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Expert Comparison: Line Blade Optic 104 Skis · 2023 vs Faction Mana 2 Skis · 2023

Published on 02/02/2024 · 4 min readCompare Line Blade Optic 104 Skis · 2023 and Faction Mana 2 Skis · 2023. Get expert insight below!
Adam M, Ski Expert
Leo C, Ski Expert
Brandon Wachter, Ski Expert
Contributed By Ski Expert Adam M, Leo C, Brandon Wachter, Leo Cocchiara, Phil Chandler and others

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Side by side comparison

Out of stock
Line Blade Optic 104 Skis · 2023
Out of stock
Faction Mana 2 Skis · 2023
Price
$374.98
50% off
$399.99
50% off
User rating
4.86(7)
5(16)
The Curated Take
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Best for intermediate and advanced skiers who enjoy off-piste terrain and want a playful ski.

Ski type
All Mountain
All Mountain, Big Mountain
Skill level
Advanced, Expert
Intermediate, Advanced
Rocker profile
Rocker/Camber/Rocker
Rocker/Camber/Rocker

In the world of skiing, the Line Blade Optic 104 Skis and the Faction Mana 2 Skis are two top contenders for the 2023 season. Both skis are designed for advanced skiers who want to charge hard and explore off-piste terrain. The Line Blade Optic 104 Skis are a one-quiver ski with a gas pedal metal laminate design that provides rigidity and responsiveness. On the other hand, the Faction Mana 2 Skis are a freeride ski with a freestyle twist, designed for off-piste exploration in deeper and softer snow. Both skis have their strengths and weaknesses, and the choice between the two will depend on your skiing style and preferences.

The Line Blade Optic 104 Skis are a true one-quiver ski. They feature a gas pedal metal laminate design that includes a full length of metal through the tip and tail with torsional supports under the binding. This design combines the playful freeride shape of the Line Vision skis with the rigidity and responsiveness of the Line Blade skis. The result is a ski that can hook up hard on groomers and lay down some serious carves, but also excels off-piste. The gas pedal metal helps to control vibrations when charging through hard crud, keeping the edges engaged and the ski under control. However, these skis are on the beefier end of the spectrum and are not for beginners or those who don't want to think too much about their ski. They are built for skiers who want to charge hard, lean forward, and attack the terrain.

This ski truly could be a one quiver ski. The gas pedal metal laminate design includes a full length of metal through the tip and tail with torsional supports under the binding. It perfectly combines the playful/freeride shape of the vision while adding the rigidity and responsiveness of the blade. It will hook up hard on groomers and can lay down some hard carves, but also excels off-piste as well.

Adam M
Ski Expert

The Faction Mana 2 Skis are a freeride ski series with a freestyle twist. They are designed to make off-piste exploration in deeper and softer snow as fun as possible. With a 102 mm waist, these skis are perfect for intermediate to advanced skiers who will be moving through variable conditions from hard pack snow to deeper, softer powder. The versatility of the 102 mm waist makes it a great option for a daily driver, especially out in the west. The Faction Mana 2 Skis are not a true twin tip, but they can be thrown around in the park with ease. They can certainly be put on edge when needed and can reach high speeds, but they do have their limits when it comes to carving and high-speed stability.

The monastery is by faction is a Freeride ski series that is also inspired with a little freestyle twist. It's designed to make off piece exploration in deeper and softer snow as fun as possible. So starting with the Mana 2 this is at 102 underfoot. And this is going to be awesome for your intermediate to Advanced in even expert skiers who are going to be moving through variable conditions from hard pack snow to deeper softer powder, but that versatility of the 102 waist width.

Leo C
Ski Expert

Similarities

Both the Line Blade Optic 104 Skis and the Faction Mana 2 Skis are designed for advanced skiers who want to explore off-piste terrain. They both have a waist width of around 100 mm, making them versatile for different snow conditions. Both skis are designed to be playful and responsive, allowing skiers to make a variety of turns and maneuvers. They both have a freeride design, meaning they can handle a variety of terrains and conditions, from groomers to powder. Both skis also have a focus on stability and control, with the Line Blade Optic 104 Skis featuring a gas pedal metal laminate design and the Faction Mana 2 Skis featuring a freestyle twist.

Differences and Who They're Good For

While both skis are designed for advanced skiers, they cater to slightly different personas. The Line Blade Optic 104 Skis are for those who want to charge hard and attack the terrain. They are on the heavier side and require a skier who is not afraid to lean forward and take control. On the other hand, the Faction Mana 2 Skis are for those who want a playful and versatile ski that can handle off-piste exploration in deeper and softer snow. They are not as heavy as the Line Blade Optic 104 Skis and are more forgiving, making them a better choice for intermediate skiers.

Analysis on Who’s the Winner

When it comes to versatility, the Faction Mana 2 Skis take the win. Their 102 mm waist and freestyle twist make them a great all-around ski for different snow conditions. For stability and control, the Line Blade Optic 104 Skis come out on top with their gas pedal metal laminate design. In terms of playfulness, both skis are quite similar, but the Faction Mana 2 Skis might have a slight edge due to their freestyle twist. Finally, for skiers who want to charge hard and attack the terrain, the Line Blade Optic 104 Skis are the clear winner.

Conclusions

In conclusion, both the Line Blade Optic 104 Skis and the Faction Mana 2 Skis are excellent choices for the 2023 season. They are both designed for advanced skiers and offer a great mix of versatility, stability, and playfulness. The Line Blade Optic 104 Skis are perfect for those who want to charge hard and attack the terrain, while the Faction Mana 2 Skis are ideal for those who want a playful and versatile ski for off-piste exploration. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your skiing style and preferences. So, whether you're a hard-charging skier or a playful explorer, there's a ski out there for you. Happy skiing!

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