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2027 Black Crows Vena Cor Skis
SKU 102560
$999
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DESCRIPTION
The Black Crows Vena Cor is a modern all-mountain ski that blends precision with a freeride-ready shape, designed to feel composed on firm snow while remaining adaptable when conditions soften. It occupies a unique spot within the Black Crows lineup, offering strong edge engagement and stability at speed without losing the versatility and playful fluidity Black Crows is known for.
Why we like it:
We like the Vena Cor because it feels calm and precise underfoot yet still has enough energy to make every turn engaging. It delivers dependable grip on hardpack and transitions smoothly edge to edge, while encouraging creative and unique line choice thanks to it's playful personality.
Who it's for:
Advanced intermediate to expert skiers who are looking for a quiver killer will get the most mileagle out of the Vena Cor. It suits riders who split their day between ripping groomer laps and exploring the mountain; you want a ski with the versatility to handle a little bit of everything.
Highlights:
Black Crows has chosen a poplar wood core to keep the flex lively and responsive, so the ski rebounds confidently from turn to turn. Moderate tip rocker eases turn initiation and improves float in variable snow, while traditional camber underfoot maintains grip and precision on firm surfaces. No doubt the unique swallowtail has caught your eye; this design allows for more articulation in the tail, creating a loose and playful feeling in soft snow. The balanced sidecut encourages a centered stance and rewards technically sound input with clean, powerful turns.
Things to consider:
Despite its twin profile and 100mm waist, the Vena Cor skews a bit toward frontside performance, which makes it a unique ski within its category. Those seeking a true freeride focused all-arounder might find they prefer something with more soft snow performance.
Fit & sizing considerations:
These ski true to size. Skiers who prioritize quickness and tighter turns may opt for a slightly shorter length, while those who value high-speed composure can size up for added stability.
PRODUCT FEATURES
- Sidecut: 129/100/120 mm at 174 cm length
- Radius: 17 m at 174 cm length
- Rocker/Camber/Rocker
- Poplar Wood Core
- Carbon
- Fiberglass
- Weight: 1650 g per ski
- Ability Level: Advanced to Expert
Reviews
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Q&A
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SPECIFICATIONS
ROCKER PROFILE
Rocker/Camber/Rocker
PREFERRED TERRAIN
All-Mountain, Groomers, Freeride
Learn more about the Black Crows Vena Cor
| Model Year | Product Page | Ski Test Results | Chairlift Chat |
|---|---|---|---|
2027 | 2027 Black Crows Vena Cor Skis—Skis with bindings |
You can easily use it in trees or softer snow, but there's no denying that it is an excellent and planted carver.
Bob St.Pierre
Tester Reviews
15 testers reviewed the 2027 Black Crows Vena Cor
tester:
Ski:
2027 Black Crows Vena Cor Skis
Size Tested:
181 CM
Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes
Pico, summit laps with soft and variable conditions.
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 ski was just right. I definitely wouldn’t be afraid to size up or down.
Scores
Floatation:10/10
Stability:10/10
Quickness:10/10
Playfulness:10/10
Forgiveness:10/10
Edge Grip:10/10
Versatility:10/10
Overall:10/10
What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?
I immediately was blown away with not only the tail inspiration from the Mirus Cor, but I also like skis that have weird shapes and side cuts.
For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?
Honestly, it can pass as a daily driver if you don’t mind a wide ski, but it’ll definitely shine in anything but slow speeds as the wood core is a bit on the stiffer side in comparison to the Mirus Cor.
What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?
Intermediate to advanced skiers would absolutely love this ski. It’s a great ski that can not only smear a turn like a butter knife, but it can lay an edge and be just as stable as a race ski. What’s even better is that it aesthetically looks like the polar opposite of a race ski.
Anything else you want to tell us about your experience on these skis?
Not only did I have a permanent smile on my face while on these skis, I couldn’t form a sentence after getting off of these skis because I was completely blown away by how much fun the ski handles.
Bob submitted 2 test cards — select one:
tester:
- Ability
- Advanced
- Height
- 6'2"
- Weight
- 225
- Days / Year
- 110ish
- Age
- 48
- Years Skiing
- 38
A bit more rigid than I used to be but still trying to be dynamic, smooth, and fluid with varying degrees of success. Skis on the snow, these days.
