The Firebird HRC is one of the newest additions to Blizzard’s top-of-the-line carving ski collection. Its turn radius splits the difference between the SRC and WRC coming in at 15 m in the 174 cm length. It also uses a multi-radius sidecut design, allowing for different turn shapes easier than with a single-radius sidecut. It’s also wider than the SRC and WRC at 76 mm underfoot. This wider width and its multi-radius dimensions make it arguably the most versatile ski amongst all the Firebird options. It still boasts the same race construction as the WRC and SRC, utilizing two sheets of titanal sandwiched around a full wood core. Blizzard also uses Carbon Armor and Carbon Spine, two different carbon applications designed to enhance difference parts of the turn.
Mike Thomas thought it was a “really fun ski!” He tested the 182 cm Firebird HRC, which is the longest length available. Mike gave it high scores: 5 out of 5 for stability, torsional stiffness/edge grip, and overall impression. Quickness/maneuverability and playfulness both came in with 4s out of 5. “This is kind of versatile for a race-like ski. I really enjoy the feel Blizzard gets from their skis. Torsionally strong, but smooth and buttery in longitudinal flex. This would be a great ski for a hard snow addict who likes technically sound turns. Perfect for an upper-level ski instructor.” That’s great feedback from Mike. He clearly noticed the more versatile nature compared to traditional carving skis, and we like the concept of it being a good choice for a ski instructor. You can make a lot of different turns on it, which would allow an instructor to demonstrate different turn techniques on firm snow.
Justin Perry was a huge fan of the Firebird HRC after some test runs on the 174 cm length. “This ski blew my mind!” That was the first comment from Justin, which was reflected in his high scores of 5 out of 5 for stability, quickness/maneuverability, torsional stiffness/edge grip, and overall impression. Justin noticed the smaller turn shape compared to the WRC and commented that he “felt more confident on ice than ever before.” Blizzard achieves fantastic torsional stiffness and edge grip in their skis, something that Justin really benefitted from. We also know from our video footage that Justin got to test this on a really firm morning, perfect conditions to test edge grip.
Marcus Shakun scored the Firebird HRC 5 out of 5 for every single criterion except forgiveness after testing the 182 cm length. A ski with a full wood core, two sheets of metal, and carbon isn’t going to be very forgiving, so that’s not surprising. “One ski to do it all on the frontside. Can do a variety of turn shapes. Not quite a slalom turn nor a full GS turn. Snappy and energetic in and out of every turn. The more you push it, the better it gets.” Marcus recommended it for an “advanced to expert skier that wants it all.”
Steve Sulin found his new beer-league race ski in the Firebird HRC. Steve skied the 174 cm length and scored it 5 out of 5 for stability, quickness/maneuverability, torsional stiffness/edge hold, and overall impression. Steve described it as “powerful, smooth, and damp” with “no speed limit.”
The Firebird HRC is clearly a valuable addition to the Firebird collection. Our testers had an absolute blast on it and it’s nice having a wider width option with the same level of performance. Slightly more appropriate in softer snow conditions than the SRC and WRC and the multi-radius sidecut allows for a whole bunch of different turns. Bottom line: it absolutely rips and is a little more versatile than most frontside carving skis this powerful.
