2027 DPS Kaizen 100

The 2027 DPS Kaizen 100 gets a graphic update but returns structurally unchanged. The Kaizen line is a high-end construction paired with innovative shaping. Specifically, the Kaizen 100 is likely the more versatile of the series due to its performance both on and off trail. A stable and responsive construction, coupled with a progressive freeride shape lends a high degree of performance anywhere on the mountain. Whether it be fresh groomers or powder, these skis are a bunch of fun in the soft snow with their responsiveness and maneuverability. We found a lot to like about the Kaizen 100’s approach to all-mountain skiing. They are predictable and fun, capable of making all sorts of turns in all sorts of situations.

The use of carbon and innovative cores has gone hand in hand with DPS for years. To go along with the Kaizen 100’s versatility, DPS implements their full carbon construction method and material. The construction method used for these skis is called Dual Core, which involves stacking two horizontal pieces of poplar and ash to maximize damping. Ash is more of a dense wood, making the Kaizen robust, stable, and full of energy and damp. Having all of those things is not super common in a ski, but DPS has figured out a way to make it happen. Sandwiching the dual core are two high modulus Carbon Fiber laminates which contribute even more dampness to the ski as well as torsional stiffness. These laminates make a huge difference in the skis’ performance when it comes to how hard they can be pushed and their responsiveness. The carbon fiber laminates have a significant amount of stored energy that is released at the end of each turn. To top it off, DPS incorporates a carbon power plate at the binding mount points. This gives you the confidence that your bindings will not rip out while in the middle of a gnarly line in the backcountry or the resort. At about 1850 grams per ski in the 179, this is an ideal weight for a directional freeride ski that can certainly be used in the backcountry if you choose to. Tester Landel Cochran notes that “It has the typical DPS shape with extremely early taper and significant tip rocker. With so much tip rocker, the turn entry is a bit more ambiguous than some other skis but the tradeoff is a ski that is extremely hard to upset. With carbon reinforcement, this ski has a lot of power while being on the lighter side. The early taper will surely lift the Kaizen 100 above a lot of its competitors in deep snow.” We have certainly found that to be true on deeper days and especially in the woods.

DPS goes all in when it comes to footprint innovation. To go along with the construction, the Kaizen 100 also has a refined and unique shape. A classic directional freeride profile and sidecut allows the Kaizen to be extremely versatile and able to go wherever they are pointed. What the profile offers is floatation and agility in soft snow with some ability to grip onto firmer snow when needed. There is around 45% rocker within the tips and tails and about 55% camber underfoot. The result is a smeary and slarvy ski that has a lot of energy stored within. The Kaizen 100’s sidecut certainly speaks to its versatility with a forebody width of 132mm, a waist width of 100mm, and a tail width of 117mm, which produces a turning radius of 15 meters. Tester Kim Leslie states that “it took me a minute to figure out the more neutral weighted stance, but once I did, they felt great!” A sidecut such as this is very versatile as the dimensions suit a wide variety of snow conditions and applications. It actually does a whole lot for having such a short radius. You can also load them up with energy and make some really quick short turns whenever you need to.

There’s no denying that cost is a factor here when it comes to the intended, or hopeful audience. The 2027 DPS Kaizen 100 is a refined ski with limitless potential. With a more versatile directional freeride philosophy, these skis can be used within the resort or in the backcountry for many types of missions and conditions. Another thing to point out is that DPS speaks a lot to Kaizen’s durability: They should perform just as well on day 400 as day 1. The aerospace-grade carbon fiber laminates and manufacturing methods are the reasons for this, so be sure to consider that when reviewing their price. So, who are these skis for? We believe they are for the advanced to expert skier who wants a versatile, directional, freeride, all-mountain ski that is durable, energetic, and highly precise. With fresh new graphics, we hope to see more Kaizen 100 skiers out there on the hill this season.