2022 Volkl Revolt 104

Volkl’s bringing the Volkl Revolt 104 back for another season with no changes to its shape, construction, or graphics, and that’s just fine by us. Not only is this thing a blast to ski, we also love the topsheet graphic, so it’s a triple thumbs-up from us. This ski effectively filled a void in the Revolt lineup between the Revolt 95 and massive Revolt 121. It has far more rocker than the 95, as well as more taper, which gives it superior soft snow performance. On the other hand, it’s far quicker edge to edge and more appropriate on firm snow and/or in the terrain park than the Revolt 121, giving it a very well-rounded feel for a twin tip. Construction is relatively simple. Volkl uses their Multilayer wood core in a sandwich construction format with vertical sidewalls. We love skis like this that prove how good a ski can be without a bunch of titanal or carbon additives. While it’s not the lightest ski at 2030 g in the 180 cm length, we have seen a number of skiers putting an alpine touring binding on it and using it for backcountry jump missions, including some noteworthy Volkl athletes.

Jeff Neagle skied the 180 cm length and had some great feedback on the Revolt 104. 5 out of 5 scores for flotation, playfulness, versatility, and overall impression from Jeff, with stability right behind at 4 out of 5. “The Revolt 104 definitely surprised me when I skied it first and its capabilities continue to impress me. When you look at the rocker profile, you wouldn’t expect as much edge grip or stability on firm snow as it has. I’m sure it has to do with how Volkl is milling the core, as it does seem thicker than some skis, but with no metal or carbon or anything, it’s impressive stable and responsive on firm snow. Not super poppy out of a turn, but not bad either. Off trail, the rocker and taper gives it a super maneuverable feel. It does have a more forward mount point than some skis, so skiers used to full directional skis may find there’s a lot of ski behind them, but I’m used to center mounted skis, so for me, having more rocker in the tail gave is a very maneuverable feel. In the park, it’s pretty good too. Not really a competition style ski, but perfect for someone who’s sticking to smaller spins, rails, and likes to butter, slash, and play. For me, it’s a little too heavy for touring, but I know a good amount of people who use it for that and don’t have any major complaints.”

Unlike Jeff, Marcus Shakun doesn’t really spend any time in the terrain park, but he still enjoyed his time on the Revolt 104, which proves you don’t need to be a park rat to enjoy it. Marcus dubbed it “floaty, forgiving, and fun!” That assessment was supported by his scores, 5 out of 5 for flotation and versatility, 4 out of 5 for playfulness, forgiveness, and overall impression. “Volkl Revolt Line up has never disappointed and the 104 is a favorite for sure. I didn’t find it to be overly snappy in its response, more of a smooth damp ride. Forgiving as it seemed to just absorb the contour of the surface you were on, allowing a skier a little room for error. You can stand on the ski at higher speeds and it rips and grips not a problem or plows through soft snow with confidence. Very versatile as it works in most conditions. Think for that park type skier that likes to be playful on trail or in the woods this is the tool. Even an All-mountain skier looking for a wider ski that’s not a stiff plank and more on the playful side.”

For fun and freeride feel and a very playful setup, the Volkl Revolt 104 for 2022 is an ideal choice. If you're in the market for a whole lot of fun out there on the hill, and are searching for a ski in the mid-100's with a freestyle flair, I'm not sure you're going to do better than the Revolt 104. With a round flex, a floaty character, and a surprising amount of energy, there's a whole lot to like about these skis, and we're pretty darn stoked they're back for another go.