After a few years’ hiatus, the beloved Blizzard Bushwacker is back. They experimented with some re-branding, but the popularity never really took off. The ski is basically a Brahma without metal, so skiers who are not as heavy, aggressive, or expertly skilled should gravitate toward the Bushwacker. Additionally, expert level skiers who simply don’t like the stiffness of the Brahma will appreciate the more forgiving and playful nature of the Bushwacker. We might even go so far as to say that more people should be on the Bushwacker than the Brahma, but that’s a discussion for another day. Our testers loved the Bushwacker’s versatility and pleasant character, and most are excited for the ski’s return.
David Marryat skied the 173 and gave top marks for most categories, and loved the fact that the ski has returned in all its glory. “The wacker is back! Lighter than the Brahma, the Bushwacker still has plenty of power to rip turns all over the mountain.” Dave makes an important distinction here. Although it’s a light version of an expert ski, it still skis like an expert ski. He continues with his glowing review: “Relax and let them run, or stand on it and feel the power! Excellent edge hold, and great power/weight ratio.” We like Dave’s power/weight ratio image. This gives us a good idea of how a lighter ski handles like a beefier stick.
Steve Sulin skied the 180 cm Bushwacker and loved the playfulness and forgiveness of the ski. As such, he noted that the skis would be “a great bump ski.” With the 88 mm underfoot and full wood and carbon construction, it’s a great call for a specific strength for the ski. Additionally, he commented on the fact the skis are “easy to enter the turn” a “crudbuster,” and “forgiving.”
Also skiing the 180, Mike Thomas gave high scores for quickness, maneuverability, playfulness, and forgiveness. He thought that the 180 skied a bit short, hence his average score for stability. As a longtime ski industry veteran, Mike knows the benefits of having a ski like this on the wall, to be sure. “Seriously, these are fun. They are quick and nimble and easy-going. They are stable when on edge, and can handle some speed. For the current testing conditions (manky an sloppy), they are perfect.” That’s a good sign of a versatile ski, to be able to perform well in those types of conditions, even at 88 mm underfoot.
Echoing some of Mike Thomas’ comments, Michael Rooney also commended the ski: “The Bushwacker (173 cm) is light and easy to maneuver. It is best in soft to firm snow, although if you really push on it on edge and keep pressure, it holds on ice, too.” Michael hits a strong note here, the user is responsible for the input of the energy, and the ski will respond in kind. It sounds like the Bushwacker is like an empty vessel; whatever you as the pilot choose to put in, it’ll take that form.
Bruce Lee said to “Be like water,” and the Bushwacker fits that bill. It’ll take the form of whatever shape it’s in. Water is determined and versatile. The 2019 Blizzard Bushwacker is able to wear a lot of different hats for various types of skiers. The versatile and friendly nature of the ski will make it a fan-favorite once again.
