2023 DPS Pagoda 90 RP

The 2023 DPS Pagoda 90 RP sets the standard for all mountain performance and off-piste maneuverability. The narrower of the RP models, this uniquely designed ski is in a class of its own, boasting a shape and profile that enhances quick edge-to-edge energy with enough rocker to provide ample flotation. Straying from the norm in terms of construction, Pagoda uses an aspen wood core with an additional layer of wood laminated horizontally on top in a stacked formation. This build creates a highly dense and stable feel while the shape gives a lively, poppy personality, a combination that is noticeably different from most similarly narrow skis. With a 15 m turning radius, the Pagoda 90 loves to get on edge and engage arcing turns, which is ideal for bumps, trees, and off-piste terrain. With moderate taper in the tips and tails, the effective edge is shorter than its narrower waist width counterparts which adds to its maneuverability significantly. Lightweight yet strong underfoot, this ski loves to pop around the mountain with ease yet is stiff and stable when carving a turn.

Catherine Ferguson skied the 179 and noted it was a little long for her but they ski shorter to size. Her scores were high, with 4’s and 5’s in every category except for a 3 for stability. She commented “this ski can do it all. The transition between the hard-packed snow and soft snow in the trail was barely noticeable. They were incredibly smooth and flowy with a lot of play. I would recommend this to an intermediate to expert skier who knows how to feel the different sensations of the ski. They would be a lot of fun in the trees!” We love hearing about a ski’s ability to transition between varying types of terrain and conditions, really speaking to the capabilities and strengths. Also on a 179, Alix Klein felt it was a good size for her. We see quite a different take from Catherine’s, with Alix’s scores ranging between 2 and 3 in every category. Based on her scoresheet, this ski lacked in flotation and torsional stiffness and ultimately her overall impression earned a 2 as well. She did not have a lot to say as far as her experience but she did not “surprisingly this ski when mounted slightly forward turned great, held an edge and didn't fold too much when at speed.” It’s always fascinating to get two very different opinions about the same ski, which is a big reason why we do this ski test in the first place!

Brook Mars skied the 165 and felt it was a good size for her. Her experience on the Pagoda 90s reflected scores ranging between 3 and 5, with flotation receiving the highest of them all. This is worth noting for a 90 mm ski as it clearly shows the ski’s nature as far as falling into a narrower category yet with its unique shape, it can perform well in softer snow. She felt the ski lacked in playfulness, forgiveness and versatility, however; showing that perhaps it felt more geared towards carving turns than anything else. Her general takeaway was “while this ski is nice and light and would be great for touring, it didn’t feel heavy enough to charge through the sugary bumps with confidence and precision. These are great at holding an edge on the most frozen of surfaces, even going over boiler plate they never washed out.” Not necessarily the one-ski quiver for everyone, but clearly knows how to lay trenches and show off it’s lightweight nature.

The DPS Pagoda 90 RP is a great ski for intermediates looking to explore the entire mountain with stability and playfulness. An intuitive, lively ski with a narrow width, it still can hold its own off-piste and sure is a lot of fun to make energetic, round turns.