The 2025 Black Crows Octo with Salomon Strive 14 GW Bindings offers a refreshing take on modern carving, blending precision and playfulness into one sleek frontside package. Inspired by the Mirus Cor but designed with broader accessibility in mind, the Octo’s 84 mm waist and tight 14-meter radius make for a quick, nimble ride that thrives on creative edge angles and dynamic turns. We paired the Octo 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:

We love how the Octo delivers high-energy carving performance without requiring constant speed or aggressive input. It’s light, quick, and engaging—perfect for skiers who want to bring some fun and flair to their groomer game without feeling locked into race-mode.

Who it's for:

Geared toward intermediate to advanced skiers, the Octo is a perfect match for those who love short, snappy turns and want a ski that encourages experimentation and flow on the frontside. If you value quick edge-to-edge response and want to keep your carving smooth and creative, the Octo hits the mark.

Highlights:

At its core, the Octo features poplar wood and fiberglass laminates that give it a light, responsive personality. A modest rocker in the tip and a subtly tapered shape allow for effortless turn initiation, while the short radius enhances agility and invites playfulness. Whether you’re arcing tight turns on corduroy or navigating mild bumps, the Octo keeps things light, fun, and fluid. 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:

While incredibly nimble, the Octo’s lightweight build isn’t made for skiers who demand maximum stability or power at high speeds. It prefers moderate cruising and creative carving over flat-out charging.

Fit & sizing considerations:

The Octo skis true to size. Choose your normal length for a well-balanced feel, or size down if maneuverability is your top priority. Size up slightly if you want more confidence at higher speeds.