2023 Volkl Blaze 94 W

As one of the most versatile skis on the planet, the Volkl Blaze 94W returns unchanged but for a graphics refresh. This means that all the same performance attributes carry forward to this year, and for that, we are very grateful. Built with a hybrid multi-layer wood core, the light weight carries with it an implication that there’s some backcountry and touring use, while the metal plate underfoot does have enough structural stiffness to make this ski enjoyable on firmer snow and in carved turns. The well-roundedness of the ski cannot be understated, as it has that mid-90's underfoot width that we often classify as the best for one-ski quiver shapes. It’s the blend of shape, build, and profile that makes the Blaze 94W such a formidable ski, and our testers loved the feel and overall character of the ski in a variety of conditions and terrain.

Carly Monahan was on the 165 and noted that the sizing was just right for her, and she’d choose this length. She scored it top marks of 5 out of 5 for stability, quickness, maneuverability, playfulness, forgiveness, and overall impression. This Blaze 94W is right up Carly’s alley as a skier and it shows quite well in the scores and the feedback. “This ski!!! So delighted by how well this ski plays across the line between a light playful ski and a powerful frontside ski. This has all the responsiveness and reliable edge grip that you'd expect from a Volkl ski, but in a way more care-free, hoppy-bobby package. Super quick and agile, effortless short radius and smeary turns. For being as light as it feels, it's still quite damp and can still plow through decent chop and crud. If you're an advanced to expert skier looking to play around in all sorts of conditions and terrain, or are looking for a do-it-all touring ski, this should be on your short list!” That’s a pretty resounding “yes” from Carly in the “do you want this ski?” category.

Louise Lintilhac didn’t quite find as much in common with the ski as Carly, but she still was able to identify good strengths and skier types that would benefit from such a ski. She felt the 165 was on the short side for her, and scored a 2 out of 5 for stability as a result. Her top marks of 5 out of 5 for quickness and maneuverability are right on with what these skis are designed for, and 4’s for playfulness and forgiveness fall into that line as well. Louise states that “This is a great pick for skiers looking for a fun, playful slalom experience. These skis like smaller turns and are extremely quick edge to edge. They get twitchy at speed but are a solid, approachable choice for an intermediate skier looking for a forgiving groomer ski.”

The quickness and maneuverability scores of this ski are certainly quite high, and our testers found that to be a strong point for the skis in an all-mountain format. Carly liked them more for a variety of conditions and terrain while Louise thought the groomers were a better spot. Either way you choose to use the Blaze 94W, you’re sure to have a nice time, as these skis have an incredibly well-rounded nature.