2027 Kastle MX88 Skis
SKU AM8824$1,149.00
2027 Kastle MX88 Skis
SKU AM8824$1,149.00
SELECT SKI SIZE
NEVER WAX YOUR SKIS AGAIN!
GO BEYOND THE FACTORY TUNE!
GET THIS SKI WITH BINDINGS AND FREE MOUNTING:
2027 Kastle MX 88 Skis with Marker COMP 12 GW Bindings
$1,428.99
DESCRIPTION
Returning for 2027, the legendary Kastle MX 88 returns to its triumphant seat amongst its other supreme carving accomplices. With virtually limitless edge grip and high-speed stability, the MX 88 is one of the most powerful all mountain carving skis in existence. Its combination of power, precision, grip, dampness, and energy make it a groomer and hard pack assassin that never backs down.
Why we like it:
The MX 88’s balance between power and precision is what puts it in the top of its crowd class of upper 88 mm waisted carving skis.
Who it's for:
Advanced to expert skiers who have a racing or competition background will get the most out of what the 88 has to offer.
Highlights:
The MX 88 has Kastle’s sophisticated InfiniCore which is composed of specifically located stringers of poplar and beech woods. The central portion of the ski consists mainly of beech stringers while outer sections consist mostly of poplar, tailoring the longitudinal and torsion flex of the ski to result in the best carving performance. InfiniCore is reinforced with 2 almost full sheets of titanal. The 88 also get Kastle’s Hollowtech EVO which removes more material from the tip, exaggerating the effect of the previous HallowTech with an even lower swing weight. Fast Grip Shovel and Tail ensure a long effective edge for maximum grip throughout the turn no matter how firm the snow surface is.
Things to consider:
The MX 88 is a powerful and burly ski that is not well suited for the faint of heart or for those without proper technique. Without a competitive background or refined technique these machines will be punishing and unrelenting.
Fit & sizing considerations:
Skis true to size.
PRODUCT FEATURES
- Sidecut: 130/88/114 mm at 174 cm length
- Radius: 17.1 m at 174 cm length
- Rocker/Camber
- Poplar/Beech Wood Core
- Titanal
- Infinicore
- HollowTech EVO
- Fast Grip Shovel and Tail
- Weight: 1912 g per ski
- Ability Level: Advanced to Expert
Q&A
Ask a question and our experts will answer.
SPECIFICATIONS
ROCKER PROFILE
Rocker/Camber
PREFERRED TERRAIN
All-Mountain, Groomers
Learn more about the Kastle MX 88
| Model Year | Product Page | Ski Test Results | Chairlift Chat |
|---|---|---|---|
2027 | 2027 Kastle MX88 Skis—Skis with bindings | ||
2024 | — | ||
2022 | — |
The MX88 doesn’t hold anything back and is everything I have come to expect from Kastle.
Matty Kuhnel
Tester Reviews
19 testers reviewed the 2027 Kastle MX88
tester:
- Ability
- Expert
- Height
- 5’11”
- Weight
- 200
- Days / Year
- 50-100
- Age
- 44
- Years Skiing
- 40
Smooth, flowing, and fast, but calculated to ski another day
Ski:
2027 Kastle MX88 Skis
Size Tested:
181 CM
Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes
Stowe, variable skied off icey blue groomers.
Did this length feel short, long, or just right? Would you recommend sizing up or down, or does it ski "true to size?" Would you choose this length for yourself?
The MX88 skis true to size and is perfect for me in a 181.
Scores
Floatation:8/10
Stability:9/10
Quickness:8/10
Playfulness:8/10
Forgiveness:9/10
Edge Grip:9/10
Versatility:10/10
Overall:9/10
What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?
The MX88 doesn’t hold anything back and is everything I have come to expect from Kastle. It is the most versatile ski I have ever been on. They can rip down a groomer, bang out bumps, shred the trees, and do it all exceedingly well. These skis however must be pushed, they only perform their best when exerting maximum force. If not skiing in the front of the boot, they can feel slow on edge transitions. I love these skis. They bring out the best of my ability.
For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?
This is a truly versatile all mountain ski. It is amazing on any terrain that generates speed and or g force.
