2027 Line Optic 88

The 2027 Line Optic 88 gets a graphic refresh but returns otherwise unchanged. Here in Vermont, and other zones like it, the Optic 88 represents an excellent choice for a pure, versatile ski that carves great and has an adventurous spirit. It uses a mix of lighter wood core with a metal laminate to generate torsional stiffness and edge grip while keeping the ski mobile enough to be used in a park, slopestyle, and freestyle format. Each time we get on this ski we’re more impressed than the time before.

Line’s construction makes a lot of sense when blending energy and fun. While the wood core may seem simplistic, it’s the shape and additives that make the Optic 88 stand out. Line and K2 are known as some of the most fun-oriented ski companies out there, and since they both use aspen as their primary wood, we’re seeing some connections between this and entertainment. Aspen has a nice blend of light weight and energetic flex, and that makes great sense in a ski like the Optic 88. We then see the addition of the Gas Pedal Metal Overdrive laminate that is similar to the wider Optics. By using a central spine and branches off the side for torsional stiffness, this ski is quite damp and stable on any type of snow. In the 177, the ski is 1720 grams, which is on the light side for how it behaves on hardpack and ice. With a thicker underfoot sidewall and thinner tips and tails, the playfulness and creative aspect of this ski is highlighted. Tester Josh Matta notes that “This splits daily driver duties with mantra 88 and it a less serious more playful do all charger . I feel that this ski is supremely underrated.”

There aren’t enough 88 mm twin tips in the world that have this level of performance. The rocker decreases with the narrower ski versus the wider 96, adding a longer effective edge to the mix. In that 177 cm reference length, the Optic 88 produces a 16.3-meter turn radius, which is on the short side. Given the ski’s nature to be on-trail and in a carved turn, that does make sense. We get a turned-up tail, but it’s not quite enough to call it a true twin tip in the freestyle sense. Feel free to take it in the park and ski backwards on it, but the overall character of the ski is more front side and all-mountain oriented. Tester Colin Wiedersheim calls it “A fun option that many, many people should consider. Produces a solid amount of versatility and fun. I would consider owning one, likely the 177. The Optic 88 is a fun and versatile all mountain ski. Felt reliable underfoot and smooth in various turn shapes. Playful yet strong, a fun all mountain options that embodies Line as a brand.”

The Optic 88 offers an uncommon amount of confidence in variable conditions and terrain. These skis are great entry points for advanced skiers who are looking to progress and utilize all that the mountain has to offer. While it’s a bit on the burly side for beginners and early intermediates, there’s no ceiling at the top—these are fantastic options for even aggressive experts looking for some shape and style in their all-mountain ski. There’s a lot to like here, as the skis offer a lot of capacity within an easy-to-use package.