For those seeking a lightweight and maneuverable all-mountain ski, the 2025 K2 Mindbender 96C with Marker Squire 11 Bindings is an excellent choice. By incorporating Carbon into K2’s already light wood core, the 96C delivers a stable yet highly playful performance. Its feather-light feel allows for seamless transitions across different and variable terrain. We paired the 96C with the Marker Squire 11 because of the Squire’s high performance and dependability for lighter weight all mountain and freeride skiers. With a light weight construction and a safe, reliable release, the Squire 11 is a go to choice to keep performance high and weight low.

Why we like it:

The Mindbender 96C offers impressive versatility and approachability, making it a more forgiving and friendlier alternative to its Titanal-laden counterpart, the 99Ti.

Who it's for:

Advancing intermediates to experts will find the Mindbender 96C to be an accessible yet high-performing option that suits a wide range of skiing styles.

Highlights:

The Aspen Micro Block wood core provides the Mindbender 96C with lightweight stability and energy. Instead of Titanal, this model features Carbon Spectral Braid, which delivers similar power and responsiveness without the added weight. Combined with a progressive shape and generous rocker profile, the Mindbender 96C is playful and highly maneuverable in soft snow. Marker’s Triple Pivot Light 2 Toe and Hollow Linkage Heel systems work in tandem to provide powerful energy transmission to the ski, allowing for maximum edge grip and control of the ski. Lighter weight skiers can rest easy knowing the Squire 11 will be easier than ever to step into thanks to a re-designed heel piece. Perhaps the most underappreciated feature of the Squire 11 is the anti-ice rail, which sits on top of the toepiece and can be used to scrape the sole of your boots clean before stepping in.

Things to consider:

While the Mindbender 96C is lighter and more playful, aggressive skiers seeking peak performance might prefer the added stability and power of the 99Ti.

Fit & sizing considerations:

These ski true to size.