Dynastar M-Vertical 88 F-Team Ski
Some days, snow conditions are all over the place with no way of knowing what you'll find. The slightest change in aspect, elevation, or weather can cause you to end up nervously staring down an icy couloir with girthy powder skis. Or perhaps a neck-deep powder run with the skinniest of skis. Neither is ideal. Rest assured that won’t happen to you on the Dynastar M-Vertical 88s. These capable sticks gleefully charge through all conditions, despite barely registering on a scale. In fact, we applaud the folks at Dynastar for somehow creating an even damper and quieter version of its predecessor, the Dynastar Vertical F-Team. A lightweight hybrid paulownia/polyurethane core softens cruddy chop while a full sidewall maximizes edge hold. That way you can descend with confidence, no matter what the snow Gods have bestowed upon your line. It could be said that the Dynastar M-Vertical 88 is the do-it-all quiver killer for aggressive skiers.
- Hybrid Paulownia / Polyurethane core is a light-n-damp platform to handle crud and speed.
- Core wrapped with Basalt fiber for torsional rigidity and durability.
- Moderate rocker balances contact length and ease of turning and surfing for a smooth ride through a variety of conditions.
- Full sidewall maximizes edge hold when you want it most.
- Notched tip allows for a race-style bungee skin system that leads to faster transitions.
- Laser sintered bases are fast and can take some abuse should you find a few "sharks" out there.
Update 2022/23: This ski now goes by the name "M-Vertical 88 F-Team" and sports some new topsheet graphics.
| Specifications | |
| Lengths (cm) | 156, 164, 172, 180 |
|
Weight |
1035g [156] 1070g [164] 1135g [172] 1205g [180] |
| Weight (pair) | 2070g [156] 2140g [164] 2270g [172] 2410g [180] |
|
|
120-88-110 |
|
Turn |
16m [156] 18m [164] 20m [172] 22m [180] |
|
Skin |
Tip notch, reverse curved tails |
| Specs Verified | Yes |
| Design | |
|
|
Moderate rocker, camber underfoot |
|
|
Medium radius integrated with the rocker |
|
|
Sandwich with fiber torsion box |
|
|
Paulownia / PU |
| Skimo Co Says | |
| Usage | Long distance touring, mountaineering |
| Notes | Basalt fibers are 25% lighter than glass |
| Bottom Line | Vivian approved |
| Compare to other Mid-fat Skis | |
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Questions & Reviews
2/24/2025
Nick L
(used product regularly)
Great ski. I’m 5’ 11”, 170# and picked the 172s as I wanted something light that could be used for longer tours but would still cope with a variety of conditions. Obviously excellent edge control and great in the steeps but what’s surprising is how easy they are to initiate a turn. I was also amazed to see how well they skied boot-top powder. Matched with ATK Trofeos (is this the perfect binding or what?) and F1 XTs, this is a really good combination for longer days out.
2/26/2025
How did they handle variable snow or 3d conditions?
2/26/2025
@Taylor M, they managed fine. In variable snow I just needed to stay a bit more centered. In upside down powder, the heavier surface took a bit more effort but nothing substantial. In short, I wouldn't hesitate to take these anywhere, other than 12"+ powder.
Comment on this review:
12/30/2024
How would you compare these to the Blizzard Zero G 95 and Atomic Backland 86 UL? I am looking for a ski that can hold an edge well in steep, firm, and variable conditions and can get me through tight trees on occasion and have narrowed down to these three (open to other suggestions). Lots of rocks to hit where I'm at so durability is a major plus!
Thanks!
Thanks!
12/30/2024
Hi Ben,
These would be a good option. They are the "turniest" of the three, a good option if you're looking for an adventure ski. Maybe not the best option if you prefer a faster skiing style.
The Zero G will have the best edge hold of the three in firm snow, long turn radius and fairly stiff. They'll be the least forgiving in variable conditions, and in good snow they'll hold up to speed well.
The Backland will be the most intuitive and easiest to ski, very versatile.
These would be a good option. They are the "turniest" of the three, a good option if you're looking for an adventure ski. Maybe not the best option if you prefer a faster skiing style.
The Zero G will have the best edge hold of the three in firm snow, long turn radius and fairly stiff. They'll be the least forgiving in variable conditions, and in good snow they'll hold up to speed well.
The Backland will be the most intuitive and easiest to ski, very versatile.
