2022 Stockli Stormrider 95

The Stormrider 95 might be the most versatile ski Stockli makes. Carve groomers, rip it up in softer snow conditions; it feels like a true 50/50 on trail/off trail ski. For 2022, a lot has stayed the same, but the Stormrider 95 gets a new topsheet graphic and new tip construction that has both made it lighter and stiffer, increasing precision and responsiveness when initiating a turn while reducing swing weight. Aside from that, all the stuff that makes this ski so good carries over. We get a lightweight wood core with two sheets of titanal. One of those sheets happens to also be the topsheet of the ski, which further reduces overall weight by eliminating the need for additional “extra” topsheet material. It’s noticeable in the listed weight with the 175 cm length being just 1780 g, quite a bit lighter than most competitors in this category that use metal. We also get Freeride Tip Technology, which utilizes smooth, progressive rocker to give the ski a little more float, a more intuitive feel in soft snow, and smoother turn initiation. There’s a little rise out of the tail too, with emphasis on a little. Overall, there’s a lot of camber to these skis. As with any Stockli, the level of manufacturing and attention to detail are off the charts.

Matt McAlary had never skied the Stormrider 95 before and was psyched to get on a pair. He opted for the 184 cm length, and commented that’s what he would buy for himself. What’s particularly noteworthy is he seemed even more excited after he skied them! “The Stormrider 95 was one of my favorites of the day. It planed super nicely over the soft and choppy snow we had throughout the day. There was a uniformity to its flex that is hard to describe but it felt really nice. The best way I can describe it is that it didn't feel like the ski had "sections" to it. It had a "goldilocks" flex to it. Not too stiff, not too soft. This was beneficial for the conditions we had that day because I felt like the skis I enjoyed the most had enough flex out in the shovel/tip to stay up and plane over the chop, but were stable enough to not wash out. I will say that the sweet spot of the ski felt like it was more centered and it didn't quite like someone being over the front of the ski. Overall, a very balanced ski in terms of its flex. That's pretty much the best way I can describe this ski: Balanced. In my own opinion, I see that as being one of the highest praises for a ski that someone can provide, especially given the category of ski in which the Stormrider 95 sits.” Matt’s feedback was supported by some impressive scores. Only playfulness dropped to 3 out of 5, with all other criteria receiving solid 4 to 5 out of 5 scores.

Unlike Matt, Mike Anglin has skied a lot of Stockli skis in the past. We didn’t need to twist his arm to get back on a pair, however, and we’re glad he did as he provided some excellent feedback. Mike also went for the 184 cm length and he thought that was “just right.” Even more impressive scores from Mike! Nothing dropped below 4 out of 5, with flotation, stability, playfulness, torsional stiffness/edge grip, versatility, and overall impression earning full 5 out of 5 marks. “Stormrider 95 has been around for a while and once people ski them, they stay on them. A little top sheet cosmetic flair is added this year, but the feel and performance of the ski has not changed. All strengths and no weaknesses from these boards. Did everything well, and did it with a smooth quiet luxury truck feel. Handles all terrain with ease, and the 19.4 turn radius lends itself to a variety of turn shapes. Advanced intermediates to expert pros will have a hard time calling it a day when riding these.” Any excuse to ski longer is just fine by us, Mike!

We left the most impressive scores for last, and those came from Bob St.Pierre, who also skied the 184 cm length. Bob liked that size, but did add a little note that he personally wishes there was a 188 cm option. Back to those impressive scores… almost perfect scores for the Stormrider 95 from Bob. Only one criteria didn’t receive a full 5 out of 5 scores and that was for flotation, which still got a solid 4 out of 5. “The Stockli Stormrider 95 is about as close as you can get to the perfect one ski quiver. We say that a lot around here, but it really rings true for the 95. The most impressive thing about these skis is the range of turn shape and style that they can produce with a minimum of effort. This way, a lot of different skiers can appreciate and access the amazing precision and quality that these skis possess. Quick and floaty up front, and strong and grippy underfoot and through the tail, the SR 95 has an ideal blend of power and forgiveness for true all-mountain skiing. Sure, I'd rather have a Laser AX on firmer snow days, but this 95 does just fine for what it is, with little to no complaints by the ski. They're so light and quiet for how stable they are, and that's just an amazing testament to Stockli's ability to build some of the best skis on the planet, bar none.”