2027 Kastle Paragon 101 Skis

Model Year	Product Page	Ski Test Results	Chairlift Chat
2027	2027 Kastle Paragon 101 Skis—Skis with bindings	2025 Kastle Paragon 101 2026 Kastle Paragon 101 2027 Kastle Paragon 101	2025 Kastle Paragon 101 & Paragon 107 On Snow Ski Review

tester:

Ken Marin

Ability: Expert
Height: 6’ 1”
Weight: 200
Days / Year: 90
Age: 60
Years Skiing: 55

Controlled aggressive

Ski:

2027 Kastle Paragon 101 Skis

Size Tested:

182 CM

Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes

Stowe Perry Merrill, Lord and Gondolier on top of frozen snow from prior days thaw. Despite pretty lousy conditions these skis handles the conditions very well.

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 in length.

Scores

Floatation:5/10

Stability:8/10

Quickness:8/10

Playfulness:8/10

Forgiveness:8/10

Edge Grip:8/10

Versatility:9/10

Overall:9/10

What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?

This is a very stable ski at speed but it’s softer tip and tail seem made it fun to ski even in variable conditions. Too bad the cinditions didn’t allow testing in more types of snow. The skis even did well in frozen moguls.

For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?

There was no powder to ski, but think these skis would be great in eastern powder, soft snow, moguls and not too tight trees (for example Tres Amigos). But they also did quite well on hard pack, and held an edge well and felt quite stable. Not quite as “snappy” as the Paragon 93 given the width, but still great on groomers.

What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?

Advanced/expert skier.

Anything else you want to tell us about your experience on these skis?

I really like this ski and will probably buy a pair (unless I buy the Paragon 93!). Again, while hard to truly test all mountain characteristics with the days conditions, it seems like it should be a good single quiver ski.

Read the Full Ski Test →

tester:

Sam Reed

Ability: Expert
Height: 6'4"
Weight: 200
Days / Year: 30-40
Age: 30
Years Skiing: 25

Chargey while still playful; exploratory

Ski:

2027 Kastle Paragon 101 Skis

Size Tested:

190 CM

Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes

Stowe Gondola - Gondolier (icy 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?

These felt true to length - 190 was perfect.

Scores

Floatation:7/10

Stability:10/10

Quickness:8/10

Playfulness:6/10

Forgiveness:7/10

Edge Grip:9/10

Versatility:8/10

Overall:9/10

What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?

These love to go fast, and need to be driven to be enjoyed, but they weren't overly demanding. Edge-to-edge was solid for the width. Impressively damp and stable at speed, but still willing to do a wide range of turn shapes.

For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?

A strong skier can take these anywhere, but they are best enjoyed carving a wide open trail and cutting through anything in their way.

What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?

Advanced to expert skiers will probably like this best, though sized down it might work for advanced intermediates.

Anything else you want to tell us about your experience on these skis?

This felt like a GT car - fast, smooth, calm and collected.

Read the Full Ski Test →

tester:

Christian Strong

Ability: I'm A Pro
Height: 5'6"
Weight: 160
Days / Year: 75
Age: 50
Years Skiing: 45 years

Smooth and fast on the groomers, total snow ninja in the woods

Ski:

2027 Kastle Paragon 101 Skis

Size Tested:

182 CM

Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes

Stowe Gondola groomers on Perry Merril.

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?

These skis felt just right for the sizing, 182 is a touch long for me.

Scores

Floatation:6/10

Stability:8/10

Quickness:7/10

Playfulness:8/10

Forgiveness:8/10

Edge Grip:7/10

Versatility:8/10

Overall:8/10

What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?

I think this is a solid all mountain ski. It carved great short and long radius turns through hardpack. I bet it would be fun in East Coast trees, and a blast with a bit of soft snow to play with.

For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?

This is an all terrain choice for me. It carved up the hardpack and is wide enough to have fun in soft snow as well.

What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?

Intermediate to experts would really enjoy this ski, it shreds in tough conditions and would be playful in more snow.

Anything else you want to tell us about your experience on these skis?

This is a versatile ski.

Read the Full Ski Test →

tester:

Matty Kuhnel

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 Paragon 101 Skis

Size Tested:

190 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?

The paragon101 skis on the short side with tip and tail rocker. 190 felt great and manageable.

Scores

Floatation:8/10

Stability:5/10

Quickness:7/10

Playfulness:7/10

Forgiveness:7/10

Edge Grip:8/10

Versatility:7/10

Overall:8/10

What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?

