The 2024 Volkl Flair SC Carbon takes on-trail carving performance to the next level with a sophisticated build and a front side shape. This ski is best when on the feet of accomplished skiers who want a race-like feel but in a more recreational character. With a narrow waist, a short turning radius, and a sharp overall feel, this ski is about as precise as they get. Volkl’s Flair skis have been at the forefront of the carving discussion for a few years now, and the use of carbon in the ski has brought this one to the next level. With more of a slalom influence than anything else, the Flair SC Carbon is a crisp carver that delivers excellent grip on firm snow and ice. For those that ski in icier zones, like we do here in Vermont, a ski like the Flair SC Carbon is one to look squarely at.

When it comes to shape, nothing holds on ice better than a narrow waist. This is precisely why race skis are so narrow and it definitely transitions to the high-end recreational ski world as well. The Flair SC Carbon has a 68-mm waist to bookend a 123 mm tip and a 102 mm tail. In the 153 cm length, the ski generates an 11-meter turn radius, and that’s pretty darn short. The fact that it does this arc with a stiffer flex speaks volumes to the high-performance attributes of the ski as well as the crisp turning nature. While it’s more comfortable making shorter carves, it’s still stable enough to operate at speed, it just prefers to be up on edge rather than ridden flat. There’s a slight amount of tip rocker in this ski, but it mainly functions as a fully cambered ski for better grip and energy.

The combination of stiff flex and short radius put the Flair SC Carbon in the advanced and expert category for sure. Intermediates and progressing skiers may find the waist width to be on the demanding side as those skiers will likely be more comfortable on something wider. The good news is that Volkl makes those skis, too.