The 2025 Atomic Maverick 86 C with Salomon Strive 14 GW Bindings is a lightweight and user-friendly all-mountain ski designed to accommodate a wide range of skier types and abilities. Building on the Maverick’s poplar and fiberglass woodcore, the 86 C incorporates additional carbon for enhanced torsional stiffness and edge grip. It performs exceptionally well at moderate to slower speeds, offering agility and confidence for exploring bumps, trees, and powder. We paired the 86 C with the Strive 14 because of this binding’s well known reputation for safety, reliability, and ease of use. Featuring an LDN toe piece that optimizes contact and response, these bindings integrate seamlessly with boots and skis, allowing for a natural flex and balanced stance, making them the perfect choice to pair with this ski.

Why we like it:

The 2025 Atomic Maverick 86 C stands out for its intuitive and easy-to-use nature, making it an excellent choice for intermediate skiers looking to advance, or expert skiers seeking a light, non-taxing option for long days on the mountain.

Who it's for:

Intermediate to advanced skiers seeking a lightweight ski that remains comfortable throughout the day while delivering solid all-mountain performance both on and off the trail.

Highlights:

The Atomic OMatic core, composed of poplar, fiberglass, and carbon, provides longitudinal stiffness with minimal weight, while the Carbon Backbone enhances torsional stiffness and edge grip. Dura Cap Sidewalls further increase stiffness and durability, improving reactivity and overall performance. The Strive 14 GW, with its lightweight build and low-profile chassis, delivers a smooth and responsive ride all day long. It remains nimble in deep snow and light on your feet as the day progresses. The LDN Toe Pieces offer a low stand height, optimizing power transfer and improving the connection to your skis. The Automatic Toe Adaption feature effortlessly adjusts to GripWalk boots without the need for manual adjustments. Additionally, the Snow Scrapers on the toe pieces effectively remove snow and ice, ensuring a secure fit that enhances both safety and performance for direct power transmission

Things to consider:

Heavier, more aggressive skiers may find the Maverick 86 C to be somewhat underpowered. Conversely, less aggressive skiers will likely appreciate the ski’s flex pattern and performance for cruising and exploring the mountain.

Fit & sizing considerations:

These skis run true to size.