Want to build yet another light setup for the east coast. Mountaineering and resort lapping. Current own a Blacklight 88 in 172 and Backland UL 85 in 165. The Blizzard would save me a bit of weight over the blacklight. What ski is it more similar to in my current setup? How hard is it to drive in choppy snow and variable snow compared to my current setup?
thanks!
Blizzard Zero G 80 Ski
Here's something! Blizzard decided to apply their years of Zero G know-how to a specialized ski mountaineering tool. The Zero G 80 is a finely crafted ski that provides the ultimate confidence in steep terrain. A long running edge, subtle rocker, and tapered tail make precision jump turns and side-slipping quite comfortable. The tweaked Carbon Drive chassis from the Zero G construction makes sure the ski won't fold on you and the mini-sidewall forces the edges into a firm surface. A consistent flex offers the repeatability necessary to have the courage to make the next leap. The Blizzard Zero G 80 will be a ski mountaineering staple for years to come.
- Carbon Drive LT is a uni-directional fiber wrap offers a round flex and torsional stiffness.
- Wider tip and tapered tail help plane up if the conditions get a little manky.
- Small camber and gentle rocker are the perfect combo for steep confidence.
- TrueBlend core, customized per ski length, makes for easy skiing with a stable feel.
- Mini sidewalls eat into firm snow and add some durability.
- Tip is notched so you can use a race-style skin system.
Update 2025/26: Blizzard dropped the LT moniker but this is the same ski as last season with a new light colored topsheet.
| Specifications | |
| Lengths (cm) | 164, 171, 178 |
|
Weight |
955g [164] 1040g [171] 1100g [178] |
| Weight (pair) | 1910g [164] 2080g [171] 2200g [178] |
|
|
108-80-94 [164] 108-80-94 [171] 110-80-96 [178] |
|
Turn |
20.0m [164] 21.0m [171] 22.0m [178] |
|
Skin |
Tip notch, flat notched tail |
| Specs Verified | Yes |
| Design | |
|
|
Small amount of camber, subtle rocker tip and tail |
|
|
Wider shovel, tapered tail |
|
|
Carbon Drive LT |
|
|
Poplar and Paulownia TrueBlend core |
| Skimo Co Says | |
| Usage | Mountaineering |
| Notes | Mini vertical sidewall underfoot |
| Bottom Line | Stable, round flexing ski for big objectives |
| Compare to other Low-fat Skis | |
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Questions & Reviews
12/10/2025
12/10/2025
Hi Vince, I would say the Zero G 80 fits nicely in between the Blacklight 88 and Backland 85 UL. It's not as stiff throughout at the Blacklight 88, but is stiffer and more supportive (especially underfoot) than the Backland UL 85. In variable conditions, it will have more power to push through chop compared to the Backland, but won't be as twitchy or easy to deflect as the Blacklight thanks to being a bit more forgiving in the tip and tail compared to your Dynafits.
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11/26/2025
I'm 5'5 140lbs, very aggressive skier. Debating between a 157cm and 164cm for a UL volcano ski for spring missions in the PNW. I've never skied anything shorter than a 172cm, but hoping to cut weight for a UL setup. Any thoughts? Thanks!
11/26/2025
Hi Eero, you could go either way no problem. Many folks would go with the 157cm for that sort of setup. Easier to manage for kick turns and bushwhacking, and float is much less important. The biggest downside would be that you'll lose some stability at speed. Your boots would be another factor - if you get a very lightweight boot, the 157 will be more manageable.
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The LT80 is a fantastic mountaineering ski. It excels in spring conditions, but remains fun in soft snow when you want to take it out for a big day in winter conditions. It's reasonably fun to rip around on moderate slopes, but it really shines when you take it into steeper terrain. The round flex profile and subtle tip and tail rocker allow it lands jump turns predictably and precisely. I really cannot say enough good things about this ski's behavior in the steeps. What I appreciate most about the LT80 is that it manages to be very forgiving and easy to handle while still having the backbone to ski somewhat aggressively and hold an edge - the perfect recipe for a ski that you can take anywhere. And, it's narrow and light enough to move fast and efficiently.
