2023 Atomic Maverick 86 C

Atomic’s Maverick collection is intended to provide versatile all-mountain performance. The wider models all utilize metal laminates in their construction, giving them increased power and stability, but as the cost of some forgiveness for less aggressive or more intermediate level skiers. Enter the Maverick 86 C. This ski takes the same overall concepts, but relies on carbon rather than metal. That sheds about another 100 g per ski off their weight compared to the Maverick 88 Ti, and also gives the ski a softer, friendlier flex pattern that’s more beneficial for those who don’t ski particularly fast or are still progressing their technique. We still get the same awesome shape as the TI models, with camber underfoot and slightly longer tip rocker than tail rocker. We also see HRZN Tech in the tip, which is a nod to the fact that although it’s on the narrower side of the spectrum, the ski is meant to go off trail from time to time and perform well in softer snow conditions alongside groomed terrain.

Jeff Neagle tested the 176 cm length, which he thought worked well from him, but also noted that it’s something he’d feel okay sizing up on too. That’s somewhat of a gray area in our opinion, as if you feel like you need to size up for more stability, it might make more sense to choose the 88 Ti rather than this 86 C. Jeff’s highest scores were for quickness/maneuverability and forgiveness, both hitting 5 out of 5 marks. Torsional stiffness/edge grip and stability both dropped to 3 out of 5, but that’s not terribly surprising and shouldn’t be a concern for most skiers considering the Maverick 86 C. “It’s not as powerful as the 88 Ti, nor does it grip as well, but an intermediate would have a hard time finding the limits of this ski. It can still carve, it just doesn’t love super high speeds or steep icy terrain when doing so. On the other hand, it’s super fun when you’re skiing at slower speeds, wiggling turns on the side of the trail, and even maneuvering through bumps. I think that’s it’s best attribute for those who should choose it. It’s fun enough on trail, but gives you a nice easy tool to take off trail too. Good for exploring new terrain and broadening your skiing horizons.”

Benny Wax skied the 184 cm length, which he noted was a bit too long for him, but we still got valuable feedback nonetheless. We’d venture a guess, however, that Benny would’ve preferred the 176 length Jeff was on. “Nice ski for intermediate on-piste skier! Hugs the snow and holds its carve!” We saw really consistent scores from Benny with lots of 3 and 4 out of 5 marks. Stability, torsional stiffness/edge grip, versatility, and overall impression were among his highest scores. David Wolfgang also skied the 184 cm length, which he thought was perfect for him. Similar scores from David, although quickness/maneuverability, playfulness, and forgiveness all rose to 4 out of 5! “This is a great ski for the novice to advance skier. Very forgiving, but willing to ramp up when asked. Transitions to all types of turns with ease.” We love that last part about transitioning through different snow types. You can add different terrain to that concept as well, which is a great way to think about the Maverick 86 C in general. No matter where you take it, it’s going to feel pretty darn good and give you appropriate performance to get through what’s in front of you.

Less aggressive skiers looking for a highly versatile all-mountain ski that’s not too demanding, but one with a high performance that they can grow into, will love the Maverick 86 C. Realistically, there are probably more skiers who would benefit from the Maverick 86 C than the 88 Ti. We know it’s common for skiers to want the best and baddest ski out there, but take a moment to think about your own skiing style and whether you really need the stiffer, heavier skis. If you don’t, you’ll have much more fun on a ski like the Maverick 86 C.