What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?
Experts only with these skis.
Anything else you want to tell us about your experience on these skis?
The MX88 is better than a Swiss army knife at doing it all.
tester:
- Ability
- Expert
- Height
- 6'0"
- Weight
- 200
- Days / Year
- 50
- Age
- 38
- Years Skiing
- 35
Freeride oriented
Ski:
2027 Kastle MX88 Skis
Size Tested:
181 CM
Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes
Stowe, gondolier, Perry Merrill, scraped off hard pack, true East Coast.
Did this length feel short, long, or just right? Would you recommend sizing up or down, or does it ski "true to size?" Would you choose this length for yourself?
The ski felt true to size. However, being highly maneuverable you could size up if you preferred given it stability, but wouldn’t be necessary.
Scores
Floatation:4/10
Stability:7/10
Quickness:8/10
Playfulness:8/10
Forgiveness:8/10
Edge Grip:7/10
Versatility:5/10
Overall:7/10
What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?
This is a more playful ski than it lets on to. It felt highly maneuverable and light under my feet, giving me plenty of feedback and energy in between turns. I constantly felt my heels coming off the ground and a smile on my face in small short radius turns.
For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?
This ski is optimized for frontside groomers/all mountain. Given it’s maneuverability and responsiveness I wouldn’t hesitate to take this and play around in glades and moguls as well.
What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?
Intermediate skiers will appreciate the responsiveness and forgiveness, and it will allow them to progress. Advanced skiers will find this ski an absolute delight. Expert skiers may find the limit on this ski.
Anything else you want to tell us about your experience on these skis?
This ski has a really fun personality, and I appreciate a ski that has a distinct personality profile. It absolutely excelled in dynamic short radius and bouncy turns. When I really pushed it into much harder, stronger, GS turns I found it begin to get a little twitchy, but that’s OK. This thing just wants to bounce around and play with dynamic short turns.
Ski:
2027 Kastle MX88 Skis
Size Tested:
188 CM
Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes
Perry Merril - icy.
Did this length feel short, long, or just right? Would you recommend sizing up or down, or does it ski "true to size?" Would you choose this length for yourself?
Feels true to size and exactly how they should.
Scores
Floatation:7/10
Stability:10/10
Quickness:9/10
Playfulness:7/10
Forgiveness:4/10
Edge Grip:10/10
Versatility:7/10
Overall:8/10
What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?
These skis like to turn and you can feel it!
For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?
These are amazing groomer cruiser skis. Full edge control that you can trust and crank some trenches in with.
What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?
This is probably for intermediate to expert skiers that want full edge control so smash through their own creative line.
Anything else you want to tell us about your experience on these skis?
I was so surprised by how it felt like I wasn’t on such crappy conditions. It was almost as if I had ice skates on and could still carve.
tester:
- Ability
- Expert
- Height
- 6'1"
- Weight
- 235
- Days / Year
- 15+
- Age
- 40
- Years Skiing
- 37
Fast and Aggressive Carver, Trying to Figure out Bumps and Trees
Ski:
2027 Kastle MX88 Skis
Size Tested:
181 CM
Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes
Quad groomer laps. Nosedive.
Did this length feel short, long, or just right? Would you recommend sizing up or down, or does it ski "true to size?" Would you choose this length for yourself?
Just right.
Scores
Floatation:7/10
Stability:9/10
Quickness:9/10
Playfulness:8/10
Forgiveness:8/10
Edge Grip:9/10
Versatility:7/10
Overall:9/10
What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?
This is a strong ski that wants to be on edge and coming across the fall line. Really strong underfoot, but with a light tip that allows easy turn initiation.
For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?
All mountain frontside.
What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?
Advanced to expert.
Anything else you want to tell us about your experience on these skis?
This ski is stiff. It wants to ride hard, and fast, and be on edge more often than not. It is going to grip most anything, but can still move into smaller or slip turns if needed.
Luke submitted 2 test cards — select one:
tester:
- Ability
- Expert
- Height
- 6'1"
- Weight
- 190
- Days / Year
- 125
- Age
- 32
- Years Skiing
- 28
Jason Statham's role as Chev Chelios in the movie "Crank"
Ski:
2027 Kastle MX88 Skis
Size Tested:
188 CM
Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes
Liftline at stowe groomed.
