just they have a bit of an image problem. I think these things change over time, I remember everyone wanting Salomons like 20 years ago and they seem far less popular now, still great skis though.
@@oitoitoi1 absolutely, I wasn’t too familiar with many brands of skis a few years ago and really gravitated toward Atomic Bents purely because of Chris Benchetler videos and Blizzard skis purely because of Marcus Caston videos 😅
@@YehShano yeah we're all influenced by these things. I always liked Rossi as my childhood coach was sponsored by them, and then Bode Miller skied them, and no other racer has ever been as cool as Bode 😂
I agree, that these things are cyclical. For one reason or another, be it sponsored athletes, graphics, adoption of new technology, there's a lot of factors here.
I made an earlier comment to your reply, but it looks like it did not stick, so making a new comment instead. Thanks for the suggestions of the QST 92 or Line Blade Optic 92. I liked your review of the QST, and it's a great deal as well. I was wondering how the Declivity 92 and Kore 93 would compare to these. Maybe more technical, but less "fun"? Or even a Stormrider if I want to stay in the Stockli family (but variety is usually a good thing). Fyi - I'll continue to only purchase through you guys :)
Thanks, Richard!
Declivity has more horsepower than anything else on your list, and that's a good thing for more aggressive skiers who are looking to rip. The Kore shares a lot of the same shape, but has a much different feel as it's carbon-powered rather than metal-powered. I really like the Kore 93 because I can use it easily at slower speeds as well as it having a high performance ceiling. I'm heavier, so I can bend the ski easier than lighter skiers. While the Kore has a pretty short radius, it's nowhere near that of the M-Cross, which is a whole lot of fun when coming across the fall line. It does so with much more ease than Declivity or Kore, so it's slightly different character. If fun to you is carving clean turns across the hill, then M-Cross should be on top of the list. For more versatility and power, the other skis have more to offer, and that includes the Stormrider (all of the above apply, but with more silence and smoothness).
I’m an fast aggressive 190lb skier looking for a frontside ski. I’ve been on a Ripstick 88 for 3 years now but I feel like I over ski it. Not sure if I would be more in tune with a black edition or possibly this M Cross. I just feel the ripstick is a little too easy to turn lol! I like a more energy in energy out type of ski…
M-Cross isn't particularly stiffer than a Ripstick. I'm not sure about that one for your application. Keeping in the Dynastar family, do check out the M-Pro 90, or moving to Volkl, the Kendo 88. I think you'll find what you're looking for here, with the M-Pro leaning slightly more versatile while the Kendo more centered in the front side.
Another enjoyable video! I'm getting ahead of myself since I haven't even skied my new Montero AXs, but in general, how wide a ski do you think I might consider adding to the mix down the road. I was an advanced skier in my teens when I lived in Vancouver BC, but I would say I'm an upper intermediate in my late 50s. Until this past season, I took about 20 years off from skiing. I don't expect to be doing a lot of off-piste, but since I'll be spending more time in Utah and Idaho, I have a feeling I'll be looking for additional powder capabilities in the future. Is high 80s the next logical step, or will mid-90s make more sense? Thanks.
Thanks, Richard!
If you're on an 80 right now, I'd start at at least 90 moving forward. There's a lot of great skis in the mid-90's underfoot range that have a mix of on and off-trail capabilities. Salomon QST 92 is an easy choice, as is the Line Blade Optic 92. Elan Ripstick 96 represents a slightly wider choice, but still a whole lot of fun!
There is a video of yours that I started to watch and didn't finish it.. I have not seen it since.. I think it was the K2 Mindbender.. I think it was the 88.. Now that it is too warm and slushy to ski it is a good time to reflect.. To me the 88s need a hard surface.. They don't work well in warm weather and slush..
It is weird that Bob liked this more than you Jeff did.. With the shorter turning radius I would think that it would be less stable.. What length was Bob on?
It does look like the snow was softer which could be an advantage to a softer ski..
Bob was on the 176, but would have opted for the 184 for himself. We covered how Jeff likes the more symmetrical skis like the Mirus Cor, while Bob's style is more in line with pressuring the front of the ski rather than the mid-point.
@@SkiEssentials i was confused about the symmetrical.. i think the context they were using was in the wider tip and narrower tails..
Jeff and Bob what’s up fellas? I hope all is well. Was hoping you guys could tell me what you personally own for a powder ski. I have a blizzard rustler 9 172 (that I love thanks to you guys)as a daily but was looking to buy a second set of skis for powder day. Hoping you guys could suggest.
Personally, my widest current ski is a Nordica Enforcer 104 Unlimited. Jeff has an Enforcer 110 Free and a K2 Reckoner 112. For where we ski, that's generally enough width. I really enjoy it in the trees here in VT when we get snow, and it's stable enough for some faster skiing through the crud and chop. If you like the overall nature of the Rustler, you could either go wider in that model or if you're looking to go lighter, make a quick shift to Hustle. I'd think the 11's in those would be better than the 10, but if you're looking to go wider and more playful, Check out Fischer Ranger 116 or Elan Ripstick 116. Have fun!
SE/Bob
Looking for a ski for a not fresh snow day where I spend time on groomers and in the bumps. Leaning a touch towards the Moguls rather than the groomer. What would you suggest.
Mid-80's is a great place to be for this application. This M-Cross 88 also comes in an 82, so there's two great options. Even in the Dynastar family, the M-Pro 85 is an awesome ski that has a longer tip rocker profile and a stouter tail that blends on and off-trail performance quite effectively. Volkl Kanjo, Salomon Stance 84, and Elan Ripstick 88 all make good sense in this realm.
