2023 DPS Koala 118

In the wide world of DPS skis, the Koala 118 stands out as one of the most freeride-oriented of the group, and we here at SkiEssentials.com are definitely on board for that. As a carryover model for 2023, the Koala 118 features a foundation construction and a wide-bodied shape for true powder flotation and playfulness. In terms of that build, the foundation starts with a full aspen wood core sandwiched between two sheets of triaxial fiberglass. In addition, there are two uni-directional carbon strips that run the central chord of the ski, and this gives the Koala more longitudinal stiffness and response. With DPS’s textured polyamide top and urethane sidewalls, you’re sure to get the top-end of the construction world with a high-class fit and finish to the skis. The quality is amazing, and these skis are built and shaped with precision, performance, and consistency in mind for sure.

In the powder is where these things thrive. Certainly, at 118 mm underfoot, you’re going to get a lot of float from the ski, and when that shape gets the C2 cut, it makes for a strong ski that can take a pretty darn direct line to the hill. These skis generate a 19-meter turn radius, and feature a 40 percent rocker and 60 percent camber profile. There’s some pretty dramatic splay to be found, and that adds to the freeride and freestyle character of the ski. It’s a twin tip in a big-mountain format, rather than a park and pipe one, and it makes for a totally and completely fun-loving ski that’s best-suited for advanced and expert skiers who spend most, if not all, of their time in deep and fresh snow.

Jeff Neagle skied the 184, and notes that it’s true to side for a powder ski. Sometimes that rocker profile can get in the way, as well as the overall width, but it sounds like the extra material in the ski makes for a smooth ride for sure. Flotation gets 5 out of 5 for Jeff, with 4’s for stability, playfulness, and overall impression. “In my opinion, and it's important to remember that every skier is different, the Koala 118 is the best powder ski DPS makes. Now, I added that disclaimer because for a lot of skiers, the Wailer 112 might be the better choice for a powder ski, but this shape works really well for the way I like to ski. There's less taper in the Koala 118 so you get nice and wide tips and tails. That gives it a ton of float, and allows for butters, smears, and other surfy maneuvers in powder more easily than the Wailer 112 with its abrupt taper shape. I think it's fair to say that this shape and the overall feel of the Koala 118 does, however, feel a little more demanding. It's heavier and there's more ski in front of you and behind you, so it does require a fairly athletic skier who likes to drive and manipulate a ski. If you just want something that will make powder-8s at moderate speeds, I'd opt for the Wailer 112, but if you want to go smash some pillows, slash high speed turns high on double fall lines, and maybe find somewhere to do a big switch 5 into powder, the Koala 118 is the ticket!”

If you’re looking for a dedicated powder ski, or something to use in your everyday Heli ski or cat ski experience, the Koala 118 is a great choice. When you get the thing in the proper conditions, there’s not a whole lot out there that’ll perform better and more playfully than this ski. DPS has done a great job taking their Foundation construction and C2 shaping into a wider-bodied freeride ski, and the Koala 118 is a unique product that stands out from the competition.