DPS Pagoda Tour 106 Ski
If you find yourself skinning up the approach to a popular powder-lapping spot with the hopes of scoring a few pre-dawn turns before the masses track things out, you'd be forgiven for thinking that the folks you pass in the skintrack were on their way to a day of heli-served runs at Thompson Pass, or riding lifts at Niseko. Uber-wide, rockered powder ski designs have taken over the North American backcountry -- from Smuggler's Notch to Jones Pass, Shuksan Arm to Mt. Tallac -- and our collective idea of an everyday ski has quickly swung toward the fat and surfy end of the spectrum. For the "wide-is-right" skier who can't imagine going smaller than 100 millimeters underfoot, but also wants to put in more vert before sunup than their similarly-engorged brethren, DPS's Pagoda 106 is a hard-snow tool in the guise of a face-shots-everyday pontoon. Basing the ski around the foam core common to their Pagoda line, DPS took their liberally-wide, but conservatively rockered Wailer 106 shape and gave it an even damper, more stable ride with the same easy-turning feel, and secure edge hold on hard snow for those moments when you find yourself jump-turning your way down a chalky north face. Best of all, at under 1500g for the 179cm length, the Pagoda Tour 106 won't have you begging for a mechanical up-lift after a thousand meters of hooting and hollering.
- Pagoda skis took the most cherished characteristics of the Tour1 and Alchemist/Pure3 lines to create a smooth-skiing, and happily-charging setup.
- Ash and paulownia stringers lead to a light ski on the ascent, uber-damp feel in variable conditions, and a lovely experience in powder.
- Aerospace-grade foam gives impressive damping qualities while keeping the ski lightweight.
- Textured polyamide topsheet keeps snow and ice off the top of your ski so you can constantly admire the simple, yet elegant artistic design.
- World Cup race-grade base material makes for quick skis on the downhill and goes well with DPS's Phantom 2.0 treatment.
- The Chassis Two (C2) rocker-camber profile is built to maximize the combination of the flex pattern and sidecut, creating an ultra-smooth skiing experience.
- 3rd Rail Technology is a stringer made of sidewall material that lessens vibration and increases durability.
Update 2022/23: 3rd Rail technology was incorporated into the ski, increasing performance, durability, and most importantly, fun. DPS also updated the topsheet design. Weight is slightly down to unchanged.
| Specifications | |
| Lengths (cm) | 155, 163, 171, 179, 184 |
|
Weight |
1225g [155] 1350g [163] 1420g [171] 1540g [179] 1595g [184] |
| Weight (pair) | 2450g [155] 2700g [163] 2840g [171] 3080g [179] 3190g [184] |
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126-106-115 [155] 128-106-116 [163] 130-106-117 [171] 132-106-119 [179] 134-106-120 [184] |
|
Turn |
19m [All Lengths] |
|
Skin |
Rounded tip and tail |
| Specs Verified | Yes |
| Design | |
|
|
Rockered tip, camber underfoot, slight tail rocker |
|
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Rockered tip, medium radius, tail rocker |
|
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Foam core with ash and paulownia stringers, 3rd Rail Technology, and World Cup race base |
|
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Aerospace-grade foam with ash and paulownia stringers and 3rd Rail Technology |
| Skimo Co Says | |
| Usage | Powder touring with a pleasant surprise when the powder is gone |
| Notes | Evolution of DPS' Chassis shaping for maximum versatility |
| Bottom Line | An everyday western resort ski, but for the backcountry instead |
| Compare to other High-fat Skis | |
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Questions & Reviews
3/20/2024
Hi, I have a question about these vs the elan ripstick tour 104. My concern is with the tip shapes, I had the chance to demo a pair of volkl blaze 106s and the wide straight tip were so catchy in anything slightly inconsistent. is a tapered but wide tip on the dps more or less catchy than a straighter but narrower tip on the ripstick tour? I find myself throwing the skis sideways on fall lines quite a lot and a catchy tip tends to throw me face first down the hill.
3/20/2024
Hi Quintus,
If the demo skis were new-ish, that could also be a problem with the tune - it is possible that the tips weren't de-tuned by the shop who set them up, which could definitely cause the hook-iness that you describe. However, it is true that more tapered tip shapes are designed to be able to smear easier and not catch/hook up as quickly in softer/deeper snow. Less tip taper allows the ski to engage earlier giving you more effective edge and more tip to drive.
