2023 Volkl Kendo 88 Skis
SKU
122408
Sale Price
$489.99
Regular Price
$699.99
In stock
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Volkl Kendo 88 Skis
The Volkl Kendo 88 Skis have always been a Ski Essentials tester favorite and have been on the top of list in the all-mountain 88 underfoot category. New for this year, the Kendo has undergone three significant changes. First is Tailored Titanal Frame which has altered shaping of the upper metal laminate compared to the previous Kendo. Instead of a consistent width through the entire ski, the Titanal Frame is thicker, or rather wider, closer to your foot, then tapers to a thinner layer of metal as it wraps around the tip and tail. This allows Volkl to custom tailor the performance of each length to match the skier who's going to be choosing it and it's very noticeable. Second is the Tailor Carbon Tip. This specifically engineered grid of carbon in the tip of the ski provides increasing torsional stiffness and responsiveness in the tip of the ski as well as making it lighter. There is noticeably more energy in this ski compared to the previous version. Lastly, this Kendo's turn radius has been tweaked. You still get the 3D Radius, which was featured in the previous ski, but Volkl has dropped 1 meter out of the center radius of the ski. The 177 centimeters, for example, now has a 16 meter turn radius underfoot, down from 17 meters in the previous ski. It might not seem like much, but you sure can feel it. The Volkl Kendo 88 has improved responsiveness, accessibility, and ups the fun-factor, which makes it an ideal one ski quiver for many advanced and expert skiers across the board.
Features:
- Sidecut: 129/88/113 mm at 177 cm length
- Turn Radius: 16 meters at 177 cm length
- Tailored Titanal Frame
- Tailored Carbon Tips
- Multi-Layer Woodcore
- Tip and Tail Rocker
- Ability Level: Advanced and Expert Skiers
Ability Level:
Preferred Terrain
All-Mountain • Groomers • Powder
All-Mountain
Groomers
Powder
Rocker Profile
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I ski the previous version of Kendo 88. Found it less responsive at slower speeds on the occasional green trail with “company”. I prefer blue groomers and ski moderately fast in a GS style. I’m 70, at 170lbs and consider myself advanced (and staying there). There’ll be a mix of east/west skiing.
I’m considering the Stockl Stormrider 88, but your review of the new Kendo 88 has me interested. Would like your opinion.
I’m considering the Stockl Stormrider 88, but your review of the new Kendo 88 has me interested. Would like your opinion.
Question by: Jim Brierley on Feb 23, 2022, 11:46 AM
HI Jim!
Stormrider has greater range than the Kendo in terms of speed. It has more flex and a quieter sound to it than the metallic Kendo. Some people like the ping of the Volkl while others prefer the quieter Stockli. I'd pretty much take the Stockli over anything, for what it's worth. Have fun!
SE
Stormrider has greater range than the Kendo in terms of speed. It has more flex and a quieter sound to it than the metallic Kendo. Some people like the ping of the Volkl while others prefer the quieter Stockli. I'd pretty much take the Stockli over anything, for what it's worth. Have fun!
SE
Answer by: SkiEssentials Expert on Feb 23, 2022, 3:42 PM
Hey! I had inquired about the Ripstick 88 as someone who was looking for an east coast all-mountain ski for 65% groomers / 30% moguls / 5% trees (I'm 5'7", 148, 45/M, advanced). My sister LOVES her Kenjas, though, and has encouraged me to look into the Kendos. Could you compare the new Kendo 88 to the Ripstick 88 for groomers, bumps, and trees on the east coast?
Thanks for doing these Q&As, which are super helpful.
Mike
Thanks for doing these Q&As, which are super helpful.
Mike
Question by: Mike on Feb 23, 2022, 11:05 AM
HI Mike!
Weight, stiffness, and responsiveness are the big differences, all leaning to the Kendo. The shovel of the Ripstick is quite a bit more flexible than the Kendo, so it's way easier to initiate a turn. The Kendo requires more input from the skier, so be prepared for that if you go that route. I'd go with the 170 or 172 in either of those skis. Have fun!
