2025 Volkl Blaze 94 W

Exciting news from Volkl, the Blaze 94 W is brand new for the 2025 season. While the rest of the series, aside from the 104 W, remains the same, the two updated models received both construction and shape alterations, turning an already fantastic ski into an even better one. Sitting right smack in the middle of the pack, the Blaze 94 W has gained fame for its high level of versatility, friendly demeanor and well-rounded nature. Thanks to its lightweight build, it has remained a top choice for a hybrid touring/resort ski, however; with the recent changes, we’re seeing a move away from that application. By packing a little more punch, Volkl’s intent was to add more precision and sophistication to the ski, giving it stronger performance on-trail.

The Blaze 94 construction incorporates the multilayer use of poplar and beech, which we saw in the previous model, but with the addition of their Green Core, we’re getting a more refined build while taking advantage of sustainable practices. By incorporating two central stringers of recycled PET plastic to create engagement, the engineers at Volkl can press this material into various densities and weights. A big win in our opinion, the use of plastic can be very beneficial as a structural component, especially given the fact that it is recycled. With the metal laminate now full width instead of partial, it is acting as more of a structural and performance-based feature rather than binding retention. This significantly enhances the edge grip and carving capabilities, which were good before but now are more powerful. Lastly, we get 3D glass that goes a long way in stiffening the ski while increasing the level of energy. Suspension in the tip and tail is carried over from the old model and works very well to eliminate unwanted vibrations. While we see the performance dial crank up, we also see the weight increase as a result. Gaining roughly 100 grams, this helps to give the Blaze 94 W more stability and grip on firmer snow conditions.

The major takeaway from the changes made to the shape is 4 Radius Drive. We’ve seen the 3D radius sidecut used in skis but the addition of the fourth radii is quite significant. Boosting versatility, the shorter arc in the tip and tail encourages sharper, quicker turn initiation and precision while the slightly longer arc in the forebody allows the ski to open it up at speed. All in all, it allows the ski to deliver varying degrees of performance depending on speed, edge angle and direction. With the same great rocker profile, the flotation and ease of use remains just as good as before if not better. While the 106 dropped 2 mm to become the 104, the 94 mm stays the same here and makes for a fantastic daily driver. With enhanced carving capabilities, agility in the bumps, and versatility in the turn shapes, this ski has somehow gotten better.

While we see a move away from touring applications and towards all-mountain strengths, this ski continues to offer intermediate to advanced level skiers a wide range of capabilities. Remaining agile and playful, the alterations to the build and shape only made the previous features pop more, giving us a more well-balanced feel and higher performance ceiling.