2022 Kastle MX 75

On the narrower end of the MX line, the 75 is the quickest edge-to-edge, and loves to be pushed in a carved turn. There’s not nearly as much love out there in the ski world for something like this as there should be, and we here at SkiEssentials.com are here to set the record straight. We have a bit of a unique perspective, being based in Stowe, Vermont insofar as we get a lot of days where the MX 75 is the perfect ski. Firm, smooth, and ready to be carved, our trails have the proper pitch and density of snow to require this ski and its ability to lay down some of the cleanest and roundest turns anywhere. Built with poplar wood stringers on the outer parts of the ski and a blend of poplar and beech in the inner portions, the MX 75 has a ton of power and stability, with a damp and solid feel throughout. Two sheets of titanal and two sheets of fiberglass round out this burly build, and Hollowtech in the tips removes unwanted chatter for when the going gets rough. The end result is an on-trail machine that has endless strength to handle some of the most adept advanced and expert skiers out there. Minimal rocker and taper complete the shape and profile of this ski, giving it true tip to tail edge contact with the snow.

Reuben Jalbert was on the 179, and he noted that it was a good size for him. Stability, quickness, maneuverability, torsional stiffness, edge hold, and overall impression all got top scores of 4 out of 5, and these are some good marks for such a narrow ski, even though it wasn’t too long ago that 75 mm underfoot was a mid-fat. Playfulness got a low score of 2, and that has a lot to do with the fact that these skis are more business-like in their approach to the mountain. Reuben states that the MX 75 is “Very stable for how narrow it is. These things had no problem plowing through the soft spring snow at higher speeds. Very smooth and intuitive when you put then on edge. Advanced and experts who stay on-trail over 80% of the time would love these skis.” The build of the ski is just so pure and advanced, it makes quick work of a lot of different snow types and terrain options. There’s just a whole lot going on with these skis, and it makes a lot of sense for having them be a good all-mountain option as well, highlighting the versatility of the Kastle skis in the world.

Marcus Shakun got on the 172, and noted that “she be a bit short.” At 6’5”, it’s pretty clear that Marcus would be more comfortable on the 179. Resultingly, top scores of 5 out of 5 were given for quickness, maneuverability, playfulness, torsional stiffness, and edge hold. Interesting to see Marcus and Reuben differ in the playfulness category, and a lot of that is likely due to the sizing discrepancy. Either way, these are some high scores for a ski that’s too short, and that’s a testament to Kastle’s engineering department. “So surprised how well it skied even in its short length. The softer, but stable shovel gave as it hammered through the soft snow. While the tail held firm as it was pushed harder. Holds a nice medium sized turn and has the ability to whip out quick short turns as well. Kinda why I gave it some versatility points. Silky Smooth, these skis are precise and silky smooth all the way through. An active advanced to expert skier will benefit best. Bigger heavier intermediate would appreciate a longer length.” Fair enough, and great to see still that we get the smoothness and precision out of the skis, even in the 172 for a taller skier.

In the world of front-side cruisers that have some versatility built in, you’ll be hard-pressed to find something with more precision and poise than the Kastle MX 75. These skis have the build, shape, and profile to master any style of turn in a variety of conditions and terrain. From steeps and trees to bumps and groomers, these skis have the goods, and while it comes with the corresponding price tag, the positives are simply astounding.