2027 K2 Mindbender 101

tester:

Jon Legault

Ski:

2027 K2 Mindbender 101 Skis

Size Tested:

185 CM

Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes

Pico summit laps with soft and variable conditions.

Did this length feel short, long, or just right? Would you recommend sizing up or down, or does it ski "true to size?" Would you choose this length for yourself?

It’s a bit on the longer side, but I had no problem pushing this ski to its limits.

Scores

Floatation:10/10

Stability:10/10

Quickness:10/10

Playfulness:10/10

Forgiveness:10/10

Edge Grip:10/10

Versatility:10/10

Overall:10/10

What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?

I had a lot of questions in my head about the new Mindbender updates and I couldn’t stomach everything until I finally pushed them around. At first glance, it definitely looks like they’re making the ski look a bit more like a full twin, but it’s not.

For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?

I’d recommend it for any type of terrain. The titanal layer really adds to the rigidity of the ski when you take it on groomers, but the rocker can allow for some float in the softer snow.

What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?

I’d recommend this for advanced skiers who like something that not only is going to withstand the amount of abuse you throw at the ski, but at the same time will also let loose a little bit. The wider the ski, the more aggressive it performs overall.

Anything else you want to tell us about your experience on these skis?

The saying on the tail is “Yep, it goes,” and I can confirm that this ski goes. This ski feels like a park ski, but at the same time it’s not a park ski. I was able to carve around switch with no problems, but it’s a ski that is meant for everything outside of the terrain park. Heck I’d make this my all mountain or light powder ski for the resort if I was itching to add to my quiver.

Matt submitted 2 test cards — select one:

tester:

Matt Stromecki

Ability: Expert
Height: 6'2"
Weight: 195
Days / Year: 140
Age: 27
Years Skiing: 26

Would describe myself as a freecarver (Freeride skier at heart with a love for carving). Any excuse to go drops, cliffs, jumps, spins, etc., I will take. But also very much enjoy pure carving on skis that many would consider far too wide to carve on.

Ski:

2027 K2 Mindbender 101 Skis

Size Tested:

178 CM

Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes

Pico, VT - Firm, peeling away granular and chucks.

Did this length feel short, long, or just right? Would you recommend sizing up or down, or does it ski "true to size?" Would you choose this length for yourself?

Felt short, would go with upper 180 cm's if I could

Scores

Floatation:8/10

Stability:8/10

Quickness:8/10

Playfulness:8/10

Forgiveness:8/10

Edge Grip:7/10

Versatility:8/10

Overall:7/10

What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?

Much more playful and smeary than the outgoing Mindbenders. Softer and more forgiving for sure and not as smooth. However, this lends the 101 to fall more in the playful yet still supportive group, which is more aligned with what I see K2 as a brand. Reminds me of the K2 Pinnacle of years past in a shaping format. I did not find the Dark Matter dampening system to do a whole lot. Maybe more damping directly underfoot if anything which allows some flexibility in the extremities. But this makes sense as they are moving more into the all-mountain freeride creative side rather than the outgoing version which was more chargey and powerful.

For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?

Creative all-mountain freeride skiing. So pretty much jumping off stuff around the resort with some carving in between features.

What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?

Intermediate to niche preferenced experts. Intermediate and advanced skiers will like the support and edge grip as well as the more forgiving playfulness. Experts who like a ski with a solid feel underfoot and more flexible extremities will find success here.

Anything else you want to tell us about your experience on these skis?

I think the move to this build and shape makes sense for K2 as a brand, but I admit that I like the previous generation more for my style of skiing. That's in no way a dig, just personal preferences. It's a great ski for more people than the previous gen was.

tester:

Jose Darias

Ability: I'm A Pro
Height: 5'10"
Weight: 175
Days / Year: 100+
Age: 32
Years Skiing: 30

Fluid, powerful and charging; looking for natural takeoffs on freeride features

Ski:

2027 K2 Mindbender 101 Skis

Size Tested:

185 CM

Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes

Refrozen groomers, roller balls, generally very variable snow. Skied from the gondola down Perry Merrel the whole way.

Did this length feel short, long, or just right? Would you recommend sizing up or down, or does it ski "true to size?" Would you choose this length for yourself?

This feels true to length and is the size I would choose for a personal ski.

Scores

Floatation:6/10

Stability:8/10

Quickness:6/10

Playfulness:7/10

Forgiveness:7/10

Edge Grip:8/10

Versatility:7/10

Overall:8/10

What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?