Because it's so forgiving, I'm able to pair this ski with race boots and touring boots. It feels like a very natural pairing with my plastic Aliens, and this is my go-to for most days that I use this ski. But if you want to open it up a bit more, or need a confidence boost on the downhill, it also skis very well with a stiffer boot like an F1 XT.
If you want a ski for volcanos, traverses, long days, or even just uphill fitness laps with race boots, I'd strongly consider these. There are plenty of great options for resort uphill that might be more fun on groomers, but for backcountry snow and technical terrain, this is among the best in its class.
Because it's so forgiving, I'm able to pair this ski with race boots and touring boots. It feels like a very natural pairing with my plastic Aliens, and this is my go-to for most days that I use this ski. But if you want to open it up a bit more, or need a confidence boost on the downhill, it also skis very well with a stiffer boot like an F1 XT.
If you want a ski for volcanos, traverses, long days, or even just uphill fitness laps with race boots, I'd strongly consider these. There are plenty of great options for resort uphill that might be more fun on groomers, but for backcountry snow and technical terrain, this is among the best in its class.
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9/29/2025
Looking for an east coast lap (but non-race) ski for firm to ice rink firm. This seems like it will do the trick. Will mount Plum Oazo 10s and use Fischer TransAlp tours. What length would work for 6’1”, 172lbs?
9/30/2025
Jeff, This would be perfect for that. Narrow, carving ski.
Length will be up to you. 171cm for shaving weight, but for you, the 178cm will be more stable and fun on the down.
Length will be up to you. 171cm for shaving weight, but for you, the 178cm will be more stable and fun on the down.
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5/15/2025
I'm considering buying a used pair of these (not sure which year). I would have to remount to fit my boots, does anyone have any experience remounting them? Are they too delicate to remount like some skimo skis?
5/15/2025
Hi Matt,
It should be totally fine to remount a pair of these, as long as you leave sufficient space between holes and the core isn't compromised (same as any other ski).
It should be totally fine to remount a pair of these, as long as you leave sufficient space between holes and the core isn't compromised (same as any other ski).
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4/6/2025
Is there any difference in lay-up? stiffness? weight etc between the LT80 and the LT 80 W (the black/lichen women specific model)?
THX
THX
4/7/2025
Nik, There shouldn't be. Actually I couldn't find much info on the womens LT 80 at all. The womens was sold for the 23/24 season, not this season. Blizzard has sold some ZG skis as womans, then ended as they are the same. Except color.
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11/4/2024
Hello, curious if you had thoughts on how this would compare with the Voille Objective? Mainly looking for something in this class that won't be too grabby in softer/manky snow, not overly concerned about maximum edge hold.
11/4/2024
Hi Parker, I have skied both and prefer the Objective in soft or manky snow. The extra rocker helps it stay up and it's a bit more smeary and I never felt grabbiness in a couple seasons on it. The LT 80 is awesome for mountaineering, steep skiing, and firm snow.
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9/30/2024
How would these compare to a Ski Trab Maestro or Sintesi?
10/1/2024
Hi Earl,
Compared to the Maestro, the LT 80 has a less pronounced camber, more rocker, and a rounder flex. Where the Maestro is stiff underfoot and soft in the tip, the LT 80 has a bit more even flex throughout the ski, with stiffer shovels. We think the LT 80 is a very versatile and fun ski in this category! In grabby or difficult conditions, it will be a little more predictable and will require a bit less effort to initiate turns due to the lower camber.
Compared to the Maestro, the LT 80 has a less pronounced camber, more rocker, and a rounder flex. Where the Maestro is stiff underfoot and soft in the tip, the LT 80 has a bit more even flex throughout the ski, with stiffer shovels. We think the LT 80 is a very versatile and fun ski in this category! In grabby or difficult conditions, it will be a little more predictable and will require a bit less effort to initiate turns due to the lower camber.
