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Expert Comparison: Salomon QST Spark Skis · 2024 vs Atomic Bent 85 Skis · 2024

Published on 02/13/2024 · 4 min readCompare Salomon QST Spark Skis · 2024 and Atomic Bent 85 Skis · 2024. Get expert insight below!
Ben Bialek, Ski Expert
Zachary Simon, Ski Expert
Peter Locke, Ski Expert
Contributed By Ski Expert Ben Bialek, Zachary Simon, Peter Locke, Scott Odle, Leo Cocchiara and others

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Side by side comparison

Out of stock
Salomon QST Spark Skis · 2025
Out of stock
Atomic Bent 85 Skis · 2024
Price
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from:$224.98
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The Curated Take

Best for younger riders looking for a versatile, all-mountain ski that's forgiving and fun to carve with.

Best for intermediate riders for park skiing and varied snow conditions.

User rating
--
5(2)
Ski type
All Mountain, Freestyle
All Mountain, Big Mountain, Backcountry
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 Spark Skis and the Atomic Bent 85 Skis, both 2024 editions. The Salomon QST Spark Skis are a fantastic choice for those looking to progress on a modern freestyle ski, offering a forgiving and floaty ride, yet stiff and fun to carve with. On the other hand, the Atomic Bent 85 Skis are perfect for intermediate riders who enjoy park skiing and exploring natural features, providing an agile ride with dampened vibrations. Both skis are versatile and perform well in various snow conditions, but they each have their unique strengths and features that make them suitable for different types of skiers.

Salomon QST Spark Skis · 2024 summary

The Salomon QST Spark Skis are a great all-mountain option for those looking to progress on a modern freestyle ski. They are designed with a lightweight and poppy wood core, making them forgiving and floaty, yet stiff and fun to carve with. These skis provide confidence and stability all around the mountain, allowing you to push yourself to new heights. The twin tips make them perfect for stomping airs and sliding rails, making them a versatile choice for both the terrain park and the piste. They are particularly suitable for younger riders, offering a forgiving and floaty ride that is easy to ski on. The Salomon QST Spark Skis are also praised for their versatility and ease of skiing, making them a great choice for those looking to progress on a modern freestyle ski.

These are a near perfect kids ski for this year! Great size range means they'll be appropriate for your kid now, but also for the next 2 years or so. The right weight and stiffness to do the same as well, and help them gain confidence and progress everywhere on the mountain!

Ben Bialek
Ski Expert

The Atomic Bent 85 Skis are a great fit for intermediate riders who enjoy park skiing and exploring natural features. They feature a partial twin tip design and a short turning radius, making them agile and capable of dampening vibrations for a smooth ride. The 20% tip rocker, 65% camber underfoot, and 15% tail provide plenty of pop and play. These skis are versatile and perform well in various snow conditions, except for deep powder. They are especially well-suited for skiers who want quick edge-to-edge transitions on hardpack while having forgiving tendencies. The Atomic Bent 85 Skis are also praised for their lively flex and narrow waist, providing excellent grip on icy days while still being responsive and creative for freeride and park skiing.

This is a partial twin instead of a full twin tip like the other options, but it's still a machine in the park. Since atomic stopped producing the Punx, this is the weapon of choice for Atomic's freestyle athletes. Especially with tail rocker, a partial twin paired with a symmetrical flex/sidecut is more than enough.

Zachary Simon
Ski Expert

Similarities

Both the Salomon QST Spark Skis and the Atomic Bent 85 Skis are designed for all-mountain skiing, offering versatility and performance in various snow conditions. They both feature a twin tip design, allowing for freestyle maneuvers and tricks. Both skis are praised for their agility and ability to dampen vibrations, providing a smooth and enjoyable ride. They are also designed to be forgiving, making them suitable for skiers looking to progress and push their skills to new heights.

Differences and Who They're Good For

While both skis are versatile and perform well in various snow conditions, they each have their unique strengths and features that make them suitable for different types of skiers. The Salomon QST Spark Skis are particularly suitable for younger riders and those looking to progress on a modern freestyle ski. They offer a forgiving and floaty ride that is easy to ski on, making them a great choice for beginners and intermediate skiers.

On the other hand, the Atomic Bent 85 Skis are perfect for intermediate riders who enjoy park skiing and exploring natural features. They provide an agile ride with dampened vibrations, making them a great choice for skiers who value comfort and smoothness. They are also well-suited for skiers who want quick edge-to-edge transitions on hardpack.

Analysis on Who’s the Winner

In terms of versatility, both skis perform well in various snow conditions, but the Salomon QST Spark Skis have a slight edge due to their forgiving and floaty ride. For freestyle skiing, the Atomic Bent 85 Skis come out on top with their partial twin tip design and short turning radius. When it comes to comfort and smoothness, the Atomic Bent 85 Skis win with their ability to dampen vibrations. Finally, for progression and skill development, the Salomon QST Spark Skis are the clear winner with their forgiving ride and stability.

Conclusions

In conclusion, both the Salomon QST Spark Skis and the Atomic Bent 85 Skis are excellent choices for all-mountain skiing, each with their unique strengths and features. The Salomon QST Spark Skis are perfect for younger riders and those looking to progress on a modern freestyle ski, offering a forgiving and floaty ride. The Atomic Bent 85 Skis, on the other hand, are ideal for intermediate riders who enjoy park skiing and exploring natural features, providing an agile ride with dampened vibrations. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your personal preferences and skiing style. Happy skiing!

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