The 2026 DPS Kaizen 100 with Salomon Strive 14 GW Bindings is an all-mountain freeride ski that finds the perfect sweet spot between powder float and everyday control. Built with a lightweight carbon-infused core and shaped for agility, this ski excels in soft snow, tight trees, and varied inbounds terrain. Whether you're chasing fresh lines or navigating tracked-up glades, the Kaizen 100 is designed to make every day feel like a powder day. We paired the Kaizen 100 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 Kaizen 100 is quick, responsive, and surprisingly grippy for a ski with such playful float. It’s a joy to ski in soft snow but doesn’t back down when the trail gets bumped up or crusty. It makes fast turns with ease and feels lively without being twitchy.

Who it's for:

Best for advanced to expert skiers who want a lightweight freeride tool that can handle everything from morning pow laps to end-of-day chunder. If you love a loose, surfy ski but still want control and precision underfoot, this is your ride.

Highlights:

A 15-meter turn radius and deep rocker lines give the Kaizen 100 quick maneuverability and effortless float. The ski’s construction—a blend of carbon, poplar, and ash—keeps things lightweight and energetic, while still offering enough backbone to stay composed in mixed snow. The tapered tips and ample shovel splay help it plane smoothly in powder and initiate turns without hesitation. Centered, balanced, and ready for anything, the Kaizen 100 delivers versatility across every inch of the mountain. 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:

This ski shines in soft snow and playful terrain but isn’t built for charging through chop or laying trenches on firm snow. For a heavier, more planted feel at speed, look toward skis with metal laminates.

Fit & sizing considerations:

The Kaizen 100 skis true to size. Given its lightweight feel and agile shape, most skiers can size up for added float without sacrificing maneuverability. Lighter or finesse-focused skiers can stick to their regular length for optimal response.