SE
Weight, stiffness, and responsiveness are the big differences, all leaning to the Kendo. The shovel of the Ripstick is quite a bit more flexible than the Kendo, so it's way easier to initiate a turn. The Kendo requires more input from the skier, so be prepared for that if you go that route. I'd go with the 170 or 172 in either of those skis. Have fun!
SE
Answer by: SkiEssentials Expert on Feb 23, 2022, 3:51 PM
Advanced skier male 5'10" 180#. I currently ski the 2017 Kendo 90 in 170cm on 90% groomers blue to double black here at Stowe. I love how they handle at speed with the edge grip and stability and don't want to lose that, but I could also appreciate a ski that offers some slow speed enjoyment when skiing with my wife. I'm looking at the new 2023 Kendo 88 or the Deacon 84 in 170,172 or 177. I'm open to other recommendations?
Thanks
Thanks
Question by: JC on Mar 1, 2022, 7:26 AM
HI JC!
The new Kendo is quite a bit more energetic and turny than the 2017 version, and I think that works quite well here at Stowe. The deacon is awesome, but doesn't quite have the same versatility as the Kendo. That said, it's considerably more race-like in a carved turn, so if you are 90% groomers, I think that's a worthy consideration for sure. I'd say 172 in Deacon or 177 in Kendo, with the Kendo being a slightly more complete ski. Have fun!
SE
The new Kendo is quite a bit more energetic and turny than the 2017 version, and I think that works quite well here at Stowe. The deacon is awesome, but doesn't quite have the same versatility as the Kendo. That said, it's considerably more race-like in a carved turn, so if you are 90% groomers, I think that's a worthy consideration for sure. I'd say 172 in Deacon or 177 in Kendo, with the Kendo being a slightly more complete ski. Have fun!
SE
Answer by: SkiEssentials Expert on Mar 1, 2022, 8:35 AM
I am 5'8" and about 170lbs. Interested in this all mountain ski after watching the review. Ski mostly in western Canada, lot of groomers and occasional fresh snow. Currently skiing the experience 83 at 176cm. Should I go with the 170 instead of 177? I like stability at fast speeds but could use some help when skiing bumps. Thanks.
Question by: Eric on Mar 1, 2022, 3:00 PM
Hi Eric!
The ski is innately stable, so it's okay to not size up to obtain power. I'd think you'll get what you need out of the 170, unless you know you prefer longer skis!
SE
The ski is innately stable, so it's okay to not size up to obtain power. I'd think you'll get what you need out of the 170, unless you know you prefer longer skis!
SE
Answer by: SkiEssentials Expert on Mar 1, 2022, 3:31 PM
Read a few replies regarding the 2023 Kendo 88 vs Stockli SR88. I know everyone has different "is it worth it" when searching for the next pair, but Stocklis are at least 30% more. Having said that....are they worth it?
Me: 165 pound, 5'10", Idaho/Oregon/Wyoming. My current daily is the QST 99 which I REALLY like, but am looking for more of a frontside ski, not a true carver, but something more advanced for hardpack and occasional icy crud than my first frontside skis (2019 Dynastar Speed 10 ti....which are now my rock skis). I'm pretty set on the new Kendo 88 in a 175. The season is almost over for me, and I'll have the next 7 months to OCD bargain hunt.
Seems the 2023 Kendo 88 reviews are almost hyperbolic. Can they come close to the uber-expensive SR88s for my needs?
Me: 165 pound, 5'10", Idaho/Oregon/Wyoming. My current daily is the QST 99 which I REALLY like, but am looking for more of a frontside ski, not a true carver, but something more advanced for hardpack and occasional icy crud than my first frontside skis (2019 Dynastar Speed 10 ti....which are now my rock skis). I'm pretty set on the new Kendo 88 in a 175. The season is almost over for me, and I'll have the next 7 months to OCD bargain hunt.
