2022 Stockli Laser SX

The quality and precision of the Stockli Laser series of skis are quite simply off the charts. These SX's are a fantastic choice for front side skiers looking for that narrow-waisted GS carver that has some all-mountain capabilities as well. The most impressive thing about these Laser skis is that the skier is able to access the full performance of the sidecut, mainly because they're just not too stiff. This is probably the most versatile and useful 70 mm underfoot ski that you can find, and I don't think the good folks at Stockli would want it any other way. As a company, their skis top out at 102 mm underfoot, so that says a lot about their philosophy of shaping skis. The narrower the better, for Stockli, and for most skiers who ski most terrain, that's likely a very good thing.

There's a few interesting things about these SX's that just make a lot of sense. First, the dual-metal laminate is made from thinner metal, and that goes well with the lighter wood core in making the SX an agile and nimble carver, but with that top-end of stability and power. The metal does a great job of damping the vibrations, and the light weight of the wood takes care of the energy. Second, the Turtle Shell Technology is a very interesting way to deal with a full metal laminate. By slicing the metal vertically (and in an S-shaped manner), the shovel of the ski is able to articulate with the angulation of the skier, allowing for better edge contact on the inside of the ski with more playful and accessible sensations on the outer-portions. This leads to the crazy combinations of smoothness and grip that the Stockli Laser skis are known for, and it works quite well. With these technological advances, the skis are able to grip, energize, and propel you down the hill with the utmost in quality and precision. It's an unmistakable feeling and is truly Stockli.

On the 173, John McIntosh notes that it's a perfect size for him and skis true to length. He scored the ski top marks of 5 out of 5 for overall impression, torsional stiffness, edge hold, quickness, maneuverability, and stability. Playfulness, forgiveness, and versatility all got 4's. On one hand, that's an impressive spread of high scores for a 70 mm underfoot ski, and on the other hand, it's hard to expect a whole lot more from Stockli, and is a testament to how powerful and versatile even their narrow skis can be. John notes that the Laser SX is "one of the most powerful and fun on-piste chargers! Seemingly no speed limit here!" The fact that Stockli can make such a powerful ski be accessible for a wide range of skiers is perhaps the most impressive part of the whole equation.

Fun, agile, and incredibly precise, the Stockli Laser SX is in a category of its own in the 70 mm category. These skis have all you need to dominate the front side of the mountain with the added bonus of being pretty darn versatile for the shape and build. Sure, the skis come with the premium price tag, and we'd be remiss to not mention it, but in this case you most certainly get what you pay for, and that is top-end performance from tip to tail.