Did this length feel short, long, or just right? Would you recommend sizing up or down, or does it ski "true to size?" Would you choose this length for yourself?
This was the perfect size for me.
Scores
Floatation:5/10
Stability:9/10
Quickness:8/10
Playfulness:6/10
Forgiveness:6/10
Edge Grip:8/10
Versatility:6/10
Overall:8/10
What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?
It's a bit lighter than I expected, but still held up well.
For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?
I think it's a frontside ski with a little bit of versatility to go off trail.
What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?
Advanced to expert frontside skiers.
Anything else you want to tell us about your experience on these skis?
I pushed it very hard on some meh conditions and it held up. For sure has high end capabilities.
tester:
- Ability
- Advanced
- Height
- 6'1"
- Weight
- 185
- Days / Year
- 100-120
- Age
- 31
- Years Skiing
- 27
Intentional
Ski:
2027 Kastle MX88 Skis
Size Tested:
188 CM
Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes
Stowe groomers
Did this length feel short, long, or just right? Would you recommend sizing up or down, or does it ski "true to size?" Would you choose this length for yourself?
Perfect. True to size
Scores
Floatation:6/10
Stability:9/10
Quickness:8/10
Playfulness:7/10
Forgiveness:7/10
Edge Grip:10/10
Versatility:6/10
Overall:9/10
What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?
Feels great. Nice to see an 88 underfoot frontside ski look like a frontside ski. Feels like lots of brands are trying to pretend their similar ski is more versatile. Very similar to anomaly/mantra/enforcer but leans into being a frontside ski.
For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?
Frontside primarily. Has some versatility though.
What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?
Advanced/expert frontside skiers.
If you could change anything about these skis, what would you change and why?
Nothing.
tester:
- Ability
- Expert
- Height
- 5’10”
- Weight
- 198
- Days / Year
- 50
- Age
- 39
- Years Skiing
- 37
Fast, smooth. Thinks legs are as strong as they were in 2012 (they aren’t)
Ski:
2027 Kastle MX88 Skis
Size Tested:
188 CM
Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes
Stowe. Quad groomers. Icy/hard pack.
Did this length feel short, long, or just right? Would you recommend sizing up or down, or does it ski "true to size?" Would you choose this length for yourself?
Felt true to length. I typically ski a 184 but I would absolutely use this ski for myself as an on piste focused ski.
Scores
Floatation:5/10
Stability:9/10
Quickness:8/10
Playfulness:7/10
Forgiveness:7/10
Edge Grip:10/10
Versatility:7/10
Overall:8/10
What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?
These skis are confidence inspiring. Great on edge. They are easier to ski than I expected. They feel very neutral until you pressure the cuffs of your boots. As a result, they are easy to transition from edge to edge. My stocklis on the other hand, lock into the turn and take more effort to transition from edge to edge.
For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?
I really only skied icy groomers but these made bad conditions fun. Excellent on edge. They felt nimble enough to ski bumps with but I didn’t get the chance.
What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?
These skis are best for intermediate to advanced skiers. They are high performance but also forgiving enough for a wide range of skiers. They appear best for carving and light chop / fresh snow.
Anything else you want to tell us about your experience on these skis?
Really fun ski! A lot more confident on edge than prior MX98, which was a big downgrade from the old MX 99. Different sizes, I know. Just sharing my Kastle point of reference.
tester:
- Ability
- Advanced
- Height
- 5'10"
- Weight
- 157
- Days / Year
- This year and last year about 60 days. Prior was, i'm guessing, 25
- Age
- 67
- Years Skiing
- 45
Advance, but not very fast
Ski:
2027 Kastle MX88 Skis
Size Tested:
174 CM
Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes
FIRM Groomer.
Did this length feel short, long, or just right? Would you recommend sizing up or down, or does it ski "true to size?" Would you choose this length for yourself?
Maybe a little long.
Scores
Floatation:5/10
Stability:10/10
Quickness:7/10
Playfulness:4/10
Forgiveness:3/10
Edge Grip:9/10
Versatility:5/10
Overall:5/10
What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?
