2021 Blizzard Bonafide 97
The Bonafide 97 marks the latest update and adaptation of this iconic ski. This new version has proven to be the most versatile yet, while still retaining the power and stability that made the original Bonafide and all the preceding versions so popular. For 2021, we get Blizzard's new True Blend technology, in which they position higher density wood in specifically engineered spots alongside lower density wood. The amount and position of that higher density wood changes based on length, which enables Blizzard to custom tune the amount of stiffness in each length. Longer skis should be stiffer, right? Makes sense, but that's not often the case with traditional ski construction. Blizzard also uses two sheets of metal and an additional metal sheet just under the bindings, which sits on top of rubber. We still get tons of vibration damping and power, but the tips and tails are a little more compliant than ever before, which increases the versatility of this ski. We also get more length options, 5 instead of 4, with a shorter gap between lengths, which should help skiers hone in on what works best for them.
ROCKER PROFILE
Rocker / Camber / Rocker
CORE MATERIALS
Trueblend Flipcore
PREFERRED TERRAIN
All Mountain, Groomers, Powder
Bob St.Pierre, as well as a number of our testers, were lucky enough to test both the 183 and 189 cm lengths, the two most appropriate for his size. Remember, performance changes a little bit per length, which I suppose is true for any ski, but even more so with True Blend technology. High scores from Bob on the 189 cm length, all 4s and 5s! "The 189 is my jam! Much better for my size, with the new build making a big difference in terms of stability. Pretty quick in the bumps and a blast on the groomers. What a great update to the Bonafide! Great feel and a natural and intuitive personality." In contrast, his scores dropped a little on the 183 cm. "True Blend is the new thing and this makes the 183 ski a lot differently than the 189. The 183 felt a bit too precise and short, good for bumps and quick turns, but a bit balky when opened up." Regardless of which length he preferred, Bob "loved the new tips and tails, giving the ski a tad more skid and smear-ability than previous versions, but still very burly, especially underfoot."
Marcus Shakun was another tester who got to try both the 183 and 189 cm lengths. Based on his feedback, he too preferred the 189, which makes sense considering both Bob and Marcus are big guys. "This Bonafide is the most versatile version I have skied since the Bonafide came to fruition. The new construction has made it so much more versatile, especially within each length. In the longer length, I was a little worried about the maneuverability, but when I went into the bumps it was easy to maneuver and kinda forgiving in the shovel, which has not typically been a thing with the past versions. I see it for a variety of skiers now that you can ski it all over the mountain, especially now with the length options making it so much more versatile for skier preference. Edge hold and stability have never been a question with this ski. The ski was almost too powerful before. Now it's more versatile and maneuverable, and all that is made possible without sacrificing that power and stability the ski is known for." Kenan Van Vranken got on the 183 cm length and if you watch the video that goes along with this write-up, you can see him blasting carves through fresh snow conditions. "True to Austrian heritage, the Bonafide wants to charge. Wide open smooth groomers were a breeze with absolutely relentless edge grip. Through chop, the skis kept composure, though this demands a forward skiing style. For a lighter, more intermediate skier, the Bonafide remains a stretch."
It's pretty easy to say this new version of the Bonafide is the best yet. We've always been impressed with the ski, but the new True Blend construction and the changes to tip and tail shape and flex pattern is the refinement it needed. Still powerful, still makes other skis in the lift line cower in its presence, but it has a touch of forgiveness that was lacking in previous versions. That means it's easier to manipulate turn shape, easier to maneuver it, and more fun to take into variable off-piste conditions and tricky terrain. Great job, Blizzard. Just don't ever take away its limitless stability, please and thank you.
How big a difference between 2020 and 2021. Appears you really like the 2021 due to the changes.
Length – I am 5-11, 225 pounds, strong skier. Trying to decide between 177 vs 183 in the 2021 version
Versus 180 cm in the 2020 version. Thanks
Hi Dave!
This is where the 2021 stands out from previous years. You get to be on the 183! Adding that extra length makes a big difference for a lot of skiers. It’s more compliant than the 2020 skis, more lively, and better energy. Not quite as planky, and while some skiers liked that attitude about the Bonafide, I think a lot more will be able to access all of the goods that the 97 has to offer. I’m 6’2 220 and never really liked the ski previously, but the new one certainly has my attention. Companies are getting so good at refining skis, and in this case, basically custom-building each ski per length. I wasn’t crazy about the 183, but I got on the 189 and loved it. Hope you do too!
