Dynafit Blacklight Pro Ski
One of Dynafit's favorite contestants into the elite world of the sub-1000-gram ski is the Blacklight Pro, which they claim is made especially for "professional mountaineers." Whether you make a life, or a living, out of your time in thin air and wind-scoured snow, the Blacklight Pro could be the ski that takes you to the next level of professional development. Coming in at only 200 grams heavier than many skimo race skis, but with the width and rocker to float confidently in dense powder and chalky couloirs, the Blacklight Pro puts an end to the idea that low-fat skis can't be versatile. A generous 116mm tip width (172cm length) and snappy 18.5m turn radius might tempt you to ski the Blacklight Pro as you would your powder boards, but when the good conditions stop and refrozen mank comes into view, don't be alarmed -- the unidirectional carbon layup and snappy paulownia core will keep your edging on-point and your hop-turning predictable. Early adopters will be interested in Dynafit's Pin-Skin System, exclusive to the Blacklight Pro, which uses a small-diameter hole in the base of the ski as a rear skin fix. Instead of a traditional tail clip, which is heavy and bulky by comparison, the proprietary skin from Dynafit will include a small pin at the rear of the plush that inserts into the pinhole attachment—making the skin as light and packable as a race skin, but with the added security of affixing to the ski base. Whether long ski tours have taken over your weeks or just your weekends, the Blacklight Pro is the ski to take along.
- 3D Sidewall/Cap Construction marries the low weight of a cap ski with the durability and strength of a partial sidewall.
- Unidirectional carbon layup is lighter than previous Dynafit iterations, but with a friendlier feel in choppy snow.
- Blend of rocker (20-25%) and camber (75-80%) might just trick you into believing you're on a powder ski without the unnecessary girth.
- Exclusive Pin-Skin System combines the light weight and fast gliding of a race skin with the security of traditional, tail-fixed skins.
Update 2022/23: Dynafit gave these skis some slick new topsheet colors.
| Specifications | |
| Lengths (cm) | 158, 165, 172, 178 |
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Weight |
855g [158] 920g [165] 985g [172] 1020g [178] |
| Weight (pair) | 1710g [158] 1840g [165] 1970g [172] 2040g [178] |
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114-78-98 [158] 115-79-99 [165] 116-80-100 [172] 117-81-101 [178] |
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Turn |
15.5m [158] 17.0m [165] 18.5m [172] 20.0m [178] |
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Skin |
Pin Skin System |
| Specs Verified | Yes |
| Design | |
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Light tip & tail rocker, camber underfoot |
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Tapered tip & tail, medium radius |
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3D sidewall cap |
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Paulownia Race Core |
| Skimo Co Says | |
| Usage | Speed touring, mountaineering, casual racing |
| Notes | Awesome Pin-Skin connection system |
| Bottom Line | Dynafit's best ski yet |
| Compare to other Low-fat Skis | |
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Questions & Reviews
10/19/2024
Will these skis be suitable for a heavy person for fitness skiing/ski mountaineering? I am 6'2 and about 200 lbs. Is it better to look for softer skis like cirque 78 or hagan ultra 79? Or maybe summit 79? I'm not a ski expert, but I ski quite well
10/19/2024
Hi Wu,
The Blacklight Pro is a good choice for fitness and ski mountaineering! Being on the heavier side is no problem for this ski. It is a very stiff ski, so it is not really very forgiving. It is a good choice for people who will mostly be on firm snow, or maybe on some softer but still consistent snow. It gets a bit more punishing if the snow is variable/choppy/uneven, and will demand a very strong technique in those conditions. That said, it has great edge hold and is damp for a ski of its weight. A great ski mountaineering and speed touring option!
The Salomon Summit 79 would be a great option in the same category that would have a different personality - more forgiving, easier to turn, and probably more fun in variable and softer snow. The Blacklight Pro would have the edge in steep and firm conditions, where the stiff flex and long effective edge will make it very powerful and stable.
The Blacklight Pro is a good choice for fitness and ski mountaineering! Being on the heavier side is no problem for this ski. It is a very stiff ski, so it is not really very forgiving. It is a good choice for people who will mostly be on firm snow, or maybe on some softer but still consistent snow. It gets a bit more punishing if the snow is variable/choppy/uneven, and will demand a very strong technique in those conditions. That said, it has great edge hold and is damp for a ski of its weight. A great ski mountaineering and speed touring option!