When I was forward and skiing well, they were remarkable. If I got a little in the back seat they left me behind. Note, I have zero race background. With all the above I would like to add them to my Quivers.
For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?
Groomers. Incredibly stable and very secure.
What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?
Advanced. You need to be able to, or really want to, carve properly.
Anything else you want to tell us about your experience on these skis?
I never had carving skis before. Though now, I think that I should.
tester:
- Ability
- Expert
- Height
- 6’ 1”
- Weight
- 200
- Days / Year
- 90
- Age
- 60
- Years Skiing
- 55
Controlled aggressive
Ski:
2027 Kastle MX88 Skis
Size Tested:
181 CM
Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes
Stowe gondola groomers.
Did this length feel short, long, or just right? Would you recommend sizing up or down, or does it ski "true to size?" Would you choose this length for yourself?
True to size.
Scores
Floatation:5/10
Stability:9/10
Quickness:9/10
Playfulness:8/10
Forgiveness:7/10
Edge Grip:9/10
Versatility:7/10
Overall:9/10
What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?
Great carver. Very responsive and very fun frontside ski. I loved arcing turns on this ski. They handled hard pack and bullet proof ice very well and really skied well. They reminded me of the Stockli AX and of similar build quality.
For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?
Groomers.
What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?
Advanced.
Anything else you want to tell us about your experience on these skis?
Love this ski!
Ski:
2027 Kastle MX88 Skis
Size Tested:
181 CM
Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes
Stowe Gondola, groomed variable.
Did this length feel short, long, or just right? Would you recommend sizing up or down, or does it ski "true to size?" Would you choose this length for yourself?
The MX88 skied true to size and the 181 felt perfect for me.
Scores
Floatation:6/10
Stability:8/10
Quickness:8/10
Playfulness:7/10
Forgiveness:8/10
Edge Grip:8/10
Versatility:7/10
Overall:7/10
What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?
The MX88 felt stable and burly at first. Then the light swing weight became evident and the ski opened up.
For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?
Groomed advanced to expert, with some glades are the playground for this ski.
What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?
Advanced intermediate to experts will enjoy this ski on a variety of terrain.
Anything else you want to tell us about your experience on these skis?
Great, fun, ski that can tackle a lot for its footprint.
tester:
- Ability
- I'm A Pro
- Height
- 5'9"
- Weight
- 170
- Days / Year
- 100+
- Age
- 38
- Years Skiing
- 36
Racer nerd turned PSIA instructor nerd- fast, edgy, technically accurate.
Ski:
2027 Kastle MX88 Skis
Size Tested:
181 CM
Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes
Firm groomed terrain and some un-groomed re-frozen spring snow.
Did this length feel short, long, or just right? Would you recommend sizing up or down, or does it ski "true to size?" Would you choose this length for yourself?
Length was just right.
Scores
Floatation:7/10
Stability:9/10
Quickness:8/10
Playfulness:7/10
Forgiveness:8/10
Edge Grip:9/10
Versatility:8/10
Overall:10/10
What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?
Such a fun ski! Crazy grip for an all mountain ski. This is an aggressive ski that is also somehow forgiving.
For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?
Anything, this ski can do it all.
What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?
Expert. This ski would work for all abilities but it really wants to be driven hard.
Anything else you want to tell us about your experience on these skis?
I want this ski. Probably not as “playful” as other skis in the category- not for a freestyle skier. If your idea of fun is skiing hard, ripping pure carved turns, then blasting bumps, this ski is for you.
Ski:
2027 Kastle MX88 Skis
Size Tested:
181 CM
Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes
Stowe - Gondolier, Perry Merrill, groomers.
Did this length feel short, long, or just right? Would you recommend sizing up or down, or does it ski "true to size?" Would you choose this length for yourself?
True to size.
Scores
Floatation:10/10
Stability:10/10
Quickness:10/10
Playfulness:9/10
Forgiveness:9/10
Edge Grip:9/10
Versatility:9/10
Overall:9/10
What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?
Extremely responsive, and holds the edges through turns. A bit reserved underfoot, kicks back on the flats.
For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?
Powder and groomers.
What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?
Advanced to expert.