Seems the 2023 Kendo 88 reviews are almost hyperbolic. Can they come close to the uber-expensive SR88s for my needs?
Question by: kreativecid on Mar 3, 2022, 9:25 PM
HI Kreativecid!
You're paying for the sound, or lack thereof, with the Stockli. The performance of the skis is pretty similar, actually, with the Stockli being a bit more forgiving. The money goes towards making the ski silent. While the Kendo has a pingy timbre to it, the Stockli is dead quiet. I do not think there's enough difference in actual performance, in fact, the Kendo has a higher-end. The Stockli has the range and the silence that give it the top-end feel and price.
SE
You're paying for the sound, or lack thereof, with the Stockli. The performance of the skis is pretty similar, actually, with the Stockli being a bit more forgiving. The money goes towards making the ski silent. While the Kendo has a pingy timbre to it, the Stockli is dead quiet. I do not think there's enough difference in actual performance, in fact, the Kendo has a higher-end. The Stockli has the range and the silence that give it the top-end feel and price.
SE
Answer by: SkiEssentials Expert on Mar 4, 2022, 10:42 AM
At 6'2" and 180 do you think I'd notice a significant difference between the 170 and 177 on the 23 Kendo? I'm a strong intermediate looking for a carver, but with some versatility (currently on a K2 Amp Rictor 82XTi at 177, but have never loved it and find it chattery on hardpack. Stormrider 88 another good option/alternative? Kids are learning now so will be spending more time on greens with them. Want something I can grow with and that will play well and be maneuverable on all trails, at all speeds, etc. Thanks and cheers!
Question by: Jason on Mar 10, 2022, 8:07 AM
Hi Jason!
If you're looking for more control and maneuverability, then there's nothing wrong with the 170 in that ski, mostly because it's so naturally stable. You may find that the turn radius is on the short side for you, but if you're splitting time between skiing with kids and versatility, I see no reason why the 170 won't work, especially since you seem to be gravitating towards those attributes of a shorter ski. Have fun!
SE
If you're looking for more control and maneuverability, then there's nothing wrong with the 170 in that ski, mostly because it's so naturally stable. You may find that the turn radius is on the short side for you, but if you're splitting time between skiing with kids and versatility, I see no reason why the 170 won't work, especially since you seem to be gravitating towards those attributes of a shorter ski. Have fun!
SE
Answer by: SkiEssentials Expert on Mar 10, 2022, 10:42 AM
I recently had the opportunity to demo several skis and have my choice narrowed down to 2; the Volkl Kendo 88 (170) or the Rossignol EXP 86 ti (167). I am 55yo, 5'11", 195 lbs.
I am an intermediate skier, don't do the trees or bumps much, but might do it more if I felt more confident. Whatever I choose, I'll likely be using them for the next 10 years. Any thoughts? TIA.
I am an intermediate skier, don't do the trees or bumps much, but might do it more if I felt more confident. Whatever I choose, I'll likely be using them for the next 10 years. Any thoughts? TIA.
Question by: Drew on Mar 13, 2023, 5:17 PM
Hey Drew!
You may get a little more versatility with the Kendo 88. It's also a great carving ski for groomed runs. Hope this helps!
You may get a little more versatility with the Kendo 88. It's also a great carving ski for groomed runs. Hope this helps!
Answer by: Lan Henel (Admin) on Mar 17, 2023, 11:26 AM
Could you please compare the Kendo 88 to the Kanjo 84?
Question by: Griffin B. on Oct 11, 2022, 5:28 PM
Hi Griffin! Thanks for your question, we appreciate you reaching out to us. The two skis are going to provide a different level of performance, ease of use, stiffness & edge grip. The Kendo 88 skis are going to be a higher performing and demanding ski that includes a Tailored Titanal Frame, whereas the Kanjo 84 skis include a Fiberglass Frame Construction with a Titanal Band for torsional stiffness & edge grip. The Kanjo 84 is designed for a less demanding performance for intermediate to advanced ability level skiers. We recommend checking out our 2023 Ski Test Review videos at the bottom of each product page for further assistance. We hope that helps!
