2021 Blizzard Black Pearl 88

For the 2021 ski season, the Blizzard Black Pearl 88 is back with some substantial updates. First, we get more length options that are closer together, enabling skiers to more easily choose the length that's right for them. It's less likely you'll feel like you're falling between sizes, in other words. Second, we get Blizzard's new True Blend construction technology. The easiest way to think about True Blend is to imagine small, short strips of denser wood laminated within the existing core of less dense wood. The denser wood is specifically applied based on length. Longer lengths have more of it, extending further to the tip and tail, while shorter lengths have less. That's simplifying things a little bit, but the idea is to make the longer lengths a little stiffer, thus more appropriate for a heavier, more aggressive skier. Shorter lengths will be more approachable for less aggressive skiers. It all makes a lot of sense, but interestingly isn't something we've really seen before. The over-arching theme of the Black Pearl 88 still remains the same, it's a well-rounded all-mountain ski that can handle a variety of terrain.

Allison Ruschp got to test the 165 cm length, which falls in the middle of a range of 6 different lengths. Having 6 length options for a ski is a lot, it's pretty darn cool. Alli gave the Black Pearl 88 a lot of high scores, just about all 4s and 5s out of 5, except for flotation, which dropped to 3. "Improved edge hold and stability from previous versions, although slightly less forgiving." This is really interesting feedback, although keep in mind Alli likely wouldn't have felt the same way if she had dropped down to the 159 cm length. Remember, True Blend is going to have a different effect on each length's performance. "2-3 inches on test day. Not amazing flotation, but tip shape does go over most." The Black Pearl 88 isn't intended to be a powder ski, but Alli's right in the sense that the smooth taper and rocker in the tip can handle some softer snow conditions just fine.

Keely Kelleher decided the 171 cm length was right for her, and judging by her scores, it certainly is. 5 out of 5 scores for stability, quickness/maneuverability, forgiveness, torsional stiffness/edge hold, versatility, and overall impression. Those are impressive scores and tell the story of a very well-rounded all-mountain ski. "The Black Pearl 88 is an all around versatile and fun ski. I found it easy to go from groomer to chopped up snow because of the ski's stability. I felt like I could ski anything in control and had a great time going from long to short turns. Had a blest testing this ski in all types of terrain and felt comfortable the entire time." The Black Pearl 88 has made a name for itself for being a go-to ski for a lot of women due to its versatility and approachable, comfortable performance, and it's nice to know that hasn't changed, although it does sound like this new version has increased stability, especially in these longer lengths. Ariel Aidala went for the 159 cm length, which she thought was perfect for her size and ability level. More high scores from Ariel, nothing but 4s and 5s, with mostly 5s. "Not the play favorites, but the Black Pearl 88 is an amazingly versatile ski. A do it all, little black dress in an honestly confusing all-mountain category. It's hard picking a ski in this category that fits your needs and honestly the Black Pearl 88 is a great choice for an intermediate to expert skier who is looking for something that excels on groomers and does well off-piste and in trees too."

We're perfectly okay with Ariel playing favorites. Over the years, a lot of skiers have found a favorite in the Black Pearl 88, and it seems as though that trend will likely continue. Our testers and all of us here at SkiEssentials.com are pretty psyched about this new version and love the fact you can customize performance based on length choice more than ever before. Of course, if you need help deciding what length works best for your skiing, get in touch with us and we'd be happy to help!