Testing a Mindbender, With SkiEssentials
This past season, we were able to log a good chunk of time on K2's newly redesigned Mindbender line. As fans of the previous generation, we were anticipating some forward-thinking construction techniques and shaping techniques that invoke creativeness. We certainly found that to be true. The line consists of some brand-new constructions and shapes with some returning members from the previous Mindbender C skis. 88/88W, 96/96W, 101/101W, and 111 are the new widths within the line that get the new construction, which consists of an aspen/paulownia wood core, Titanal I-Beams, and K2's newest party trick, Dark Matter. The Mindbender 85 and 90 solely get new graphics for 2027 with their shapes and constructions carried over from the previous generation.
Moving from an aspen macroblock wood core with two titanal laminates to a lighter and softer aspen/paulownia core is the first clue as to the direction K2 wanted to take these skis. Lighter, less demanding, but still able to keep up to the demands of hard charging skiers. The Titanal I-Beams still provide enough backbone for when you want to put the power down, but it isn't as taxing as the previous Titanal Y-Beam. Then there is Dark Matter. Dark Matter refers to weights that are strategically located over the edges at the start of the camber of the ski, two in the forebody, two in the aft section. What this all combines into are sis that have a mix of stiffness and smoothness while also having a sense of creative inspiration. They all kept ticking boxes when it came to carving, smearing, floating, slashing, so it was a constant game of "Well what else can these do?". Turns out, they were up for that.
We ended up spending the majority of the time on the 88, 96, and 101. The 88 has a unique blend of attributes not commonly found in their category. It feels like it has more in common with a wider ski rather than a narrower ski, providing a lot of soft snow versatility while still having the power and smoothness needed to lay down trenches. The 96 is a clean and crisp carver with a lot of pull out of the shovel, stoutness underfoot, but with the ability to smear. Again, providing a wickedly versatile platform for all-mountain skiers who want it all. Finally, we really got to know the 101 throughout the entire season through various terrains, locations, and conditions. Not to say we didn't for the 88 and 96, we just had a pair of 101's for more time. The 101 is a great example of a freeride ski that mixes playfulness with power. A flatter profile with generous rocker coupled with two sheets of metal is a combination that produces a ski that is not only stable but also maneuverable and unlocks more creativeness for the skier. Check out the articles and videos below to learn more!
Dive Deeper into the Mindbender Series:
2027 Ski Test Behind the Scenes: 2027 K2 Mindbender 88
2027 K2 Mindbender 96 On Snow Ski Review