Review: Icelantic Nomad 105 Skis · 2024
By Ski Expert
Jake Renner
Icelantic Nomad 105 Skis · 2024
$439.48
$878.95
50% off
6 photos
The Curated Take
4.0/5
The Icelantic Nomad 105 is an ideal ski for freeriders who favor powder days. With a 105mm underfoot, full rocker, and a soft flex rating, it offers excellent maneuverability and ample flotation, making it agile in powder and nimble on hardpack. Although it's playful and forgiving, which suits intermediate skiers and those with a playful style, it might not offer sufficient stability at high speeds. Despite this, its versatility and the added reassurance of a 3-year warranty make it a worthy investment for freeriders.
Ideal for
- Extremely playful thanks to the softer flex rating and rocker profile
- Does well in fresh snow and easy to maneuver if in deeper powder
- 3 year manufacturer's warranty covers virtually all defects
Not ideal for
- Not stable at higher speeds: nose chattering when going fast on hardpacked snow
- 105mm is a bit wide for skiers looking to stay on-piste
Flotation
With a waist width of 105mm, the Nomad 105 strikes a sweet spot between nimble maneuverability on hardpack and ample floatation in powder snow. This versatility allows skiers to effortlessly...Read more
Carving
Surprisingly nimble ski that's easy to go from edge to edge while carving on them even at 105mm underfoot. This is in part because the ski has so much rocker...Read more
High Speed Stability
With the Nomad 105 being on the playful side with regard to flex rating, some skiers may appreciate the liveliness and responsiveness of the softer flex. Others who prefer a...Read more
Playfulness
The softer flex of the Nomad 105 can make them more forgiving and accessible to a wider range of skiers, especially those who prioritize agility and quick turns over pure...Read more
Durability
One of the standout features of the Nomad 105 is its construction. It boasts a durable and lightweight construction, thanks to the combination of a poplar wood core, carbon fiber...Read more
Turn Ease
Softer flex rating combined with the close to fully rockered shape of this ski causes less surface area to be in touch with the ski's base, resulting in a ski...Read more
Versatility
While the Icelantic Nomad 105 skis have a reputation for being versatile, some skiers might perceive them as being on the softer side compared to stiffer, more damp skis. The...Read more
Expert Reviews of the Icelantic Nomad 105 Skis
Jake Renner While the Icelantic Nomad 105 skis do have a reputation for being versatile, some skiers might perceive them as being on the softer side compared to stiffer, more damp skis. The ski's flex pattern is indeed designed to provide a playful and forgiving feel, which can be advantageous for maneuverability and easy turn initiation.
The softer flex of the Nomad 105 can make them more forgiving and accessible to a wider range of skiers, especially those who prioritize agility and quick turns over pure power and stability. This characteristic can be particularly appealing for intermediate skiers or those who enjoy a more playful style on the mountain.
However, it's important to note that the subjective perception of ski stiffness can vary depending on individual preferences and skiing style. While some skiers may appreciate the liveliness and responsiveness of the softer flex, others who prefer a stiffer and damper ski might find the Nomad 105s to be less ideal for their specific needs.
Ultimately, the choice of skis depends on personal preferences, skiing ability, and the type of terrain and conditions you frequently encounter. If you prioritize a stiffer and more damp ski, you might want to explore other options in the Icelantic lineup or consider alternative models from different manufacturers. It's always recommended to try out different skis and consult with experts to find the best match for your skiing style and preferences.
Product Specs
| Age Group | Adult |
| Gender | Men's |
| Includes bindings | No |
| Model year | 2024 |
| Ski type | Freeride, Powder |
| Skill level | Intermediate, Advanced |
Review Ratings
Flotation
5/5
Jake Renner gave 5 of 5 stars. With a waist width of 105mm, the Nomad 105 strikes a sweet spot between nimble maneuverability on hardpack and ample floatation in powder snow. This versatility allows skiers to effortlessly transition between groomed runs and off-piste adventures, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy exploring the entire mountain. Fully rockered shape with barely any camber underfoot added to the 105mm width keeps this ski easy to pivot while your nose keeps out of the fresh snow. Ultimate freeride tool for those fresh days!