The Salomon Summit 79 would be a great option in the same category that would have a different personality - more forgiving, easier to turn, and probably more fun in variable and softer snow. The Blacklight Pro would have the edge in steep and firm conditions, where the stiff flex and long effective edge will make it very powerful and stable.
10/19/2024
Hi Wu, I think the stiffness of the BL Pro would be a benefit at your size. They would be quite reliable when you need the edge hold. The Salomon would be noticeably soft for you.
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10/17/2024
What would be a lightweight boot that pairs well with this ski ? Last season I skied them with the dynafit speedfit boot which felt really soft to control this ski. I am not into racing but do enjoy lightweight setup.
10/17/2024
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11/18/2023
Schuyler Jorgensen
(downright abused product)
I bought the Dynafit Blacklight Pros last year and am in love! I come from a downhill racing background and in combination with the scarpa F1LT's, these were a badass (light enough) skimo setup that crushed it on some big objectives in the NW and Montana last year. I have other skis that I was planning on skiing for resort days but I literally barely used them last year. I didn't even take my pow skis out on some pow days! I just really enjoyed skiing these skis on steap technical terrain, they don't chatter at all which really surprised me, they are just solid and so light on the uphills. Everyone was asking me what they are since no one knows what skimo is back home. Highly reccomend these with the Ski Trab Titan binding, which is also absolutely fantastic exceeding my expectations. Those bindings are literally sick, I never popped out except when I absolutely needed to and they are so minimalist.
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9/5/2023
Interested in the blackight pro, just a little worried about how demanding they really are. I've toured on navis freebird and dynastar m tour 99 and those are probably the most demanding touring skis, more so the tail of the navis in variable conditions. But most of the time both skis were great. I know these are wildly different ski sizes and shapes but how do they compare in the demanding department. 6ft 165 lbs, level 3 skier.
9/6/2023
Hi Taylor, checking with a few folks around the shop, the consensus is that the Blacklight Pro is a pretty demanding ski. Flexing them, they're very stiff, especially in the tail. I ski on Navis Freebirds and agree that the tails on those skis are also quite stiff and can be a handful in variable conditions. They definitely demand a strong, weight-forward skiing style. However, the Navis are going to be easier to manage in variable conditions in that they're quite a bit heavier and more damp. If you're looking for something less demanding in this category of 80-ish underfoot, you might check out the Solomon MTN Summit 79, Black Diamond Cirque 84, or Movement Alp Tracks 85.
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These have been my first pair of race skis (yes yes, to the elite racers these don't count as race skis, but really...), and I've really loved them. I was hesitant to add a race pair of skis to my quiver (I'll never be a pro racer, just a local circuit guy), and thought I would be sacrificing a lot in the way of performance, but I've been impressed with how well these ski, enough so that I've chosen to tour with them on several occasions. I'm 5'11" about 150lb, and have the 172s have the 116/80/100 sidecut, and paired them with the dynafit DNA boots.
Since so far no one has reviewed the pin-system skins on here, I'll save you from clicking over to the skins to read my review of them: These [pomoca/dynafit pin skins] came with my Blacklight Pros, and I've used them in all my local races this season, including the PowderKeg. I've raced with them in through everything from powder to sub zero temps to corn, and can say they are sweet skins. Great grip, great glide, and seem to stay on better than most race skins, even in the cold (I assume thanks to the pin system). I will say the pin does pose a challenge when ripping them off, I usually have to rip the skin as off as I can, then slide my hand down and grip it close to the pin, and then pull directly out. With some practice, it only adds about 2-3 seconds to my transitions, which is a great trade for not having skin problems on the ups, but I've known a few people who chop off the pin to save those seconds which is probably worth it for the fair weather days.
