2022 Kastle MX 88

The Kastle MX 88 is a fantastic choice for a high-end all-mountain ski, and there’s not a whole lot else out there that compares. With other skis, you get some freeride influence, but these gravitate a bit more to the front side, especially given how wide they are. Built with a wood core that consists of a central chord of beech and poplar stringers, and outer portions of poplar-only, these skis have a lot of stability and damping properties built right in. With the poplar over the edges of the skis, the energy is ramped up, allowing for a great amount of rebound out of the turn. There’s not a whole lot to talk about in terms of rocker profile, as these skis are mostly cambered, with just a smidge of early rise in the shovel. When the build and shape get two sheets of metal and fiberglass added to the mix, these skis are ready to rip, and will go wherever you point them. For most skiers who are looking to spend a lot of time on-trail, but who also want some versatility built in, the 88’s are a great place to be. The Kastle MX 88 has a solid foundation for being one of the more on-trail skis in this group, but it can be used by expert skiers in a variety of conditions and terrain.

Bob St.Pierre skied the 180, and noted that ��while it skis true to size, I’d prefer the 187 for my size. I just felt the shorter length was a bit too quick and stiff in the turns for higher speeds, and that’s where I want a ski like this to really shine.” As an Enforcer 88 owner in the 186, Bob has some good info to fall back on here. He gave top scores of 4 out of 5 for stability, torsional stiffness, edge grip, quickness, maneuverability, versatility, and overall impression. Lower scores of 2 out of 5 for flotation and forgiveness aren’t too surprising, as these heavier and stiffer skis prefer to be on the snow and in a carved turn. In terms of the overall character of the ski, Bob notes that “Quality oozes out of these skis. They're built so well, and it's reflected in the price as well as the performance. On a mid-icy day here at Stowe, I could not think of a more perfect ski to be on. They gripped on the ice very well, and when the snow piled up, they handled that, too. Nice with the early rise in the shovel, and it pairs well with the Hollowtech tips. Again, I can't think of a better option for a mixed-conditions day here on the east.” Good thing, because we definitely get a lot of mixed conditions here at Stowe.

On the 173, Brad Schauerman noted that the length was perfect, and even though he’s a fan of his Enforcer 100 in the 177, the 173 fits better for this ski with its longer effective edge. Brad’s lower scores of 3 out of 5 were given for flotation and versatility, with all other scores on his card as 4’s. These are some impressively high scores across the board, and is very indicative of the ski being well-rounded in a high-performance realm. Brad calls the MX 88 “Super smooth and fun a little skinny for the sloppy corn snow but a blast on some harder packed snow. Super fun to carve but also great at making short turns and even fun in the bumps.” The waist width and shovel flex are definitely in the right spot for bumps, and Brad’s shorter ski with the smaller arc lit up the short turns in his mind for sure.

If you’re looking for a top-of-the-line ski that has very little limitations, and an incredible amount of poise and precision, look no further than the Kastle MX 88. These skis are incredibly stable and strong, and will satisfy the needs and wants of even the most demanding of skiers. From steeps and trees to bumps and groomers, these well-rounded skis make some impressive turns while keeping the versatility and adventure-seeking nature at a premium.