The new V-Shape line from Head is turning, um, heads. Poised to take on the likes of the RTM series of Volkl similar products, the V-Shape V6 sits in the middle of the series line in terms of width and performance. At 78 mm underfoot and with a 13.5 meter turn radius, it plants itself squarely in the front side carver category. If you spend the vast majority of your time on groomed, smooth trails, then the V-Shape V6 is certainly worth a look. Our testers found some real positives in the quick and nimble nature of the skis, as well as the playful character. It’s certainly one of the more beginner to intermediate level skis of the test, and that should be noted in the testers quotes and scores.
Jamie Bisbee skied the 170 cm length and scored it 5 out of 5 for quickness and maneuverability. He called it “an easy short turn ripper with a huge sweet spot. It does have a speed limit but it remains playful!” He also went on to note that, in terms of the ability level, it is “not for heavier strong skiers.” Jamie is strong, but not particularly heavy, and he seemed to enjoy himself on the V-Shape V6 regardless of ability level.
Jake Inger found the 170 cm ski that he tested to be a bit short, hence the high scores for quickness, maneuverability, and forgiveness. A skier like Jake, even though he’s not heavy either, could bend this ski pretty good if he wanted to, but was able to sit in the middle of the thing and really enjoy it for what it is: “Very fun ski! Great for an intermediate skier. Skis like a slalom ski but not as stiff. Light and carves well. Can even straight-line well!” As far as the rebound of the skis go, Jake calls them “poppy out of corners.” It’s great to get some good feedback from the skis, and the more energy you put in, the more you’ll get out.
Also skiing the 170, Devin Gleason had a similar reaction as Jake to the short-natured behavior of the skis. His highest scores were for (predictably) quickness, maneuverability, and playfulness. He calls them “great for a beginner” and notes that they “hold a nice edge.” Beginners and intermediates are so lucky these days. They have a ton of models to choose from that are all really easy and fun to ski on!
Charlie Roy hops on that train and calls the V-Shape V6 “great for the beginner right through a lighter advanced skier. The ski has a nice planted feeling and loves to make short turns, but is surprisingly comfortable at speed as well. The large shovel makes turn entry very easy and smooth, regardless of turn shape and speed.” This is some really nice feedback from Charlie, who obviously looked at and tested the ski as if he were the intended audience.
Michael Rooney also echoes Charlie’s points about the V-Shape V6 being a great ski for that beginner to intermediate range. “The V-Shape V6 is just what the new intermediate skier wants. It helps them make turns and is ready when you really carve. It goes through the chunks of snow with no problem. This ski is a lot of fun to ski on in any terrain. A big surprise about this ski is how well it damps down vibrations.” Michael makes a great point, that having a fun ski that reacts to your input is a really important tool to have in your belt. He also notes that this damping nature makes skiing “in any terrain and conditions so much more fun and easier to do.”
Great feedback from all of our testers in regards to the all-new Head V-Shape V6. For aspiring beginners all the way up through accomplished intermediates, the V6 is ready and willing to handle and process all of your input.
