As one of the friendlier carvers of this test, the 2023 Kastle DX85 has a whole lot to offer skiers in the intermediate all the way through expert range. With a slightly more user-friendly mentality than the MX series, the DX85 still has some high-performance chops to it for sure, but packaged with a slightly shorter turn radius and a bit more flexy of a core, these DX85’s have a very useful and utilitarian personality. Built with a wood core consisting of beech and fir stringers, these skis have a nice blend of energy and stability. With two sheets of metal and fiberglass surrounding that core, skiers are getting a true Kastle high-end build. Damp, stable, and incredibly energetic, the DX85 loves to be on edge, but also has a bit of versatility built in thanks to the slight tip and tail rocker. Certainly, this profile will not be mistaken for a freeride one, but it helps, especially given the construction of the ski. In the 168, we’re getting a turn radius of 16.5-meters, so while it’s on the turny side, it’s still by no means a slalom ski. At 85 mm underfoot, there’s no denying the potential for all-mountain versatility, although this DX85 certainly skews more to the front side and carving turns.
ROCKER PROFILE
Rocker / Camber
CORE MATERIALS
Fiberglass
PREFERRED TERRAIN
Groomers, All Mountain
On the 168, Benny Wax noted that it skis a little long. The 168 was a good length for him, though, given the application of the ski. He scored it top marks of 4’s out of 5 for overall impression, torsional stiffness, edge hold and stability. 3’s ran the table the rest of the way showing a nice and high baseline average for the DX85 from Benny. He calls it a “Great advanced and intermediate ski. Groomers would be the perfect playground for these! Toys!” That fun-loving nature of a purely carved turn certainly looms large for Benny on this board.
Michael Rooney was also on the 168 and he noted it was true to size. As one of our front side expert testers, Michael gives us some good feedback here, with top scores of 5 out of 5 for torsional stiffness and edge hold. He gave 4’s for overall impression, versatility, forgiveness, quickness, maneuverability, and stability. Some lowly 3’s for flotation and playfulness make sense given the application of the ski. Michael notes that “This ski turns on a dime and easily. It’s race history shows. It is perfect for an upper intermediate looking to make that next jump up the ladder and will help you get there.” Well said, here, noting both the intended audience and the potential for the performance.
We’re stoked to see this ski back again for 2023, giving intermediate and advanced skiers the ability to carve clean and round turns while allowing for all-mountain versatility. If you spend most or all of your time on groomers and smoother terrain, this ski provides top-end quality and precision.
