2026 Head E-Total Joy

The 2026 Head Total Joy is a carryover ski for this year, bringing with it the same shape, build, and graphics as last year. It returns as one of the most fun and versatile skis in the Joy line. At 85 mm underfoot, there’s a nice platform to stand on here, and it makes total sense for mixing on-trail confidence in carving turns with some light off-trail exploration and adventure. With a Protector system binding and a high-end feel, this is a great option for most intermediate skiers who spend the majority of their time in an on-trail format.

Head does a great job at implementing high end construction features in mid-level skis. The intermediate range is a great place to put a lot of the technology as it helps skiers improve and leaves a good impression on the Head brand, likely leading to future customers down the road. Built with a karuba wood core, the skis get carbon laminates on top and bottom as well as a strip of Graphene to add energy. As such, each movement that you put into the ski gets directly transmitted to the snow. In the forebody and through the tail, Head adds their EMC circuit to the mix, making it damp and chatter-free. Tester Devon Laidman notes that “The skis felt light but surprisingly stable once I started skiing. Intermediate - it’s easy to turn them but they are fairly forgiving if you don’t commit to the turn.”

Like many of the skis in the Joy range, the Total uses a shorter turn radius to add to the enjoyment. With measurements of 128/85/114 mm in the 163 cm length, these skis generate a 14.7-meter arc. By pairing the 85 mm waist with this shorter sidecut, skiers get a mix of balance and crispness in their turns. While there’s a bit of rocker in the tips, there’s not much int he tails. Additionally, the ski isn’t too tapered, giving it a pure tip to tail feel and a smooth overall character. Tester Catherine Ferguson states that “It is a stable ski that has is maneuverable but not very playful. Best for an intermediate or beginner...it's an easy ski to get around on.”

These Total Joy skis will create a lot of smiles out there on the hill. Since most skiers spend most of their time on groomed and smooth terrain, it stands to reason that their skis should match that application. Because Head uses a lot of sophistication and technology in the Total Joy, skiers get an upscale feel with a lot of energy. Carbon and graphene combine to make a peppy feel to match the shorter arc delivering tons of fun in a light weight package.