Ski:
2027 Black Crows Vena Cor Skis
Size Tested:
181 CM
Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes
Skied at Pico on a mushed up groomer. Mix of hardpack underneath and soft, wet piles.
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 felt short, but was still quite supportive. I'd have to try the 188 to see if that would be my size or if the 181 is plenty.
Scores
Floatation:7/10
Stability:7/10
Quickness:8/10
Playfulness:6/10
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?
The Vena Cor felt like it had more kick and pull than I would have guessed. It feels light in your hands but strong on your feet. The shovel isn't terribly engaging, but the midbody and tail just rip through turns.
For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?
While it's 100 mm underfoot, it feels very composed on groomed and smooth terrain. You can easily use it in trees or softer snow, but there's no denying that it is an excellent and planted carver.
What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?
This is more of an expert ski with a carving mentality, which takes intermediates out of the discussion.
Anything else you want to tell us about your experience on these skis?
This thing looks weird, but so do most of Black Crows' best skis.
tester:
- Ability
- Advanced
- Height
- 6'2"
- Weight
- 225
- Days / Year
- 110ish
- Age
- 48
- Years Skiing
- 38
A bit more rigid than I used to be but still trying to be dynamic, smooth, and fluid with varying degrees of success. Skis on the snow, these days.
Ski:
2027 Black Crows Vena Cor Skis
Size Tested:
188 CM
Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes
Skied at Waterville Valley on a snowy day. Some powder, some crud, some groomers. It is a great ski for these conditions and variable terrain.
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 is a good length for this ski as they feel a bit on the light side if you're skiing aggressively.
Scores
Floatation:7/10
Stability:6/10
Quickness:8/10
Playfulness:8/10
Forgiveness:7/10
Edge Grip:8/10
Versatility:8/10
Overall:9/10
What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?
I'm a big fan of this ski's overall feel and capacity. It is a very good carving ski on groomers and if you are playful and creative, it's a lot of fun in softer snow as well. It's not as powerful or directional in deeper snow, you kind of have to ski one-footed on them in order to access the soft snow performance. More of a stylistic thing here.
For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?
This ski mixes groomer and off-piste performance very well. I don't think there's one specific type of terrain as it's very composed on corduroy and ice as well as in the trees and bumps. While there's a bit of a freestyle component here and a more central mount point, I can't see a dedicated freestyle skier using this as a park ski all that much, but I could be wrong.
What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?
This ski will make intermediates feel like advanced skiers, but it may leave experts wanting something more especially from a stability and power standpoint.
Anything else you want to tell us about your experience on these skis?
It'll be interesting to see if Vena Cor brings a Mirus Cor following with it!
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 Black Crows Vena Cor Skis
Size Tested:
181 CM
Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes
Pico - Softening granular, cold slush with firm 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?
Just right.
Scores
Floatation:8/10
Stability:8/10
Quickness:9/10
Playfulness:9/10
Forgiveness:8/10
Edge Grip:8/10
Versatility:8/10
Overall:8/10
What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?
Was very excited to try this out since it has some serious Mirus Cor vibes. They were far smoother and denser feeling than I anticipated which provides loads of confidence for making all sorts of turn shapes. It's fairly center mounted like the Mirus but has a higher top end in terms of stability and edge grip. Super versatile ski, on trail carving, trees, powder, all-mountain play is what it's all about here. However, it does feel like a normal 100 mm twin tip and not other-worldly like the Mirus. If you are expecting to have your mind-blown, you likely won't but you will really like the versatility and playful inspiration it provides.
For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?
All-mountain freeride/freestyle, treat the resort as a park or creative carving surface. Jump off things and wiggle through trees. Just get creative anywhere.
What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?
Intermediate to experts will get along nicely with it. Intermediates will not feel overwhelmed and experts will take advantage of the creative side of things.
Anything else you want to tell us about your experience on these skis?
