Expert Comparison: Salomon QST 92 Skis · 2023 vs Icelantic Nomad 95 Skis · 2023
VS
Side by side comparison | Out of stock | Out of stock |
|---|---|---|
Price | $329.97 40% off | $479.40 40% off |
User rating | 4.71(7) | 5(5) |
The Curated Take | Best for modern freeride skiers seeking a versatile, responsive all-mountain ski. | -- |
Ski type | All Mountain | All Mountain |
Skill level | Intermediate, Advanced | Intermediate, Advanced |
Rocker profile | Rocker/Camber/Rocker | Rocker/Camber/Rocker |
In the world of all-mountain skis, two models stand out for their versatility and performance: the Salomon QST 92 Skis and the Icelantic Nomad 95 Skis, both 2023 models. The Salomon QST 92 is a powerful all-mountain weapon, nimble and playful, with less rocker in the tip and tail for effective edge carving on trails and hardpack. The Icelantic Nomad 95, on the other hand, is a playful, versatile ski that can handle everything from groomers to powder, thanks to its 95mm waist and Hybrid Flight Wood Core. Both skis are excellent choices for intermediate to advanced skiers looking for a one-ski quiver. However, the Salomon QST 92 might be better suited for those who prefer carving and trail skiing, while the Icelantic Nomad 95 might appeal more to freeride enthusiasts who enjoy a playful, poppy ski.
Salomon QST 92 Skis · 2023 summary
The Salomon QST 92 Skis are a powerful and highly versatile all-mountain weapon. Despite being the narrowest of the QST line, they pack a punch when it comes to performance. The 92 has less rocker in the tip and tail, giving it more effective edge for carving on trails and hardpack. This makes it a carving and trail specialist, but don't let that fool you. The cork damplifiers in the tip and tail, combined with the carbon material woven into the frame, keep the ski very nimble and playful when going off trail or into more varied terrain, like trees.
Salomon constructed the QST without metal, making it surprisingly light for an all-mountain ski. This lightness allows it to turn intuitively in tight spots, making it a great all-mountain option for a skier looking to quickly progress their prowess off the trails. The QST 92 is a testament to Salomon's commitment to innovation and performance, offering a ski that is as versatile as it is powerful.
The QST 92 is a powerful and highly versatile all-mountain weapon, despite it being the narrowest of the QST line. The 92 has less rocker in the tip and tail, giving it more effective edge for carving on trails and hardpack. And though the 92 is narrow enough to be considered a carving and trail specialist, the cork damplifiers in the tip and tail combined with the carbon material woven into the frame keep the ski very nimble and playful when going off trail or into more varied terrain, like trees.
The QST 92 is a powerful and highly versatile all-mountain weapon, despite it being the narrowest of the QST line. The 92 has less rocker in the tip and tail, giving it more effective edge for carving on trails and hardpack. And though the 92 is narrow enough to be considered a carving and trail specialist, the cork damplifiers in the tip and tail combined with the carbon material woven into the frame keep the ski very nimble and playful when going off trail or into more varied terrain, like trees.
Salomon QST 92 Skis · 2023
- We price match
- Returnable
Icelantic Nomad 95 Skis · 2023 summary
The Icelantic Nomad 95 Skis are a versatile all-mountain ski that can handle a variety of conditions with ease. With a 95mm waist, these skis are wide enough to handle powder days, yet flexible enough for carving effortlessly on groomers and spinning tricks in the park. The Nomad 95 sports Icelantic's Hybrid Flight Wood Core, an ultralight wood that keeps the ski super poppy and playful.
The Nomad 95 also has a twin tip design, allowing you to lay out your playful side while landing switch. This ski is designed to find the natural features of the mountain and make it your playground. Made in the USA, these skis come with an impressive 3-year warranty, showcasing Icelantic's confidence in their product. The Nomad 95 is a ski that keeps skiing on the light and fun side, making it a great choice for those who love to add freestyle elements into their runs.
The Nomad 95 is arguably the most versatile of Icelantic's infamous Nomad line. It sports Icelantic's Hybrid Flight Wood Core, an ultralight wood that keeps the ski super poppy and playful. Then they combine that with a 95 mm waist, which is enough girth for the occasional powder day, but also flexible enough for carving effortlessly on groomers and spinning tricks in the park.
The Nomad 95 is arguably the most versatile of Icelantic's infamous Nomad line. It sports Icelantic's Hybrid Flight Wood Core, an ultralight wood that keeps the ski super poppy and playful. Then they combine that with a 95 mm waist, which is enough girth for the occasional powder day, but also flexible enough for carving effortlessly on groomers and spinning tricks in the park.
Icelantic Nomad 95 Skis · 2023
- We price match
- Returnable
Similarities
Both the Salomon QST 92 and the Icelantic Nomad 95 are all-mountain skis designed for versatility and performance. They are both designed to handle a variety of conditions, from groomers to powder, and are equipped with features that enhance their playfulness and maneuverability. Both skis are also designed to be light and nimble, allowing for quick and intuitive turns in tight spots. They both have a focus on carving, with less rocker in the tip and tail for the QST 92 and a 95mm waist for the Nomad 95, allowing for effective edge hold on hardpack. Both skis are also designed for a playful, freeride style, with the QST 92 featuring cork damplifiers and the Nomad 95 sporting a twin tip design.
Differences and Who They're Good For
While both skis are versatile all-mountain options, they cater to slightly different personas. The Salomon QST 92, with its less rocker and effective edge for carving, is ideal for skiers who love to carve on trails and hardpack. Its light construction without metal makes it a great option for those who value nimbleness and quick turns, especially in tight spots like trees. This ski is perfect for the skier looking to quickly progress their prowess off the trails.
On the other hand, the Icelantic Nomad 95, with its wider waist and twin tip design, is a great choice for freeride enthusiasts who love to add freestyle elements into their runs. Its Hybrid Flight Wood Core keeps the ski poppy and playful, making it a joy to use in the park or when playing around with natural features on the mountain. This ski is ideal for the adventurous skier who loves to explore all aspects of the mountain, from groomers to powder to park.
Analysis on Who’s the Winner
When it comes to versatility, both skis perform admirably, but the Icelantic Nomad 95 might have a slight edge due to its wider waist and twin tip design, which allows for more freestyle play.
In terms of carving, the Salomon QST 92 takes the cake with its less rocker and effective edge, making it a carving and trail specialist.
For playfulness, both skis are designed to be fun and energetic, but the Nomad 95's poppy Hybrid Flight Wood Core and twin tip design might make it a bit more playful, especially for those who love freestyle elements.
Finally, in terms of weight and nimbleness, the Salomon QST 92, constructed without metal, is surprisingly light for an all-mountain ski, making it a winner in this category.
Conclusions
In conclusion, both the Salomon QST 92 and the Icelantic Nomad 95 are excellent all-mountain skis that offer versatility, performance, and fun. The Salomon QST 92 shines in carving and nimbleness, making it a great choice for skiers who love to carve on trails and hardpack and navigate tight spots with ease. The Icelantic Nomad 95, on the other hand, stands out for its playfulness and versatility, making it a joy for freeride enthusiasts who love to add freestyle elements into their runs. Both skis are testament to their respective brands' commitment to innovation and performance, offering skiers a fun and versatile ride on the mountain.
