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Salomon X-Max Ski Test Results 2016 Review
September 16, 2015The Good
- Great short radius turn performance
- Super grip on ice
- Very stable
- Responsiveness
- Easy to initiate
The Bad
- Easy to over ski
- Needs to be in a turn all the time
- Better for skiers who like drive, rather than ride a ski
While the majority of our testers loved the stability, easy to intiate carve and turn shape variability of Salomon's X-Max, a few others said that if you don't like to make a lot of short swing turns, then this is a ski you really won't like.
Several of our testers gave Salomon’s X-Max “Excellent” ratings, while one even dubbed it his “Favorite.” The reason? The ski’s remarkably easy turn initiation and ability to arc perfect slalom turns on the hardest of hardpack. Its damp feel and reliable edge hold made it a pleasure to ski right down the steepest of fall-lines, and also offered the ability to drop into some longer GS turns, albeit with a little more focus.
For some, that penchant for quick turns also meant you could easily overski the X-Max. For bigger skiers especially, pressuring the shovel too aggressively sometimes felt as if it might edge the ski to a complete stop. Although not for GS “riders” who like to flow down the mountain, this is a perfect pick for skiers who love to work each arc.