It's a 100 mm twin tip, nothing super crazy and it'd be tough to justify for probably over $1000. I will miss the Justis big time. But this move just makes sense for Black Crows as a brand, a more versatile and approachable 100 mm twin tip instead of the beastly Justis in their lineup. It just makes sense. It's a super fun ski don't get me wrong and I am in no way taking a dig at it, but it doesn't feel related to the Mirus Cor. Feels like a smoother Canvas 100.
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 Black Crows Vena Cor Skis
Size Tested:
188 CM
Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes
Stowe, VT - Packed powder groomers with some ice becoming exposed.
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 oddly short.
Scores
Floatation:9/10
Stability:8/10
Quickness:9/10
Playfulness:10/10
Forgiveness:9/10
Edge Grip:8/10
Versatility:8/10
Overall:8/10
What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?
Had high hopes for this ski given it is taking the place of the Justis and seemingly related to the Mirus Cor. It's more stable and smooth than I thought it would be and highly maneuverable. You can power slide down the whole mountain if you want and change direction at a moment's notice. There isn't really much precision here, so they are quite forgiving. I did find that the outisde ski wanted to wander a lot when in a carved turn so that was pretty difficult to get a grasp on.
For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?
All-mountain freeride and freestyle.
What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?
Intermediate to expert.
Anything else you want to tell us about your experience on these skis?
Feels like a typical 100 mm twin tip, but with a cool tip and tail shape. Not as unique as it appears.
tester:
- Ability
- Expert
- Height
- 6 foot 1
- Weight
- 200
- Days / Year
- 50+ days
- Age
- 31
- Years Skiing
- 31
Playful
Ski:
2027 Black Crows Vena Cor Skis
Size Tested:
181 CM
Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes
All mountain - A little in the woods and then on variable 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?
Skied more true to size than I was expecting.
Scores
Floatation:8/10
Stability:7/10
Quickness:7/10
Playfulness:8/10
Forgiveness:8/10
Edge Grip:6/10
Versatility:6/10
Overall:7/10
What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?
It is a fun ski but a little challenging to figure out how to ski it best. I was on a set back stance which helped the carving for sure.
For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?
Honestly not really sure. Maybe spring conditions would let the ski shine?
What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?
More advanced. Requires the ability to shift weight around a bit
Ski:
2027 Black Crows Vena Cor Skis
Size Tested:
188 CM
Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes
Perry Merril duff and boiler plate.
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 length felt very appropriate and exactly like a 188.
Scores
Floatation:10/10
Stability:10/10
Quickness:10/10
Playfulness:7/10
Forgiveness:7/10
Edge Grip:10/10
Versatility:7/10
Overall:10/10
What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?
I was pleasantly surprised how in control and responsive these were on ice.
For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?
I think this ski is probably best fit for hard pack carving all mountain, light powder of about 4 inches or less and a corn snow crusher. Amazingly stiff ski with a light playful tip and tail.
What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?
You really have to ski this ski and make sure you are ahead of it, other wise it will ski you. I don’t think the ski is for beginners or intermediate skiers.
Anything else you want to tell us about your experience on these skis?
This ski to me felt like the ultimate carver and it gave such amazing control on such a boiler plate day. I already know this is the most fun ski I’ll test all week. Beforehand I thought that it couldn’t be that good at all…I would love to take this out as a daily driver for carving it up on groomers or taking it into deep spring corn and smashing through without skipping a beat.
tester:
- Ability
- Expert
- Height
- 6'4"
- Weight
- 200
- Days / Year
- 30-40
- Age
- 30
- Years Skiing
- 25
Chargey while still playful; exploratory
Ski:
2027 Black Crows Vena Cor Skis
Size Tested:
188 CM
Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes
Gondola (Gondolier - fresh groom).
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 found that these ski a bit short.
Scores
Floatation:6/10
Stability:5/10
Quickness:6/10
Playfulness:9/10
Forgiveness:9/10
Edge Grip:5/10
Versatility:6/10
Overall:6/10
What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?
These are a weird ski. Very soft tips and tails, very stiff underneath. Fun on side hits, but missing the charginess that I would want on a ski this freeride-oriented. A bit sluggish edge-to-edge unless you really pop them pretty hard, at which point they only want to make pretty tight turns.
For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?
