The Nordica Navigator 80 is often overlooked, simply because it hits a really low price point at $399. The mindset of a lot of skiers is that a ski this affordable probably doesn’t perform at a high level, but the Navigator 80 is quite impressive. It uses the same wood core and Hex Titanium Bridge found in all the Navigator models. That grid of metal provides vibration damping and some stability, but is much lighter than full sheets of metal, which makes the ski easier and more approachable. The shape of the tip is designed for versatility and easy turn initiation, while the flatter, squared-off tail has a preference for carving. This positions the Navigator 80 as a relatively relaxed, yet responsive and fun all mountain carving ski. All of our testers were on the 179 cm Navigator 80.
Marcus Shakun thinks it’s an “overall impressive ski.” Marcus has a lot of experience with ski pricing and is really impressed by the price point of the Navigator 80. He commented that it’s a “value packed performance ski,” and expanded on that by adding, “for such a value ski it performs well beyond any ski in the category at this price point.” It’s true. There really isn’t too much competition for the Navigator 80. For a ski that’s under $400 it has high-end construction and impressive performance. Marcus described it as “very lively and energetic when driven and pushed.” He thought it would make a “great ski for solid intermediates to less aggressive advanced skiers.”
Hans von Briesen had a lot of fun on the Navigator 80, but did find that it had certain limitations. “It is fun, but does not exude confidence at speed.” Fair enough, Hans. For those looking to ski hard and fast, the wider Navigators will feel a little more stable at speed. Then of course there is the Enforcer series as well, so there’s definitely room for a ski like the Navigator 80. Hans found that he could manipulate turn shape quite easily commenting that “I can push it around and make it do me favors,” which is a huge benefit for intermediate or less experienced skiers. Hans’ “final word: fun, safe ski for a mellow skier.”
Charlie Roy thought it was “on the light side for bigger or hard-charging skiers,” but really described the intended skier with some detail. Charlie is a full time ski instructor, so he has a lot of experience with skiers of varying ability levels. “I think this ski is perfect for those who aren’t real aggressive, but still like to ski the whole mountain. It’s very maneuverable and fun, just doesn’t love really high speeds.” Again, if you’re charging the whole mountain at Mach 5 there are more stable, more appropriate skis, but the Navigator 80 is very, very impressive at that $399 price point.
David Wolfgang, always focused on ski value as the owner of SkiEssentials.com, thought that “at $399 price point this ski is not only a winner, but a bargain.” David really likes the Navigator collection in general, mentioning that “I have not met a Navigator ski I did not like,” and we think a lot of skiers will agree with David. The line in general has such a nice level of performance for a wide range of skiers, and this Navigator 80 and its impressively low price is mind-boggling.
We encourage anyone looking for an all mountain ski to consider the Navigator collection. Of course, it might not be the right ski for you, but we think the Navigator series is going to start to catch on more in the 2019 season than it did in its inaugural year. The Navigator 80, specifically, will make a ton of skiers happy, and it will keep a few more dollar bills in your pocket for those lift tickets and lunches.