Answer this question:
4/18/2024
Greetings,
I like to know the difference between this vertical 88 f-team and vertical 88 ( the version white and green for better understanding)
Thanks
I like to know the difference between this vertical 88 f-team and vertical 88 ( the version white and green for better understanding)
Thanks
4/18/2024
Hi Roberto,
We aren't very familiar with that one as it's not sold in the US, but from what we can tell, the green topsheet M-Vertical 88 Open is a budget construction version of the F-team ski that we carry. Not sure exactly what the differences are. But they would be the same exact shape.
We aren't very familiar with that one as it's not sold in the US, but from what we can tell, the green topsheet M-Vertical 88 Open is a budget construction version of the F-team ski that we carry. Not sure exactly what the differences are. But they would be the same exact shape.
Answer this question:
4/13/2024
How difficult is it to find this ski in size one above 172 size? It seems like no one in US has the size up from 172
4/13/2024
Hi Ryan,
Yeah Dynastar didn't bring too many of the 180cm into the US this season so they're a bit hard to come by.
Yeah Dynastar didn't bring too many of the 180cm into the US this season so they're a bit hard to come by.
Answer this question:
3/21/2024
I enjoy my Volk rise above 88 in 163cm but sometimes I feel that the edges (despite a pro service) don't hold. Would these skis have a better hold on firm or windy snow? Will turning be harder with the vertical? Would the M-tour feel more capable of turning?
Thanks a lot !
Thanks a lot !
3/21/2024
Hi Lara,
These are some of the best skis out there for steep skiing, and I would happily take them out into firm and challenging conditions with full confidence in the edge-hold. While we have found the Rise Above 88 to have a good edge to it, it does have a tighter radius underfoot due to their 3D radius technology, which is part of what makes it such a versatile and fun ski. But in general, straighter skis (less sidecut) do tend to have more predictable edge hold on steep, icy slopes.
The M-Vertical is not a difficult ski, but I do think the Volkl would be turnier with its bigger shovel and shorter underfoot radius. No difference in the tuning requirements!
These are some of the best skis out there for steep skiing, and I would happily take them out into firm and challenging conditions with full confidence in the edge-hold. While we have found the Rise Above 88 to have a good edge to it, it does have a tighter radius underfoot due to their 3D radius technology, which is part of what makes it such a versatile and fun ski. But in general, straighter skis (less sidecut) do tend to have more predictable edge hold on steep, icy slopes.
The M-Vertical is not a difficult ski, but I do think the Volkl would be turnier with its bigger shovel and shorter underfoot radius. No difference in the tuning requirements!
3/21/2024
Thanks Carlos!
Would you therefore recommend to change?
Best wishes!
Would you therefore recommend to change?
Best wishes!
Answer this question:
1/28/2024
Looking at the M tour and the M vertical both in the 88. I have been using Altirides for, well, a long time in the 172 length. I do like the trees so want something maneuverable but it is not unusual to get into wind hammered nastiness. Not really interested couloir bagging. I'd consider myself a pretty capable backcountry skier 5'3", 110# - without gear. Would love to get your thoughts. Thanks
1/29/2024
Hi Karla, Those Altirides are pretty old, and pretty long for you at 110lbs. Either one of these in a 160 something length will be more maneuverable. The current M Tour is the 90. They have a very quick 15M turn radius (in the 167cm), lots of rocker for those powder days and ski firm or difficult conditions very well. The M Vertical is more a fast and light / mountaineering design. Will do well on that wind hammered stuff. But for quick turning in trees, in pow and a bit more fun to ski, the M Tour 90 is a sweet ski.
Answer this question:
12/22/2023
Hello,
I am choosing between K2 Wayback 88 and these skis. Which one is better overall but still hold great in icy conditions? Also, which one of them requires a better skier - which is better for intermediete skiers but still enjoying some steep and narrow couloirs?
thanks
I am choosing between K2 Wayback 88 and these skis. Which one is better overall but still hold great in icy conditions? Also, which one of them requires a better skier - which is better for intermediete skiers but still enjoying some steep and narrow couloirs?
thanks
12/22/2023
Martin- The M-vertical definitely requires a bit of better skier. Both have very good edge hold on firm snow though. The slightly friendlier ski would be the K2.
Answer this question:
12/22/2023
Hello,
I would like to ask how does these ski compare to Dynastar Mtour 90 or K2 wayback 88. I am looking for a forgiving ski for an intermidiate skier with with a great edge grip in firm conditions. Thanks
I would like to ask how does these ski compare to Dynastar Mtour 90 or K2 wayback 88. I am looking for a forgiving ski for an intermidiate skier with with a great edge grip in firm conditions. Thanks
12/22/2023
Barbora- The M-vertical is very different to the Mtour 90 in shaping and rocker profiles. The K2 would be more similar ski, both have great edge grip with the K2 being just a bit more forgiving.