I wouldn't call either of those skis particularly catchy/hooky, and I will say that the Elans are designed with an asymmetrical rocker so that your inside ski is less likely to catch, while your outside ski still has lots of edge engaged. It is a cool feature that we do notice, especially on firmer snow. If you are a fan of skis that are easy to turn sideways and drift, releasing from the turn easily, I would recommend taking a look at the Faction La Machine series of skis, as they have quite a bit of rocker that makes them very smeary and slarvy.
If the demo skis were new-ish, that could also be a problem with the tune - it is possible that the tips weren't de-tuned by the shop who set them up, which could definitely cause the hook-iness that you describe. However, it is true that more tapered tip shapes are designed to be able to smear easier and not catch/hook up as quickly in softer/deeper snow. Less tip taper allows the ski to engage earlier giving you more effective edge and more tip to drive.
I wouldn't call either of those skis particularly catchy/hooky, and I will say that the Elans are designed with an asymmetrical rocker so that your inside ski is less likely to catch, while your outside ski still has lots of edge engaged. It is a cool feature that we do notice, especially on firmer snow. If you are a fan of skis that are easy to turn sideways and drift, releasing from the turn easily, I would recommend taking a look at the Faction La Machine series of skis, as they have quite a bit of rocker that makes them very smeary and slarvy.
3/20/2024
Thank you, Carlos! The only reason I haven't considered the La Machines is the black top sheet sticking snow. What about the locator 104 in comparison to these overall? I read on reviews that the locators are quite energetic, would these be even further along in that spectrum because of all that carbon? I'm looking for a damp and consistent ski, something that won't be punishing if I am tired. I have also considered the backland 100 skis, but the 180 length is a bit too short for me at 6' 160lb.
3/21/2024
Hi Quintus,
Ah yes, the curse of black topsheets in sun and cold snow. For what it's worth, I have two skis with black topsheets and I've just learned to deal with it, just giving them a quick scrape when it gets too bad. But I agree, not the ideal color for that specific condition.
The Locators are much more energetic than the La Machines, they are somewhat opposite in this way. The La Machine I would describe as more damp and buttery, and easier to pivot. They are a very predictable ski that is very intuitive for someone who likes a drifty/rockered ski. The Locators are also relatively loose-feeling, but definitely rebound you a lot more out of a turn. This gives them a lot of personality, but I would say the La Machines are more predictable and stable, and while I wouldn't call either one punishing, I think the LaMas might line up a little bit more with what you're looking for!
Ah yes, the curse of black topsheets in sun and cold snow. For what it's worth, I have two skis with black topsheets and I've just learned to deal with it, just giving them a quick scrape when it gets too bad. But I agree, not the ideal color for that specific condition.
The Locators are much more energetic than the La Machines, they are somewhat opposite in this way. The La Machine I would describe as more damp and buttery, and easier to pivot. They are a very predictable ski that is very intuitive for someone who likes a drifty/rockered ski. The Locators are also relatively loose-feeling, but definitely rebound you a lot more out of a turn. This gives them a lot of personality, but I would say the La Machines are more predictable and stable, and while I wouldn't call either one punishing, I think the LaMas might line up a little bit more with what you're looking for!
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3/6/2024
Curious if you have any recommendations for mounting point other than the factory recommendation?
3/6/2024
Hi Drew, if you have a neutral ski stance and a binding without much ramp, going forward 1cm makes a lot of sense. Front seat chargers or those with high pin delta can do well on the recommended.
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2/29/2024
Really intrigued by this ski as a nice daily winter driver in the PNW where I get something decently light, but damp enough to deal with the wet, heavy snow. I am 5'9" 171-172lbs skier who prioritizes aggressive fall line skiing, jumping off cliffs, getting air, etc. What are thoughts on sizing? I do see a 184 length on sale on the internet, but don't want to buy it just because its on sale if it is going to be a bit too long.
2/29/2024
Hi Cole, it really comes down to what you want to prioritize. You could ski the 184cm, it would offer great downhill stability, let you ski with more aggressive input, and float better. However, sizing down to the 179cm would drop some weight on the uphill, make kick turns a little easier, and generally be more maneuverable in tighter spots while skiing.
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1/6/2024
Does anyone happen to know if this year's updated version skis noticeably different than the previous year's version? It seems the 2 differences is the Algal material and "3rd Rail Technology".
