2022 Volkl Deacon 80

Skis like the Deacon 80 from Volkl can sometimes get overlooked. Within the Deacon line, it’s not the widest or most versatile, nor is it the narrowest or most powerful. It is, however, a very well-rounded ski that loves to link turns on groomers. Volkl uses their 3D.Ridge construction technique, which provides stability and a snappy feel at a lighter weight than most. They then add in their Glass Frame technology, which is a little lighter and less demanding than skis with Titanal Frame, while still delivering a strong feel on edge. The 3D.Radius sidecut allows you to make a variety of different turn shapes, and the extended radii in the tips and tails also gives the ski a more forgiving, less catchy feel, which comes in handy when you’re not on a perfect groomer.

Phil McGrory tested the 177 cm length in the Deacon 80 and thought it was a great choice for “high intermediates to advanced skiers.” Phil expanded on that idea by describing the Deacon 80 as “predictable, stable, and quick. Allows you to drive it and holds well, but doesn’t force you to be on it the whole time. Very user-friendly among stable carving skis.” Benny Wax loved skiing the Deacon 80. He too was on the 177 cm length. “Yippee! What fun! Playful, quick, and solid. Great whipping down groomers at a wide range of speeds. Nice stable ride. Initiates and finishes turns very consistently.” Benny gave the Deacon 80 a ton of high scores, almost all 4 out of 5, with overall impression earning the coveted 5 out of 5 mark. Similar scores from Dave Carter after he too tested the 177 cm length. Dave got on it later in the day, when things started to soften up a bit, but still enjoyed its feel. 4 out of 5 scores from Dave for stability, quickness/maneuverability, torsional stiffness/edge grip, and overall impression. “This ski was hard to get a response from in the soft snow but I believe it would be a good groomed front side cruiser. Felt a bit stiff in the bumps.”

Ryan Daniel also hopped on the 177 cm length and awarded the Deacon 80 some extremely impressive scores. Almost full 5 out of 5 across the board, with only playfulness and flotation dropping to lower scores. Ryan has a high level racing background, so can really drive a ski. The fact that we get this feedback from someone of his caliber is even more impressive. “Love it. Great edge hold. Found it easy to make all radius turns. Did not offer a ton of rebound, but it wasn’t a bad thing. Tested on midday groomer with some small bumps. I was surprised how much I liked this ski with no metal. Great ski for anyone!” Marcus Shakun also tested the 177 cm length, which he noted was a little short for his size. He did mention that it “wasn’t too short, but I’d prefer the net size up.” Not surprising given Marcus’ size, but it didn’t stop him from awarding the Deacon 80 more high scores. All 4 out of 5 from Marcus, with just flotation dropping down to a lower score, but versatility and overall impression bumping up to 5 out of 5. “Most versatile all-mountain carving ski. Truly an all-mountain ski. Can do just about every turn other than a slalom turn. Great flex in the shovel that allows it to be more versatile off the tail. Can drive and build energy in every turn.” Marcus though it would be a great ski for “advanced intermediate all the way up to expert” skiers. “All skiers in that range can really enjoy its versatility.”

While not as wide as some and now as powerful or precise as others, the Deacon 80 still proves to be a valuable ski in the all-mountain carver category. It’s not too demanding, which a lot of skiers will appreciate, but it has a high-performance ceiling that will still satisfy rippers like Ryan Daniel. Snappy, grippy, lightweight, and a whole lot of fun. It’s safe to say more skiers should take a moment to consider the Deacon 80.