The 2020 Dynastar Legend X 106 is a unique ski at this width. For years, Dynastar has been playing around with their 5-point sidecut shape, and it seems to work really well for wider skis like this. Basically, wider skis used to have straighter shapes or else the tips and tails would get too wide. By lowering the widest point of the tip and raising the widest point of the tail, Dynastar was able to create a wide ski with a shorter radius, making it more accessible for more skiers. Additionally, this shape is highly maneuverable and fun to use in softer snow conditions. Built with a Paulownia wood core and a fiberglass reinforcement, the Legend X 106 has a simple yet effective build and a fun-loving shape. At the 182 cm length, the skis have a 17-meter turn radius, so they do prefer to be in a turn versus straight-lining. The tapered shape means quick turns, and this is especially helpful in tight trees like we have here at Stowe. They float and turn really well in manky, wet, and wind-affected snow due to the taper. Our testers loved the short-turn ability of these wider skis, and marveled at the playfulness and flotation that they could get out of the Legend X 106.
Parker Herlihy had a blast on the 182, but probably would prefer the 188 for a personal ski length. But for testing purposes, he found out all he needed to know out of the shorter size. His top marks of 4 out of 5 were given for flotation, maneuverability, and playfulness. These are right in line with what Dynastar set out to accomplish with this ski, and it sounds like they did a really nice job according to Parker. His lowest score was for torsional stiffness and edge hold, which is unsurprising given the soft-snow mentality of these skis. Parker notes that the Legend 106 is an “all-mountain hammer-down ski that loves peed and air. Due to the shape, they do ski short, but excel at mid-range turns versus full-chop pounding.” As far as a comparison, Parker declares that they are “quicker turning than a Volkl 100Eight.” We’re definitely seeing the benefits of having that shorter turn radius in terms of the quickness and maneuverability.
Phil McGrory hopped on the 188 and found it to be the right length. I’d guess that these two testers should have switched lengths, but it’s always interesting to see who likes what and why. Phil scored the ski a 5 out of 5 for flotation, and 4’s for stability, playfulness, versatility, and overall impression. These high scores fall right in step with the 106’s intended use, and it’s always nice to see when design and construction come to life in a positive and accurate manner. Phil calls the Legend X 106 a “wide platform ski with a shorter turn radius. Carves well for its width once on edge.” There aren’t a ton of ~106 mm skis that carve that well, so it’s interesting to note that the shorter radius does a good job of hooking up when on edge. As far as ability level, Phil marks the 106 as great skis for “high intermediate to advanced skiers.” Definitely a big range with these skis, as they’re light and easy to turn, but are better suited for more advanced terrain and snow conditions.
For those skiers looking to get into the deeper stuff, whether it’s bottomless powder or springtime mush, the 2020 Dynastar Legend X 106 is a great choice. For hard-chargers who are looking for full-throttle top-to-bottom runs, there’s better skis out there, but for medium speeds and shorter turns, there aren’t many more suitable options, especially when it comes to soft snow.
