Let’s Dive into Black Diamond Impulse 104 Skis
The Black Diamond Impulse 104 Skis are marketed as a versatile all-mountain charger designed to carve groomers and float in powder. Black Diamond promises a one-ski quiver solution for freeriders. After years of searching for the perfect blend of hard-snow performance and powder playfulness, I was eager to see if these skis could live up to the hype.
My quest started with the ever-present Colorado conditions – hardpack in the morning, softening into slush, and the occasional surprise powder day. I needed a ski that could handle it all without forcing me to swap out gear mid-day. The Impulse 104‘s advertised versatility seemed like the answer.
Upon unboxing, the Impulse 104 immediately impressed me with their sleek black design and solid feel. The construction felt robust, inspiring confidence. The poplar core hinted at a lively yet damp ride.
Compared to my older K2 Pettitors (120mm underfoot, dedicated powder skis) and Volkl Mantras (96mm, hard snow carvers), the Impulse 104 aimed to bridge the gap. Other options I considered were the Armada Tracer 108 and the Line Sick Day 104, but the Black Diamond‘s reputation for quality and balanced performance swayed my decision.
My first impression was excitement mixed with cautious optimism. I was eager to get them on the snow but also aware that marketing claims don’t always translate to real-world performance. Only the mountain could reveal the Impulse 104‘s true capabilities.
Real-World Testing: Putting Black Diamond Impulse 104 Skis to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Black Diamond Impulse 104 Skis at Breckenridge, Colorado, during a typical late-season day. Conditions were firm groomers in the morning, transitioning to soft, slushy snow in the afternoon, with a few pockets of wind-blown powder in the trees.
The skis performed surprisingly well on the hardpack, holding an edge despite their 104mm waist. They felt nimble and responsive, making short, quick turns easy to initiate. However, I could feel the width as I transitioned to carving longer, GS-style arcs.
The ease of use was immediate; the rockered tip and tail made the skis forgiving and predictable. I experienced no unexpected hook-ups or chatter. The Impulse 104 felt intuitive and confidence-inspiring right from the first run.
One surprise was how well they handled the slushy conditions. I expected them to feel sluggish and unwieldy. However, the rockered tip allowed them to plane easily over the softening snow, providing a smooth and controlled ride.
Extended Use & Reliability
After three months of consistent use in diverse conditions across Colorado and Utah, the Black Diamond Impulse 104 Skis have proven to be remarkably durable. The bases have held up well to the inevitable scrapes and dings from rocks and icy patches. The topsheet shows minimal signs of wear.
There are no delaminations or signs of structural weakness, indicating high-quality construction. Maintenance has been straightforward; regular waxing keeps the bases gliding smoothly. I’ve only needed to address minor scratches with P-Tex.
Compared to my experience with other skis, the Impulse 104 strikes an excellent balance between performance and durability. They outperform dedicated carving skis in soft snow and powder while offering better hard-snow performance than dedicated powder skis. These have become my go-to ski for all but the deepest days.
Breaking Down the Features of Black Diamond Impulse 104 Skis
Specifications
The Black Diamond Impulse 104 Skis feature a 104mm waist, making them suitable for a variety of snow conditions. The tested length was 186cm, providing a balance of stability and maneuverability for my 6’0″ frame. The listed color is Black.
The Impulse 104 has a rockered tip and tail, promoting floatation in soft snow and easy turn initiation. They also have a traditional camber underfoot, providing edge hold and stability on hardpack. These features work together to create a versatile and predictable ride.
The skis are constructed using a pre-preg fiberglass layup and an engineered poplar core, optimizing weight and dampness. They also feature flat-top construction and full ABS sidewalls, increasing torsional stiffness and power transmission. This results in a responsive and powerful ski that inspires confidence.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the ski’s performance in different conditions. The waist width determines floatation, the rocker profile influences turn initiation and forgiveness, and the construction materials affect weight, dampness, and overall durability. Black Diamond has carefully selected these specifications to create a versatile and high-performing ski.
Performance & Functionality
The Black Diamond Impulse 104 Skis excel as an all-mountain ski, performing admirably in various conditions. They carve surprisingly well on hardpack, float adequately in moderate powder, and handle slushy snow with ease. Their balance of traits makes them a fun ski to be on.
