2021 Fischer Speedmax Skate

For Nordic racers looking to earn their spot on the podium this season, the Speedmax Skate from Fischer is ready for you. This is the top-of-the-line race skate ski from Fischer and boasts a plethora of technology, all designed to make you faster and more efficient. Every single detail of this ski is thoroughly engineered, including Fischer’s Gliding Sidewall. The actual sidewall of the ski can be waxed for levels of glide that will blow your socks off. The Air Core HM Carbon construction is over 80% air, resulting in an extremely lightweight feel that’s supported by highly modular carbon fibers. The finish quality is also top notch thanks to Fischer’s Cold Base Bonding and Finish First treatment. The skis hold wax exceptionally well, which will help you drop those precious seconds off your race time.

Jeff Neagle skied the 186 cm length in the medium flex pattern on the Speedmax Skate and loved it. He actually used that exact word, ending his feedback by saying “I would love to own a pair of these.” Jeff scored the Speedmax Skate 5 out of 5 for speed, glide, weight, and overall impression, with stability and maneuverability right behind with 4.5 out of 5. The only noticeable low score from Jeff was for versatility, which makes sense. The Speedmax Skate is built for one application: high performance skate skiing. Jeff found that there was a “noticeable difference between the RCS and the Speedmax.” He added that “they are, however, a little less forgiving than the RCS, so really best for someone racing, not someone skiing casually or recreationally.” Jeff makes a good point. If you’re not racing, there are plenty of other options that are still fast skis, but a little more comfortable for a recreational skier, like the RCS.

Carol Van Dyke also had an opportunity to test the Speedmax Skate and gave similar feedback and scores to Jeff. All 5s out of 5 for our criteria, with just versatility dropping to a lower score. “What can I say but I love expensive skis! Super light, handled beautifully even though a bit longer than my usual size.” Carol was on the 186 cm, which is one length longer than she would normally ski, but the lightweight feel allowed her to still thoroughly enjoy the Speedmax Skate. “Fast! Living up to its name. There is a reason why World Cup racers ski on these!”

Marcus Shakun opted for the 191 cm length for his testing and described the Speedmax Skate as a “super light and powerful ski. Stiffer ski, but light and damp. Even though it performed better on the firm snow, the dampness helped in softer snow. You could kind of push as you needed more rebound without wasting energy. More advanced skier would really appreciate this ski and its performance.” Marcus points out one of the benefits of skis of this caliber, their responsiveness. If you have good technique, you’ll love the way you can find speed and energy through subtle movements. If you’re still developing your technique, you’ll likely find this ski isn’t forgiving enough for you, as it truly is designed for the best of the best. That same responsiveness can be a bit of handful for an intermediate level skier.