Black Diamond Glidelite Pure Sts 110 Mm Review

First Impressions of Black Diamond Glidelite Pure Sts 110 Mm

The Black Diamond Glidelite Pure Sts 110 Mm climbing skins promise a blend of lightweight performance and optimal glide, geared toward ski mountaineering and skimo racing. Black Diamond has a long-standing reputation for quality backcountry equipment, and these skins aim to continue that tradition. They boast a 100% mohair plush, updated STS tail hardware, and Black Diamond’s Gold Label Adhesive.

My primary need was for a skin that offered superior glide without sacrificing grip on steeper ascents. I’ve been using a mix of nylon and mohair skins for years, and I was looking to upgrade to something that would improve my efficiency on long tours and races. I wanted something that would save me energy on the flats and rolling terrain.

Upon unboxing, the Black Diamond Glidelite Pure Sts 110 Mm felt incredibly supple and lightweight. The mohair plush was noticeably softer than my existing skins. The build quality appeared excellent, with clean seams and a robust feel to the STS tail attachment system.

I considered the Black Diamond Glidelite Mix and the Black Diamond Ascension skins. I chose the Glidelite Pure for its focus on maximum glide. My first impression was one of excitement. I couldn’t wait to see if they would live up to their promise on the snow.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Black Diamond Glidelite Pure Sts 110 Mm to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Black Diamond Glidelite Pure Sts 110 Mm on a ski mountaineering trip in the Wasatch Mountains of Utah. The conditions were variable, ranging from hard-packed snow to a few inches of fresh powder. The skins were used on a route involving steep climbs and rolling traverses.

In the fresh snow, the glide was exceptional. The mohair plush allowed me to maintain momentum on the flats with minimal effort. On the steeper sections, the grip was adequate, although I did experience some slippage on particularly icy patches.

Installation was straightforward. The STS tail system made adjusting the skin length quick and easy. I did find that the adhesive took a few minutes to fully bond in the colder temperatures.

Extended Use & Reliability

After a full season of use, the Black Diamond Glidelite Pure Sts 110 Mm have held up remarkably well. I’ve used them on numerous backcountry tours. They’ve seen everything from spring corn to mid-winter powder.

There is minimal wear and tear on the plush, and the adhesive is still going strong. I’ve stored them carefully after each use and used skin savers during storage. Cleaning has been simple. I’ve used a soft brush to remove any debris.

Compared to my previous nylon/mohair mix skins, the Glidelite Pure offers a significant improvement in glide. The compromise is a slight reduction in grip on very steep or icy terrain. I feel less fatigued at the end of long days.

Breaking Down the Features of Black Diamond Glidelite Pure Sts 110 Mm

Specifications

The Black Diamond Glidelite Pure Sts 110 Mm features:

• A width of 110mm, suitable for skis with a waist width up to that measurement. This provides adequate coverage and prevents snow from seeping between the skin and the ski base.
• Constructed with 100% mohair plush, offering exceptional glide efficiency. The mohair fibers create a smooth surface that minimizes friction on the snow.
• Utilizes Black Diamond Gold Label Adhesive, known for its reliable grip in cold temperatures. This ensures the skins stay firmly attached to the ski base, even during challenging ascents.
• Equipped with pivoting STS Tails, providing 20cm of length adjustment and field replaceable components. This allows for a customized fit and easy repairs if needed.
• Features a Fluro-free DWR (Durable Water Repellent) coating on the mohair plush. This helps to prevent water absorption and maintain glide performance in wet conditions.

These specifications are essential for backcountry skiers who prioritize efficient uphill travel. The mohair plush offers superior glide. The reliable adhesive provides peace of mind.

Performance & Functionality

The Black Diamond Glidelite Pure Sts 110 Mm excels in providing a smooth and efficient uphill experience. The glide is noticeably faster than skins with a nylon component. This translates to less effort expended on flat or rolling terrain.

However, the 100% mohair construction does compromise grip on very steep or icy slopes. The skins may require more deliberate technique or the use of ski crampons in those conditions. Overall, the performance is excellent for its intended purpose: fast and light backcountry travel.

The Black Diamond Glidelite Pure Sts 110 Mm skins meet my expectations. They offer the glide I was looking for. I would prefer a bit more grip in icy conditions.

Design & Ergonomics

The Black Diamond Glidelite Pure Sts 110 Mm boasts a clean and functional design. The materials used are high-quality. The mohair plush is soft and supple.

The STS tail system is intuitive and easy to adjust. The weight is minimal. There is no learning curve beyond the standard skin application process.

Durability & Maintenance

The Black Diamond Glidelite Pure Sts 110 Mm skins appear to be built to last. The plush shows minimal wear after a full season of use. The Gold Label Adhesive has maintained its stickiness.

Maintenance is straightforward. Regular brushing and proper storage are essential to prolonging the life of the skins. Repairs should be easily manageable given the simple construction.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Black Diamond Glidelite Pure Sts 110 Mm come with the STS tail system pre-installed. This is the primary “accessory.” There are no real customization options beyond trimming the width to fit your skis.

The STS tail system is field replaceable, allowing for repairs if needed. The skins are designed to work with any standard ski. They are compatible with most skin savers.

Pros and Cons of Black Diamond Glidelite Pure Sts 110 Mm

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Who Should Buy Black Diamond Glidelite Pure Sts 110 Mm?

The Black Diamond Glidelite Pure Sts 110 Mm are perfect for ski mountaineers, skimo racers, and backcountry skiers who prioritize glide efficiency. They are ideal for those who frequently encounter flat or rolling terrain and are willing to sacrifice some grip for improved glide. These skins are great for experienced skiers who have the technique to manage steeper ascents with mohair skins.

Those who primarily ski in very steep or icy terrain may want to consider skins with a nylon component for added grip. Beginners may find the reduced grip challenging. The price point may be prohibitive for casual skiers.

A must-have accessory is a good quality skin wax. This can help to improve glide and prevent snow from sticking to the plush in warmer conditions. Consider also purchasing replacement STS tail pieces in case of breakage during a tour.

Conclusion on Black Diamond Glidelite Pure Sts 110 Mm

The Black Diamond Glidelite Pure Sts 110 Mm climbing skins are a top-tier option for backcountry skiers seeking maximum glide efficiency. The 100% mohair plush delivers exceptional performance on flat and rolling terrain. The reliable adhesive and adjustable STS tails provide a secure and customized fit.

The price is justified for those who prioritize performance and durability. The skins are an investment that will pay off in increased efficiency and reduced fatigue on long tours.

I would personally recommend the Black Diamond Glidelite Pure Sts 110 Mm to any experienced backcountry skier looking to upgrade their skin setup. If you value speed and efficiency, these skins are a game-changer. Invest in your backcountry experience and grab a pair of Black Diamond Glidelite Pure Sts 110 Mm skins today!