1/6/2024
Hi Patrick,
It would be hard to tell the difference. If you skied them side by side with the same boots and bindings, you might be able to feel something, but overall the ski is not going to be fundamentally very different. In either case, the Pagoda construction is quite damp for its weight.
It would be hard to tell the difference. If you skied them side by side with the same boots and bindings, you might be able to feel something, but overall the ski is not going to be fundamentally very different. In either case, the Pagoda construction is quite damp for its weight.
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3/30/2023
hi, compare to 100 RP and 106 C2, which one is better float on powder?
3/31/2023
Jay,
I haven't skied them side by side so I can't say for sure, but I would say the increased rocker of the 100 would lend it to floating well at slower speeds, while the 106 will float better at high speeds. So if you prefer tighter, slower turns, I'd go with the 100. If you prefer longer, slashed turns, the 106 will float better.
I haven't skied them side by side so I can't say for sure, but I would say the increased rocker of the 100 would lend it to floating well at slower speeds, while the 106 will float better at high speeds. So if you prefer tighter, slower turns, I'd go with the 100. If you prefer longer, slashed turns, the 106 will float better.
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3/10/2023
VTskier
(used product regularly)
I just bought a pair of these Pagoda Tour 106 C2 skis, (2022 model) in a 179 cm length . Mounted with Salomon MTN bindings. I was looking for a "quiver of one"; for airline travel out West. . A powder ski , but also a ski that could straightline at the resort, with big fast GS turns.
Discovered they are stable at speed, and have very little tip flap on the groomers at speed. This is not a ski to smear like my heavier Pure 3 Wailers ; very directional. Point and shoot.
Skied a week with these up in Big Cottonwood, in the backcountry, and Brighton resort just now. Caught the 38 inch snowfall on March 6 in BCC at Brighton.
For a light, ski they handled uneven chopped up powder well. Untracked snow, the splayed tips always seemed to float up. A smooth, Cadillac ride in soft snow.
And hard snow/packed powder groomers , carved very well, unless you hit some ice. Not necessarily a good Eastern ski? For that I think my Scott SG 105s are better, but that's a stiff ski.
So for a travel ski, resort and touring quiver of one, out West, a great ski.
Discovered they are stable at speed, and have very little tip flap on the groomers at speed. This is not a ski to smear like my heavier Pure 3 Wailers ; very directional. Point and shoot.
Skied a week with these up in Big Cottonwood, in the backcountry, and Brighton resort just now. Caught the 38 inch snowfall on March 6 in BCC at Brighton.
For a light, ski they handled uneven chopped up powder well. Untracked snow, the splayed tips always seemed to float up. A smooth, Cadillac ride in soft snow.
And hard snow/packed powder groomers , carved very well, unless you hit some ice. Not necessarily a good Eastern ski? For that I think my Scott SG 105s are better, but that's a stiff ski.
So for a travel ski, resort and touring quiver of one, out West, a great ski.
3/10/2023
Forgot to add, I was skiing this setup with my Maestrale RS boots, backcountry and the resort.
A great setup, light on the skin track.
A great setup, light on the skin track.
Comment on this review:
10/26/2022
Ok..... the DPS Pagoda Tour 112 vs the 106 C2. What are your thoughts? Daily driver for touring is salomon mtn 95's.
10/26/2022
Marissa, DPS has the RP2 (100 and 112) design, and the C2 (94 and 106). RP2, think he most fun powder ski you have ever skied. The 106 C2 is an All mountain ski for anywhere, anytime. And yes, they ski powder just fine.
If you want to really get into it, please email us at help@skimo.co
If you want to really get into it, please email us at help@skimo.co
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2/19/2022
Hello Skimo, I’m currently looking at these, Hypercharger, and the Helio 104. I’m 6,1” so would be looking at the longest of each. Any insight as to how these differ on the downhill? Thanks!
2/20/2022
Hey Marshall, the Hypercharger will be the lightest and most nimble for tight trees and deep powder. This one will have lots of power, pop, and a long effective edge that will be helpful for when you get into stranger, cruddy conditions. The Helio is a pretty solid happy medium ski that is predictable in a lot of conditions. Of the three I personally like this one the best; it's really fun in deep snow, loves to go fast, and is reliable when things get weird.
