2023 Head Kore 91 W

We have a lot of spirited debates around here at SkiEssentials.com, and one of the best is “Which is the best Kore?” While there’s no right answer, a lot of people, women specifically, come up with the 91 W as their answer. For here in Vermont, having that slightly narrower shape makes a lot of sense. Great grip, both from the build and the shape, the Kore 91 W gets a bit of a refresh for this year. By replacing the polyester top sheet with a more traditional laminate, the Kore 91 W gets a bit damper in terms of energy vibrations, as well as adding to the durability of the ski in that it reduces the chipping and peeling. Still the same great build otherwise, we see a blend of poplar and karuba in the wood core in addition to dual carbon laminates on top and bottom. The upper layer is curved to match the chamfered edge of the ski, and this 3-dimensional application of carbon stiffens the ski without adding weight. Anytime materials like carbon or fiberglass are curved or bent, it boosts the stiffness and therefore the responsiveness of the ski. With a 14.7-meter turn radius in the 170, that adds up to a very turny personality.

Louise Lintilhac skied the 163 and noted it was true to size. She was mainly 3’s across the board for her scorecard with a lowly 2 for playfulness. While not the highest spread, at least they’re consistent. Louise notes that “the Head Kore 91 is an intermediate ski that whole slow edge to edge makes it easy to release out of a turn. Likes to make short to medium radius turns. A great ski for someone who is looking for a predictable ski on chill groomer skiing days.” Another strong skier, Ann Macdonald, also was on the 163, but she prefers longer skis generally. She had all 4’s across the board, so keeping with consistency, Ann found the Kore 91 W to be a bit more of a performer. “This ski surprised me for the length I tried. It was playful and had decent grip. Light and rockered tip, so I’m sure it would float well. Good intermediate to advanced gal that wants an all-mountain ski for most conditions and likes to also play in the woods.”

Emily Crofton called her 163 true to size, although she, like Ann, prefers something longer. Emily had low scores of 2 out of 5 for flotation and playfulness bookended by 5’s for torsional stiffness and edge hold. She gave 4’s for stability and forgiveness, and 3’s for overall impression, versatility, quickness, and maneuverability. Emily “felt that these skis were very stable underfoot and had excellent edge control. With a quick turn radius, I felt confident transferring energy from edge to edge, even at top speed. Performance-wise, I thought that these skis covered all bases and would be an excellent choice for the skier looking to make a well-rounded purchase. I personally enjoy a more playful ski with more pop, which I don’t think was a trait for the Head Kore 91s. That said, I think for a reliable, high-performance ski that can handle various terrain, this ski is perfect for beginners to intermediates.” Laura McLaughlin calls it “A fun & loyal friend; it wants to have a good time, but is always there for you when you it need to be. Conditions were very firm on test day and I didn't experience any chatter. She stuck right to the snow, held tight on long radius turns and was quick to change to short radius the second I asked her to! I would recommend this ski to an intermediate who wants to become advanced as well as an advanced skier who wants a playful and easy ski to maneuver. With the rocker, I would probably go the next length up from the 163 length I tested on a powder day.”

There’s a lot of range here, and that’s what makes the Kore 91 W such a special and unique ski. Thanks to the shorter turn radius, carbon construction, and light weight feel, there’s a lot you can do on these skis, and while our testers may have undersold the ability level a bit, that doesn’t mean that less-skilled or aggressive skiers won’t have a good time on these, rather advanced and experts should find a lot to like as well.