SE
I’m an advanced/expert skier but 71 years old. Ski 80-90 days a year at Jackson Hole. I’m 5-5 and 145 lbs. Do you think the 171 would be suitable for me? My daily driver the past few years has been the Kastle 105 BMX in a 172 (I think that’s the length).
Hi Clint!
Yes, as long as you feel like your BMX was appropriately sized, the 171 in the Bonafide should be awesome. Have fun!
SE
I have the original Bonafide (2011?) version in 173 and probably have 200 days.
I was considering getting a pair of the 2020 version due to being on sale but looking at your reviews for the 2021 version has changed my thinking. The last 2 years have found that my current ski was getting a little more difficult in shorter turns, tight terrain and bounced around but still awesome on the groomers and off into the crud.
I am 70 years old 5’8″ 165/170 lbs and ski 20 -25 times per year.
I was thinking that the 171 would be a good length for me as the changes in core and rocker would give some forgiveness in tighter slower turns. Thoughts ??
Hi Robert! Sounds like you’ve gotten your money’s worth out of those skis! It’s worthy to note that the ski underwent a change for 2018 as well, so you’re actually 2 generations behind at this point. The pre-2021 version also has a shorter turn radius with carbon added to the tips and tails for lightness, so if you’re interested in the 2018-2020 ski, that’s going to address some of those issues. The 2021 version takes it to the next level, and there is really something to that true blend technology, giving that 171 the appropriate amount of flex and quickness. Ideally, yes, I’d recommend that 171 in the 2021, but I think it’s worth thinking about the 173 in the pre-2021 model as well, even if just for fun! Take care.
SE
Thanks for you response and expertise
Should I even consider looking at the Nordica Enforcer 94/100 ?
Hi Robert!
A slightly different feel with the Nordica–perhaps a bit more woody versus the metallic Blizzard skis but still that same high-gear. I’d peg the Enforcer series skis to have more of a freeride influence while the Bonafide has more of that all-mountain/directional personality. I have a 2021 Enforcer 100 and love it–a total Cadillac out there on the hill, and while it requires some effort to make the quicker turns, I still love it. Hope that helps!
SE
Hello! Thanks for the great write up.
Regarding the comment on the Bonafide being a stretch for an intermediate, curious if you could expand on that. I’m an advanced intermediate from a technical perspective, but I’m aggressive in my runs. I want stability with speed on groomers, but also want the ability to jump into the glades with quick cuts. I’m generally in hardpack, but want something to get out west that can be fun in powder and the occasional time I’m off-piste.
I’ve heard amazing things about the bonafide, but worried it’s too much ski for my style. I was also thinking of going smaller at 171 to keep the playfulness (I’m 5’11” 170 lbs). I’m also considering the Volkl Mantra M5s. Your thoughts are appreciated!
Hi Rod!
Mostly, it comes down to being able to access the upper end performance of a ski like the Bonafide, when we refer to a ski being a stretch for an intermediate. It’s like buying an off-road truck and then keeping it on the pavement. Sure, you can drive it there, but you’re leaving a lot of the performance on the table. Similarly, the Bonafide is a high-performance SUV of a ski that takes both skill and aggressiveness to access the potential performance. They’re stiff and heavy and need to be driven properly. Now, your aggressiveness will take up some of the slack left by a void in technique, so you’re in a better spot than most advanced intermediates to access and unlock the performance of skis like the Bonafide or Mantra. Quick cuts and tight trees require more effort from the skier, so be prepared for that. Intermediates can surely ski the Bonafide, and have a blast on it, we just try to make sure the ski and the skill are a close match. While the 171 will get you quicker turns, the 177 is likely the proper size. Mantra is a bit more on-piste and carving-oriented, and another fantastic option in this category. Have fun!
SE
I have really enjoyed your reviews. I’d love you opinion on a new set of boards.
I’m 59 yrs old and have been skiing since I was 8, but hadn’t been out prior to 2020 for the past ten years due any number of life’s little gifts, lets say. Anyway, I consider myself an expert, the technique is still there, but age has definitely caught up in regards to quickness/reaction time and stamina. I ski in Tahoe so no champagne powder but it has its moments. Anyway, last year I’ picked up a pair of 2017/2018 Volkl Kendo at 177cm. Good ski on piste but maybe not the best off. I also feel it could be a bit longer at speed but that’s the old GS skis talking. Previous skis were 191 cm Volkl Vertigo Motion. Good all around skis but heavy as all @%&#. The ligaments in my knees felt strained just from weight from hanging off chairlifts with those things. Prior to that, and the advent of All Mountain or Freeride , it was GS skis in the 200+ cm range.