These would probably be at their best in spring slush and bumps. They can go anywhere, but that's where they'd likely be happiest.
What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?
I think an advanced skier might like these the most. Intermediate skiers would certainly be able to handle it, but getting good energy return out of the ski requires a bit more.
Anything else you want to tell us about your experience on these skis?
Love the unconventional design choices - pointy shovel, swallow tail with a chevron cutout... These are even more eye-catching than the Mirus Cor, and that's saying something!
Ski:
2027 Black Crows Vena Cor Skis
Size Tested:
181 CM
Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes
Stowe Gondola, packed powder, 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 skis felt a touch short, but bringing the mount point back a smidge had them skiing on point.
Scores
Floatation:6/10
Stability:9/10
Quickness:8/10
Playfulness:9/10
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?
At first it felt a bit short, but once I settled in to the ski, it was railing and smearing all in the same run.
For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?
Intermediate and expert terrain is where this ski will shine. It carves reall well.
What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?
To take full advantage of what this ski can offer, an advanced intermediate to expert will have the most fun.
Anything else you want to tell us about your experience on these skis?
I need a set of these!
tester:
- Ability
- Expert
- Height
- 6’2
- Weight
- 185
- Days / Year
- Depends, this year I have about 100
- Age
- 22
- Years Skiing
- 20
Having fun where ever I am on the mountain
Ski:
2027 Black Crows Vena Cor Skis
Size Tested:
188 CM
Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes
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?
The 188 is definitely on the longer side, but it felt right, the extra length gave the ski the right amount of power.
Scores
Floatation:8/10
Stability:8/10
Quickness:7/10
Playfulness:8/10
Forgiveness:8/10
Edge Grip:6/10
Versatility:7/10
Overall:7/10
What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?
I'm impressed, with the length of 188 and the underfoot of 100, these skis could really hold up on harder packed groomers. Pushing into the camber underfoot gave the ski lots of power through the turn with a quick snap-like response to initiate the transition. This allowed the ski to be playful in the bumps with a quick snappy turn - impressive considering the length. I would love to test these on a day with a bit more snow. On the groomers they are solid enough. Im left intrigued but not certain.
For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?
I think they could be awesome backside skis, with the power they have I could see this ski doing well blowing through chop in a back bowl. They are good enough on groomers to where you could have a great day ripping groomers. I think the best part of this ski is its versatility.
What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?
I think the ski leans more towards an aggressive hard charging skier, especially with its length it would be challenging for a beginner or lower level intermediate to turn the ski the way it needs to be.
Anything else you want to tell us about your experience on these skis?
Super fun ski overall, I'm impressed but would love to test it on a day with some snow and in the trees.
tester:
- Ability
- Expert
- Height
- 5’10”
- Weight
- 185
- Days / Year
- 120
- Age
- 53
- Years Skiing
- 50
Moderately aggressive, seeking accuracy
Ski:
2027 Black Crows Vena Cor Skis
Size Tested:
181 CM
Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes
Stowe, Gondola Groomers and firm 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?
Vena Cor skis a bit short.
Scores
Floatation:9/10
Stability:7/10
Quickness:7/10
Playfulness:8/10
Forgiveness:8/10
Edge Grip:6/10
Versatility:6/10
Overall:8/10
What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?
Surprisingly better in firm snow than I expected. Fun in soft and firm bumps.
For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?
Vena Cor will excel in softer snow and powder, but still rips well on firm groomed terrain.
What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?
Advanced beginner to expert skiers will enjoy this ski, especially in soft snow.
Anything else you want to tell us about your experience on these skis?
I’d LOVE to ski the Vena Cor in deep powder! Overall a very versatile ski.
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 Black Crows Vena Cor Skis
Size Tested:
181 CM
Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes
Stowe, groomers, bumps, and crud.
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 Vena Cor skis slightly short. I would want to size up.
Scores
Floatation:7/10
Stability:6/10
Quickness:8/10
Playfulness:8/10
Forgiveness:7/10
Edge Grip:7/10
Versatility:8/10
Overall:7/10
What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?
