Review: Blizzard Rustler 9 Skis · 2023
By Ski Expert
Joe D
Blizzard Rustler 9 Skis · 2023
$390.00
$780.00
50% off
7 photos
The Curated Take
4.6/5
The Blizzard Rustler 9 Skis are ideal for intermediate to advanced skiers seeking a versatile, all-mountain ski that excels in most terrains, especially on groomers and in moderate fresh snow. While not ideal for deep powder or high-speed skiing, their playfulness, ease of turns, and surprisingly good carving abilities make them a standout choice. They are particularly well-suited for East Coast skiers or those in the West who stick to groomed runs. With a waist width of 92-94mm, they offer great versatility and are durable, making them a reliable one-ski quiver option.
Ideal for
- Performs well in most terrains
- Stands out due to its playfulness
- Great carver for the mid-width all-mountain category
Not ideal for
- Not the best in deep snow
- High-speed skiers might want something stiffer
Durability
They show little signs of wear after about 25-30 days on the Rustler 9. There are just a few small scratches on the topsheet, but structurally, they look almost brand...Read more
High Speed Stability
The Rustler 9 is ideal for what most skiers would consider high speed. It handles speed well with carbon up in the tips and metal through about three-fourths of the...Read more
Flotation
The Rustler 9 comes in at 92mm for the smaller lengths and goes up to 94mm underfoot for the longer lengths. It is enough to handle some fresh snow, but...Read more
Turn Ease
One of the best things about the Rustler is that a wide range of skiers can use it. It is not too much ski for an intermediate-level skier looking to...Read more
Playfulness
This ski is pretty playful. It really shines in the trees and in the bumps for me. The way Blizzard laid out the titanal in this softens up the tips...Read more
Carving
I am impressed with the performance of the Rustler 9 on groomers. The metal layout in the ski is full underfoot and tapers toward the tips and tails. This helps...Read more
Versatility
The Rustler 9 is a great one-ski quiver option. For people on the East Coast, I think the 92mm-94mm waist is all they need for most conditions. If skiing out...Read more
Curated Experts are not sponsored by brands. Their reviews are based on their honest experiences testing products.
Joe D
About the ski gear
- Model: Blizzard Rustler 9 Skis · 2023
Test conditions
- When I bought these: September 2022
- Where I’ve used them: Northeast
- How many times I've used it: 25
Expert Reviews of the Blizzard Rustler 9 Skis
Joe D The 2023 Rustler 9 can be a one-ski quiver for someone on the East Coast, without a doubt. It is a great option for those out West who stick to groomers, and it can handle some fresh snow, too. It is one of the top all-mountain options for intermediate to advanced-level skiers who are searching for a versatile ski that can perform on almost all terrain and conditions. The Rustler 9 stands out in the mid-width all-mountain category because of its playfulness. This ski is just fun to ride anywhere I take it. Off-piste or on some fresh snow is where it really shines.
Product Specs
| Age Group | Adult |
| Gender | Men's |
| Includes bindings | No |
| Model year | 2023 |
| Ski type | Freeride |
| Skill level | Intermediate, Advanced |
Review Ratings
Durability
5/5
Joe D gave 5 of 5 stars. They show little signs of wear after about 25-30 days on the Rustler 9. There are just a few small scratches on the topsheet, but structurally, they look almost brand new. I have always trusted Blizzard as a high-quality brand, and the Rustler seems pretty bombproof after a few dozen days on it.
High Speed Stability
4/5
Joe D gave 4 of 5 stars. The Rustler 9 is ideal for what most skiers would consider high speed. It handles speed well with carbon up in the tips and metal through about three-fourths of the ski. The metal in it does not extend up to the tip, so those pushing it may want to consider something a little stiffer.
Flotation
4/5
Joe D gave 4 of 5 stars. The Rustler 9 comes in at 92mm for the smaller lengths and goes up to 94mm underfoot for the longer lengths. It is enough to handle some fresh snow, but if someone is looking for a true powder ski, they will want to consider going up to the Rustler 10 or Rustler 11.
Turn Ease
5/5
Joe D gave 5 of 5 stars. One of the best things about the Rustler is that a wide range of skiers can use it. It is not too much ski for an intermediate-level skier looking to upgrade to a higher-level ski. The rocker in the tips makes turn initiation easy. The tapered metal also softens the tips up a little.
Playfulness
5/5
Joe D gave 5 of 5 stars. This ski is pretty playful. It really shines in the trees and in the bumps for me. The way Blizzard laid out the titanal in this softens up the tips and tails of the ski. It is on the lighter side, given its construction. Having no metal towards the front and back gives it a lighter weight.
Carving
4/5
Joe D gave 4 of 5 stars. I am impressed with the performance of the Rustler 9 on groomers. The metal layout in the ski is full underfoot and tapers toward the tips and tails. This helps give the Rustler great edge hold. I feel locked in and fully trust the ski once it is on edge.
Versatility
5/5
Joe D gave 5 of 5 stars. The Rustler 9 is a great one-ski quiver option. For people on the East Coast, I think the 92mm-94mm waist is all they need for most conditions. If skiing out West, I see the need for a little more width for the deeper days. The Rustler feels at home in almost every condition and terrain I've skied it with.
FAQs
What do you love about this product?
Joe D I love the versatility. I know when I bring these to the mountain, they will be the right choice regardless of conditions.
Why did you choose this product?
Joe D I wanted a mid-width all-mountain option that was not overly aggressive. I demoed them at the end of the prior year and loved how playful they were.