So I’m looking for, perhaps daily driver, something a little better off piste or in the chutes or trees when there is some fresh snow. The Kendos are fine on the groomers and hard pack. Your reviews have piqued my interest Enforcer 100 and Bonafide 97. The more “forgiving” Bonafide 97 sounds intriguing but I’m concerned it maybe it’s too similar the Kendos, just more so and all I’m changing is the width.
The Nordica Enforcer 100 sounds better off trail but is it really as powerful or stable at speed as you seem to make out? Even in the best days, I find there’s still a lot of ground to cover at speed from point A to B. I’d like to be able to let the ski run without worrying about too much chatter or edge grippiness.
Ideally I’d try and demo both, but with covid and/or potential restrictions, I’m not sure how practical that will be. Maybe I’m just trying to have my cake and eat it too?
Thanks for any feed back on the two candidates or other suggestions.
Jon
HI Jon!
As an Enforcer 100 owner, I’m pretty convinced that they are some of the best and most versatile skis out there today. On-trail, they are total Cadillacs–so smooth and stable, while remaining pretty darn quick for a 100 mm ski with two sheets of metal. I did enjoy the Bonafide 97, as the 2021 version is livelier than the older Bonafides, but still not as “freeride-y” as the Enforcer. Full disclosure: I also own an Enforcer 88, and use that most days here in VT, and take the 100 out when there’s snow on my car in the morning. I found the Kendo to be lighter and quicker than the Enforcer, but also more metallic, which I’m not a huge fan of, while the Enforcer has the dampness of metal, but is not sluggish. In that 100 range, there’s a lot of good stuff, but you’ll be hard-pressed to find a more capable 100 than the Enforcer. Have fun!
SE
Thanks, kinda confirmed my suspicion. I’m going to pull the trigger on the Enforcer. We’re supposed to have snow light snow Sat through Tues so hopefully I’ll try ’em early next week.
I am from Switzerland, so excuse my English. Alltough I will not be able to buy a ski from you I hope you will still help me with my question concerning the right size for me. I am a really good skier and for the moment I ski a race carver with a lenght of 161 cm (Kessler Ski, the swiss brand is more known for the snowboards). The problem is, the ski is really good on groomed or hard slopes, but for the rest…well, it is very hard work some times. Now I saw the Blizzard Bonafide 97, because you can ride it on much more terrain, like powder, slush or crud snow. What I like too, is the fact, that you can still do good carving. But I don’t know wich size is good for me. I am 5’9” and a 180 pounds. So I thought the 177cm would be perfect. But I am kind of scared since the radius of my ski today is around 11 to 12 meters and the 177 bonafide is 17 meters. Which size would you suggest? Thanks in advance Roland
HI Roland!
I still think the 177 is the proper length. Certainly a longer turn, but when you get wider, you have to go longer in the turn. The only real exception I can think of is the Line Blade, with a 95 mm waist and about a 15-meter arc in the 176. Have fun!
SE
I am 16, not yet fully grown. I am 168cm, should I get the 171cm or the 177cm to be safe for future?
HI Daniel!
I think the 177 would be pretty long, the 171 will be good for this year and at least the next. Have fun!
SE
I’m in my mid-50’s, skied as a kid and teenager. After 35 years off the slopes, I got my kids into it and now we ski 8-10 times a year. The kids are teens and borderline experts, fast chargers who love steep wide open runs with hard snow. Dad wants to keep up.
I’m an upper intermediate, like it steep, enjoy the speed but like a little more variety in my day. I’m 5’8” 155lbs, currently ski on Rossi Exp84’s 170cm. I feel like they get a little squirrelly at speed, especially late in the day when things are skied off/piled up. They seem to want to turn quickly, and the tails and shovel catch on piles/mush (I admit that could be a technique thing). We ski mostly NH and VT.
Thinking about the Bonafide in either 165 or 171. What do you guys recommend? Am I crazy? Is this too much ski for me?
HI Jared!