Black Crows is at it again making another fun, quirky, ski. They are super playful and light footed, and surprisingly stable. It is equally at home making long, medium, and short turns. The Vena eats bumps and lays down carves, and it’s all fun and smiles. They feel stiff under foot with flexible tips and tails. These skis need direction, if not paying attention, they will make themselves known with a little squirreliness. If having fun is the point then these skis are perfect.
For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?
The Vena allows the skier to have fun anywhere, it’s a great do it all ski.
What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?
Since the Vena is not a typical ski, it is best enjoyed by upper level intermediate and expert skiers.
Anything else you want to tell us about your experience on these skis?
The Vena makes me see the world through younger eyes.
tester:
- 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 Black Crows Vena Cor Skis
Size Tested:
181 CM
Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes
Stowe, gondola laps on Perry Merril in very firm conditions, with a little sugar snow on the sides of the trail.
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 ski skied a touch shorter than given length. It would be the proper size for me.
Scores
Floatation:8/10
Stability:8/10
Quickness:8/10
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 loved how this ski seemed to do everything I asked of it, and then more, once you started to concentrate on heavy pressure at the start of your turn. It was a ton of fun to ride!
For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?
I know that this ski would be a ton of fun in softer snow conditions, yet it still handled the icy hardpack well. The small amount of softer snow that day made the ski shine. A small amount on the side of the trail led to a really fun discovery. If you sort of pounce on the initial turn, they whip right around, had a blast on these.
What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?
I think advanced and expert skiers would enjoy this ski. It's kind of an all terrain beast that should also perform well in powder and side country. I didn't test them in soft snow, but would think they can do it better than most at that width.
Anything else you want to tell us about your experience on these skis?
One of the more fun and unique skis of the day.
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 Black Crows Vena Cor Skis
Size Tested:
181 CM
Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes
Pico with nice 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?
This length feels right. It's around the length I normally ski
Scores
Floatation:7/10
Stability:8/10
Quickness:8/10
Playfulness:6/10
Forgiveness:4/10
Edge Grip:7/10
Versatility:7/10
Overall:7/10
What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?
Stiff and mounted pretty close to the middle of the ski.
For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?
At 100mm wide it's at home anywhere but really hard ice. Its a fun all mountain ski as long as you are ok skiing hard and fast.
What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?
It's for upper intermediate to expert skiers.
Anything else you want to tell us about your experience on these skis?
This thing is like a 125cc 2 stroke dirtbike. You really have to grab a hold of the gas tank and ride it. If you do that it's a lot of fun. If you don't you might not love it.
Jeff submitted 2 test cards — select one:
tester:
- Ability
- Expert
- Height
- 5'10"
- Weight
- 165
- Days / Year
- 120-140
- Age
- 40
- Years Skiing
- 38
Flowing and Kind of Fast with Freestyle/Freeski Influence
Ski:
2027 Black Crows Vena Cor Skis
Size Tested:
174 CM
Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes
Pico, mostly packed powder groomers, some variable conditions.
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 Vena Cor seems to ski a little short, and this is a short length already. Looking forward to trying longer lengths.
Scores
Floatation:7/10
Stability:6/10
Quickness:9/10
Playfulness:9/10
Forgiveness:7/10
Edge Grip:6/10
Versatility:8/10
Overall:7/10
What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?
First time on the new Vena Cor and it's a very interesting ski! Doesn't really feel like the Mirus Cor to me, it feels looser and more freeride-influenced. This was also a short length, so I don't feel like I had the best possible experience on it, but it's really fun starting to figure out this new ski and how it plays into Black Crows' existing skis.
For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?
It feels like the type of ski that wants to seek out soft snow and terrain with natural hits, drops, and other fun features to play with. On a groomer, it's not particularly dynamic, and I think the key with the Vena Cor will be skiing it in fun terrain with a fun attitude.
What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?
It feels quite approachable. I'm sure part of that is the length, but there's really nothing demanding about it, so I do think an intermediate could ski it without issues. An expert with the right playful skiing style will likely do things on it you rarely get to ski; it's just one of those skis that inspires creativity.
Anything else you want to tell us about your experience on these skis?