Answer by: Mike Aidala (Admin) on Oct 13, 2022, 9:26 AM
5’ 10” / 51 yr old male / 185lbs. East Coast skier living in CT, looking to buy new skis for 2023 season. Fortunate to be taking 2 different trips out west in Feb & March (Telluride and Steamboat). Advanced/expert, mostly on-piste, frontside skier. I like quick short carving turns in rhythmic fashion, am not a speed demon and almost never do bumps anymore (I’m not quite the same after PKRs in both knees a few years ago)
One day last year in NH, I demoed the Volkl Deacon 79 (170cm) and loved them - every turn in icy conditions was like going through butter. Sole gripe was I would have liked a bit more stability at higher speeds.
Different day, I planned on demoing the Kendo 88’s but they screwed up my reservation and were all taken. The shop’s staff suggested the K2 Disruption 82Ti (172cm) saying they were the closest in comparison. I liked them ok, but felt like I really had to work to gain control and stability.
Question: I’m really interested in purchasing the Kendo 88 @ (170cm?) but given the K2 experience, I’m wondering if I should expect to work them in a similar fashion as the Disruptions? Or is it more likely that the width was too much for me and I should stick with Deacons? Sorry for the long note but greatly appreciate any thoughts you might have! Thank you!
One day last year in NH, I demoed the Volkl Deacon 79 (170cm) and loved them - every turn in icy conditions was like going through butter. Sole gripe was I would have liked a bit more stability at higher speeds.
Different day, I planned on demoing the Kendo 88’s but they screwed up my reservation and were all taken. The shop’s staff suggested the K2 Disruption 82Ti (172cm) saying they were the closest in comparison. I liked them ok, but felt like I really had to work to gain control and stability.
Question: I’m really interested in purchasing the Kendo 88 @ (170cm?) but given the K2 experience, I’m wondering if I should expect to work them in a similar fashion as the Disruptions? Or is it more likely that the width was too much for me and I should stick with Deacons? Sorry for the long note but greatly appreciate any thoughts you might have! Thank you!
Question by: Alec on Jun 6, 2022, 5:56 PM
Hi Alec!
The Kendo 88 is more maneuverable than the 82Ti in my opinion. Volkl really worked their magic when it comes to that new tailored carbon tip design and these skis feel like they can turn on a dime when needed. There's also very little edge catch thanks in part to the 3D radius construction. I think it would still be worth it to give the Kendo a chance, especially with the new construction for the 22-23 season.
SE
The Kendo 88 is more maneuverable than the 82Ti in my opinion. Volkl really worked their magic when it comes to that new tailored carbon tip design and these skis feel like they can turn on a dime when needed. There's also very little edge catch thanks in part to the 3D radius construction. I think it would still be worth it to give the Kendo a chance, especially with the new construction for the 22-23 season.
SE
Answer by: Chris McClelland (Admin) on Jun 17, 2022, 10:09 AM
180 lb 59 years young, I am looking for a resort ski in the 82,-88 range 22 design Outlaw X binding. I have read the reviews on the Kendo, FX 86, and the Vertis, we ski hard on the groomers, trees, and bumps, I can’t find any demos. What do you think would be the best ski? I ski the Rip Stick 96 black edition, and the Rip Stick 88 the 96 is now my rock ski, and the 88 is for skiing with the grandkids, speed limit is to low to ski with friends on the 88. I am open to any suggestions.
Charlie
Charlie
Question by: Charlie Daigneault on May 29, 2022, 8:14 AM
Hi Charlie!
The Kendo would be a great ski to help pick up the pace. It's got a pretty robust build and really likes to be driven hard. The 3D radius also gives you a smooth skiing experience and really does a lot to reduce the amount of edge catch you feel. It's a really balanced ski and really feels like you can take it anywhere. On the other hand if you wanted an even more aggressive ski the Enforcer 88 would be another great on trail focused all mountain ski to check out.
Have fun out there!
