Dynafit Blacklight 95 Ski
The Dynafit Blacklight 95 hits a sweet spot: light, damp, and stable with incredible versatility with a focus on soft snow. As Dynafit’s recent addition to their speed touring line-up, the Blacklight 95 is a confident and light ski that is right at home on the Kahiltna Glacier or deep in the Wind River Range searching for the remaining late-season powder stashes. Its waist width is narrow enough to stay light and nimble but a generous shovel keeps you floating when the goods are great. The Dynafit Blacklight 95's impressive versatility very well makes it a contender as a quiver of one for many skiers.
- Full unidirectional carbon construction adds longitudinal stiffness.
- 3D Sidewall Cap Construction for strong edge hold.
- Race finished bases for durability and superior glide.
- Tip rocker added for float in soft snow.
- Slight tail rocker helps with catchy snow and allows you to dump speed in tight spots.
Update 2022/23: New paint job, the BL95 stays great.
| Specifications | |
| Lengths (cm) | 165, 172, 178, 184 |
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Weight |
1130g [165] 1215g [172] 1290g [178] 1360g [184] |
| Weight (pair) | 2260g [165] 2430g [172] 2580g [178] 2720g [184] |
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126-94-114 [165] 127-95-115 [172] 128-96-116 [178] 129-97-117 [184] |
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Turn |
18.0m [165] 19.5m [172] 21.0m [178] 22.5m [184] |
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Skin |
Tip notch, flat tails |
| Specs Verified | Yes |
| Design | |
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Tip and tail rocker with camber underfoot |
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Tapered tip and tail, short-medium radius |
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3D sidewall |
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Paulownia |
| Skimo Co Says | |
| Usage | Light and fast powder skiing |
| Notes | UD carbon construction for miles of smiles |
| Bottom Line | Speed touring powder plank |
| Compare to other High-fat Skis | |
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Questions & Reviews
11/20/2023
Hello - My current daily driver is the Atomic Backland 107 but I am looking for a lighter, narrower ski to take that quiver slot (with the Backland 107 becoming my powder ski). Would want something that is suited for longer missions, firm / variable snow surfaces, and perform well in spring conditions as well. Feel like the Blacklight 95 could fit the bill but would be curious your recommendations? I am 6'2" / ~160lb and expert skier. Thank you!
11/20/2023
Hi Scott,
This would be a great choice for that use. The Blacklight 95 has great grip on firm snow and enough width, especially in the shovel, to float in softer stuff. It is also light enough for long missions. It is definitely on the stiffer end of the spectrum, compared to your Backland 107. Overall, a great value in wider, lightweight mountaineering ski!
This would be a great choice for that use. The Blacklight 95 has great grip on firm snow and enough width, especially in the shovel, to float in softer stuff. It is also light enough for long missions. It is definitely on the stiffer end of the spectrum, compared to your Backland 107. Overall, a great value in wider, lightweight mountaineering ski!
11/21/2023
Thanks Carlos. How would the Blacklights compare to the Black Diamond Helio 95? Seem pretty similar on paper.
11/21/2023
Hi Scott,
The Blacklights would be stiffer, and talking to a few coworkers who have skied the Helio series, the consensus is they are also more damp. They would be more powerful and confidence-inspiring ski on firm snow. In powder, the Blacklights have some width, but due to the stiffness, the tips will not be super quick to rise in deep snow - a more flexible, rockered tip would plane up quicker. I don't have a Helio on hand to flex, but having watched friends ski them, I think they're a bit more soft-snow oriented. I would lean towards the Blacklights for firm snow, spring conditions, and mountaineering use.
The Blacklights would be stiffer, and talking to a few coworkers who have skied the Helio series, the consensus is they are also more damp. They would be more powerful and confidence-inspiring ski on firm snow. In powder, the Blacklights have some width, but due to the stiffness, the tips will not be super quick to rise in deep snow - a more flexible, rockered tip would plane up quicker. I don't have a Helio on hand to flex, but having watched friends ski them, I think they're a bit more soft-snow oriented. I would lean towards the Blacklights for firm snow, spring conditions, and mountaineering use.
