Let’s Dive into Black Diamond Impulse 98 Skis
The Black Diamond Impulse 98 Skis are designed as a versatile all-mountain ski, aimed at skiers who want a playful yet capable plank for a variety of conditions. Black Diamond promises a ski that can carve through softer snow while also holding its own when things get steep and icy.
My search for the perfect all-mountain ski has been a long one. I needed a ski that could handle everything from early morning groomers to afternoon powder stashes. The Black Diamond Impulse 98 Skis piqued my interest with their purported blend of playfulness and power.
Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the ski’s solid feel; they felt substantial without being overly heavy. The build quality seemed excellent, with a clean finish and no visible imperfections.
Compared to the Salomon QST 99 and the Atomic Bent Chetler 100, the Black Diamond Impulse 98 Skis appeared to be slightly more focused on hard snow performance. The QST 99 felt softer, and the Bent Chetler 100 was definitely more powder-oriented; the Impulse 98 seemed to strike a balance, which is exactly what I was looking for. My initial excitement was high, hoping these skis would be the one-ski quiver I’d been searching for.
Real-World Testing: Putting Black Diamond Impulse 98 Skis to the Test
First Use Experience
My first run with the Black Diamond Impulse 98 Skis was on a day with variable conditions at Whistler Blackcomb. The morning started with firm groomers, transitioning to slushy bumps and patches of fresh snow later in the day.
The skis performed admirably on the groomed runs, carving smoothly and holding an edge well. The transition to softer snow was seamless, and I found them surprisingly nimble in the bumps, making the day a success. There was a slight learning curve adjusting to the traditional camber underfoot compared to my previous full rocker skis, but the adjustment was quick.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full season of skiing, the Black Diamond Impulse 98 Skis have proven to be remarkably durable. Despite numerous encounters with rocks and hardpack, the skis have held up well, showing only minor cosmetic scratches.
Maintenance has been minimal. I’ve been waxing them regularly and had the edges sharpened once mid-season to maintain optimal performance. Compared to some other skis I’ve owned, these seem far more resistant to damage.
Breaking Down the Features of Black Diamond Impulse 98 Skis
Specifications
The Black Diamond Impulse 98 Skis boast a 98-mm waist, making them versatile for various snow conditions. The 189 cm length (as tested) felt stable at high speeds, while the rockered tip and tail aided in maneuverability. The skis feature a traditional camber underfoot for increased edge hold and carving performance. They are constructed with a pre-preg fiberglass layup and a poplar core, contributing to a damp and powerful ride. The skis weigh in at 8.75 lb, which is a reasonable weight for an all-mountain ski of this size.
These specifications translate to a ski that excels in a variety of conditions. The waist width is wide enough to provide float in softer snow but narrow enough to carve well on hardpack. The rockered tip and tail make the ski playful and forgiving. The traditional camber provides the necessary edge hold for confident carving.
Performance & Functionality
The Black Diamond Impulse 98 Skis perform exceptionally well as an all-mountain ski. Their carving ability on hardpack is impressive, allowing for confident turns at high speeds. In softer snow, the rockered tip and tail provide adequate float and maneuverability, making them fun and playful.
The strength of these skis lies in their versatility. They are not the best in deep powder, nor are they the most aggressive on hardpack, but they strike a balance that makes them a great choice for skiers who encounter a variety of conditions. The only area needing improvement is their performance in very icy conditions, where a slightly more aggressive sidecut would be beneficial. Overall, the skis exceeded my expectations for a true all-mountain ski.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Black Diamond Impulse 98 Skis is excellent. The materials used feel high-quality, and the skis have a solid and durable construction. At 8.75 lbs, they’re not the lightest skis on the market, but the weight contributes to their stability and dampness. The design is understated yet appealing, with a clean and modern aesthetic.
The skis feel comfortable and balanced underfoot. There is a slight learning curve due to the traditional camber, but once you adjust, they are easy to control and maneuver.
Durability & Maintenance
The Black Diamond Impulse 98 Skis are built to last. The materials and construction are robust, and they have proven to be resistant to wear and tear. With regular waxing and occasional edge sharpening, these skis should provide many seasons of reliable performance.
Repair, if needed, should be relatively straightforward due to their conventional construction. The Black Diamond brand is also known for standing behind its products.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Black Diamond Impulse 98 Skis do not come with any specific accessories other than standard packaging. However, they are compatible with a wide range of bindings from various manufacturers.
Customization options are limited to binding choice and placement. Aftermarket accessories like stomp pads can be added if desired. The skis are compatible with any standard ski brake width that accommodates a 98mm waist.
Pros and Cons of Black Diamond Impulse 98 Skis
Pros
- Versatile 98-mm waist excels in a variety of snow conditions, from hardpack to soft snow.
- Rockered tip and tail provide excellent maneuverability and playfulness in softer snow.
- Traditional camber underfoot delivers confident edge hold and carving performance.
- Pre-preg fiberglass layup and poplar core construction offers a damp and stable ride.
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting performance and resistance to wear and tear.
Cons
- Performance in very icy conditions could be improved with a more aggressive sidecut.
- Not the best choice for dedicated deep powder skiing; other skis offer more float.
Who Should Buy Black Diamond Impulse 98 Skis?
The Black Diamond Impulse 98 Skis are perfect for intermediate to advanced skiers who primarily ski inbounds but occasionally venture off-piste. They are ideal for those who encounter a variety of snow conditions and want a versatile ski that can handle it all. Skiers who prioritize carving performance on hardpack but also want some playfulness in softer snow will appreciate these skis.
Those who primarily ski deep powder or are looking for a dedicated park ski should skip this product. The Impulse 98 is designed for all-mountain versatility, not specialized performance in a specific niche. For dedicated powder hounds, something with a wider waist is preferable.
Must-have accessories include high-quality bindings suitable for all-mountain skiing. Regular waxing is also essential to maintain optimal performance and glide.
Conclusion on Black Diamond Impulse 98 Skis
The Black Diamond Impulse 98 Skis are an excellent choice for skiers seeking a versatile and reliable all-mountain ski. They offer a balanced blend of carving performance, playfulness, and stability, making them suitable for a wide range of conditions. The price of $314.98 is justified by the quality of construction and the versatility of the skis.
I would personally recommend the Black Diamond Impulse 98 Skis to any skier looking for a true one-ski quiver. They are a great investment for those who want a ski that can handle everything the mountain throws at them. Go out there and experience the mountain with confidence on the Black Diamond Impulse 98 Skis!