Salomon X-Drive 8.8 FS Review
October 13, 2016
90 The Good
- Great carver
- Feels light and easy to move
- Solid edge-hold
- Very versatile
- Super easy to initiate
The Bad
- It's possible to over turn
- Not the best at higher speeds
- Does not dampen out all vibrations
- Needs to be on edge
- Best for skiers who like to make a lot of turns
Salomon's X-Drive 8.8 FS was a bit hit with our testers for its razor ready edge-hold, pure carving pleasure, and its versatility both on and off the groomed. This ski needs to be on edge, and lost a little performance at the highest speeds. Best for technical skiers who will be rewarded with excellent control.
The Salomon X-Drive 8.8 FS may be the purest carving ski in this whole category. Featuring a mix of the brand’s X-Chassis Construction and a Light Density Full Wood Core, it manages to have a light, lively feel with excellent edge hold. This ski feels downright exciting underfoot, cranking out short to medium radius turns with ease. As one tester said, “It has a crisp, poppy feel and is versatile as hell.”
It was not the top scoring ski at high speeds, where vibrations could be an issue. And despite the versatility, some testers felt they could overturn the 8.8 if they drove it too hard at the top of a carve. Overall, it’s an excellent all-purpose ski that will provide a daily confidence boost for technical skiers who love to carve.
Peter Kray
- PublisherPeter Kray is a co-founder of the Gear Institute, and a longtime specialist in the testing of skis, snowboards and outdoor equipment.
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