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11/13/2023
Hi,
may I ask what are the differences, even in term of feeling, with the Atomic Backland 78 UL, please
Thanks
may I ask what are the differences, even in term of feeling, with the Atomic Backland 78 UL, please
Thanks
11/13/2023
Hi Mario,
The biggest difference is the turning radius of the Zero G LT 80, which is considerably longer at 20+ meters compared to the Backland's 13-17 meters (or a bit more depending on size). The LT 80 also weighs slightly more in a comparable length, although only about 100 grams difference. I would expect the Zero G to be a higher performer at speed on firm snow, whereas the Backland would be a little more maneuverable at lower speeds and probably a little less demanding. Both would make great speed touring/training skis.
The biggest difference is the turning radius of the Zero G LT 80, which is considerably longer at 20+ meters compared to the Backland's 13-17 meters (or a bit more depending on size). The LT 80 also weighs slightly more in a comparable length, although only about 100 grams difference. I would expect the Zero G to be a higher performer at speed on firm snow, whereas the Backland would be a little more maneuverable at lower speeds and probably a little less demanding. Both would make great speed touring/training skis.
11/13/2023
Hi Mario, I agree with Carlos that the Atomic is quicker. I will add that the LT 80 is not a demanding ski, the TruBlend core is quite compliant and a great balance of easy skiing with high-end performance. Blizzard will be adopting that core throughout their line soon.
4/19/2024
Will we see the TruBlend core in the 2025 Zero G 95 & 105?
4/19/2024
Hi Christopher, it's on the roadmap but not happening for 24/25.
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4/2/2023
Hi,
I'm torn between this ski and the Solomon MTN Summit 78 as a lighterweight alternative to my current set up (Voile Charger 161s). I'm a 5'6, 130# female skier in the PNW. I like to think I'm an intermediate to advanced skier primarily looking for a ski that can handle fitness laps and volcano touring. Any helpful insights would be great! Thanks.
I'm torn between this ski and the Solomon MTN Summit 78 as a lighterweight alternative to my current set up (Voile Charger 161s). I'm a 5'6, 130# female skier in the PNW. I like to think I'm an intermediate to advanced skier primarily looking for a ski that can handle fitness laps and volcano touring. Any helpful insights would be great! Thanks.
4/2/2023
Hi Lauren, some good options! The MTN Summit is softer and more turny, potentially more fun on those fitness laps and in soft snow. The Blizzard is more at home in serious terrain, with a long sidecut that works well in the firm steeps, sideslipping, etc. Hope this helps!
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1/22/2023
Hi,
I want a new kit of ski and I’m thinking about the 80UL and I’m not sure about the size for this kit. I’m 5pi11 66kg and I want something short for steep skiing, 164 or definitely 171 ?
I already have a zero G95 178 for powder day and that’s a perfect kit. Thanks
I want a new kit of ski and I’m thinking about the 80UL and I’m not sure about the size for this kit. I’m 5pi11 66kg and I want something short for steep skiing, 164 or definitely 171 ?
I already have a zero G95 178 for powder day and that’s a perfect kit. Thanks
1/23/2023
Hi Nicolas, you mean 5' 11" then I would say 171. These aren't too demanding and are really fun to ski, no need to go super short.
1/23/2023
Do you think that in other type/brand of ski (except for Skimo my DNA 162) might be a 164, or do you think that my shortest ski would be a 171 for steep skiing ? Thanks
1/23/2023
Hi Nicolas, there are no rules of course, and you could have fun on 164s. High 160s would still be in your sweet spot.