First impressions of the updated Mindbenders is really positive! The 101 is probably too much ski for the current conditions but the shape and construction of this ski is clearly a winning formula. I really love skis that have a more playful shape with a strong set of materials that allows me to push the ski hard while being able to jump, pivot and ski with creativity. The Mindbender 101 hits all those boxes. I really wish we had some softer conditions to push the skin hard while a little harder and see its full potential.

For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?

This is a true Freeride ski. Look for steep lines with exposure, features and mixed conditions and this ski will absolutely shine. It can carve well for what it is but certainly prefers to have softer snow.

What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?

This feels like a ski that could be enjoyed by an intermediate level skier in a shorter length but the 185 really needs an advanced level skier to pilot this ski at its desired speed and power.

Anything else you want to tell us about your experience on these skis?

The Mindbender 101 is a super dynamic and playful ski with a true Freeride construction. I would happily own this ski in my personal quiver and be comfortable skiing it as a daily driver for mid season conditions in Vermont.

tester:

Sam Reed

Ability: Expert
Height: 6'4"
Weight: 200
Days / Year: 30-40
Age: 30
Years Skiing: 25

Chargey while still playful; exploratory

Ski:

2027 K2 Mindbender 101 Skis

Size Tested:

185 CM

Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes

Stowe Gondola - Cliff trail to Nosedive (packed powder, icy groomers).

Did this length feel short, long, or just right? Would you recommend sizing up or down, or does it ski "true to size?" Would you choose this length for yourself?

These skied true to length - maybe just a tad short.

Scores

Floatation:7/10

Stability:5/10

Quickness:5/10

Playfulness:6/10

Forgiveness:7/10

Edge Grip:5/10

Versatility:7/10

Overall:5/10

What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?

These really didn't feel like they had much personality. They were... fine on everything, but generally unremarkable. They do feel like they would probably be fun in powder based on how surfy they felt, so they may be better than other skis in the category in that regard, but they really just didn't impress me much in any other way.

For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?

I'd say these can be taken anywhere, with a bias towards fresh snow, but I wouldn't be all that excited to take them anywhere.

What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?

Probably a good ski for an intermediate - if you don't know what you like, this won't be an offensive ski.

Anything else you want to tell us about your experience on these skis?

My phone autocorrected "Mindbender" to "mundane" the first time I typed it, and honestly...I couldn't have come up with a better description.

tester:

Chris Patten

Ability: Expert
Height: 6’2
Weight: 185
Days / Year: Depends, this year I have about 100
Age: 22
Years Skiing: 20

Having fun where ever I am on the mountain

Ski:

2027 K2 Mindbender 101 Skis

Size Tested:

185 CM

Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes

Groomed gondola, bumps.

Did this length feel short, long, or just right? Would you recommend sizing up or down, or does it ski "true to size?" Would you choose this length for yourself?

I think this ski skis true to its size, I personally might go longer just to get a bit more power out of the turn.

Scores

Floatation:7/10

Stability:9/10

Quickness:8/10

Playfulness:8/10

Forgiveness:8/10

Edge Grip:9/10

Versatility:7/10

Overall:7/10

What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?

The first thing I was impressed with is how stable this ski is. I think the new dark matter aspect helps to quiet the ski at speed and keep it stable on hardpack. I desired a bit more power out of the turn, I think you can get that with a longer length.

For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?

I would say it can be a good all mountain deal, a nice balance between stability and playfulness. I think that’s what the dark matter element was shooting for and I think they hit the mark.

What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?

I would say this ski in particular can be a solid option for intermediate and advanced skiers. I could also see a higher level beginner enjoying it. The Mindbender is easy to ski, quiet, and stable. All great qualities for an all mountain quiver.

tester:

Matty Kuhnel

Ability: Expert
Height: 5’11”
Weight: 200
Days / Year: 50-100
Age: 44
Years Skiing: 40

Smooth, flowing, and fast, but calculated to ski another day

Ski:

2027 K2 Mindbender 101 Skis

Size Tested:

185 CM

Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes

Stowe, groomers, bumps, and crud.

Did this length feel short, long, or just right? Would you recommend sizing up or down, or does it ski "true to size?" Would you choose this length for yourself?

The Mindbender skis short for its size with tip and tail rocker. 185 was just right.

Scores

Floatation:7/10

Stability:7/10

Quickness:7/10

Playfulness:7/10

Forgiveness:8/10

Edge Grip:7/10

Versatility:8/10

Overall:7/10

What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?

The Mindbender 101 is a nimble, everywhere, ski. It was very easy to butter and have fun making non-PSIA recommended freestyle turns. They felt very forgiving in crud and were moderately stable at speed. The tails were easy to side out when wanted, yet held a tight grip in a carve. Great torsion for edge transfer making tight, quick turns a breeze. A great daily driver for the freestyle enthusiasts.

