The Salomon Stance 96 is back for 2025, and it's shaping up to be another strong contender in the all-mountain ski market. This isn't just another incremental update; Salomon has refined the Stance 96, addressing previous iterations' strengths and weaknesses to create a ski that's even more versatile and capable. This detailed review will explore its performance characteristics, target audience, and key improvements for the 2025 model year.
What Makes the Salomon Stance 96 2025 Stand Out?
The Salomon Stance 96 2025 aims for a sweet spot: a lightweight yet powerful ski suitable for a wide range of conditions and abilities. Its 96mm waist width provides a balance between on-piste performance and off-piste capability, making it adept at navigating groomed runs, crud, and even venturing into some light powder. This versatility is a major selling point for skiers who want one ski to handle diverse terrain.
Key Improvements in the 2025 Model:
- Enhanced Edge Grip: Salomon has refined the sidecut and ski construction to improve edge grip, particularly on harder snow. This translates to more confident carving and control at higher speeds.
- Lightweight Construction: The Stance 96 remains remarkably lightweight, reducing fatigue on long days on the mountain. This is achieved through material selection and design optimization without sacrificing stability.
- Improved Dampening: Feedback from previous models suggested improvements in dampening could enhance the ride. Salomon has addressed this by incorporating updated materials and construction techniques, resulting in a smoother and more comfortable ride, even on choppy terrain.
- Increased Responsiveness: The ski feels more responsive and agile, allowing for quicker turn initiation and better maneuverability in tight spaces. This makes it enjoyable for both intermediate and advanced skiers.
Who is the Salomon Stance 96 2025 For?
The Salomon Stance 96 2025 caters to a broad range of skiers, making it a popular choice:
- Intermediate to Advanced Skiers: The ski provides enough stability and power for advanced skiers, yet remains forgiving enough for intermediates to build confidence and skills.
- All-Mountain Enthusiasts: Its versatility shines in diverse conditions, making it an excellent choice for skiers who enjoy exploring different types of terrain within a single day.
- Lightweight Ski Seekers: The lightweight design makes it ideal for skiers who prioritize comfort and reduced fatigue, particularly on longer excursions.
- Skiers Valuing Versatility: The Stance 96 excels as a "one-ski quiver," eliminating the need for multiple pairs of skis for varied snow conditions.
Performance Breakdown:
- On-Piste: The Stance 96 carves well, offering excellent edge grip and precision. Its lightweight nature allows for agile turns.
- Off-Piste: While not a dedicated powder ski, the 96mm waist width handles light powder and crud with surprising ease. It floats adequately in softer snow and remains stable even on uneven terrain.
- Variable Conditions: This is where the Stance 96 truly shines. Its adaptability allows for seamless transitions between groomed runs, moguls, and off-piste adventures.
Conclusion: A Versatile All-Mountain Performer
The Salomon Stance 96 2025 represents a well-rounded all-mountain ski that balances performance, versatility, and lightweight design. Salomon has effectively addressed user feedback, refining its construction and features to create a more capable and enjoyable ski. Whether you're an intermediate skier looking to progress or an advanced skier seeking a reliable all-mountain option, the Stance 96 is undoubtedly worth considering. Its versatility makes it a strong contender for those seeking a single ski that can handle a variety of conditions and terrain. Remember to consider your personal skiing style and ability level when making your final decision.
