2023 LIBERTY ORIGIN 96 SKI REVIEW

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We often refer to skis in the mid-90's underfoot range as fantastic options for one-ski quivers, and the 2023 Liberty Origin 96 is no exception. It does, however, manage to set itself apart from the competition in a number of distinct ways, and that gives it a unique feel and character within this arena of skis. Starting in 2022, the Origin 90 went away from the men’s lineup, and was replaced with the 101. Construction changed, as well, adding a vertical metal strut to the mix. As a result, the 2022 and now the 2023 Liberty Origin 96 is the narrowest of the Origin series, and has one vertical metal strut in order to boost performance. This does not, however, take away any of the fun factor and freeride flair that we loved from the 2021 and older versions of the ski, rather it adds some pep and pop to an already fairly snappy and energetic ski.

The metal strut is just one component of this ski, there’s quite a bit more going on here in terms of construction. Bamboo in the core makes this ski stand out for sure. Since it’s technically a member of the grass family, it’s going to give a different feel than some of the more classic woods that are used in skis. When it’s paired with versatile, light, and energetic poplar wood, the core of the ski leans to the light and flexible side of the spectrum. The build features four macro-block stringers of poplar alternating with three narrower stringers of bamboo. The central stringer features the metal strut. On top of the middle two poplar blocks are horizontal strips of carbon that run the length of the ski. This carbon adds to the stiffness and energy of the ski, allowing for fantastic rebound and snap. The whole thing gets a wrap of fiberglass to make a cohesive unit, making it pretty easy to tell that this ski really has a quality build to it. Poured Polyurethane (PU) sidewalls bookend the build, and they’re on the thick side of the spectrum so that the ski maintains a quiet, damp, and stable feel throughout.

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As if the construction wasn’t enough to set the ski apart, the shape and profile really solidify that identity. We’ve talked about these Origin skis and how they have a very rounded shape to them, and that translates quite well to the overall character of the ski in that it really enjoys making round turns with agility and maneuverability. It’s super-easy to get this ski to come around in a variety of conditions and terrain. The 130/96/118 mm dimensions equates to a 19-meter turn radius in the 182, and a very well-rounded footprint. In terms of profile, Liberty is claiming a 20% tip rocker bend, but it looks and feels like a bit more. They also claim 10% in the tail, but with the gradual rise to the twin-tipped shape, it also seems slightly understated. Either way, the ski is pretty darn rockered, and that makes it super-playful and fun in softer snow. The round and smooth taper shape does lead to fairly pointy tips and tails, but the overall feel of the ski is on the more oval side, and the resulting turns match that shape quite well.

On the groomers, the blend of construction, shape, and profile makes the Origin 96 a capable and competent carver, but nobody’s going to mistake this for a full-on carver/charger like a M6 Mantra, which holds similar measurements. The shovel of the ski is on the more flexible side, and while this allows for easy entry to the turn, it does not pull you in—the skier does have to do the work to get this thing on higher edge angles from the start. From the mid-body and back through the tail, though, the Origin 96 does feel like a different ski, with a grippy zone underfoot and an energetic tail that does like to finish off carves quite strongly. Most of my best turns were found in the short-to-medium radius side of the spectrum, and at moderate speeds. I found that they really liked to be released with energy and shoved into the next turn rather quickly, with little to no delay in the un-weighted phase. Again, this is no M6 Mantra, but for the weight and versatility, it does just fine in a carved turn.

Trees, bumps, and powder is where this ski really starts to shine. Thanks to that freeride-inspired shape and profile, the Origin 96 is likely one of the most maneuverable and agile skis in this range, as well as being one of the best floaters. The rounded shape and quick nature of the ski makes it an absolute blast in the woods, and despite having some of the tightest trees on the planet here in Stowe, Vermont, the Origin 96 makes quick work of them. Feel free to drive the shovel of these skis right into the front of any mogul you can find, hard or soft, as the 96 is supple enough to absorb the shock involved and not get thrown off course. You can ski zipper-line style in the bumps or take it a bit more across the fall line, and you’ll have all the confidence in the world that you’re not going to get bucked or tossed at all—skiers looking for that wider option that they can use as a mogul ski will love the composure of the Origin 96 in all sorts of bumpy terrain. When it snows, you’ll have the rocker profile, light weight, and playful taper shape to ensure that you’re staying right on top of any depth of snow. They are smeary, slarvy, and incredibly smooth when it comes to the deep stuff. For a 96, it’s an incredible floater. Sure, you may want something more like the 106 or 112 for a dedicated snow ski, but if versatility is your thing, it’s tough to beat this one for having the ability to do it all.

It’s great to see Liberty continue the evolution of the Origin line. By adding the metal strut, they’ve made the 96 closer in comparison to more burly and rugged skis, while still keeping it unique and interesting enough for freeride and freestyle skiers to have their fun with. From tip to tail, there’s nothing else out there that feels quite like the Origin 96, and ever since Liberty started making skis, I think that was part of their goal, and for this one, the mission remains accomplished.

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Written by Bob St.Pierre on 04/20/22