Greg submitted 2 test cards — select one:
tester:
- Ability
- I'm A Pro
- Height
- 6 feet 3 inches
- Weight
- 210
- Days / Year
- 50+
- Age
- 43
- Years Skiing
- 41
Reformed powder addict now seeking perfect piste n
Ski:
2027 Kastle MX88 Skis
Size Tested:
181 CM
Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes
I skied this on piste at Stowe Mountain Resort on a combination of Perry Merrill, Gondolier, and some woods in between. The snow was machine groomed frozen granular and firm hardback with a half inch of fresh snow on top.
Did this length feel short, long, or just right? Would you recommend sizing up or down, or does it ski "true to size?" Would you choose this length for yourself?
The ski was just right, but skied a TINY bit long. I might consider sizing down if you aren't as good once as you ever were.
Scores
Floatation:7/10
Stability:7/10
Quickness:5/10
Playfulness:7/10
Forgiveness:5/10
Edge Grip:9/10
Versatility:8/10
Overall:8/10
What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?
My first impression of this ski is it's a race room build with the whole mountain on its mind. I find it performing and reacting to my inputs similar to how a GS ski would but with a bit less responsiveness which is welcome for it's all mountain ambitions.
For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?
I'm a little confused about what this ski is best suited for. It's race room construction certainly makes one think of piste, but the fact that it lines up against skis like the Stormrider 88 from Stockli makes me think it has more of the mountain as it's ambition. Personally I found it tricky in the trees and bumps due to it's racy feel, but the off piste terrain was especially firm during testing so this may have been a surface issue, and the ski would be pretty well suited off piste.
What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?
This ski is for more advanced or advanced/intermediates.
Anything else you want to tell us about your experience on these skis?
I like this ski a lot. The build is obviously top shelf and Kastle isn't messing around with the MX series of skis. they are putting a lot into these builds year over year and I appreciate that. THAT SAID I have skied this for many years at testing and I still just find this ski to be too racy for an all mountain ski, but simultaneously not pistey enough for being a dedicated groomer ski. So I end up kind of lost about what I'm supposed to do with this ski. It's an amazing piece of construction that reminds me of the OG Volkl Mantras in some regards, but those skis have died off for I think the same reason I can't figure out what do with this ski.
tester:
- Ability
- I'm A Pro
- Height
- 6' 3
- Weight
- 210
- Days / Year
- 50+
- Age
- 39
- Years Skiing
- 37
I'm a race-trained skier who had a powder addiction, and now is looking for the perfect piste turn.
Ski:
2027 Kastle MX88 Skis
Size Tested:
188 CM
Sizing Impression
This ski felt just right. It felt true to size. I would choose this length for myself.
Scores
Floatation:8/10
Stability:10/10
Quickness:9/10
Playfulness:9/10
Forgiveness:9/10
Edge Grip:10/10
Versatility:8/10
Overall:10/10
Overall Impression
I loved this new incarnation of the MX88. It felt so much more playful than last year's MX88. The new core layup really has done wonders to make the ski feel a little less racy, and a little more forgiving, but somehow while keeping the performance that the MX88 was always known for. This ski really gives a Stockli Stormrider 88 a run for its money, and folks should take a serious look as this ski for their one ski quiver. I was super impressed from start to finish.
Appropriate Terrain
Really this can do it all. It rails piste. It chops up soft snow. It gets around in the trees.
Appropriate Skier
This ski seems aimed at advanced skiers with its camber and almost racy piste carving ability, but the new designed core which seems to have made this ski alot more forgiving and playful brings this ski into play for advanced intermediates as well.
Other Thoughts
Nothing. I think Kastle is really onto something with this ski. It has always been a favorite of mine, but this new edition really knocks it out of the park.
tester:
- Ability
- Expert
- Height
- 5'9"
- Weight
- 160
- Days / Year
- 60-70
- Age
- 36
- Years Skiing
- 26
Versatile, sometimes fast and loose, other times precise and calculated
Ski:
2027 Kastle MX88 Skis
Size Tested:
181 CM
Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes
Pico packed powder.
Did this length feel short, long, or just right? Would you recommend sizing up or down, or does it ski "true to size?" Would you choose this length for yourself?