Carving
3/5
Jake Renner gave 3 of 5 stars. Surprisingly nimble ski that's easy to go from edge to edge while carving on them even at 105mm underfoot. This is in part because the ski has so much rocker in the tip/tail that there is not as much surface area in contact with the snow, giving you a tighter turn radius. The downside would be that its soft flex rating sacrifices stability/dampness at higher speeds while carving.
High Speed Stability
2/5
Jake Renner gave 2 of 5 stars. With the Nomad 105 being on the playful side with regard to flex rating, some skiers may appreciate the liveliness and responsiveness of the softer flex. Others who prefer a stiffer and damper ski might find the Nomad 105s to be less ideal for their specific needs. If you prioritize a stiffer and more damp ski, you might want to explore other options in the Icelantic lineup or consider alternative models from different manufacturers. It's always recommended to try out different skis and consult with experts to find the best match for your skiing style and preferences.
Playfulness
5/5
Jake Renner gave 5 of 5 stars. The softer flex of the Nomad 105 can make them more forgiving and accessible to a wider range of skiers, especially those who prioritize agility and quick turns over pure power and stability. This characteristic can be particularly appealing for intermediate skiers or those who enjoy a more playful style on the mountain.
Durability
5/5
Jake Renner gave 5 of 5 stars. One of the standout features of the Nomad 105 is its construction. It boasts a durable and lightweight construction, thanks to the combination of a poplar wood core, carbon fiber laminates, and robust sidewall construction. Carbonium topsheet with continual edge wrapped around the nose and tail keeps this ski together longer than competitors.
Turn Ease
4/5
Jake Renner gave 4 of 5 stars. Softer flex rating combined with the close to fully rockered shape of this ski causes less surface area to be in touch with the ski's base, resulting in a ski that feels easy to turn thanks to the shorter turn radius. Other skis at 105mm and flat tails or partial rockers have a longer turn radius since more of the ski is in touch with the ground.
Versatility
4/5
Jake Renner gave 4 of 5 stars. While the Icelantic Nomad 105 skis have a reputation for being versatile, some skiers might perceive them as being on the softer side compared to stiffer, more damp skis. The ski's flex pattern is indeed designed to provide a playful and forgiving feel, which can be advantageous for maneuverability and easy turn initiation.
FAQs
What was your favorite moment with this gear?
Jake Renner My favorite moment with the Icelantic Nomad 105 was definitely getting to test them out on a decent late spring powder day with my buddy, Hayden Wright. I didn't want to swap skis---I was enjoying myself so much. Such a surfy and playful ski for tracked-out powder, off-piste chunder bumps, and fresh pow. It felt easy to pivot and throw side to side, slash, or butter on. Was surprised to get a clean nose butter 3 around in a bunch of fresh snow thanks to the rocker profile.
Why did you choose this product?
Jake Renner The Icelantic Nomad 105 skis are an impressive choice for avid skiers seeking a versatile and high-performance option. Designed to excel in a variety of conditions, these skis offer a great balance between all-mountain capabilities and powder performance. With a waist width of 105mm, the Nomad 105 strikes a sweet spot between nimble maneuverability on hardpack and ample floatation in powder snow. This versatility allows skiers to effortlessly transition between groomed runs and off-piste adventures, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy exploring the entire mountain.
What is the value for the money versus other options?
Jake Renner When comparing the price of the Nomad 105 to other skis in its class, it's essential to consider the overall package and the skis' performance. While there might be other options available at similar or slightly lower price points, the Nomad 105's reputation for versatility, reliability, and enjoyable performance can make them a worthwhile investment.
Ultimately, the value of the Nomad 105 skis will be subjective, as it depends on how well they meet your specific needs and preferences. It's always recommended to demo or test the skis if possible, and compare them to alternative options within a similar price range, taking into account factors like construction quality, performance characteristics, and personal preferences.
What do you love about this product?
Jake Renner The Icelantic Nomad 105 are extremely playful skis that lend themselves enough float to keep on top of a decent amount of fresh snow and powder. The softer flex of the Nomad 105s can make them more forgiving and accessible to a wider range of skiers, especially those who prioritize agility and quick turns over pure power and stability. This characteristic can be particularly appealing for intermediate skiers or those who enjoy a more playful style on the mountain. The rocker profile and shape allows the Nomad to remain easy to pivot in fresh snow and bumps. Just a touch of camber underfoot and almost a completely rockered profile has this ski feeling surfy and smeary.