Since so far no one has reviewed the pin-system skins on here, I'll save you from clicking over to the skins to read my review of them: These [pomoca/dynafit pin skins] came with my Blacklight Pros, and I've used them in all my local races this season, including the PowderKeg. I've raced with them in through everything from powder to sub zero temps to corn, and can say they are sweet skins. Great grip, great glide, and seem to stay on better than most race skins, even in the cold (I assume thanks to the pin system). I will say the pin does pose a challenge when ripping them off, I usually have to rip the skin as off as I can, then slide my hand down and grip it close to the pin, and then pull directly out. With some practice, it only adds about 2-3 seconds to my transitions, which is a great trade for not having skin problems on the ups, but I've known a few people who chop off the pin to save those seconds which is probably worth it for the fair weather days.
Comment on this review:
4/15/2023
Tom
(used product regularly)
With almost two springs on these skis, I really like them. They excel in hard snow conditions, ice, boiler plate, dust on crust all taken in stride. Their edge hold and responsiveness reminds me of stiff, narrow, slalom skis from long ago. In couloirs and steep trees you can always get that extra turn in that makes things work. I am an older ( don't ask) skier 5'5", 145 lbs skiing the 158 with the Fischer Travers boot. This is a good setup but you have to stay on top of the ski. If you end up in some powder or corn by chance they still do quite well. Frozen crud will be tough but it always is. The skis' light weight is a huge advantage. I won't be looking back to heavier skis when I can do so much with these. Haven't tried the pin skins yet.
Comment on this review:
4/11/2023
Does the blacklight pro have a metal binding plate / is it recommended to tap the binding mount holes before driving screws?
4/11/2023
Hi Chris! They do have a titanal plate, but no need to tap if you're using a 4.1mm bit. Thanks!
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3/8/2023
Heya, so, considering these for my first ever tiny pair of skis. I'm 5 11, 160 lbs, ex-racer, and experienced backcountry skier. I've been skiing on Blizzard ZeroGs, both 105s and 95s, for ages, and really love them. I ski in Technica Zero G boots. I've never had a tiny ski, and I have no intention of ever racing, but plan to use them for long glacial traverses in AK, really long spring days, etc. These seem a little overly light, but, my goal for this purchase is to get a tool that really doesn't have much overlap with my other set of skis. Atm, I ski my blizzard zero G 105s on literally everything bc they are light enough, and I totally love them. So, for it to be worth it for me to take them out, I think I need to go pretty light. I was also considering Blizzard zero G 85s, obviously a little heavier, but I like that they are really reliable. Or maybe those new Blizzard Zero G LT 80s?? I do like to ski steep things - so I definitely want something that is still reasonable stable and responsive. Was also looking at the movement skis.... idk thoughts? Thanks!
3/8/2023
Gabby,
Firstly, to go into more detail, shoot us an email at help@skimo.co!
The Blacklight Pro is fairly stiff and will hold an edge very well in steeps. The Zero G 80 LT is similar, but is softer at the tip and tail, making it a bit more friendly while keeping the supportive stiffness. The Zero G 85 is stiff throughout, which can lead to it bouncing off of crud. In hardpack and corn it's a blast, and it'll also hold an edge well in steeps. Another option to consider is the Ski Trab Maestro 2. Similar to the Zero G 80 LT, it's softer at the tip and tail, which makes it easier to ski, but supportive and powerful.
Firstly, to go into more detail, shoot us an email at help@skimo.co!
The Blacklight Pro is fairly stiff and will hold an edge very well in steeps. The Zero G 80 LT is similar, but is softer at the tip and tail, making it a bit more friendly while keeping the supportive stiffness. The Zero G 85 is stiff throughout, which can lead to it bouncing off of crud. In hardpack and corn it's a blast, and it'll also hold an edge well in steeps. Another option to consider is the Ski Trab Maestro 2. Similar to the Zero G 80 LT, it's softer at the tip and tail, which makes it easier to ski, but supportive and powerful.
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2/27/2023
Hello,
I'm looking for a light, ascent oriented ski. Blacklight pros sound like a good option, but what the "proffesional" tag to this ski is worrisome to me, as I'm not a very skilled or confident skier. I have the same problem with a lot of other skis in this category, namely Ski trab Magico/Ortles. So, how good of a skier do I need to be to use these "higher level" skis?
I've also never tried skis this narrow and I will use them for approach with a heavier pack. Is 80mm too narrow?
Thank you.
