Expert Comparison: Salomon QST 98 Skis · 2023 vs Nordica Unleashed 98 Skis · 2023
VS
Side by side comparison | Out of stock | Out of stock |
|---|---|---|
Price | from:$359.95 50% off | from:$419.97 40% off |
User rating | 5(19) | -- |
The Curated Take | Salomon QST 98 is best for advancing intermediates to experts wanting a versatile, one ski quiver with impressive flotation. | -- |
Ski type | All Mountain | All Mountain |
Skill level | Intermediate, Advanced | Intermediate, Advanced |
Rocker profile | Rocker/Camber/Rocker | Rocker/Camber/Rocker |
In the world of skiing, the Salomon QST 98 Skis and the Nordica Unleashed 98 Skis are two top contenders for the 2023 season. Both skis are designed for advanced to expert skiers and are praised for their versatility and performance across various terrains. The Salomon QST 98 is lauded for its all-mountain capabilities, with experts highlighting its playful nature, good slashing, and impressive floatation. On the other hand, the Nordica Unleashed 98 is celebrated for its playful charger characteristics, carving abilities, and its performance in bumps, trees, and powder. Both skis are excellent choices for a one-ski quiver, but the Salomon QST 98 is more suited for skiers who prefer a more playful and versatile ski, while the Nordica Unleashed 98 is ideal for those who enjoy a more aggressive and stable ride.
Salomon QST 98 Skis · 2023 summary
The Salomon QST 98 Skis are a versatile all-mountain ski that can handle a variety of conditions. They are designed with enough early rise in the tip and tail to handle fresh snow, but also have good camber underfoot for shredding groomers. The twin tip design adds to the ski's playful nature, making it a great choice for intermediate to advanced skiers.
The Salomon QST 98 is constructed with a Poplar wood core, double sidewalls, carbon/flax stringers, and a cork damplifier. This sophisticated construction allows skiers to bend and flex the ski while maintaining great grip, playfulness, and flotation. The ski's rocker is almost enough to put it in the twin-tip department, just with less splay and abruptness than a more freestyle-oriented twin.
The Salomon QST 98 is not designed for beginners or for primarily icy conditions. It is also not ideal for the terrain park outside of a few basic jumps. However, it is an ideal one-ski quiver for intermediates up to experts, especially in the west. It offers impressive floatation and stands at the top of the pack for the 100 underfoot category. This ski gives a really nice balance of playfulness, carving ability, and stability at speed.
The Salomon Qst 98 is a great pick for the high intermediate, advanced, or expert skier looking for a one ski quiver to give you a jack of all trades performance on the resort and is even light enough that it's a decent choice for putting mounting a hybrid touring binding.
The Salomon Qst 98 is a great pick for the high intermediate, advanced, or expert skier looking for a one ski quiver to give you a jack of all trades performance on the resort and is even light enough that it's a decent choice for putting mounting a hybrid touring binding.
Salomon QST 98 Skis · 2023
- We price match
- Returnable
Nordica Unleashed 98 Skis · 2023 summary
The Nordica Unleashed 98 Skis are a new addition to Nordica's lineup for the 2023 season. They are designed to be a playful charger that any advanced to expert skier could love. The 98 millimeter waist is super versatile, and the ski is constructed with a wood core, carbon, and terrain-specific metal layers, allowing for strong and speedy turns.
The Nordica Unleashed 98 features a rocker and camber blend, allowing for a variety of turning profiles and providing enough float for fresh powder. The ski is agile and playful when needed, but also damp and stable when not. It has a full twin tip and tail, making it a great choice for skiers who like to ski switch.
The Nordica Unleashed 98 is not a ski for beginners or lower intermediate skiers. It is not the easiest ski to twist, and it's a little bit heavy. However, it is a great ski for any bigger guy who likes to charge, and it is a great all-mountain ski that can handle bumps, steeps, trees, and even the park for a few laps.
My first impression was “wow.” When I looked at the specs on this ski, which are 98 millimeters underfoot, a turning radius that's just under 19 meters, I knew that this was going to be in that versatile, all mountain, mid fat ski category that’s really popular these days. What I didn't expect when I got on the ski was how comfortable it was being driven hard and how playful it could be at the same time.
My first impression was “wow.” When I looked at the specs on this ski, which are 98 millimeters underfoot, a turning radius that's just under 19 meters, I knew that this was going to be in that versatile, all mountain, mid fat ski category that’s really popular these days. What I didn't expect when I got on the ski was how comfortable it was being driven hard and how playful it could be at the same time.
Nordica Unleashed 98 Skis · 2023
- We price match
- Returnable
Similarities
The Salomon QST 98 Skis and the Nordica Unleashed 98 Skis share several similarities. Both skis are designed for advanced to expert skiers and are praised for their versatility across various terrains. They both have a 98mm waist width, making them ideal for a variety of snow conditions. Both skis are designed with a blend of rocker and camber, allowing for a variety of turning profiles and providing enough float for fresh powder. They both have a playful nature and are designed to be a one-ski quiver, capable of handling everything from groomers to fresh snow.
Differences and Who They're Good For
While both skis are versatile and designed for advanced to expert skiers, they cater to slightly different personas. The Salomon QST 98 Skis are more playful and versatile, making them a great choice for skiers who like to mix it up on the mountain. They are also a great choice for skiers who are progressing from intermediate to advanced levels.
On the other hand, the Nordica Unleashed 98 Skis are more aggressive and stable, making them a great choice for skiers who like to charge hard and fast. They are also a great choice for bigger guys who need a ski that can handle their weight and power.
Analysis on Who’s the Winner
- Versatility: Both skis are highly versatile, but the Salomon QST 98 Skis take the edge here due to their ability to handle a wider range of conditions and terrains.
- Playfulness: The Salomon QST 98 Skis also win in the playfulness category, with experts praising their fun and playful nature.
- Stability: The Nordica Unleashed 98 Skis win in the stability category, with experts noting their impressive stability at high speeds and in varied conditions.
- Aggressiveness: The Nordica Unleashed 98 Skis also take the win in the aggressiveness category, as they are designed for skiers who like to charge hard and fast.
Conclusions
In conclusion, both the Salomon QST 98 Skis and the Nordica Unleashed 98 Skis are excellent choices for advanced to expert skiers looking for a versatile, all-mountain ski. The Salomon QST 98 Skis are more playful and versatile, making them a great choice for skiers who like to mix it up on the mountain. On the other hand, the Nordica Unleashed 98 Skis are more aggressive and stable, making them a great choice for skiers who like to charge hard and fast. Ultimately, the best ski for you will depend on your personal skiing style and preferences. So, whether you're a playful skier who likes to explore the whole mountain or a hard-charger who likes to push the limits, there's a ski out there for you. Happy skiing!
