In the world of skiing, the Völkl Kendo 88 Skis and the Elan Wingman 86 CTI Fusion X Skis + EMX 12 GW Fusion X Bindings are two top contenders for the 2024 season. Both skis are designed for advanced skiers who crave versatility and precision on the slopes. The Völkl Kendo 88 Skis are praised for their fast edge-to-edge performance and their ability to handle both groomed runs and off-piste terrain. The Elan Wingman 86 CTI Fusion X Skis, on the other hand, are known for their unique Amphibio design and Titanal metal layer, which provide a balance of precision and playfulness. While both skis are excellent choices, the final verdict will depend on your personal skiing style and preferences.

Völkl Kendo 88 Skis · 2024 summary

The Völkl Kendo 88 Skis are a force to be reckoned with on the slopes. These skis are designed for speed and precision, making them a top choice for advanced skiers. The Kendo 88 is a directional, frontside, on-piste, freeride ski that is incredibly fast from edge to edge. The 3D turn radius is intuitive and versatile, allowing for both long, GS, fall line, arc style turns and tighter turns in bumps or on groomed runs.

The Kendo 88 features a unique 3D radius sidecut, which in the 184 length, has a 31m turn radius in front of the foot, a 17m turn radius under the foot, and a 26m turn radius in the back. This design creates an easy turning ski that is perfect for carving. The ski also has a multilayer wood core, a bit of carbon fiber weave in the tip, and a tailored titanal frame, which all contribute to its stability, dampness, and responsiveness.

While the Kendo 88 is not classified as a freestyle ski, it does have a good amount of pop and a little early rise in the tail, making it possible to ski switch on groomed runs. However, it is not recommended for skiing switch on ungroomed runs or powder. The Kendo 88 performs well in uneven terrain, moguls, chop, and trees, but it is not the best choice for deep powder due to its narrower waist and lack of early rise.

The Völkl Kendo 88 Skis are recommended for intermediate to advanced level skiers who primarily stay on groomed trails. They are not the best choice for beginners or for those looking for a ski that performs well both on and off trail.

Elan Wingman 86 CTI Fusion X Skis + EMX 12 GW Fusion X Bindings · 2024 summary

The Elan Wingman 86 CTI Fusion X Skis + EMX 12 GW Fusion X Bindings are a versatile carving ski that is perfect for skiers who want a mix of on-piste and off-piste performance. The Wingman 86 CTI is the widest ski in the Wingman series, making it a great option for those who want to explore off-piste but still want a ski that performs well on groomers.

Elan built the Wingman to be a carving ski with an all-mountain problem. It uses the same Amphibio design as the Ripstick, meaning Elan packs more carbon into the inside edge of each ski in order to increase edge grip on the downhill ski, allowing this ski to rip clean, precise turns. It does have a layer of Titanal metal in it, but unlike a lot of other carving skis, the Titanal runs like a backbone down the middle of the ski, which lets the edges retain some play. The result is a carving ski that isn't too stiff and isn't too demanding, but is still confident and stable.

The Wingman prefers medium radius turns along with the occasional venture off-piste; in short, it's a carving ski for skiers who don't like carving skis. It's a versatile ski that can handle both groomers and powder, and it's agile and quick edge-to-edge, making it great for moguls as well.

Similarities

Both the Völkl Kendo 88 Skis and the Elan Wingman 86 CTI Fusion X Skis are designed for advanced skiers who want a versatile, all-mountain ski. They both excel at carving and offer quick edge-to-edge transitions. Both skis also feature unique design elements that enhance their performance on the slopes. The Kendo 88 has a 3D turn radius for intuitive and versatile turning, while the Wingman 86 CTI features Elan's Amphibio design for increased edge grip and precise turns. Both skis are agile, stable, and confident at high speeds, making them great choices for skiers who love to push their limits.

Differences and Who They're Good For

While both skis are designed for advanced skiers, they cater to slightly different personas. The Völkl Kendo 88 Skis are ideal for skiers who primarily stay on groomed trails and enjoy a fast, edge-to-edge ski. They are not the best choice for beginners or for those looking for a ski that performs well both on and off trail. On the other hand, the Elan Wingman 86 CTI Fusion X Skis are perfect for skiers who want a mix of on-piste and off-piste performance. They are a carving ski for skiers who don't like carving skis, offering a balance of precision and playfulness.

Analysis on Who’s the Winner

When it comes to versatility, the Elan Wingman 86 CTI Fusion X Skis take the lead. They offer a balance of on-piste and off-piste performance, making them a great choice for skiers who want to explore all areas of the mountain.

In terms of carving performance, both skis excel, but the Völkl Kendo 88 Skis have a slight edge due to their 3D turn radius, which allows for intuitive and versatile turning.

For stability and confidence at high speeds, both skis perform well. However, the Elan Wingman 86 CTI Fusion X Skis may have a slight advantage due to their Titanal metal layer, which provides extra stability.

Finally, for agility and quick edge-to-edge transitions, both skis are excellent choices. However, the Völkl Kendo 88 Skis may be slightly more agile due to their fast edge-to-edge performance.

Conclusions

In conclusion, both the Völkl Kendo 88 Skis and the Elan Wingman 86 CTI Fusion X Skis are excellent choices for advanced skiers. The Völkl Kendo 88 Skis are perfect for skiers who primarily stay on groomed trails and enjoy a fast, edge-to-edge ski. The Elan Wingman 86 CTI Fusion X Skis, on the other hand, are ideal for skiers who want a mix of on-piste and off-piste performance. They offer a balance of precision and playfulness, making them a carving ski for skiers who don't like carving skis. Ultimately, the best ski for you will depend on your personal skiing style and preferences. So, whether you're a speed demon who loves to carve or an all-mountain explorer, there's a ski out there for you. Happy skiing!