I'm looking for a light, ascent oriented ski. Blacklight pros sound like a good option, but what the "proffesional" tag to this ski is worrisome to me, as I'm not a very skilled or confident skier. I have the same problem with a lot of other skis in this category, namely Ski trab Magico/Ortles. So, how good of a skier do I need to be to use these "higher level" skis?
I've also never tried skis this narrow and I will use them for approach with a heavier pack. Is 80mm too narrow?
Thank you.
2/27/2023
Jiri,
The Blacklight Pro is a fairly stiff ski, which makes it a blast on the downs, but can be a bit difficult for a less confident skier. 80mm is a good do-it-all width for approaches and light touring. For a more friendly ski, check out the Backland UL 78.
The Blacklight Pro is a fairly stiff ski, which makes it a blast on the downs, but can be a bit difficult for a less confident skier. 80mm is a good do-it-all width for approaches and light touring. For a more friendly ski, check out the Backland UL 78.
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1/27/2023
Question from
David R 
I’m looking for a strong, lightweight ski for steep 14er descents and long approaches, like up Denali. What are your thoughts on the Blacklight Pro vs the Magico 2.0? Or would you recommend something else altogether? Thank you!!
1/27/2023
David- Either ski would be a good choice. The deciding factor might be which boot you use. The Blacklight has a stiffer tail and skis better with a stiffer boot. Whereas the Magico 2 is stiff with a rounder flex and seems to ski fine with a lighter boot or even a race boot.
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11/24/2022
How do the blacklight pros compare to a SkiTrab Magico.2 on the downhill? I've heard that the BL pro's are quite stiff relative to most skis in this category but ski less stiff than they handflex - is that your guys experience?
I'm an athletic 230lb and gravitate toward burlier skis in most other weightclasses (OG volkl Katana, Mantra 102, etc) and have really liked my salomon minim skimo skis. Wondering if the combo of super light and super stiff in the BL pro's is a recipe for jittery and unskiable?
Was considering BL pros in a 178cm.
Cheers,
Brendan
I'm an athletic 230lb and gravitate toward burlier skis in most other weightclasses (OG volkl Katana, Mantra 102, etc) and have really liked my salomon minim skimo skis. Wondering if the combo of super light and super stiff in the BL pro's is a recipe for jittery and unskiable?
Was considering BL pros in a 178cm.
Cheers,
Brendan
11/25/2022
Brendan- Both the Magico.2 and the Blacklight pro ski very well on the down. The Blacklight's are definitely a bit stiffer than the Magico.2's. I think the stiffness tends to help them plow through more than deflect. The weight, though light, does not seem to take away from their downhill performance. I would say the Blacklights are more closer in feel to your Salomon Minim skis.
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8/9/2022
I don't see the Backlight 80 on you site, it that because it's too similar to the Backlight Pro? The 80 seems to be minimally heavier, has different materials, and fits within the other widths of the Dynafit Backlight series. Is the Backlight Pro more race-oriented in the sense that it will be more fragile / less durable? Are there any (downhill) skiing characteristics other than the weight that are different between the Pro and the rest of the Backlight series?
8/9/2022
Hi Michael, good question! The Blacklight 80 has the same dimensions as the Pro, you are correct that the only difference is in the construction. The Blacklight 80 uses a carbon-infused fiberglass layup over the core whereas the Pro uses a pure carbon fiber sandwich, which saves weight. Similarly, the Pro uses the Poplar-based core construction of Dynafit's race skis while the rest of the Blacklight series (inc. the 80) uses Dynafit's Paulownia Speed Core.
I wouldn't expect much of a durability difference as we haven't seen or heard of any issues unique to the Pro version. The biggest difference is that the Blacklight 80 will be a touch softer and more forgiving than the lighter Pro version. We only carry the Pro because we find that it skis exceedingly well without needing the somewhat heavier Blacklight construction that the 80 has.
I wouldn't expect much of a durability difference as we haven't seen or heard of any issues unique to the Pro version. The biggest difference is that the Blacklight 80 will be a touch softer and more forgiving than the lighter Pro version. We only carry the Pro because we find that it skis exceedingly well without needing the somewhat heavier Blacklight construction that the 80 has.