11/25/2023
Thanks Carlos! One last question. I am 6'2" and 155-160lb. Generally ski longer skis (my Backland 107s are 188) but curious if I should look at going shorter. How would you think about sizing options between the 178 and 184 for the Blacklight?
11/26/2023
I would size shorter than the Backland 107s for these, especially for the purpose of a mountaineering ski. They will ski long for their stated length due to the stiff flex and more minimal rocker. In this ski, at your size, I would go with the 178cm for the purposes of mountaineering. For reference I'm 150lbs, 5'11, and I would personally choose the 172cm, although I like 177-184 in a more freeride-oriented ski.
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5/6/2023
How would this ski compare with the Blizzard Zero G 95?
5/6/2023
Gary, compared to the older Zero G 95, the Blacklight is going to have a little more sidecut and a bigger shovel, so it'll perform better in softer snow and it'll be a bit turnier. The newer Zero G is not going to be quite as stiff as the Blacklight (or the older Zero G) so it won't be quite as demanding in mixed-bag conditions.
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2/25/2023
I've been using my Arcteryx Procline AR boots with demo setups for the last couple months and am thinking about buying a pair of these and mounting superlight 150's. Is that enough boot/binding for the ski? I'm 6' 1, 160 and a semi-aggressive teenage skier. The procline's have had some issues with bigger skis (185 Navis Freebird for example) and i'm worried the blacklight's might be too stiff.
Any input appreciated!
Any input appreciated!
2/25/2023
Hi Luke, I think the AR version was beefy enough for these. The Blacklights are stiff in floor flex but they don't ski very stiff nor demand a ton of input. Very fun skis that are supportive when you need it.
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Like a lot of us I've been skiing Dynafit skis for a while as my back country choice. I really liked the earlier versions of the Cho Oyu (88 under foot) and the later Denali, 98 uf. I've put a lot of miles on both skis. I thought the Denali was a better ski/more forgiving IMO and still very close in weight to the Cho. That said I skied the Chos in a lot of places they were never designed for and always enjoyed them. Even when the Cho was letting me down. Not the skis fault. Just a poor choice in gear for that situation. Since the Denali came out it has been my go-to ski. I still like the Denali a lot. Although some were supposedly known to have problems with durability. I have yet to see it in my own Denalis. Both Denali and Chos models are long gone from the marketplace. Dynafit has marketed the newer Blacklight series as "race" gear from my perspective. Right or wrong I simply ignored the narrow versions because of the marketing. I've always found the 90/100 uf a good place for my own skiing. When the 95 Blacklight showed up I was intrigued. I bought a pair and then ended up unable to ski last year. But I have been on them early and often this season and am impressed. They weigh almost to the gram the same as the older Denali. Just a few grams heavier than a Cho or Nanga Parbat. Which makes the 95 a truly LWT ski. Sadly, looking round, still few reviews on the BL skis or 95 in particular. Our entire season here is pretty much everyone else's spring season. A combo of corn and ice generally. Soft snow is really scarce past a day or two after a storm. The 95 is a better ski on ice than the Cho or Denali, which is saying a lot. The BL 95 is a solid performer in any kind of packed snow (think, well-groomed resort snow) or the melt freeze cycle of corn. The 95 has been a great ski so far, even on glare ice, for what it is, a super light mountaineering ski. A decent ski in chopped up day old resort powder. The 95 is a solid ski underfoot with all the good attributes of the Cho or Denali from what I have seen so far. They do ski a little longer than the previous generations of Dynafit. A lot less rocker built inot the 95. A good change on this ski for my own skiing. But the 95 does seem to be a sweet spot on the previous designs. All the good (light weight/no longer hooky in weird snow) and none of the failings (there weren't many) of the previous generation of Dynafit skis. I like the BL 95 a lot. Enough to say that I would rather ski the BL 95 than either the Cho or the Denali in any snow condition. That surprises me. Enought to bother with a review ;) FWIW I am skiing them with Dynafit toes and Plum 170 heels, the old green TLT6 Ps, no power straps and the green tongues. I would not want a lesser a boot on this ski. The combo is pretty good. I'm using a 178 for my ever day ski and a pair of 172 for my mountaineering ski.