SE
The Kendo would be a great ski to help pick up the pace. It's got a pretty robust build and really likes to be driven hard. The 3D radius also gives you a smooth skiing experience and really does a lot to reduce the amount of edge catch you feel. It's a really balanced ski and really feels like you can take it anywhere. On the other hand if you wanted an even more aggressive ski the Enforcer 88 would be another great on trail focused all mountain ski to check out.
Have fun out there!
SE
Answer by: Chris McClelland (Admin) on Jun 3, 2022, 2:58 PM
Hi, I currently ski 2021 Bonafides in a 180 which I love for their stability, power, and edge grip, but don't love for how much work they can be to ski at times. I'm looking for something that checks the boxes previously mentioned but doesn't require me to be always skiing hard and fast to get the most enjoyment out of the ski. I've skied the Brahma and enjoyed it. I've also been on the Ripstick 96, Enforcer 93, Mantra M5, Kore 93, and didn't really enjoy those skis as much as the Bonafides. Does the new Bonafide 97 require as much skier input as past skis? Thoughts on that vs. this new Kendo? I'm 40, 6'2" 185lbs, and a strong advanced skier. Love the YouTube vids by the way, thanks!
Question by: Mark on May 19, 2022, 8:49 PM
Hi Mark!
The new Bonafide is just as burly and hard charging as in the past so no changes there. The new Kendo would be a great way to get that same on edge performance but out of a slightly more forgiving body. The new tip design and general construction make the ski extremely versatile and easy to release from a turn, which lets you spend more time having fun and less time fighting your ski.
SE
The new Bonafide is just as burly and hard charging as in the past so no changes there. The new Kendo would be a great way to get that same on edge performance but out of a slightly more forgiving body. The new tip design and general construction make the ski extremely versatile and easy to release from a turn, which lets you spend more time having fun and less time fighting your ski.
SE
Answer by: Chris McClelland (Admin) on May 20, 2022, 11:18 AM
what is the difference between Kendo 88 vs Kendo 92?
Question by: Allen on Mar 30, 2022, 1:16 PM
Hi Allen!
The Kendo 92 is a more freeride focused variant of the Kendo 88 which is more race inspired. The Kendo 92 is going to be more for splitting time between groomers and the rest of the mountain. The Kendo 88 is more focused on groomer and frontside performance so its easier to see this ski as an all mountain frontside ski.
SE
The Kendo 92 is a more freeride focused variant of the Kendo 88 which is more race inspired. The Kendo 92 is going to be more for splitting time between groomers and the rest of the mountain. The Kendo 88 is more focused on groomer and frontside performance so its easier to see this ski as an all mountain frontside ski.
SE
Answer by: Chris McClelland on Apr 1, 2022, 10:15 AM
Hi, I am a lifelong skier; love the Deacon 76 pros in 181. Thinking of the new 23 Kendo 88. !84 length work?? , I have some 177s and they seem short, but this is a bit wider.
Question by: alan sherry on Mar 21, 2022, 7:00 PM
HI Alan!
If you're dealing with "relatively" narrow skis like Kendo or Deacon, width doesn't have a huge influence on sizing--it's more that fat ones that you have to think about more. If you feel the 177 is on the short side, I'd go 184 in the Kendo. Have fun!
SE
If you're dealing with "relatively" narrow skis like Kendo or Deacon, width doesn't have a huge influence on sizing--it's more that fat ones that you have to think about more. If you feel the 177 is on the short side, I'd go 184 in the Kendo. Have fun!
SE
Answer by: SkiEssentials Expert on Mar 23, 2022, 6:06 PM
I currently ski on Volki AC40 184, I am 6'2" and 220lb, my wife has AC40 177, how will the kendo compare, we ski everything
Question by: Justin Paul Richards on Mar 20, 2022, 6:51 PM
Hi Justin!
It's a modern version of that ski, so expect strong edge grip, precise turn initiation, and now with way more versatility. I'd stick to the same sizes if you are cool with those current lengths. If you're looking for something that does everything, the Kendo is a fantastic choice, with a high-end carving capability. Have fun!
