2021 Liberty Genesis 90

For 2021, the Liberty Genesis 90 returns unchanged except for a fresh new graphic. In the 158, the skis generate a 13-meter turn radius, so these skis like to be on edge. It's crazy how a 90 mm ski underfoot is now considered "narrow" by a lot of skiers, and the fact that it occupies the narrow slot in the Genesis model line shows that a lot has changed in the ski industry in terms of shaping over the years. From steeps and bumps to trees and groomers, the 90 is all about fun and versatility. While the skis are mainly cambered in profile, they've still got a bit of rocker in the tips and tails built in, but not as much as the wider skis of the Genesis family. Additionally, less taper in the shape makes it better for on-trail performance and carving-especially with that tighter radius. As a result of this build and shape, the skis are very quick from edge to edge. The construction is more freeride-oriented than the shaping and profile, as the Genesis skis see a bit softer and more flexible wood in the core on the outer sections-almost like a frame. While the men's Origin skis have just bamboo and poplar, the Genesis models have paulownia on the outer portions of the skis, and that is better for softer snow and lighter skiers. It's not so flexible that it really takes away from the carving performance of the ski, so if you're looking for that behavior out of your gear, the Genesis 90 still has the chops.

While we weren't able to get our own testers on the Genesis 90 this winter, we did manage to get some input from Liberty athlete Heidi Nixon. We'd imagine that the Genesis 90 would make a great east coast ski, and one that is well-suited to the variable conditions and terrain we see here in northern Vermont.

Heidi Nixon skis the 165 and finds that it skis pretty true to size. Quickness, maneuverability, playfulness, and forgiveness all earned 5's out of 5 on the scorecard, as well as versatility and overall impression. For a 90 mm underfoot ski with a fairly light weight core, these are some darn impressive scores. Stability gets a 4 from Heidi, which is another impressive score, especially for a ski without metal. "From the glades to the park, these beautifully crafted rippin' sticks have proven to be a perfect resort ski. Wide enough to enjoy a fresh dump of snow but narrow enough to channel your inner racer, they offer more versatility than your average ski. The bamboo-based x-core offers the sturdiness you want to handle anything the resort has to offer." It's always nice to hear when these high-level skiers find the 90 mm underfoot ski without metal to be a ripper-shows the high-end ceiling and potential of the Genesis 90.

Ladies who are looking for a single pair of skis to really do it all will love the versatile Genesis 90. With short turns aplenty and a fun, freeride shape, these skis are a fantastic option for a huge number of skiers. Not only to they check a lot of boxes in terms of performance, but they also have a flex that's suitable for a wide range of individuals. Nobody's going to be thrown off-balance by them due to stiffness or weight while more skilled skiers will be able to manipulate them easily and enjoy the varied personalities that they can offer all at once.