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3/1/2022
How would you compare the Blacklight Pro and the Trab Maestro? I currently have a Volkl VTA 88 lite that is showing some age. This will primarily be used for volcanoes, spring traverses, and various other ski mountaineering objectives. I might throw in an occasional skimo race but more of the casual variety. I will be pairing it with some iteration of the atk trofeo and Dynafit TLT6. I typically ski a length of 178 to 185 depending on my objective or goal. I would consider myself fairly aggressive type skier. I am thinking of getting this type of ski in a 171 (the VTA is a 170) to maximize the weight and quick handling. Other skis that I should also consider?
3/1/2022
Hi Anthony,
Great skis to have on your radar! My comparison is below:
Both these skis are pretty stiff, and will hold an edge in firm snow. Also, the weight is near enough as to not really matter. I will start the Blacklight Pro. This ski has a surprisingly fat shovel for the waist width, which makes it well equipped for the errant spring powder day. Also, the pin skin system is pretty slick if you want to keep friction low on the skin track without sacrificing a solid tail attachment. This ski is well suited to spring and all things ski mountaineering. It requires some input from the skier, but is super versatile.
On to the Ski Trab Maestro.2. Built to last, this ski will thrive in anything from firm conditions in the morning, to corn in the afternoon. Also requiring some input from the skier, the Maestro is full of energy, and is a great option for speed touring, or occasions when the grams really count.
As a self described aggressive skier, I think you are completely on the right track with your considerations.
For further questions on ski mountaineering setups, feel free to reach out to help@skimo.co!
Great skis to have on your radar! My comparison is below:
Both these skis are pretty stiff, and will hold an edge in firm snow. Also, the weight is near enough as to not really matter. I will start the Blacklight Pro. This ski has a surprisingly fat shovel for the waist width, which makes it well equipped for the errant spring powder day. Also, the pin skin system is pretty slick if you want to keep friction low on the skin track without sacrificing a solid tail attachment. This ski is well suited to spring and all things ski mountaineering. It requires some input from the skier, but is super versatile.
On to the Ski Trab Maestro.2. Built to last, this ski will thrive in anything from firm conditions in the morning, to corn in the afternoon. Also requiring some input from the skier, the Maestro is full of energy, and is a great option for speed touring, or occasions when the grams really count.
As a self described aggressive skier, I think you are completely on the right track with your considerations.
For further questions on ski mountaineering setups, feel free to reach out to help@skimo.co!
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1/26/2022
Hello! Looking for something that can handle spring couloirs and the following chunky aprons in the Wasatch, Sierra, and PNW. Im 5' 6", 140lbs, and looking at the 158 length very closely. What do you think? Im slightly concerned that a 78mm underfoot ski will not handle poor apron snow conditions very well.
1/27/2022
Thanks for reaching out, Josh. Regarding length, the 158 would work well, especially if you want something to take into steep and tight places. While light skis inherently will get tossed around in variable snow conditions more so than a heavier ski with metal, the Blacklight Pro definitely holds its own with skis that share a similar weight, and it should handle variable snow conditions better than its weight would suggest.
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8/18/2021
Hi!
How do these compare to the Atomic Backland 85 UL in terms of downhill performance?
How do these compare to the Atomic Backland 85 UL in terms of downhill performance?
8/18/2021
Hi Daniel,
Great question, the skis are pretty similar, though there a couple differences. The Backland has a softer flex and the "HRZN Tech Tip" which helps to provide more float in soft snow and powder. On the other hand, the Blacklight's longer turn radius and camber yield excellent edge hold on steep and hard snow, making it an excellent ski for mountaineering or volcanoes. As far as how they ski, the Blacklight likes to be skied powerfully and deliberately and prefers a more aggressive skiing style, and it will handle better at high speeds. The Backlands are a bit more playful and can be skied in a more relaxed stance without needing to power the tips on each turn, but will have a slightly harder time keeping an edge on hard and frozen snow.
Great question, the skis are pretty similar, though there a couple differences. The Backland has a softer flex and the "HRZN Tech Tip" which helps to provide more float in soft snow and powder. On the other hand, the Blacklight's longer turn radius and camber yield excellent edge hold on steep and hard snow, making it an excellent ski for mountaineering or volcanoes. As far as how they ski, the Blacklight likes to be skied powerfully and deliberately and prefers a more aggressive skiing style, and it will handle better at high speeds. The Backlands are a bit more playful and can be skied in a more relaxed stance without needing to power the tips on each turn, but will have a slightly harder time keeping an edge on hard and frozen snow.