Answer this question:
12/4/2023
hi there, i cant decide between those and Zag ubac 89, i spent most of the season in High Tatras (slovakia), in variable condition narrow culoirs. Sometimes we get nice pow, but most of the time it's the type 2 fun demanding skiing/mountaineering. I'm afraid that zags are going to have a little springier feel, coming from BlackCrows orb 172 - too springy and soft for our conditions, loved them but the tails were too flexy for me, in need of a stiffer and more agressive ski.
12/4/2023
Hi Adam,
Based on your description, the M-Verticals would be a great choice for you. They are lighter and a bit stiffer than the Ubac, they would be a better ski for a confidence-inspiring, stiff mountaineering ski with great edge hold in steep terrain. The use you are describing is pretty much their niche, and they do it well.
Based on your description, the M-Verticals would be a great choice for you. They are lighter and a bit stiffer than the Ubac, they would be a better ski for a confidence-inspiring, stiff mountaineering ski with great edge hold in steep terrain. The use you are describing is pretty much their niche, and they do it well.
Answer this question:
Oh, you like steep skiing? you have been following the Cham steep ski scene and see everyone on this ski?
You're right, they are. And they are for a reason.
These skis are the bees knees. The hop turn action with these is like dreaming, and all you can do is smile. They are lightweight for the up and cause no fret on that front. Powder? boot top pow is no reason to be sad, these skis rip. They are not your high speed pow crusher, but they are poppy and enjoyable when things get deep.
I am about 190cm and use the 172, the added nimbleness is very nice when things get tight.
Allez!
You're right, they are. And they are for a reason.
These skis are the bees knees. The hop turn action with these is like dreaming, and all you can do is smile. They are lightweight for the up and cause no fret on that front. Powder? boot top pow is no reason to be sad, these skis rip. They are not your high speed pow crusher, but they are poppy and enjoyable when things get deep.
I am about 190cm and use the 172, the added nimbleness is very nice when things get tight.
Allez!
Comment on this review:
1/13/2023
How do these compare in terms of damping to the Salomon MTN Explore 88?
I realize that they're about 150 g lighter at any given length, but I'm curious how much damping Dynastar gives up with that Basalt torsion-box construction vs Salomon's laminate?
I realize that they're about 150 g lighter at any given length, but I'm curious how much damping Dynastar gives up with that Basalt torsion-box construction vs Salomon's laminate?
1/14/2023
Hi Patrick, the Dynastars are stiffer and get deflected a bit more, but don't feel tinny with that Basalt. The Salomons have a nice round flex and absorb vibration a bit better with the flax layup.
Answer this question:
11/26/2022
Curious how these compare to the K2 Wayback 88s. Seems like the Waybacks may be worth the extra weight as a daily driver/spring mission ski. Thoughts?
11/29/2022
Hi Jamie,
The M-Vertical 88 F-Team and K2 Wayback 88 have fairly similar characteristics.
The M-Vertical 88 F-Team is a pretty stiff ski with a longer sidecut. It is a surprisingly damp ski, and that requires some input from the skier.
The K2 Wayback 88 will be the friendlier at a slightly heavier weight. That being said, it still has a medium turn radius, and is quite versatile. Both will be good options come spring. Your decision more depends on what you want in a ski!
The M-Vertical 88 F-Team and K2 Wayback 88 have fairly similar characteristics.
The M-Vertical 88 F-Team is a pretty stiff ski with a longer sidecut. It is a surprisingly damp ski, and that requires some input from the skier.
The K2 Wayback 88 will be the friendlier at a slightly heavier weight. That being said, it still has a medium turn radius, and is quite versatile. Both will be good options come spring. Your decision more depends on what you want in a ski!
Answer this question:
3/8/2021
Been looking at these, ive only skied 1600g + skis with either Dynafit Radicals or King pins. Looking to add a light ski that can still ski good to the collection so i can get further into the mountains. Would these be a good pair with a lightweight tech binding for someone that skis fairly aggressively? Essentially looking for a lite ski that is fairly damp and wont fight big fast turns. Thanks!
3/10/2021
Hi Kyle,
The M-Vertical 88 has a longer sidecut, and punches through variable conditions quite well! It has a lot of the same characteristics as the Vertical eagle, with improved dampness. This ski would lend itself well to a more aggressive skier!
The M-Vertical 88 has a longer sidecut, and punches through variable conditions quite well! It has a lot of the same characteristics as the Vertical eagle, with improved dampness. This ski would lend itself well to a more aggressive skier!
Answer this question:
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