I kind of expected it to just be a wider Mirus Cor when I first heard about this ski, but it's much looser, drifiter, etc. More like a Salomon Depart than a Mirus Cor.
tester:
- Ability
- Expert
- Height
- 5'10"
- Weight
- 165
- Days / Year
- 120-140
- Age
- 40
- Years Skiing
- 38
Flowing and Kind of Fast with Freestyle/Freeski Influence
Ski:
2027 Black Crows Vena Cor Skis
Size Tested:
181 CM
Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes
Waterville Valley. Mix of packed powder and some pretty nice fresh snow. Maybe 4-6 inches.
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 think they ski a bit short overall. Haven't tried it yet, but I actually think I would prefer the 188.
Scores
Floatation:8/10
Stability:5/10
Quickness:10/10
Playfulness:10/10
Forgiveness:8/10
Edge Grip:6/10
Versatility:7/10
Overall:7/10
What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?
Really nice to get to ski the Vena Cor in the 181 and I feel like I'm starting to figure this thing out. It's exceptionally surfy and really good in softer snow conditions. I still have a hard time not thinking about the Mirus Cor when I assess its performance, which doesn't seem fair to the Vena Cor because it's quite different. It doesn't have the same bit on a groomer and it's way looser in any situation. It's honestly very unique and reminds me a little bit of the Salomon Depart skis. Loves to be skied in a 2-footed, slashy, drifty way, but also with some power. It's very interesting.
For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?
I think playfulness is the name of the game with the Vena Cor. The softer the snow or the more rolling and playful the terrain is, the better your experience will be, at least in my opinion.
What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?
It's not hard to ski by any means because it's so loose and agile and maneuverable. I think there's actually a huge range of ability levels that could have fun on it. Stylistics preferences feel much more important and much more relevant to whether you'll like it or not.
Anything else you want to tell us about your experience on these skis?
The hole in the tail makes me nervous sometimes.
tester:
Ski:
2027 Black Crows Vena Cor Skis
Size Tested:
174 CM
Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes
Pico: groomed cookies.
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. True to size.
Scores
Floatation:8/10
Stability:7/10
Quickness:7/10
Playfulness:7/10
Forgiveness:4/10
Edge Grip:7/10
Versatility:7/10
Overall:8/10
What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?
Fun and playfull ski that held and edge well on varying conditions.
For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?
I would recommend this ski for fresh snow days or slush spring days. The ski is sturdy, floaty, and playful making it a great option for flying threw crud or floating on freshie!
What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?
Intermediate/advanced.
tester:
- Ability
- Advanced
- Height
- 6’2”
- Weight
- 190
- Days / Year
- 35
- Age
- 39
- Years Skiing
- 30 years
Like a wave: smooth, with a mind of its own, driven by the powers of the moon and universe, and ultimately… crashing.
Ski:
2027 Black Crows Vena Cor Skis
Size Tested:
181 CM
Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes
Skied this on a hard pack, on piste day at Pico, there was also some chop by the time I skied this one.
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?
Size was perfect for me, I wouldn't change it up or down. I am 6'2" tall.
Scores
Floatation:8/10
Stability:8/10
Quickness:6/10
Playfulness:6/10
Forgiveness:8/10
Edge Grip:6/10
Versatility:8/10
Overall:7/10
What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?
This thing is fun AF. Is it the banana yellow color, or the split tail, or the way it skis? Yes. The answer is yes. This bad Larry was surprisingly hard charging, but also nimble and fun. It had a lot of personality and felt very versatile, surfing one moment, carving hard arcs the next. As fun as it looks. This will challenge the camox - which I've always loved - and it might win...
For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?
I skied it in chopped up, afternoon snow on a hard pack groomer day and it took it in stride with one hand behind its back. I feel confident that this ski would perform everywhere you took it. Great free ride, park option. Carved a wicked turn on a groomer. Hopped and jumped well as far as I could tell.
What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?
This ski was pretty forgiving, so I think that you could enjoy it as an intermediate skier and up. It's just weird enough that a beginner might be like "Huh?" But everyone else who laughs at jokes or smiles in the sunshine will like this ski.
Anything else you want to tell us about your experience on these skis?
If this was an uglier color would I like it less? I think not. A+
