2021 Blizzard Sheeva 10

The Sheeva 10 is back for 2021 with just a topsheet graphic update, and given its performance and success, that's just fine with us. It's a superbly versatile ski that kind of blurs the line between all-mountain and freeride in terms of what category it falls in, but regardless of what title we give it, it's a heck of a lot of fun to ski. Its shape does lean at least a little bit towards soft snow use, and realistically if you're not looking for some soft snow performance you don't need to be looking this wide, but it also has good stability and bite underfoot. Blizzard uses their Carbon Flipcore DRT construction and shape to achieve this performance. Camber underfoot is supported by a metal laminate that tapers and ends as it reaches the tips and tails of the ski, leaving the rockered portion of the ski lighter and softer flexing. Those tips and tails also increase float, which is already pretty good considering the 102 waist width, and that gives the Sheeva 10 strong abilities in softer snow conditions. Wide enough and with enough float to act as a powder ski for a lot of skiers.

Caroline Kessler tested the 172 cm length, which she did mention felt a little short. There is a 180 cm option in the Sheeva 10, and with Caroline's ability level, we wouldn't be surprised if she preferred that length. That didn't stop her from giving it some high scores, however, including 5 out of 5 for flotation and versatility, with quickness/maneuverability, playfulness, and forgiveness not far behind at 4 out of 5. "Lightweight, playful ski. Quick turning and fun to play around on, especially in woods and bumps. Edge hold is good too." Blizzard did a great job blending playfulness with edge grip and stability in the Sheeva line and it shows. You also get really good float and soft snow performance with the 102 mm waist and tip and tail rocker. For a lot of skiers, especially those on the east, the Sheeva 10 could be a good choice for a powder ski. "Tips float, great ski for most all-mountain skiers, especially those who like woods and off-piste terrain."

Kelsey Boleski felt the same way about the 172 cm length. It felt okay, but she also thought she could've gone longer. That said, it certainly seems Kelsey enjoyed the performance as the gave the Sheeva 10 the full 5 out of 5 treatment in our scoring. Her written feedback? Simple, but one of the best compliments a ski can receive. "One ski quiver for any level skier." We'd add that the Sheeva 10 might be a bit much for a beginner or low intermediate, but Kelsey is right in the sense that a wide range of skiers can get on it and enjoy it. Allison Ruschp also hopped on the 172 cm length and scored the Sheeva 10 5 out of 5 for flotation and 4 out of 5 for just about every other category, some solid scores. "For ladies that like to end their turns with a smear. 172 cm was a bit long for me. If I was out west it wouldn't be too long, but in Vermont I'd want a shorter length for skiing the trees." Good recommendation from Alli. The Sheeva 10 is the type of ski where a lot of skiers could potentially ski multiple lengths. Consider the terrain and snow conditions you ski most often when deciding what's right for you.

Overall, the Sheeva 10 is a fantastic ski that's extremely versatile. Its highlight is probably its maneuverability and float in soft snow conditions, but its edge grip and bite underfoot it still substantial. It truly is a ski that can handle just about everything, so grab it out of your garage in the morning and head to the hill knowing you're well prepared for anything you encounter.