This ski does it all on trail when you’re not skiing powder. A great mix of floating in deep snow and holding an edge on firm trail. The rocker makes this ski forgiving in crud and bumps, and lots of torsional stiffness makes edge transfer quick and comfortable. All that rocker makes it a little unstable at high speed. I want to take this ski in some steep and deep western trees, it requires a bit of planning to negotiate tight eastern trees. It’s a good one ski quiver if you like predominantly side country.

For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?

Deep snow and side country is where this ski shines, but can hold an edge on firm groomers. The rocker has a great flex for soaking up chunks and bumps.

What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?

The Paragon 101 is enjoyed most by experts. The long length associated with the rocker makes this ski unwieldy for the beginner and intermediate skier.

Anything else you want to tell us about your experience on these skis?

This ski does not do the twist.

Read the Full Ski Test →

tester:

Pete Fox

Ability: Expert
Height: 6'2"
Weight: 250
Days / Year: 100+
Age: 42
Years Skiing: 40

I wanna go fast

Ski:

2027 Kastle Paragon 101 Skis

Size Tested:

190 CM

Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes

Stowe- 6 pack trails. Corn.

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

Scores

Floatation:8/10

Stability:9/10

Quickness:8/10

Playfulness:8/10

Forgiveness:8/10

Edge Grip:9/10

Versatility:8/10

Overall:9/10

What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?

Power and precision.

For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?

Anything on the mountain.

What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?

Advanced.

If you could change anything about these skis, what would you change and why?

Nothing.

Read the Full Ski Test →

tester:

Grant Wieler

Ability: Expert
Height: 6'0"
Weight: 190
Days / Year: Not enough, but more than most
Age: 36
Years Skiing: 34

Fluid and fun

Ski:

2027 Kastle Paragon 101 Skis

Size Tested:

182 CM

Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes

Slushy bumps on 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?

True to size

Scores

Floatation:8/10

Stability:8/10

Quickness:6/10

Playfulness:7/10

Forgiveness:7/10

Edge Grip:8/10

Versatility:7/10

Overall:9/10

What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?

Holy cow Batman. This is the ski for me - certainly in soft snow conditions. I felt inspired. I wanted to go faster, I wanted to jump higher. I wanted all the doubles and side hits! It’s a bit of a beefier ski, but that just means the more you give it, the more it comes alive!

For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?

All mountain / off piste.

What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?

Advanced + skiers that like to drive a ski will find this an absolute blast.

If you could change anything about these skis, what would you change and why?

I would put it into my car. I didn’t want to give this one up.

Read the Full Ski Test →

tester:

Nic Zannoni

Ability: Expert
Height: 6'0"
Weight: 190 lbs.
Days / Year: 40+
Age: 34
Years Skiing: 20+

Playful Charger

Ski:

2027 Kastle Paragon 101 Skis

Size Tested:

182 CM

Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes

Stowe spring conditions- corn, slush, bumps

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:8/10

Stability:8/10

Quickness:9/10

Playfulness:9/10

Forgiveness:9/10

Edge Grip:8/10

Versatility:9/10

Overall:10/10

What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?

Lighter than expected, good in multiple turn shapes, holds an edge great for its weight, tails release easily, fun in both tight bumps and GS turns. When releasing the tails in a smear, I felt like I have more edge control than on most similar skis. It was a cool feeling! Maybe because they aren’t as heavily rockered? Usually when you feel that much edge you loose maneuverability, but this skis were quick too!

For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?

Definitely an all mountain ski, will be good in soft and hard snow on groomers, bumps, and trees.

What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?

Intermediate-advanced. Easy to ski at slower speeds, and fun to push in all different terrain types.

If you could change anything about these skis, what would you change and why?

Nope!

Read the Full Ski Test →

tester:

Hans de Boer

Ability: Expert
Height: 6'1"
Weight: 200
Days / Year: 30-50 days
Age: 41
Years Skiing: 24

Go fast, take chances. Air it out when I can. If the woods aren't good, I'll be trying to pass everyone on the way down the groomer.

Ski:

2027 Kastle Paragon 101 Skis

Size Tested:

190 CM

Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes

Stowe, blue groomers/spring bumps on the gondola

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?

I would choose this length at 6'1", but I'd recommend downsizing if you're not confident on a long ski or don't intend to go very fast.

Scores

Floatation:7/10

Stability:10/10

Quickness:6/10

Playfulness:6/10

Forgiveness:6/10

Edge Grip:9/10

Versatility:7/10

Overall:8/10

What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?

Very heavy front end. The snow was getting sticky so it was difficult to really put it through its paces. Definitely seemed like it wanted to go as fast as possible to really liven up. I think my "playfulness" score was low due to sticky conditions.

