2023 Volkl Deacon V.Werks

Based on the same chassis as the Deacon 84, the V.Werks takes some higher-tech options and jams them into the build. For the most part, we’re looking at a very similar ski, but with some higher-end materials and finishes that gives it that extra bit of quality and precision. Basically, they’re getting the same, or better, performance as the Deacon 84, but at a lighter weight. By using the 3D WoodCore Light, rather than the Full-Sensor, Volkl’s lightening the start point of the ski, but keeping the titanal frame intact. In addition to the lighter core, they also implement tailored carbon tips to the mix. We’ve seen this technology filter into other Volkl skis these past two years, as it allows the engineers to fine-tune the shovel’s ability to enter turns with precision and power, while keeping the weight low. You don’t need a ton of carbon stringers to make for a stiffer flex, and the Volkl people do a nice job of inter-weaving these carbon strips in order to create more torsional stiffness at the front of the ski. Skiers will notice an increase of energy and snap with the V.Werks versus the Deacon 84.

Dana Allen was on the 177, and even as a taller skier at over 6’, he noted that it “skied quite long for a 177 cm ski. I was able to make medium to long-radius turns and they felt very secure.” He gave top scores of 5’s out of 5 for overall impression, torsional stiffness, edge hold, quickness, and maneuverability. 4’s went for versatility, forgiveness, and stability. These are some nice high scores from Dana, who clearly recognizes the upper-end capabilities of the V.Werks line. Dana states that “This is definitely a flagship ski. It made turns like it was on rails. Absolutely stable and secure. If you want to dig trenches, this is your board. Surprisingly dampened and not chattery at all. Lightweight ski, easy to move around, but will still make long radius turns with no issue. Definitely super fun front side carver.” The lack of chatter for the weight and quickness is one of the hallmarks of the V.Werks intentions, and it’s great to see that it carries through with this Deacon.

Also on the 177, Marcus Shakun is another tall tester who could probably do just fine on the 182. As a result, he notes that it felt “short-ish.” His top scores, pretty similar to Dana, were 5’s out of 5 for overall impression, torsional stiffness, edge hold, forgiveness, playfulness, stability, quickness, and maneuverability. These are some really high scores for a front side/all-mountain carver, so that’s pretty impressive coming from Marcus. He calls it a “Lightweight carver. So fast edge to edge. Being so light it seems even faster. Nice playful flex that has some spring to it. Holds a solid edge at all speeds. Advanced expert frontside skier. If weight is your concern, this is the ski.” Bob St.Pierre had a great time on the 177, but at 6’2, he’d be on the 182 as well if it were up to him. 5’s out of 5 for overall impression, stability, quickness, and maneuverability dotted his scorecard, and it’s safe to say that we’re seeing an emerging theme here in terms of high overall scores for this ski. “What an absolute blast. Even on the 177, this felt so poised and inspired. I wish I had more of a race background to really get this thing over on edge, but even with my limited skillset in that regard, I had a ton of fun and was able to generate a lot of power and angles. Surprisingly versatile for how well it carves, the Deacon V.Werks can handle off-piste skiing, trees, and bumps pretty darn well, and that’s a very good thing for a ski like this. I’d love to add one of these to my quiver.”

If you’re an advanced or expert skier who has been looking for the best of all worlds in terms of an all-mountain carving ski, with the top-end of precision and power, this is the place to be. Thanks to Volkl’s high-end V.Werks division, the skier is the winner here when it comes to carving rewarding, clean, and round turns with a minimal amount of effort.