Felt just right.
Scores
Floatation:3/10
Stability:9/10
Quickness:7/10
Playfulness:6/10
Forgiveness:8/10
Edge Grip:8/10
Versatility:6/10
Overall:9/10
What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?
It feels like an excellent competitor to the Stormrider 88. Easy to ski and stable but still holds an edge really well.
For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?
This ski is best for groomers.
What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?
Intermediate to expert skiers will like this ski. It's easy to ski but comfortable to push.
tester:
- Ability
- Expert
- Height
- 6’ 5”
- Weight
- 225
- Days / Year
- Atleast 50+
- Age
- 46
- Years Skiing
- 28 years…learned as a kid, but it was when I went to college in VT at 18 skiing Smugglers Notch
Powerful but playful
Ski:
2027 Kastle MX88 Skis
Size Tested:
188 CM
Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes
Stowe, Groomer, Early morning soft groomer with patches of ice mixed in.
Did this length feel short, long, or just right? Would you recommend sizing up or down, or does it ski "true to size?" Would you choose this length for yourself?
Just right for the application.
Scores
Floatation:6/10
Stability:10/10
Quickness:9/10
Playfulness:8/10
Forgiveness:8/10
Edge Grip:10/10
Versatility:8/10
Overall:10/10
What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?
What a wild ride in all the best ways. To rip down a groomer with un predictable conditions this ski held in every turn with all the confidence one could ask for and more. Setting an edge in ice at high speeds and never second guessing the edge hold. This ski is so playful, and can quickly snap into the next turn.
For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?
It blew my mind in stability on the open groomers, but also in the limited non groomed it held its edge and could maneuver easily. This high performance all mountain ski can be an effective tool all over the mountain.
What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?
Stronger athletic, advanced, skiers to more aggressive expert skiers. I feel that the better the skier and more aggressive would get the most out of it. Its performance when pushed is unlocked. It doesn’t want to just be ridden it wants to be driven, so the more you can give it the more you can appreciate the performance.
Anything else you want to tell us about your experience on these skis?
Not only is the MX 88 a smooth and precise, but its looks fierce and fiery. You just felt like you were melting the snow as you ripped down the trail.
Matt submitted 2 test cards — select one:
tester:
- Ability
- Expert
- Height
- 6'2"
- Weight
- 195
- Days / Year
- 140
- Age
- 27
- Years Skiing
- 26
Would describe myself as a freecarver (Freeride skier at heart with a love for carving). Any excuse to go drops, cliffs, jumps, spins, etc., I will take. But also very much enjoy pure carving on skis that many would consider far too wide to carve on.
Ski:
2027 Kastle MX88 Skis
Size Tested:
188 CM
Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes
Stowe, VT - Smooth slush with firm snow underneath.
Did this length feel short, long, or just right? Would you recommend sizing up or down, or does it ski "true to size?" Would you choose this length for yourself?
Felt just right!
Scores
Floatation:7/10
Stability:10/10
Quickness:8/10
Playfulness:7/10
Forgiveness:7/10
Edge Grip:10/10
Versatility:8/10
Overall:10/10
What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?
Absolutely love this ski! So much energy, rebound, and snap out of the turn with a slicey, solid, feel mid-turn and lots of tip precision. You really feel the stoutness underfoot. The supple tip initiates turns very well and the snappy tail provides the rebound you want at the end of the turn. The rebound will be too much for a lot of people, but for those that like it, will absolutely love it. Unlike a lot of frontside carvers, this one I found to work best at your normal length. Others like the Anomaly and Mantra, I like to downsize, but I did not find that in the MX.
For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?
Fronside carving on firm snow and packed powder groomers.
What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?
Expert skiers due to the precision and rebound.
Anything else you want to tell us about your experience on these skis?
This thing is a missile.
tester:
- Ability
- Expert
- Height
- 6' 2"
- Weight
- 200
- Days / Year
- 70 - 100
- Age
- 25
- Years Skiing
- 23
Freeride to its definition. Playful but fundamentally sound with an emphasis on style.
Ski:
2027 Kastle MX88 Skis
Size Tested:
177 CM
Sizing Impression
True to size.