It’s a lot of ski. For a bit less of a ski, check out the Rossignol Experience 94, we have great deals on those right now! Blizzard Rustler 9 would be more fun than the BOnafide for sure. Have fun!
SE
Hi there. I am a strong skieur from the french alps, 6’2 and 200lbs, on the agressive and sporty side. I am all blizzard and I own quite a few pairs that I used depending on the conditions – I ski 60+ days a year. 188R11 is my daily driver on soft snow, with the 192 out for deeper days. For low tide days I love the brahmas 187, I am looking to add another pair since they are great on groomers/hardpack but a bit too narrow if it hadn’t snown for days and you want to venture out of the slopes. Looking for something a bit burlier and better at filtering the terrain, so I am curious abt the new 97. Mulling over the 183 vs 189 to get somethings more manoeuvrable for steeps, since I already have the brahmas to rip the slopes. From you experience which one shall I go for ? Or shall I move to the 185 Cochise instead ? Thank you !
HI TDYBRN!
I’m 6/3 220 and I preferred the 183 for maneuverability. I did not think I lost anything in terms of stability. If you have a Rustler 11, I’d avoid the Cochise due to overlap. Have fun!
SE
Hi Guys
Love your reviews. Trying to decide on the Bonafide 177 or 183cm and would appreciate your advice.
I am a ski instructor so I guess expert. Mid 50s, 81kg / 180lb and 5’11 / 180cm.
I had the old Bonafide in a 187 cm. Whilst I skied it happily off piste in all conditions (from crust to powder), I always thought it unnecessarily long and the extra length, rather than being needed, became cumbersome in crud / bumps. So I got rid of them to drop down a size.
So is a drop down to 183 enough (only 4cm) or would it be better to go down to 177 (too much?)?? Would love your views
FYI,
1. My piste ski is the Atomic X9 (stiff ski, 65mm underfoot) in a 175cm length and I will happily take that off piste in all conditions except deep powder obviously.
2. My touring ski is the Blizzard ZeroG 95 in a 185cm. Similarly I think the 178 (next size down) would be more nimble for skinning and may drop down
HI Alex!
I’m 6’2 225 and I’ve skied both the 183 and 189. In the Bonafide, I prefer the 189–I just felt the 183 was a bit too sharp of a turner for what the skis seem to want to do. I think your size and stats, combined with the fact that you’re used to the 187 puts you more in the 183 discussion over the 177. The newer build with the True Blend wood core is a bit more nimble and active I think, furthering my thought that the 183 is a good choice. Have fun!
SE
Thanks SE 😎
Good advice. Thank you
I’m a little torn. I felt the 187 unnecessarily long for no benefit. But a 4cm difference down to the 183 is very little. I’m wary of making a mistake and wonder if the 177 is all I need. Tricky
Alex,
keep in mind, too, that these skis are stable regardless of length, so you needn’t worry about that. To me, it’s more about having the turn shape line up better with my size. Interestingly, in the Brahma, I prefer the 183 to the 189, so go figure.
SE
Good advice. I’ve ordered the 183. When it comes to it, a ski that’s too short is dangerous and 183 is perfectly manageable. Tx and best for a good season hopefully 🙏
Thanks for the review. I’m looking for a every day ski for my son. He’s 17 1/2 years old, 6’1, 185 lbs, very strong skiier. Likes to get on his edges and go fast but also loves to power thru the trees. Skiis mostly VT for now but will be going out West more often as he’s getting older. Do you think this is a good daily ski for him? Should he go for the 183 as he continues to get bigger/heavier?
HI Alex! ‘
It’s certainly one of the stronger and more stable skis out there! Great for strong skiers in a variety of conditions and terrain. I’d go 183. Have fun!
SE
Hi guys, thanks for the comprehensive review and awesome work. Top Quality content here !
I’m a 5’6″, 185 lbs, aggressive freeride skier from the French Alps, skiing 60% groomer 40% everywhere else. Basically I go off-tracks anytime I can and I’m looking for a one ski quiver. I have a pair of 2014 Rossi squad 7 for the business days.
I have no doubts about the performance of the bonafides on hardpack / crud / tracked powder etc but I’d like to confirm how the skis perform on 10-15 inches of powder ==> My concern is the beefy construction and the possible lack of pop and “smearability” of the skis at low speed / in the trees. Could you give me some insights on this ?