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1/26/2022
Hi,
I am currently skiing Black crows camox freebird and really like them. 167/96.
I am planning to buy a dedicated setup for powder and looking for 104/105/106 width. I am 5'7 and weigh 150lbs. Are these skis stiffer than camox freebird ?
Also i am comfortable at 167 length for my style of skiing (short turns) and relatively conservative backcountry skier as its my second season. What other skis you recommend if not dps. Thank you.
I am currently skiing Black crows camox freebird and really like them. 167/96.
I am planning to buy a dedicated setup for powder and looking for 104/105/106 width. I am 5'7 and weigh 150lbs. Are these skis stiffer than camox freebird ?
Also i am comfortable at 167 length for my style of skiing (short turns) and relatively conservative backcountry skier as its my second season. What other skis you recommend if not dps. Thank you.
1/27/2022
Hey Ashok, I would go to say that the DPS Pagoda 106 would be a stiffer and stronger skiing overall ski than the Camox Freebird. I would check out the K2 Wayback 106 or the Atomic Backland 107 for some equally high performing hard-charging skis.
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8/2/2021
But are the Pagoda Tour 106's a super stiff flexing ski or just sort of stiffer than say the old Zelda Tour 106 skis? I am not a big person (5'3") so need to be able to flex them. I bought a pair of super stiff skis once and they just skittered around on hardback roads in the backcountry because I could not flex them.
8/3/2021
Hey Stephanie, thanks for the question. Overall the flex profiles are fairly different and because of the new construction in the Pagoda Tour line, the two skis will be quite different. The old Zelda was a relatively soft ski and may be considered not the greatest in variable snow, while the new Pagoda 106 is a pretty hard-charging touring ski and has equal prowess going from powder to hardpack. While maybe not the stiffest ski overall, I would say It requires a strong intermediate to advance level technique in order to get the most of that ski. Let us know if you have any more questions!
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2/26/2021
Who gets the nod, the dynastar m-tour 99 or this guy? M-tour is lighter, but is this that much more damp/stable? What's easier to make a variety of turn shapes and has a looser surfier feel?
2/26/2021
Thanks for your question, Anthony. Both are good skis, however, the entire Pagoda lineup will be more damp, stable, and less prone to deflection. The M-Tour has a flatter tail and thus will have a more "locked in" while the Pagoda Tour 106 will be easier to break out of a turn. If you're after a versatile and surfy ski that can make a variety of turns, the Pagoda Tour 100 RP is definitely worth looking at.
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2/22/2021
Hello! I currently have Voile Hyperchargers at 171cm. I like the look of these, being a tad heavier/having full sidewalls for a more damp feel and a little more control in variable/harder conditions, and possibly a bit more playful with more tail rocker? I am generally seeking out soft snow in relatively mellow terrain in the Wasatch and I do not ski super fast by any means. How would you compare them? Thanks!
2/23/2021
Mike-I think you hit the mark with your thoughts of the DPS. With its sidewall and new core it is a lot better on hard snow and definitely more damp. The tail rocker makes the tail easy to slide out if you want to dump speed quickly. The hypercharger is a more turny ski with a more lively, playful feel.
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12/14/2020
Struggling with length decision...I am 5'6" 145 lbs, advanced resort skier, conservative backcountry skier. Ski a 168 Soul 7 currently .
12/15/2020
Hi Kate, generally with touring skis people tend to go shorter than their resort skis because by going shorter you save some weight and gain some maneuverability so unless you feel like that 168 Soul 7 isn't enough ski for you I would say you'll probably want to go for the 163.
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12/14/2020
which version of the DPS Pagoda Tour 106 is this? is it the 'C2'?
12/14/2020
Hi brgormz, yes it's the C2! Looks like we failed to add that nomenclature, but DPS only makes one version of each width Pagoda Tour.
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11/19/2020
I like the sound of these, but have never liked the DPS Tour 1 series due to their extremely soft flex profile and lack of edge control on firm snow. Are these quite a bit stiffer than the Tour 1 series? I'm a pretty big guy, so I tend to like skis that are a little sturdier than the DPS tour offerings of the past.
11/19/2020
Hey Nathan, the new Pagoda construction is significantly stiffer than the Tour 1 construction both torsionally and longitudinally. DPS re-designed their touring skis creating a powerful yet light ski that can compare to their Alchemist skis.
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