2023 Black Crows Justis

Don’t tempt us with a good time—the Black Crows Justis is one of the most fun, high-performance, and silky-smooth skis we’ve been on in quite some time. With a graphics update for 2023, this 100-mm underfooted all-mountain ski has a whole lot going for it. Starting with the construction, we’re seeing a full poplar wood core with fiberglass laminate. They then utilize their double titanal H-plate and aluminum tail insert for power and dampness. By shaping the titanal plates in a specific shape, they put more emphasis on the edge control of the ski while leaving the central portion unencumbered by the metal. Additionally, this makes the “arms” of the plates able to flex and contort with the terrain, allowing for a smoother and more supple ride. There’s quite a bit of rocker in the tail—especially when put up against other 100-mm underfoot skis like Nordica’s Enforcer. This makes the ski float and play a lot better in the softer snow while the metal and the build make it carve really well on firmer groomers. It’s a great blend of qualities that combine to create the amazing Justis, and we’ve loved every run we’ve ever taken on it. While not light, 2150 grams per ski in the 183, they do have smeary capabilities to them, so it’s not like it feels like dead weight. We’re seeing a 21-meter turn radius in these skis, so the straight line and aggressive personality is all there in this ski.

Noah Labow skied the 177, and noted that it felt a little small for him. He gave it top marks of 5 out of 5 for overall impression, torsional stiffness, edge hold, forgiveness, playfulness, quickness, and maneuverability. Stability, flotation, and versatility all got 4’s showing a high spread of marks from Noah for the Justis. Noah, a very freestyle-oriented skier notes that he “felt at home on this ski as soon as I stepped in. I like the versatility and playfulness. Great edge hold and a very fun ski!” Brad Schauerman also skied the 177, noting that it felt just right for him. He scored it 4’s out of 5 for overall impression, torsional stiffness, edge hold, and stability. Versatility, playfulness, quickness, maneuverability, and flotation were all in the 3-range. Brad states that “This ski was very fun. A little clunky and slow from side to side compared to other skis in this category but still fun and playful. Definitely excels at making longer GS turns, but pretty fun in the bumps and slop...definitely capable of smashing through slop.” On our test days, especially in the afternoon, there was a lot of slop to be smashed.

Zach Mooney skied the 183 and noted it was true to size. He gave all 5’s right across the board, showing not only a high-end of scores, but also a consistency that is worth noting in a true all-mountain versatile ski. In Zach’s words: “I want this ski in my quiver. 100 mm underfoot is the perfect width for everything on the mountain. Very playful underfoot, and soft in the tip. Makes you feel like you’re a way better skier than you are. I ripped through corn, bumps and ice on the way down and enjoyed every turn.” My only issue with Zach’s comments is that he’s probably right in that they make you feel better than you are. I feel great on this ski. Bob St.Pierre also was on the 183, noting, somewhat bitterly, that it “felt great, not sure if I’d go up to 190, but they never seem to bring that length to any tests.” Bob scored it 5 out of 5 for overall impression with 4’s running the rest of the table with the lone exception of a 3 for forgiveness. This indicates that the ski is pretty stiff in Bob’s experience. He calls it “As close to a perfect 100mm ski as you're going to get. Carves like the dickens, floats great due to rocker profile and taper shape, and is just smooth as silk. It pulls you into the turn nicely and cleanly, but doesn't overpower. It's very well balanced and thrives in a variety of conditions and terrain.”

We’ve been loving the Justis since it came out, and 2023 is shaping up to be no different, and we’re all about it. Thanks to the shape, profile, and construction of the ski, advanced and expert skiers will find a versatile and high-performance option at the top end of the Black Crows all-mountain line.