1/28/2023
Everyone should own a few good "rock" skis.
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12/8/2022
How does the Dynafit Blacklight 95 compare with the old Scott Powd’air? I mostly ski powder in the trees but often get dropped off on wind blown ice (which, frankly, makes me nervous). The Scott specs are very similar and also made with carbon. Thank you.
12/8/2022
Hi Ellen, sadly none of us have skied that Powd'air. Based on the specs it might ski similarly, not sure about the feel.
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11/4/2022
What gets the nod as the looser ski, which the higher comfortable speed limit, and which is damper between this and the m tour 99.
I hand flexed this in shop and it seemed absurdly stiff like not in a good way. From what I may gather the m tour 99 seems to fit my bill better? I thought the BL 88 was better than it should be on paper as in, it didn't ski as harsh and as unforgiving as the flex would suggest... Dynafit has always felt pretty locked in for me rather than loose. And that's not good in funky snow.
I hand flexed this in shop and it seemed absurdly stiff like not in a good way. From what I may gather the m tour 99 seems to fit my bill better? I thought the BL 88 was better than it should be on paper as in, it didn't ski as harsh and as unforgiving as the flex would suggest... Dynafit has always felt pretty locked in for me rather than loose. And that's not good in funky snow.
11/4/2022
Hi Anthony,
The Blacklight 95 and Dynafit M-Tour 99 are very different skis. The Blacklight 95 is very precise in firm snow, while possessing plenty of float for deeper conditions. The longer turn radius will be great at speed, while the lighter weight will not be as damp as some heavier ski options.
In contrast, the M-Tour 99 is a more forgiving ski with significant tip rocker. It is great in deep snow, and very willing to smear or pivot turns. That being said, the tail is reasonably supportive. As a softer ski, it may absorb variable conditions more readily, but the shorter turn radius will be less stable at speed.
If you would like to dive into more ski options, feel free to reach out to help@skimo.co!
The Blacklight 95 and Dynafit M-Tour 99 are very different skis. The Blacklight 95 is very precise in firm snow, while possessing plenty of float for deeper conditions. The longer turn radius will be great at speed, while the lighter weight will not be as damp as some heavier ski options.
In contrast, the M-Tour 99 is a more forgiving ski with significant tip rocker. It is great in deep snow, and very willing to smear or pivot turns. That being said, the tail is reasonably supportive. As a softer ski, it may absorb variable conditions more readily, but the shorter turn radius will be less stable at speed.
If you would like to dive into more ski options, feel free to reach out to help@skimo.co!
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4/26/2022
Hi,
I'm a damn good groomer. I tried touring skis many times, but I wouldn't call myself an expert in this department, yet I can handle tough situations. Looking forward for some challenges + improvement and these Blacklights seem good for me. I'm 173 cm tall, weight: 78 kg. Have La Sportiva Spectre 2.0 boots and I just can't figure out the size of ski I should buy. 178 looks good, but is it really? Can you advice me, please?
I'm a damn good groomer. I tried touring skis many times, but I wouldn't call myself an expert in this department, yet I can handle tough situations. Looking forward for some challenges + improvement and these Blacklights seem good for me. I'm 173 cm tall, weight: 78 kg. Have La Sportiva Spectre 2.0 boots and I just can't figure out the size of ski I should buy. 178 looks good, but is it really? Can you advice me, please?
4/26/2022
Hey Tomasz, thanks for the question. Sizing for backcountry skis is a bit of a personal preference but generally, we say expert level skiers could potentially size skis upwards of their height. So I would say the 172cm Blacklight 95 would work quite well for you, but if you have experience skiing much longer skis then definitely give it a shot!
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2/10/2022
Sheel
(used product a few times)
I've skied these 4-5 times now and am pretty pleased with them. They feel really confidence inspiring in tricky snow conditions (Unfortunately that has been the reality of the past week here in the PNW) and much easier to ski in heavy wet glop than my other skis. Very easy to ski at high speeds and then throw sideways, but don't feel terrible holding an edge on icy steep slopes. Feel really good about my purchase. Possible caveat to this review: I have spent most of the past couple winters skiing skis ~800-900g, so if you're coming from an alpine set up you may have different feelings.
