2023 Kastle MX88

The Kastle MX 88 for 2023 gets a bit of an upgrade to the fiberglass laminates, but remains the same amazing front-side/all-mountain ski that we’ve loved for a while now. Built with Kastle precision and power, the MX 88 is easily one of the best carving ~88’s out there on the hill today, and it only got better for this year. Built with a wood core consisting of two main zones of density, the outer portions of the ski along the sidewall are full poplar while the inner/central core is a blend of poplar and beech. This gives the middle part of the ski an amazing amount of power and stability while the edges are more energetic. Two sheets of .5mm titanal are found on the top and the bottom of the core, and those are boosted by the new dual-laminate pre-preg fiberglass sheets. Since these fiberglass laminates are pre-made to consistent specifications, it leads to a more consistent flex and feel for the ski. Hollowtech in the tips keep vibrations and swing weight down, allowing the Kastle MX 88 to have the same great snow feel and dampness as it has always had.

On the 180, Bob St.Pierre noted that it felt a bit short. His scores were all very consistent, which is what we’ve come to expect with these mid-width all-mountain skis. He gave top marks of 4’s out of 5 for torsional stiffness, edge hold, quickness, maneuverability, and stability. All other scores were 3’s. Bob notes regarding the changes: ‘With the more energetic pre-preg fiberglass laminate for 2023, we're getting a slightly snappier and quicker ski than we've had in the past. While some skiers may see this as a benefit, I personally preferred the burliness of the older skis. Still, we're dealing with a premium product here, and the MX 88 is one of the most versatile and well-rounded all-mountain skis on the market. It initiates well, holds an edge through a carve, even on firmer snow, and has a strong kick at the end. In the softer snow, this ski works well, and while there are better floating 88's out there, these are some of the most precise and energetic, setting them apart from a very crowded and entertaining field.” The difference between the MX 88 and others in this class is important, and Bob does well to highlight those changes here.

Jeff Neagle skied both the 173 and the 180, noting that he preferred the 180, as that’s normally the length he skis. Jeff gave top scores of 5 out of 5 for torsional stiffness, edge hold, stability, and overall impression. As a result, he notes: “I love these skis. Always have, probably always will. It's one of the most rewarding skis in the 88 mm all-mountain category, at least in my opinion. It's incredibly strong and precise, but the latest version feels a little easier to release the tail edge. Maybe it was just really good snow conditions, but it didn't feel as locked in as I remember. When you want it to hold, it certainly will, so no worry there. I did find a noticeable difference between the 173 and 180, however. The 180 worked much better for how I like to ski. I got a little nervous on the 173 with the length of ski in front of me and the Hollowtech, just didn't quite trust it. Switching to the 180 was one of those "Ah, yes, that's better" moments. I immediately felt comfortable on the 180. It's not as quick or doesn't come across the fall line as well as the MX83, but feels more versatile like a true all-mountain ski should. I think if you're taking it off trail, you should be a reasonably good skier as there's not much tail rocker back there and it does require some skier input. An advanced/expert level skier will have no issues, while also being able to enjoy incredibly smooth carves on groomers.”

We’re loving the new energy and rebound from these MX 88’s this year. While it’s not a total and wholesale change like we’ve seen in some other skis out there, it certainly gives this 88 a bit of a boost in the pop department. It’s not like it needed it, but it’s always nice to have.