2025 Salomon Stance W 88

Back for another successful season and more ready than ever to deliver uncompromised precision and energetic performance, the Salomon Stance W 88 is a fantastic option for on-trail aficionados. Drawing in just the right amount of all-mountain versatility, this ski is techy and fun, with a proven shape and sophisticated build. Following the alterations to the ski last season, we see the same recipe carry into 2025, providing that extra bit of energy and versatility. Sliding under the radar for one reason or another, the Stance series tends to get overlooked and is overshadowed by the QST line. However, with last year’s adjustments, the Stance is receiving well-deserved attention, and we expect to see it continue in that direction this year.

With the goal for the reconstruction being to move towards a lighter, snappier feel, we see a shift from a full poplar wood core to a mix of karuba and poplar. This certainly lightened the load a bit and while former stance fans may feel it limited the performance ceiling, it maintains plenty of stability and power while enhancing accessibility. Additionally, the skis feature a Twinframe 2 technology that features a blend of Salomon’s tech and inspiration from Armada’s Articulated Titanal Banding. By milling out strips parallel to the window and allowing for the ski to absorb the terrain and stay stable and consistent. Inside the windows, Salomon uses a mix of carbon and basalt fibers, rather than metal, to provide stiffness and responsiveness without the added weight. All in all, the ski feels easier to articulate and maneuver while retaining loads of power. Dropping roughly 50 grams in weight, the new model weighs in at 1590 grams in the 162 cm length.

No changes were made to the shape, maintaining the same mold and footprint from the 2023 version. Proving its success, the highly versatile, well-rounded shape continues to offer skiers a relatively long turn shape, traditional rocker profile, and all-around useful application. At 88 mm underfoot, it makes a strong argument for a daily driver-narrow enough for carving capabilities and wide enough for going off-piste. Especially when you add in the rocker profile, with 16% tip rocker and 12% tail rocker, it's the ideal profile for mixing up the terrain and conditions. Generating an 18-meter turn radius in the 168, it allows the skier to dictate the magnitude and direction of the turn pretty effortlessly, making it feel intuitive and predictable. Factor in the lighter build and increased flex and these skis feel amazing in the bumps and trees. Speaking to its versatility, Tester Heidi Noonan remarked “great all mountain ski as it performed well in powder, bumps and hard pack. Light in powder yet carves well and offers stability at high speeds.”

Moving in the direction of more accessibility and agility, a much wider group of skiers can enjoy the limitless capabilities of the Salomon Stance W 88. While changes lead to a lighter, less serious version, the ski still packs a serious punch and will hold up to the demands of strong skiers looking to push its limits.