Comment on this review:
2/2/2022
I recently tried the Blacklight 88 and was blown away - they are the most confidence-inspiring skis in the weight class I've tried. I love how damp they are and easy to control (I think partially due to the minimal camber). I generally prefer skis with a longer radius and see that the 95 version is somewhat straighter, with a minimal weight penalty. Does it share the rocker profile and pivot-on-a-dime nature of the 88?
2/3/2022
Hi Ben, Dynafit calls the 95 their "powder oriented" speed touring ski. It's got a longer turn radius, more rocker through the tip and tail, and is slightly heavier. Otherwise, their construction is very similar to the 88--I think you would really enjoy them!
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1/31/2022
How would the Blacklight 95 172cm (1215g) pairing with Dynafit Superlight 150 (160g) do with Dynafit TLT8 Carbonio (26 mondo) boots? Would this ski and binding setup be too heavy for the boots and overwhelm them or will that be a good setup for fast and light dawn patrol missions in the Wasatch as well as big Wasatch, Teton, Sierra, and PNW volcano missions? I am a 5'9" tall skier at 150 lbs and moderately aggressive.
1/31/2022
Hi Ash,
That sounds like an awesome spring setup to me! The Blacklight 95 is on the stiffer side and can be skied hard. However, the Dynafit TLT8 Carbonio is quite powerful for its weight, and should be able to handle that ski in just about any conditions. For further questions on your setup, feel free to reach out to us at help@skimo.co!
That sounds like an awesome spring setup to me! The Blacklight 95 is on the stiffer side and can be skied hard. However, the Dynafit TLT8 Carbonio is quite powerful for its weight, and should be able to handle that ski in just about any conditions. For further questions on your setup, feel free to reach out to us at help@skimo.co!
1/31/2022
Tristan thank you so much for your reply. I had a couple of other questions:
#1 I was wondering are their other skies in the UL weight around 95 underfoot that you will recommend being paired with the TLT8s?
#2 What is the heaviest setup TLT8s can handle? I have a pair of Atomic Balcklands 107 underfoot at 175 cm, would those skies paired with the Superlight 150 bindings be too much for the TLT8s?
#1 I was wondering are their other skies in the UL weight around 95 underfoot that you will recommend being paired with the TLT8s?
#2 What is the heaviest setup TLT8s can handle? I have a pair of Atomic Balcklands 107 underfoot at 175 cm, would those skies paired with the Superlight 150 bindings be too much for the TLT8s?
11/18/2022
Hi Ash,
I used Dynastar Mythic 97 with Dynafit Rotation 10 setup with Carbonios on the resort, and was pretty happy. This setup is heavier, both skis and bindings, than that you are mentioning. At times I could feel that the boots are kind of giving way on bumps, but otherwise no problem. I am 6', 190 lb in underwear, that is, substantially heavier than you.
I emailed a Dynafit tech with a similar question and he responded that he wouldn't put TLT8 Carbonios on anything wider than 108 underfoot, but that depends on the skiing style and conditions. I think that 108 is perhaps a too liberal estimate.
I used Dynastar Mythic 97 with Dynafit Rotation 10 setup with Carbonios on the resort, and was pretty happy. This setup is heavier, both skis and bindings, than that you are mentioning. At times I could feel that the boots are kind of giving way on bumps, but otherwise no problem. I am 6', 190 lb in underwear, that is, substantially heavier than you.
I emailed a Dynafit tech with a similar question and he responded that he wouldn't put TLT8 Carbonios on anything wider than 108 underfoot, but that depends on the skiing style and conditions. I think that 108 is perhaps a too liberal estimate.
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1/12/2022
Looking to replace Manaslus 95 (169 cm) which have given me great days in variable conditions. I’m 5’8, 160.
Want the same light, versatile ski.
As between Blizzard Zero G, Atomic Backland or K2 Wayback, any suggestions or other options to consider ?
Want the same light, versatile ski.
As between Blizzard Zero G, Atomic Backland or K2 Wayback, any suggestions or other options to consider ?
