2022 Stockli Edge 88

While most skiers view Stockli as a more dedicated downhill and resort-oriented brand, the Edge series expands that to the next level of the equation. Since backcountry skiing and touring have really exploded over the past few seasons, the ski companies have been quick to catch up, and the Edge 88 is a prime example of that innovation coming to life. Basically, this ski serves as a lighter, more touring-oriented version of the amazing Stormrider 88, so if you're a fan of that ski but are looking for an easier time on the climb, the Edge 88 is something to look at for sure.

Similarly, but not exactly shaped as the Stormrider, the Edge 88 has a bit longer of a turn radius and straighter of a cut for backcountry use. While the SR 88 is long enough as well, the 22-meter arc in the 183 allows for better climbing efficiency, as the ski will not desire to turn or hook up while skinning. For the downhills, this makes it more fun for the skier to choose the intended line on the descent, and makes the ski more playful while keeping it controllable and grippy. In the tail, where the Stormrider has a slight notch cut out, the Edge 88 has a full notch removal for the skin to sit in, adding a better level of confidence that your skin will stay where it belongs. Another worthy comparison is in the weight department, where the 184 Stormrider comes in at 1828 grams per ski and the Edge 88 in the 183 is 1740. This 100 g difference makes the Edge function a bit differently, allowing the skier to cover more distance in a shorter period of time, but it's not so great that there's a super-noticeable difference in the downhill performance and stability of the ski.

So, those are the differences between the skis, and perhaps more impressive are the similarities. Built with a super-light wood core and a thin glass laminate, the skis also benefit from titec topsheet technology, although that on the Stormrider is thicker and burlier, leading to that stronger downhill performance. By thinning out that metal topsheet, the Edge 88 still has the smoothness and dampness of the SR, but with a lighter weight for easier climbing and striding.

If you want that high-end feel and performance from your touring ski, the Stockli Edge 88 is an ideal choice. Fantastic for both in and out of bounds skiing and touring, skis like the Edge 88 have a whole lot of versatility built in. With that top-level Stockli feel, you're sure to get everything you need out of these skis, from bottom to top, and back to the bottom again.