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8/4/2021
Thanks Cole P, that's very much the answer I expected. What about Dynafit Carbonio 76 vs. Blacklight Pro? Sorry about all those questions I've been posting recently, don't mean to be a pain, just have some "tough" decisions to be made soon.
8/5/2021
Karl, no worries happy to help! The Carbonio 76 is more of a mountaineering ski being a little lighter and easier to turn. The Dynafit Blacklight pro also is a great mountaineering ski but with a wider shovel, it will float a little better in soft snow. The Blacklight Pro will demand more from the skier as well. Feel free to email us at help@skimo.co and we can discuss any questions or concerns in depth.
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8/3/2021
How do Blacklight Pro compare to Movement Race Pro 85 and what length would you recommend in either of those? I'm 186 cm / 74 kg. Thank you!
8/4/2021
Hello Karl, thanks for reaching out. The Movement Race Pro is a very popular ski but is less stiff than the Blacklight Pro which makes the Movement more compliant, but it also can be nervous due to it's extreme lightness. The Blacklight Pro is a stiff mountaineering ski that requires an upper-intermediate to an advanced skier to make the most of it. The Blacklight Pro will feel more sturdy and confident on steep terrain. For the lengths, I would recommend going with the 177cm/178cm if you are looking for an everyday mid 80's ski. If you are looking for an objective/mountaineering ski I would recommend going with the 169cm/172cm lengths.
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6/2/2021
How does this ski compare to the Movement Alp Tracks 85 or 89? The weights are nearly the same. I'd like to use it for extended tours and ski mountaineering.
6/3/2021
Ben, The Alp Tracks 85 is the more compatible ski. Think of the Alp Tracks 89 as the lightest All-mountain ski there is. With more overall width, especially in the tip, it will ski powder quite well. So if your extended tours include pow, it would be the best.
For long tours and mountaineering, either the Blacklight Pro and 85 will provide miles of smiles. The one most notable characteristic of the Pro is that it felt incredibly damp for such a light Carbon ski. That and its narrower and lighter profile will be the best for distance.
For long tours and mountaineering, either the Blacklight Pro and 85 will provide miles of smiles. The one most notable characteristic of the Pro is that it felt incredibly damp for such a light Carbon ski. That and its narrower and lighter profile will be the best for distance.
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3/24/2021
Trying to decide between these and the Movement Race Pro 77 as a hard pack/spring mission ski after my beloved Alp Tracks 84s imploded. Specs seem very similar - any compelling reasons to choose one over the other? Are the Blacklights more durable?
3/24/2021
Hi Oscar,
Between the two skis, durability will not be significantly different. The differentiating factors will be weight and ski characteristics. The Race Pro 77 will save you some grams. However, think of this ski as a race ski with larger dimensions. It will be less forgiving than the Blacklight Pro in more variable conditions. Additionally, the Blacklight Pro will have more float in that occasional spring storm. Both skis will excel on hardpack.
Between the two skis, durability will not be significantly different. The differentiating factors will be weight and ski characteristics. The Race Pro 77 will save you some grams. However, think of this ski as a race ski with larger dimensions. It will be less forgiving than the Blacklight Pro in more variable conditions. Additionally, the Blacklight Pro will have more float in that occasional spring storm. Both skis will excel on hardpack.
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1/25/2021
Hi, I'm 6'2", 180 lbs and wondering if I should get the 172 or 178. These are my skinniest ski yet, and the shortest ski I have is 184 (Dynafit Denali). I want to use them for long trips, big objectives and couloirs (and I'm sure day tours). Going to put the Trab Vario.2 on them. Struggling with the size choice, as 172 feels so short, but I realize that may just be the name of the game... Thanks!
1/26/2021
Hey Nathan, I would suggest going with the 178cm length. If you're used to 184cm the 178cm should still give you a bit better control and versatility when it comes to performing jump turns while not feeling like super short toothpicks.
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