For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?

Everything. I think this ski would be extremely versatile, except sticky warm spring snow which I think resulted in being a bit harsher on my ratings. It does require some confidence to drive it, but it seemed very predictable once you get into the front of your boots to push it.

What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?

High end intermediate wanting to improve/expert. I think as an advanced expert you'd have a difficult time finding the skis limit.

If you could change anything about these skis, what would you change and why?

Based on my skiing style and what I typically ski (non-metal reinforced) the ski felt VERY heavy in the front end and it was hard to initially get it around for hopping 180's and skiing switch. Feel like if I had a couple runs on it, I wouldn't have noticed. They actually performed very well in the spring bumps, which tells me that was a me problem and not a ski problem. This could be a good one-ski quiver in all but the deepest pow. It'll definitely hold an edge on icy groomers.

Read the Full Ski Test →

Matt submitted 2 test cards — select one:

tester:

Matt Stromecki

Ability: Expert
Height: 6'2"
Weight: 195
Days / Year: 110
Age: 26
Years Skiing: 25

Smooth aggressive freeride

Ski:

2027 Kastle Paragon 101 Skis

Size Tested:

182 CM

Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes

Stowe - Firm, icy, frozen granular

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 fine, not sure how it would compare to a longer length but this length felt fine.

Scores

Floatation:8/10

Stability:8/10

Quickness:8/10

Playfulness:8/10

Forgiveness:7/10

Edge Grip:8/10

Versatility:9/10

Overall:9/10

What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?

Smooth, energetic, and very refined. It's just feels like a high quality, high performance ski. Its smooth and stable yet reactive and precise when you want it to be. Especially for the firm conditions I had it on today, it was shocking how much grip I had for a 101 mm underfoot ski. This thing is just awesome.

For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?

All-mountain freeride and carving. Definitely some freeride in there but perhaps not the powder freeride side of the spectrum as it will handle up to about boot high pow.

What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?

Advanced to expert skiers since they will be able to counter the lack of tail splay and the stiffness.

If you could change anything about these skis, what would you change and why?

I would maybe add a little more tail rocker and splay and move the mount point forward 1 or 2 cm. Other than that, absolutely nothing.

Read the Full Ski Test →

tester:

Jose Darias

Ability: I'm A Pro
Height: 5'10"
Weight: 155
Days / Year: 100+
Age: 30
Years Skiing: 28

Aggressive Freeride, mixing power with a smooth, fluid and playful style

Ski:

2027 Kastle Paragon 101 Skis

Size Tested:

182 CM

Sizing Impression

True to length. I would be interested to try the 190

Scores

Floatation:7/10

Stability:9/10

Quickness:6/10

Playfulness:6/10

Forgiveness:6/10

Edge Grip:10/10

Versatility:8/10

Overall:9/10

Overall Impression

This is an aggressive ski with a high top end, but still easy enough to bend into a smooth arc of a variety of shapes. The Paragon 101 still feels light enough to be playful in the air and slash out of a turn when needed. It can slice through soft snow and drive through crud with no issues.

Appropriate Terrain

While the Paragon 101 feels good in that moderate angle terrain, I feel like this ski is best used in the more aggressive areas on the mountain. Any steeper, double fall line trails will give this ski the room to show off its power. Bumps and tight spaces might be a bit tougher on the longer length models.

Appropriate Skier

Advanced to expert skiers will get the most out of this ski while higher level intermediate skiers will enjoy its more care free side when skied at a more moderate pace.

Other Thoughts

This ski has all the characteristics I would want in a more directional freeride ski. I would be tempted to size up to the 190 for the biggest terrain and longest turns at speed but the 182 is an excellent in bound ski for hard chargers.

Read the Full Ski Test →

tester:

Dana Allen

Ability: Advanced
Height: 5' 10
Weight: 165
Days / Year: 50? 75?
Age: 41
Years Skiing: 15 (+7 snowboarding)

On the cusp of being pretty friggin' good sometimes - other times, mostly an aggressive gorilla on planks. Pretty good at not hitting trees, though!

Ski:

2027 Kastle Paragon 101 Skis

Size Tested:

184 CM

Sizing Impression

This ski felt kinda long. I��d probably size down.

Scores

Floatation:4/10

Stability:4/10

Quickness:4/10

Playfulness:2/10

Forgiveness:5/10

Edge Grip:6/10

Versatility:4/10

Overall:3/10

Overall Impression

When the tips started knocking together so hard that they almost tripped me out of the gate, I got pretty nervous. Not a good first impression. I think the side cut is wrong for the shape.