Scores
Floatation:6/10
Stability:9/10
Quickness:8/10
Playfulness:8/10
Forgiveness:8/10
Edge Grip:9/10
Versatility:7/10
Overall:9/10
Overall Impression
Absolute ripper of a frontside ski. Insanely responsive and strong but somehow easy and intuitive to ski. Ended up using it for a couple of race runs and was super composed throughout the entire run. Would be happy to own as a frontside carver!
Appropriate Terrain
Frontside groomer carving or beer league race sti.
Appropriate Skier
Advanced to expert frontside carvers and beer league racers.
Other Thoughts
I'd change nothing.
tester:
Andrew Ruschp
- Ability
- Expert
- Height
- 6'0"
- Weight
- 205
- Days / Year
- 60-100
- Age
- 46
- Years Skiing
- 44
Fun
Ski:
2027 Kastle MX88 Skis
Size Tested:
181 CM
Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes
Gondola and corn snow
Did this length feel short, long, or just right? Would you recommend sizing up or down, or does it ski "true to size?" Would you choose this length for yourself?
Little short but pretty close
Scores
Floatation:3/10
Stability:9/10
Quickness:8/10
Playfulness:6/10
Forgiveness:5/10
Edge Grip:8/10
Versatility:5/10
Overall:8/10
What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?
Stable and zippy.
For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?
Groomers.
What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?
All abilities.
If you could change anything about these skis, what would you change and why?
Nothing.
tester:
Marc Angelillo
- Ability
- I'm A Pro
- Height
- 5'9"
- Weight
- 165
- Days / Year
- 150+
- Age
- 69
- Years Skiing
- 66
Fluid, technical, textbook, high level of efficiency
Ski:
2027 Kastle MX88 Skis
Size Tested:
167 CM
Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes
Front side and all mountain
Did this length feel short, long, or just right? Would you recommend sizing up or down, or does it ski "true to size?" Would you choose this length for yourself?
True to size
Scores
Floatation:9/10
Stability:8/10
Quickness:8/10
Playfulness:8/10
Forgiveness:7/10
Edge Grip:8/10
Versatility:8/10
Overall:8/10
What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?
Smooth and playful.
For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?
All mountain and frontside.
What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?
Intermediate to expert.
If you could change anything about these skis, what would you change and why?
No change.
tester:
Jamie O'Brien
- Ability
- Expert
- Height
- 5'9"
- Weight
- 195
- Days / Year
- 70-90
- Age
- 42
- Years Skiing
- 40+
fast, smooth, and flowy
Ski:
2027 Kastle MX88 Skis
Size Tested:
181 CM
Sizing Impression
181cm is just the right length for a guy my size and it skied exactly how I expected a 181 would.
Scores
Floatation:8/10
Stability:9/10
Quickness:8/10
Playfulness:8/10
Forgiveness:6/10
Edge Grip:8/10
Versatility:7/10
Overall:8/10
Overall Impression
My first impression was that the new MX88 was more rugged than its predecessor and it skis like it too. Still plenty versatile and playful but with a new found ruggedness of its 100yr heritage.
Appropriate Terrain
From groomers to trees, the MX88 crushes it all. It's built like a bulldozer but handles like a rally car.
Appropriate Skier
The MX88 is for the upper intermediate to advanced skier because it takes some strength and aggressive riding to get the most out of it.
Other Thoughts
Nothing to change for the MX88. Such a fun and confidence building ski!
tester:
Steve Sulin
- Ability
- Expert
- Height
- 6
- Weight
- 240
- Days / Year
- 35
- Age
- 49
- Years Skiing
- 40
Ski:
2027 Kastle MX88 Skis
Size Tested:
180 CM
Sizing Impression
true
Scores
Floatation:5/10
Stability:10/10
Quickness:6/10
Playfulness:5/10
Forgiveness:5/10
Edge Grip:10/10
Versatility:5/10
Overall:10/10
Overall Impression
Great daily driver for someone who want to attack the mountain. Crushes crud. Hooks up easier than previous models.
Appropriate Terrain
Mixed to hard snow.
Appropriate Skier
Ripper.
Other Thoughts
Nothing.
