2022 Volkl Deacon 79

The Deacon 79 from Volkl basically sits right in the middle of the frontside Deacon line if we’re just talking about width. The 79 mm waist width splits the difference between dedicated frontside-only skis and more versatile all-mountain ski. That gives it a relatively versatile feel when it comes to carving skis. What’s extra nice about the Deacon 79 is the affordable price. $799 gets you a high performing ski that comes paired with an iPT Wide Ride XL 12 binding system. That price gets you a lot of technology in the ski too. Volkl uses a Dual Wood Core with their 3D.Ridge construction method. Down the middle of the ski is a raised portion, which delivers good longitudinal stiffness while achieving slightly easier, more forgiving turn initiation. Volkl also uses Steel laminates in the Deacon 79. Steel is a particularly good material for vibration damping, while also hitting a more affordable price point than the Titanal found in more expensive skis. While Volkl has more aggressive, stiffer, and more responsive skis in their Deacon line, the 79 continues to offer excellent performance for a wide range of skiers.

Bob St.Pierre tested the 177 cm length in the Deacon 79. If you’re a bigger guy like Bob, you should know that’s the longest size available in the Deacon 79. You should also know that for Bob, at his size and ability level, he did think it was a little short and wished for a longer length. The Deacon 80 and 84 are available in longer lengths, so even before we get into performance, if you’re like Bob, you may need to move to a different ski to get the right length. That said, Bob still appreciated the ski’s performance. 5 out of 5 scores for quickness/maneuverability and 4 out of 5 scores for playfulness, forgiveness, torsional stiffness, edge grip, and overall impression! “Actually a great ski with a very high performance ceiling. Very fun with a stronger-than-expected tail. Snappy, poppy, and stable.” Even though it’s not the top-of-the-line ski in Volkl’s Deacon collection, the Deacon 79 still boasts plenty of performance for most skiers.

Rick Randall also skied that 177 cm length and thoroughly enjoyed his time on the Deacon 79. Rick awarded it almost full 4 out of 5 scores, with quickness/maneuverability bumping up to 5 out of 5. Those are impressive scores for a $799 system ski! “All mountain carver that is really playful with good energy from turn to turn. Advanced level kiers can really work this ski, but it’s also great for intermediate skiers looking to advance. Stable, really good edge hold in firm conditions, but also easy to break out of a carve into shorter turns. Very surprised by how much energy I got out of it. Great all-mountain carver!” That’s great feedback from Rick and he point out some very beneficial performance characteristics. The Deacon 79 is perhaps one of the best skis on the market in terms of blending strong capabilities with a relatively forgiving feel. Keep it at a high edge angle, power it up, and the ski responds accordingly with plenty of grip and energy into the next turn. Still developing your techniques and don’t want to feel locked into a turn? That’s where it really impresses as you can get out of those carves just as easily as you can start them, which is super beneficial for intermediates. David Wolfgang’s feedback supported that theme. Similar scores from David with almost every criteria receiving a 4 out of 5 scores. “Carves down the hill nicely, but still has the ability to slide out the tail. All-mountain ski for every day!”

Among carving skis, the Deacon 79 is definitely one of the most versatile, most forgiving, and most approachable for a big range of skiers. It’s not the most powerful, but for the vast majority of skiers out there, it has plenty of performance and a nice amount of edge grip. We like the idea of it being a good choice for a less aggressive skier with really good technique, or a more athletic skier who wants to progress. If you don’t need a super stiff carving ski, you’ll love how you can manipulate the Deacon 79. Similarly, someone working on their technique won’t feel punished if you make a mistake, it has the necessary forgiveness for a skier to easily progress.