I own a WRT Pro, Montero AS, 2024 Stormrider 95 plus the Fischer Ranger 102. As i am missing the carving and short radius performance on the new Stormrider, i think about an additional ski in the 80-90 mm range: Dynastar M cross 82/88, Atomic Q9.8, Blizzard R15 WB….mostly used in wet/spring sbow conditions that we are facing here in Austria. no off-trail. Any additional models you have in mind? Thank you!
Kind of an odd one, check the Black Crows Mirus Cor! Short radius, great in variable conditions. It's a playful slalom ski. New Rossignol Arcade 84 is another great choice!
I tried the mirus cor, i am missing the very directional stoeckli feeling on the black crows. it is simply to „playful“ and nervous for me, especially in the icy morning conditions. Arcade 84 might be interesting….M-cross or Atomic Q9.8 would be available too…..thanks guys! you are THE reference for ski tests. Even for the ski sales guys here in Austria
Intriguing! What size was Bob skiing on?
176
what is your opinion of the Chams 107? Are they still a contender?
The style is still relevant in that they offer a shorter turn radius for a wide ski. Salomon QST Blank and DPS Kaizen 112 are modern versions of this style of ski.
is the build the exact same on the 82/88? after skiing the hybrid core with my mfree 108 im sold on dynastar. im looking to add something as the no snow days narrower than my ripstick 96 black in that 82 range but definitely want a bit of support i like this in the 82 or the divus but not much info on the 82 anywhere
Dynastar claims it's the same build. We haven't spent much time on the 82, but the 88 was right in my wheelhouse--loved that ski! I'd also check out the Rossignol Experience 82 Ti as well.
yes it is now the rossi and the dynastar as black crows didnt carry the divus this year thanks! will hopefully pick up a set of either this year!
Whats your take on M-cross 88 vs M-Pro 85 vs Nordica Steadfast 85. Or other skis i should look at?
Groomer use mostly but 1 ski quiver mentality.
Both good at speed and fun/easy with kids.
Between Intermediate and advanced and 6'2 215lbs.
Thanks!
Three great skis here, but I had an awesome time on the Steadfast this past winter, both from a carving standpoint and an all-mountain perspective. The M-Pro is probably the most versatile in reality, but I loved how the Nordica turned and carved. The M-Cross is also a very positive ski in my book--more similar to Steadfast than M-Pro. I will say that the Steadfast is slightly stiffer and more responsive than the M-Cross, and that puts it into a better realm for me, and at 6/2 225, am pretty similarly sized to you. I'd lean Steadfast in the 179.
@@SkiEssentials thank you, much appreciated reply. Both the M-cross and Steadfast got equally stellar reviews by a Swedish magazine which solidifies your input.
I was worried 179cm would be too short but Steadfast might be the way to go. I am intrigued by the M-cross playfulness however. Hope to demo them before purchase!
@@MrMrSvahn I was concerned about the 179 as well, as I'm 6/2 225, but for what it's meant to do, it held up quite well.
@@SkiEssentials great Thanks!
I have been hooked on the Head E Rally as well. Sounds like a dream on groomers. And honestly groomers is what i do.
How much carving experience am i giving up if i go with the Steadfast compared to a E-rally?
@@MrMrSvahn It's more power than experience. Rally has 18% more power in my opinion.
How are these in the bumps. or what ski in the M-Cross lineup are the best in the bumps?
I'd say that specifically in the moguls, the 82 will be the strongest performer. It has the upper build, but is a bit narrower than the 88, so there'll be more quickness and agility involved. The 88 is fine--more than fine, really, as most skiers will enjoy the flex in the shovel and the predictable underfoot stability.
Jeff please reply. Nordica Unleashed 98: in one review you said to mount them - 1.5 from true center and in another one +4cm from recommended (-7.2 from true center). Please explain which one mounting points you personally liked and why. It is very important for me to know this. I ski same way and wanna buy this ski and mount it the same way you preferred most.
Hi, are these guy’s similar to the old Cham 87 ?
I'd say that's a pretty fair comparison, although they definitely changed the shovel's taper shape to be more accommodating to carving and grip. The 87 was a cool, short-turning ski, but the tip was definitely a bit flappy. This has none of that, but still keeps the short radius and fun-loving personality.
Sounds like a Navi 85/90 with Titanium Hex Bridge.
Totally! I did find that the M-Cross is a bit more sturdy underfoot and more compliant in the shovel, whereas the Navigator was more consistent throughout. I definitely miss that Nav 90, though!
don't you guys ever discuss about what to wear on camera? anyways these skis don't seem to have this key component called "titanium double laminates"
@20:20 "im still learning youre still learning everyones still learning" ... totally agreed!!!
Haha, do we not look presentable in this one, or are you hung up on the combination of a Rossignol hat, Tecnica fleece, and Look t-shirt? I will say I forgot to shave, and was quite disappointed when I realized. But hey, it's authentic...?
Titanal is actually 85% aluminum and doesn't contain any titanium whatsoever! Fun!
@@SkiEssentials you do look presentable and you don't need to wear bikini tops to attract viewers... again you guys are excellent presenters. "Double Titanium (not titanal) Laminate adds stiffness and response" that's why i got my 2013 Salomon Enduro 850 XT and I still love them. been skiing on them for the past 11 years probably 200 days or so... and i'm in need for a new pair of skis and i'm so glad i found this channel