1/12/2022
Hey Bill, thanks for the question. Overall I think if you liked the characteristics of the Manaslus the Black Light 95 should suit you even better. Out of the skis you mentioned below the Black Light 95 will be one of the stiffer but most versatile skis in the category while on the contrary, the Blizzard Zero G will be quite stiff but a tad less desirable in tricky snow conditions. The Backland 95 would be a good combination of both stiffnesses while also being a tad damper and heavier in variable snow conditions than any of the previous skis mentioned. Overall I don't believe you could go wrong with any of the skis you mentioned but obviously, each ski will have a bit different attributes that will favor different conditions. Let us know if you have any more questions.
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1/1/2022
How would these compare to the Beast 98s in terms of downhill performance? I want something light weight for spring volcano skiing and I've found the Beasts to be great for the down but heavy for the up. I tried using the Wayback 88s for this as well but found them to be a bit too "squirrelly" for me
1/3/2022
Peter-The Blacklight 95 is a light weight, strong skiing ski but do to its weight it will not feel as damp as your Beast 98. You might want to look at a DPS or Dynastar to get the same feel.
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12/18/2021
Hello, I am looking at skis to complement my mountaineering oriented setup: Backland UL 85 with Fischer Travers boots, that I am very happy with so far except I find it sometimes harsh to drive in deeper-softer snow.
I already have the "big boots" (Scott Superguide Carbon) that I want to pair with bigger skis for purely ski-oriented outings more at my limit on the down.
Looking for something allround, maybe with a slight emphasis on the steep, and 95 underfoot for some powder ability, in the 1100-1200g range in my size (165).
My shortlist so far: Blacklight 95, ZeroG 95, Alp Tracks 95. (Backland 95 do not exist in a short enough version!)
My understanding is that the ZeroG will be best for hard and steep snow, but less able in powder and tight spaces vs. the Blacklight, and the Alp Tracks will be somewhat in between the two. Am I correct with this?
At first I was leaning towards the ZeroG but now I found out about these and figured they might ski more like my backlands only with better floation in deep snow. (Alp Tracks are more of a theoretical option because of their price)
Any input appreciated!
I already have the "big boots" (Scott Superguide Carbon) that I want to pair with bigger skis for purely ski-oriented outings more at my limit on the down.
Looking for something allround, maybe with a slight emphasis on the steep, and 95 underfoot for some powder ability, in the 1100-1200g range in my size (165).
My shortlist so far: Blacklight 95, ZeroG 95, Alp Tracks 95. (Backland 95 do not exist in a short enough version!)
My understanding is that the ZeroG will be best for hard and steep snow, but less able in powder and tight spaces vs. the Blacklight, and the Alp Tracks will be somewhat in between the two. Am I correct with this?
At first I was leaning towards the ZeroG but now I found out about these and figured they might ski more like my backlands only with better floation in deep snow. (Alp Tracks are more of a theoretical option because of their price)
Any input appreciated!
12/18/2021
Hi MarcB
You are pretty on the mark with the Blizzard Zero G 95. It is a less forgiving ski that excels in steeper and firmer conditions. It has enough waist width to provide good float, but it is on the demanding side of the spectrum.
I am glad you are asking about the Dynafit Blacklight 95.This ski has a wide shovel for those deep days midwinter. Also, it is pretty stiff, and has plenty of camber to handle those firm spring days. It is a very versatile ski at a low weight that often flies under the radar.
Although a wish list item, I will address the Movement Alp Tracks 95. This ski is perfectly suited as a daily driver. A flat supportive tail keeps you stable at speed, and helps keep things solid underfoot in steeper terrain. It is a little more forgiving than the prior two skis, with a mild rocker and wide tip for deep snow. Also, the weight is pretty hard to beat.
You are pretty on the mark with the Blizzard Zero G 95. It is a less forgiving ski that excels in steeper and firmer conditions. It has enough waist width to provide good float, but it is on the demanding side of the spectrum.
I am glad you are asking about the Dynafit Blacklight 95.This ski has a wide shovel for those deep days midwinter. Also, it is pretty stiff, and has plenty of camber to handle those firm spring days. It is a very versatile ski at a low weight that often flies under the radar.