Appropriate Terrain

I’m not sure. I would really like to ski this again. Maybe hard pack?

Appropriate Skier

Nobody. It’s just a weird ski. It isn’t a good pow ski so maybe it would be ok for groomers.

Other Thoughts

The side cut needs to be sorted out or the tip profile needs to change. As is, it’s hard to initiate a turn and the ski feels like it wants to trip you all the time with the tips crossing.

Read the Full Ski Test →

tester:

Matt McAlary

Ability: Expert
Height: 5' 6"
Weight: 180
Days / Year: Probably around 60?
Age: 27
Years Skiing: 25 years

I freeride skier and a racer had a baby

Ski:

2027 Kastle Paragon 101 Skis

Size Tested:

182cm CM

Sizing Impression

They felt true to size

Scores

Floatation:8/10

Stability:9/10

Quickness:7/10

Playfulness:6/10

Forgiveness:6/10

Edge Grip:8/10

Versatility:8/10

Overall:9/10

Overall Impression

It felt somewhat clunky when just on the lift or standing, but once they get going they come to life. They were way easier to maneuver in bumps than i anticipated and they charge on groomers. Really well rounded ski for an aggressive skier that wants the ability to mess around everywhere on the hill.

Appropriate Terrain

Its a do anything kind of ski. For super deep snow I'd want something fatter and maybe a bit softer but it skis a bit of pow, bumps and groomers well.

Appropriate Skier

Advance to expert skiers. It’s not super light so it might be a bit of work for less aggressive skiers.

Other Thoughts

I thought they were great and are an awesome upgrade from prior renditions of that ski in Kastle’s lineup.

Read the Full Ski Test →

tester:

Steve Sulin

Ability: Expert
Height: 6
Weight: 240
Days / Year: 35
Age: 49
Years Skiing: 40

Ski:

2027 Kastle Paragon 101 Skis

Size Tested:

190 CM

Sizing Impression

perfect size

Scores

Floatation:9/10

Stability:10/10

Quickness:9/10

Playfulness:9/10

Forgiveness:8/10

Edge Grip:8/10

Versatility:8/10

Overall:10/10

Overall Impression

One of the best skis I skied in soft snow and mixed condition. 190 perfect length. I'm getting a pair. Playful and loves to charge through the mixed junk.

Appropriate Terrain

Mixed to soft snow.

Appropriate Skier

Advanced to expert.

Other Thoughts

Nothing.

Read the Full Ski Test →

tester:

Matt Testa

Ability: Expert
Height: 5' 8"
Weight: 155
Days / Year: 125
Age: 28
Years Skiing: 23 Years

I like to ski aggressive and also have a playful/ surfy style.

Ski:

2027 Kastle Paragon 101 Skis

Size Tested:

182 CM

Sizing Impression

True to size, Yes I would ride this size

Scores

Floatation:6/10

Stability:8/10

Quickness:8/10

Playfulness:6/10

Forgiveness:7/10

Edge Grip:8/10

Versatility:8/10

Overall:8/10

Overall Impression

The Kastle Paragon 101 was a standout of the ski test. Performed incredibly well on trail. Through the bumps and groomers the ski charges with confidence. Even in the deeper snow the ski floats well. This ski is very versatile and is a quiver killer for most folks.

Appropriate Terrain

I would recommend this ski for most terrain except for the deepest days. It performs very well in soft snow types but I can imagine it also skis well on firmer days when you are looking for a bit more grip. It is stiff so that you can charge and feels like it has a racing pedigree but is playful enough that it is still a blast to ski in all snow types.

Appropriate Skier

This ski is for advanced to expert skiers looking for something that can rip around with confidence.

Read the Full Ski Test →

tester:

Matt Stromecki

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 Paragon 101 Skis

Size Tested:

182 CM

Sizing Impression

True to size.

Scores

Floatation:8/10

Stability:9/10

Quickness:8/10

Playfulness:8/10

Forgiveness:8/10

Edge Grip:9/10

Versatility:8/10

Overall:9/10

Overall Impression

Really enjoyed this directional freeride ski. The overall stiffness permitted excellent carving performance while the rocker profile allowed great maneuverability. Great mix of power and precision with some added versatility.

Appropriate Terrain

Mostly an on trail carver on packed powder with some off-trail adventuring mixed in.

Appropriate Skier

Advanced to expert skiers who know how to drive a ski and properly manipulate a stiff ski will be rewarded for their efforts.

Other Thoughts

Adding a touch more tail rocker to boost versatility.

Read the Full Ski Test →

2027 Kastle Paragon 101 Skis

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