For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?

They are best in soft snow, great in trees and bumps, but still able to rip any trail. Rocker with grip for the whole mountain makes them a versatile ski.

What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?

The Mindbenders are best enjoyed by budding experts to advanced experts. It’s a lot of skill with a lot of power.

Anything else you want to tell us about your experience on these skis?

This ballerina doesn’t like long walks on the beach, instead she spends her time making chainsaw sculptures and racing monster trucks.

tester:

Bob St.Pierre

Ability: Advanced
Height: 6'2"
Weight: 225
Days / Year: 110ish
Age: 48
Years Skiing: 38

A bit more rigid than I used to be but still trying to be dynamic, smooth, and fluid with varying degrees of success. Skis on the snow, these days.

Ski:

2027 K2 Mindbender 101 Skis

Size Tested:

185 CM

Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes

Skied at Stowe on a few different occasions, my favorite being a 10" powder day.

Did this length feel short, long, or just right? Would you recommend sizing up or down, or does it ski "true to size?" Would you choose this length for yourself?

This felt just right for me in the 185. It skis true to size.

Scores

Floatation:9/10

Stability:8/10

Quickness:8/10

Playfulness:7/10

Forgiveness:7/10

Edge Grip:6/10

Versatility:8/10

Overall:8/10

What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?

This is a very good ski for a variety of conditions and terrain. It does seem like it's a bit more freeride oriented vs. all-mountain, which makes this a narrow choice in that zone. It is a fantastic floater and is highly mobile in deeper snow and tighter spaces. That does eat into its on-trail performance a bit as it doesn't have the same pull into a turn as some other more carving-oriented skis in this range like Enforcer 99 or Black Crows Justis.

For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?

This is more of an off-trail ski and it works exceptionally well in powder and trees. It can handle groomers just fine, but it's not an ideal choice in this zone.

What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?

The Mindbender 101 is an advanced and expert ski for sure. I can't see intermediates finding a lot to like here as it does have a bit of a speed minimum in order to access the performance, especially in a carved turn.

Anything else you want to tell us about your experience on these skis?

This ski floats way above its width, but it doesn't quite hold an edge or pull you into a turn all that well.

tester:

Jeff Neagle

Ability: Expert
Height: 5'10"
Weight: 165
Days / Year: 120-140
Age: 40
Years Skiing: 38

Flowing and Kind of Fast with Freestyle/Freeski Influence

Ski:

2027 K2 Mindbender 101 Skis

Size Tested:

185 CM

Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes

Alta - Wind-buffed, chalky snow off-piste and packed powder groomers.

Did this length feel short, long, or just right? Would you recommend sizing up or down, or does it ski "true to size?" Would you choose this length for yourself?

Definitely not something you need to size up on! It doesn't ski super long, but kinda long.

Scores

Floatation:7/10

Stability:9/10

Quickness:7/10

Playfulness:7/10

Forgiveness:7/10

Edge Grip:9/10

Versatility:9/10

Overall:8/10

What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?

The Mindbender 101 is an interesting ski and it's even hard for me to come up with good direct comparisons. It's strong, but the shape helps it feel loose too, which was kind of perfect for skiing Alta on a low tide day. It gave me a ton of confidence skiing steeper terrain when you have to make a lot of subsequent turns, but you have to put the effort in too as it's not particularly light. You really have to ski it aggressively, but kind of with an aggressively loose attitude or mindset. I don't know that I'm explaining it well. On a groomer, it doesn't rip you into a turn like the new Mindbender 96 does, but again if you put the effort in, you can bend it into some dynamic carves. Releasing the tail edge is super easy, just like it is off trail. It's like a strong freeride ski, but narrower than most skis with these characteristics.

For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?

I think the type of terrain I was skiing at Alta is kind of ideal. Steep, challenging terrain with relatively firm snow conditions. I do think it would be fine in some deeper snow too, but the way it handles the wind-buffed and wind-scoured conditions is very impressive to me.

What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?

It's a lot of ski so I do think it's best for an expert skier. An advanced skier used to wider skis like this would be ok on it too, but might not get the most out of it.

Anything else you want to tell us about your experience on these skis?

It's a cool ski. The Mindbender line might be hard for people to fully understand as they're each quite unique, but they're all good.

2027 SkiEssentials Ski TestK2's reimagined one-ski quiver, redesigned with Dark Matter Tech for advanced skiers who want versatility from groomers to powder.

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