Although a wish list item, I will address the Movement Alp Tracks 95. This ski is perfectly suited as a daily driver. A flat supportive tail keeps you stable at speed, and helps keep things solid underfoot in steeper terrain. It is a little more forgiving than the prior two skis, with a mild rocker and wide tip for deep snow. Also, the weight is pretty hard to beat.
12/23/2021
Hi Tristan,
Thanks for all the info. I have some follow up questions:
- how do all these ski copare to the Backland UL in terms of stiffness?
- are some of them better suited to be skied with my lighter boots (Fischer Travers C/S) in case I decide the bigger boots are juste not for me? Typically I am worried that ZeroG + Travers might be hard to drive in deep powder
Thanks for all the info. I have some follow up questions:
- how do all these ski copare to the Backland UL in terms of stiffness?
- are some of them better suited to be skied with my lighter boots (Fischer Travers C/S) in case I decide the bigger boots are juste not for me? Typically I am worried that ZeroG + Travers might be hard to drive in deep powder
12/23/2021
Hi Marc B,
I am assuming the Atomic Backland UL 85? The Zero G 95, and the Blacklight 95 will both be stiffer. With the rocker and construction of the UL 85, I would say it is closer to the Movement Alp Tracks 95 in feel.
More demanding skis are probably better suited with a more powerful boot. However, I think the Zero G 95/Blacklight 95 are still within the capabilities of the Fischer Travers CS. Typically, deeper snow conditions are less demanding on a boot. Hardpack and variable snow are more likely to test limits. If you would like to chat boot options I recommend filling out a Boot Fitter!
I am assuming the Atomic Backland UL 85? The Zero G 95, and the Blacklight 95 will both be stiffer. With the rocker and construction of the UL 85, I would say it is closer to the Movement Alp Tracks 95 in feel.
More demanding skis are probably better suited with a more powerful boot. However, I think the Zero G 95/Blacklight 95 are still within the capabilities of the Fischer Travers CS. Typically, deeper snow conditions are less demanding on a boot. Hardpack and variable snow are more likely to test limits. If you would like to chat boot options I recommend filling out a Boot Fitter!
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12/9/2021
Very interested in these as an everyday touring setup. I haven't read much about them and am wondering how friendly they are for a skier who skies somewhat aggressively but without a ton of technical skill. Also curious about sizing- I'm 6'1", 165 lbs and have skied mostly 183-186cm skis but am becoming more interested in the up than the down and am thinking 178.
12/9/2021
Hi Chris,
The Blacklight 95 is a great option for a daily driver. It has a wide shovel for deeper days, but plenty of camber for the spring, and really light weight for a waist width of 95. This ski is quite powerful, so it will require input from the skier. Based on your height, I would go with the 178cm for the most versatile length. Definitely a contender for quiver of 1!
The Blacklight 95 is a great option for a daily driver. It has a wide shovel for deeper days, but plenty of camber for the spring, and really light weight for a waist width of 95. This ski is quite powerful, so it will require input from the skier. Based on your height, I would go with the 178cm for the most versatile length. Definitely a contender for quiver of 1!
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11/30/2021
Anyone skiing the 95 yet? How about a decent review or a comparison? Have yet to mount mine.
11/30/2021
Hey Dane,
Here at Skimo Co we have yet to discover the speed limit of this ski on the down. For the weight, it's incredibly stable and responsive. An absolute joy! And the tails seemed to be well designed because even in crappy conditions (avy debris) they cut cleanly through without hooking. Mount em' up!
Here at Skimo Co we have yet to discover the speed limit of this ski on the down. For the weight, it's incredibly stable and responsive. An absolute joy! And the tails seemed to be well designed because even in crappy conditions (avy debris) they cut cleanly through without hooking. Mount em' up!
11/30/2021
Thanks Will! Big fan of the older Denali and Dhaulagiri. BL 95 is back to the same weight (few grams lighter actually) as the original Denali. I figured the 95 would be a step up in design...which is a huge compliment, as the old Denal was an amazing all around ski. Race binding going on this week. Looking for snow right after! Thanks for the feed back.
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8/22/2021
What length weight is listed?
8/23/2021
The manufacturer listed weight for the 165cm ski is 1160g, but we haven't weighed these skis on our scales yet to verify.
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