Their strengths lie in their versatility and predictability. They are easy to ski in a wide range of conditions, making them an excellent choice for intermediate to advanced skiers. The main weakness is that they are not the best choice for dedicated powder days or icy conditions.
The Impulse 104 largely meets my expectations, providing a balanced and reliable skiing experience. They don’t excel in any one area but perform well across the board, making them a solid choice for skiers who want a versatile one-ski quiver.
Design & Ergonomics
The Black Diamond Impulse 104 Skis have a clean, understated design with a matte black topsheet and subtle graphics. The build quality feels excellent; the skis are solid and well-constructed. The weight is reasonable for a ski of this width, making them manageable for all-day use.
The design promotes ease of use, with the rockered tip and tail making them forgiving and easy to turn. There’s virtually no learning curve. They feel intuitive and confidence-inspiring from the first run.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the Black Diamond Impulse 104 Skis are built to last. The materials and construction are high quality, and the skis have held up well to regular use. With proper care, they should provide many seasons of reliable performance.
Maintenance is straightforward; regular waxing and occasional base repairs are all that’s needed. The topsheet is resistant to scratches, and the sidewalls appear durable. Overall, these skis are relatively easy to maintain.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Black Diamond Impulse 104 Skis do not come with any accessories; bindings must be purchased separately. However, they are compatible with a wide range of alpine and touring bindings. This allows skiers to customize their setup based on their specific needs and preferences.
There are no other readily available customization options, such as custom topsheets or edge bevels. However, the standard Black Diamond design is sleek and functional, and most skiers will likely find it perfectly suitable. The universal binding compatibility is a major advantage.
Pros and Cons of Black Diamond Impulse 104 Skis
Pros
- Versatile all-mountain performance: The Impulse 104 excels in a variety of conditions, making it a great choice for skiers who encounter diverse terrain and snow conditions.
- Predictable and forgiving: The rockered tip and tail make the skis easy to turn and control, boosting confidence for intermediate skiers.
- Durable construction: The quality materials and solid build ensure long-lasting performance, even with regular use.
- Good hard-snow performance for its width: They grip and carve better than expected for a ski in the 104mm waist category.
- Playful and fun: The Impulse 104 has a poppy, lively feel that makes skiing enjoyable in a wide range of conditions.
Cons
- Not ideal for deep powder: While they float adequately in moderate powder, dedicated powder skis will outperform them in deep snow.
- Not the best choice for icy conditions: The 104mm waist can feel a bit wide and less precise on hard, icy surfaces.
Who Should Buy Black Diamond Impulse 104 Skis?
The Black Diamond Impulse 104 Skis are perfect for intermediate to advanced skiers who want a versatile all-mountain ski that can handle a variety of conditions. They are an excellent choice for skiers who primarily ski in areas with variable snow conditions, such as the Rocky Mountains or the Pacific Northwest. These skis would suit someone looking for a “one-ski quiver” without specializing too much in any one discipline.
Those who should skip this product are skiers who primarily ski in deep powder or on hard, icy slopes. Dedicated powder skis will provide better floatation in deep snow, while narrower, stiffer skis will offer better edge hold on ice. Very aggressive skiers who demand the utmost precision and power may find the Impulse 104 a bit too forgiving.
A must-have accessory is a high-quality pair of alpine or touring bindings that match your skiing style and boot sole type. Regular waxing is also essential to keep the bases gliding smoothly. A minor modification would be to have the skis professionally tuned with a specific edge bevel that suits your preferences.
Conclusion on Black Diamond Impulse 104 Skis
The Black Diamond Impulse 104 Skis offer a compelling blend of versatility, performance, and durability. They are a solid choice for skiers seeking a one-ski quiver that can handle a wide range of conditions. While they may not excel in any one specific area, their overall performance is impressive.
At $399.98, the price is justified given the quality of construction and the versatility of the skis. They provide excellent value for the money, especially for skiers who want a reliable and all-around performing ski. The discounted price point makes them an appealing buy.
I would personally recommend the Black Diamond Impulse 104 Skis to any skier looking for a versatile and reliable all-mountain ski. Go ahead, give them a try, and experience the Black Diamond difference. They’re ready for the mountain, are you?