SE
It's a modern version of that ski, so expect strong edge grip, precise turn initiation, and now with way more versatility. I'd stick to the same sizes if you are cool with those current lengths. If you're looking for something that does everything, the Kendo is a fantastic choice, with a high-end carving capability. Have fun!
SE
Answer by: SkiEssentials Expert on Mar 21, 2022, 8:37 AM
Are you getting any more 23 kendo 88 163cm or 170cm? Which length for me? 56 yr old male 5' 4" 145lbs. Ski east coast. Ski aggressively, but also with 7 yr old. Old skis 178cm dynastars. Thank you for all the ski advice and info that you provide.
Question by: Paco on Mar 14, 2022, 10:14 PM
HI Paco!
This year, we are unlikely to see more of those sizes this winter. They'll be included in our normal pre-season order which usually shows up in mid-summer sometime. I'd look to the 163 in that ski unless you know you prefer longer skis. They're pretty stable and strong, so there's no real reason to upsize unless you really want to. Have fun!
SE
This year, we are unlikely to see more of those sizes this winter. They'll be included in our normal pre-season order which usually shows up in mid-summer sometime. I'd look to the 163 in that ski unless you know you prefer longer skis. They're pretty stable and strong, so there's no real reason to upsize unless you really want to. Have fun!
SE
Answer by: SkiEssentials Expert on Mar 15, 2022, 2:38 PM
2023 Kendo 88 vs 2022 Kendo 88 - any differences between the two skis I need to be aware of.
Question by: Kurt Wold on Mar 8, 2022, 2:27 PM
Hi Kurt!
2023 gets some updates including tailored titanal frame, tailored carbon tips, and a bit shorter of a turn radius. This makes the 2023 Kendo more refined, but it's a slight difference rather than a wholesale one.
SE
2023 gets some updates including tailored titanal frame, tailored carbon tips, and a bit shorter of a turn radius. This makes the 2023 Kendo more refined, but it's a slight difference rather than a wholesale one.
SE
Answer by: SkiEssentials Expert on Mar 8, 2022, 3:35 PM
Need a sizing recommendation: 6 ft 250, advanced skier. I favor control and maneuverability over speed. Like to turn and carve, always working on technique, east coast skiing. I have some Redsters I like for icy days, and Navigators that helped my carving progression, but now need more ski and stability on those all day resort days. Typically prefer high 170's, but is it time to go 184 on the '23 Kendo? I might just still be scarred by too stiff and too planky Vantage 90 CTi's @ 184 when I wasn't ready and didn't enjoy. Mahalo!
Question by: Paul on Mar 7, 2022, 9:56 AM
HI Paul!
I don't think you need to size up to the 184, especially since your language states that you favor control and maneuverability over speed, and didn't have a nice time on the Vantage 90's in that size. The Kendo's are heavier than the Vantage, so I don't think you need to go up to the bigger length unless you know you prefer the longer ski. They're stable skis, naturally.
SE
I don't think you need to size up to the 184, especially since your language states that you favor control and maneuverability over speed, and didn't have a nice time on the Vantage 90's in that size. The Kendo's are heavier than the Vantage, so I don't think you need to go up to the bigger length unless you know you prefer the longer ski. They're stable skis, naturally.
SE
Answer by: SkiEssentials Expert on Mar 7, 2022, 11:27 AM
Do you have the 23 Kendo 88 170 with the Marker Griffon binding?
Question by: Jerry Stelma on Feb 24, 2022, 11:48 PM
Hi Jerry!
We currently have that ski paired with a Tyrolia Attack 14 binding. If you're interested in a swap, please call 877/812/6710 because there will be a slight price difference.
SE
We currently have that ski paired with a Tyrolia Attack 14 binding. If you're interested in a swap, please call 877/812/6710 because there will be a slight price difference.
SE
Answer by: SkiEssentials Expert on Feb 25, 2022, 12:20 PM
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