As a stalwart of the all-mountain realm, the 2024 Stockli Stormrider 88 returns with an altered core for more energy and precision but keeps the overall shape and profile the same from years past. We talk a lot about the skis at 88 mm underfoot as being supremely versatile and well-rounded, and this Stormrider is no different. Regardless of where you ski, how much, or how aggressively, the Stormrider 88 is an amazing option for high-end skiing, but in reality, there’s a much larger range for this ski than most skiers give it credit for. For how much power that it has, it’s an amazingly supple ski that can stand up to lower-end speeds and more moderate paces. When you get into bumps and trees and other technical zones, this comes in handy big time. We could make a strong argument for an 88 being a one-ski quiver, and also a mid-90's ski as well, but for where we ski here in Vermont, and for many other skiers around the world who happen to spend most of their time on groomed terrain and on non-powder days, this width makes a whole lot of sense.

Making moves to a lighter wood core, the new Stormrider 88 drops about 100 grams per ski in each length, adding agility without removing stability. This is a rare combination in terms of an improvement for a ski, and it makes a lot of sense when it comes to how Stockli builds a ski. The dual-metal laminate is the big driver of the power and stability of the ski, and especially when it comes to the Titec laminate on top. As the first part of the ski that touches the bindings, the transfer of energy is swift, and the damping properties are very real. As with each and every handmade Stockli ski, the adhesive epoxy layers contain rubber dust, and while this may sound a bit fairy-tale-esque, we assure you, it’s real. It makes sense, too, as many ski companies are using either rubber or some type of elastomer material that dampens vibrations and reduces chatter.

Shape-wise, this ski is so incredibly fun and agile at 88 mm underfoot. We think this is a great shape for pure and true all-mountain skiing for a variety of conditions and terrain. Most skiers are spending most of their time on groomed and smooth trails, and it just makes sense to have conditions-appropriate skis for this type of application. Even then, there’s a handful of skiers who feel that this is still too wide, and we totally get that theory, but that said, the Stormrider 88 is able to do so much in such a natural realm, with great confidence, that it’s tough to look past it and into something narrower, especially if you don’t have to. In the 175, we’re still seeing an 18.4-meter turn radius, so this ski is right in the middle when it comes to turn shape and style for all-mountain skis. While there’s more tip rocker and taper in this ski than found in the tail, it makes sense when you think about the ease of initiation combined with the sturdiness of the completion phase of the turn.

True all-mountain skiers who are looking for a ski at the top end of all spectrums should definitely take a square look at the refined 2024 Stockli Stormrider 88. This is a fantastic option for well-rounded skiers looking for something that tops the charts in terms of poise, precision, and quality. Sure, it’s going to cost you a few more dollars, but prices on everything are going up and up, you might as well get a fantastic product for the cash.