Salomon has updated their collection of XDR all mountain skis for 2019 with their newest version of CF/X Superfiber, a blend of carbon and flax fibers that has been proven to boost a ski’s energy and vibration damping all at the same time. The XDR 80 still uses a partial metal laminate that Salomon refers to as a Ti Power Plate, and all of this construction is sandwiched around a poplar wood core. While Salomon refers to it as an all mountain ski, the XDR 80 is arguably more of a versatile frontside carving ski just based on its waist width and the category we think it falls into. Compared to other skis in this waist width range, the XDR 80 Ti uses a little more tip and tail rocker and also more early taper in the tip and tail, which helps improve its versatility and maneuverability in softer snow conditions.
David Wolfgang tested the 176 cm length, but mentioned that he “would go with the 183 cm” if he were to buy a pair. That makes sense considering David’s height and weight, the 183 cm seems more appropriate. David described them as “very quick edge to edge” and thought they “transition easily from quick turns to wider arcs.” We think that has a lot to do with the shape of the XDR 80 Ti and the fact that the tips and tails are a little softer than the rest of the ski as the metal tapers and ends before it reaches the tip and tail. It allows you to manipulate the ski and play with turn shape more easily than on traditional carving skis, by a long shot.
Charlie Roy also tested the 176 cm length and gave the XDR 80 Ti 4 out of 5 for quickness, playfulness, and forgiveness. Charlie is a professional ski instructor and it was really interesting to get his reaction to the XDR 80 Ti. “This ski is perfect for those that want to ski the whole mountain, but don’t need a lot of speed. They have a surfy smooth feeling to them that makes them very forgiving. That being said, they can still leave trenches. The tip of the ski feels very floaty, like a surfboard.” We think that is an absolutely perfect description of the ski. At its heart it’s still a carving ski, but they have ability in soft snow and a level of forgiveness that few manufacturers can match.
Marcus Shakun really thought he needed a longer length. He tested the 176 cm, which is short for Marcus’ size. “Ski was too short for me. Wasn’t stable at high speeds, definitely would ski a longer length.” While part of the instability Marcus was feeling is definitely due to the length, it’s true that the XDR 80 Ti isn’t the stiffest, strongest, most stable ski out there. Marcus recommended it for “advanced to expert skier who likes making short turns and doesn’t always want to feel committed. It’s more relaxed than a lot of carving skis, allowing for a more casual skiing experience at times.
Hans von Briesen described the XDR 80 Ti as “a narrow all mountain ski. It does carve well, but behaves more like an all mountain ski than an exclusive carver.” Hans hit the nail on the head there. It’s much more versatile than most carving skis. He also described the ski as “well behaved, obedient, fun, reliable, and confidence inspiring,” all of which we think are very accurate ways to describe it.
For skiers who value firm snow performance and like to link carving turns, but want a more versatile ski than traditional carvers, the XDR 80 Ti is a fantastic choice. It’s not overly aggressive, not too demanding, but still performs at a high level thanks to the advanced construction techniques and Salomon’s attention to detail in the design and construction process.
