2021 Stockli Stormrider 88

The ~88 mm underfoot category is arguably the most versatile grouping of skis on the hill. Maybe a bit more front-side oriented than some of the 95-100 skis, but the increase in edge grip and carving performance combined with the fact that most skiers spend most of their time on groomed terrain make this group of skis quite formidable. Sitting at or near the top in terms of quality and overall performance, the 2021 Stockli Stormrider 88 is one of the most well-versed and confidence-inspiring of all the skis. With a bit of a bump in terms of weight and stiffness, the 2021 version of the Stormrider 88 builds from where it left off-as it plans to take more control of that front-side crowd and mentality. The stiffer flex gives better edge grip, and the weightier core adds to the stability of the ski at speed. I did feel, in last year's test, that the ski was a bit light for its intended use, especially when stacked up against the Enforcer 88's and Brahma 88's of the ski world. So, with a bit of an update and upgrade in terms of performance, this should entice some of those skiers who thought the older 88 wasn't quite powerful enough. That titanal topsheet still holds strong, as it does a fantastic job at keeping the ski instantly responsive. This leads to the precise feel of the ski at any and all speeds. It's pretty impressive how the ski can respond properly both at high and low speeds, keeping the skier engaged in all phases of the turn. For top-end feel, confidence, precision, and poise, the 2021 Stockli Stormrider 88 has all you want and more.

Phil McGrory got a chance to hop on the 2021 version, and was not disappointed. A 5 out of 5 for overall impression will put you in a good mood for sure. Phil also loved the versatility, playfulness, quickness, and maneuverability of the updated 88, with those categories earning 4's out of 5. Forgiveness looked to take a bit of a hit for Phil, as what once was a consistently high category across the board earned a 3 for this year's ski. Phil notes that "the revamped Stormrider 88 skis very similar to its wider brethren but is a little quicker edge to edge at 88 underfoot. The softer shovel allows the ski to have great flotation in softer snow but maintains a stiffer feel throughout the rest of the ski that delivers a stable ride on harder packed snow and groomed terrain."

Again, as most skiers spend most of their time on groomed terrain, it makes sense to put some more emphasis on the ski's ability in that arena and application. Phil also states that the Stormrider 88 is a "great versatile ski as a one-ski quiver and ideal as an everyday northeast ski." And in terms of the target skier, Phil thinks the SR 88 is "ideal for advanced and expert skiers." Definitely with the beefed-up core, the ability level of the skier should sway to the upper end.

Great move by Stockli here to add a bit more muscle and horsepower to the narrowest ski in the Stormrider line. While the wider versions can still boast that they have better soft-snow compliance, the narrower ski can now set itself apart by claiming that it has better edge grip and stability at speed, and it would not be wrong about that.