I’m currently riding 189cm 2015 scott crusade for reference (I know it’s a long shot !) and I’m fairly happy with them, although I could use more edge grip on firmer snow, which the bonafide can surely provide.
I’m considering 183cm bonafides because I realised the 189cm of the crusade can be a handful in bumps and on narrow / steep (40°+) slopes
Thanks and keep up the awesome work !
Cheers
Thomas
Hi Thomas,
At 97 mm underfoot the Bonafides are quite capable floaters in the pow for a 10-12″ of snow, anything more you should be looking at a 100mm waisted ski at least. At your stats, going with the 183 will certainly help in the bumps and tight trees. More then enough stability at speed at length as well. Still powerful, still makes but it has a touch of forgiveness that was lacking in previous versions. That means it’s easier to manipulate turn shape, easier to maneuver it, and more fun to take into variable off-piste conditions and tricky terrain.
Go for it!
SE
Hi, love your reviews, I have gotten Bona Fides couple seasons now as rentals in Colorado and loved them, just skied the 97 version in 177 (it is the size they gave me), I am 6’2 220 lbs. My favorite is going fast on blues and blacks in Colorado , but my kids like to drag me into tree glades and some double blacks on occasion. I am an expert for Ohio/ East Coast skiing, and can handle most all trails out west but also now 52 years old and harder to get those super tight turns in the trees.
So my question is what size ski, I loved the 177 but should I go 183? My east coast ski are some 2008 Fischer Cool Heat size 175.
thanks very much
Hi Jeff,
I would stick to the 177 length. Plenty of ski to still handle speed, and you will get increased maneuverability and less swing weight for trees, tight spots and bumps. Your legs will thank you late afternoon as well!
SE
Appreciate the forum here. Another sizing question: I am 6’1 185lbs. Had the 2014 180cm Bonafides and loved them. Still have them but they have migrated to my son. All skis since have been 180ish Really considering the new 97 Bonafides, but stressing over whether to go a bit longer to 183 or shorter to 177. I am a moderately good skier, but not an expert. I have Völkl blaze 94 in 179 for softer days and picking my way around the mountain. Looking for a ski for hard/difficult conditions. Any advice which direction would be best?
Thanks!
hi Jeff,
Th Bonafide 97 is redesigned to be more user friendly and not as hard charging so you don’t have to be on your “A” game all the time. Brand new technology called TrueBlend is a cutting edge wood core technology that uses a variety of laminated wood stringers (beech, poplar, paulownia, and/or balsa woods), laid up in specific patterns to create stiffness underfoot, and forgiveness towards the extremities of the skis. Each ski, in each length, gets it’s own specially designed TrueBlend core, allowing the skis flex to be controlled very precisely. The result is a ski that wants to be skied hard but won’t take you for a ride if you get backset or want to make some more playful maneuvers. Skiers who might usually ride longer lengths could even size down if they wanted a more tame, slow-paced ride. I would size down to the 177cm length. More than enough ski for you, even with the more user friendly Trueblend tech.
Hope this helps!
SE
Last season I finally de–flexed my Rossignol Experience 100 HD ti 2017/18-189, it was a good all around ski and fast. Are the Bonafides–189 a good replacement for the rossi in the 100 width range? i would love to hear your thoughts and thanks—
Hi Eric!
I think the Bonafides could be a solid upgrade to the Experience 100 HD. With the Bonafide you have two full sheets of metal underfoot and a third sheet for the mounting area. What this all boils down to is a no nonsense all mountain charger that can hold an edge on the iciest of days and at the highest speeds. with such a high level of performance these skis will require more skier input and a higher degree of control and awareness than some other all mountain skis. You could also take a look at the Nordica Enforcer 100’s for a similar ski with a little less metal in it.
SE
“The 183 felt a bit too precise and short, good for bumps and quick turns, but a bit balky when opened up”
From my first hand experiene, I’d say this is pretty critical of the edge tune. I had the same issue with a 2016 Bonafide, as with the Bonafide 97. Off the factory, Blizzard tends to have some variation in the edge tunings, and my 97s were well below 1deg at the base edge. This made the very snappy in carving, but in variable soft/ice conditions, it was very hooky and tiring to ski.
At the first service and tuneíng the base edge was put to 1deg, which radically changed the behavior, and the ski became more consistent in variable conditions. Although it did loose a bit of carving tightness, too.