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1/13/2023
Would you consider this a race plus ski? I’m not really interested in going full skimo race ski, but for on-piste fitness I know I can get away with using an expert level ski since the conditions are more consistent. Basically, I want a great on-piste carving ski at around 1 kilo. For reference I use Hagan Core 89s today—no intention to get rid of them but they are more forgiving in less than ideal conditions but come in at 1.3 kilos.
1/13/2023
Hi Travis, absolutely! They are great on smooth snow and actually more forgiving than the other Zero Gs in variable conditions owing to the TrueBlend core, which is custom designed per ski length. It's a very approachable ski.
1/13/2023
jbo, what other skis would you slot into the race plus category?
1/13/2023
Hi Travis, we only use that descriptor specifically for boots. I understood what you meant to be ~1kg fitness skis, which includes lots of options in the "mountaineering" category drop down. The Race Pro line from Movement is the only group there that is really pushing the boundary on weight and what I might call oversized race skis. The rest are fairly versatile and could be used for mountaineering and such, with various strengths and weaknesses.
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1/10/2023
Hi, I'm in the market for skimo type 70-80mm waist skis and don't even know where to begin. I'm based in the Portland area where the shops only rent out 95mm+. Do you guys know of any demo days near here? Or do you rent out skis in this category if I came to SLC? Thanks!
1/11/2023
Thanks for reaching out, David! We don't have any information regarding demo's in your area, sorry about that. We absolutely rent skis and would love to set you up if you are in the area! Please feel free to give us a call or send an email to help@skimo.co if you have specific questions regarding what we have available.
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10/9/2022
How do these compare to the Dynafit Blacklight Pro, the Wayback 80, or the Atomic UL 78? The specs of all of these look very similar. Is it fair to say that all skis in this width and weight category are relatively stiff, due to the lightweight carbon material? In your experience, does the stiffer flex impact performance in powder and if yes, how so exactly? Thanks in advance.
10/9/2022
Hi Michael, the Blizzard LT 80s are awesome. Touch softer than the Blacklights but super reliable on edge. The Wayback 80s feel like windshield wipers...a strange amount of rocker. The Atomics are a bit more playful. None of these are powder skis of course but there is nothing about their flex that would inhibit enjoying some powder!
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9/9/2022
In what scenarios would you recommend this Zero G 80 LT over Blizzard's Zero G 85 (or 95)?
I'm looking for a ski for PNW volcanoes and the High Sierra in the spring. Thanks.
I'm looking for a ski for PNW volcanoes and the High Sierra in the spring. Thanks.
9/9/2022
Hi Benjamin, I would recommend the 80 LT over the 85 for most steep or adventure skiing scenarios. It's skis just as well (if not better) while being lighter weight and more nimble on the skintrack. The 85 offers slightly more float making it a tad more versatile as an all-rounder, but most folks would prefer the 95 in powder and potentially PNW mank.
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4/28/2022
Will the LT configuration be available in any other widths? Be great to see it in the 105.
4/28/2022
Thanks for reaching out, Christian. At this time we aren't aware of any other skis in the Blizzard line getting the LT treatment.
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3/22/2022
Would love to hear some more thoughts on this ski and how it feels on-snow from Dr. Borro or others who have gotten some turns on it thus far. East Coasters are curious!
3/26/2022
Hi East Coaster, The new Blizzard is fun, playful, but very solid on edge ski. With just enough forgiveness to make sure you dont get extra puckered on already steep terrain.
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3/6/2022
What's the point? Just a bit narrower and a bit lighter to fill in the Zero G lineup?
3/6/2022
Hi Zach, the LT 80 is definitely a different ski as compared to the other Zero Gs. It uses a new layup ("Carbon Drive LT") that has a different feel, really at home in the steeps. Also, tip notch!
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2/9/2022
Is this a next-season ski with a limited release this year? Any chance of getting a 178?
2/9/2022
Hi Jonathan, yes that's right. We've had the opportunity to ski and stock them. We do expect a few 178s, but don't have a concrete date. Please reach out via email to reserve a pair.
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