Weston Skyline Carbon Ski Review

First Impressions of Weston Skyline Carbon Ski

The Weston Skyline Carbon Ski promises to be a game-changer for backcountry skiers who prioritize uphill efficiency without sacrificing downhill performance. Weston is known for building durable and high-performing skis, and the Skyline Carbon aims to bridge the gap between lightweight touring skis and more aggressive freeride models. This ski boasts a combination of a lightweight paulownia core, aluminum stringers, and a carbon fiber overlay, all aimed at delivering a ski that is both nimble on the ascent and stable on the descent.

I was searching for a ski that could handle long days in the backcountry, specifically targeting steeper terrain and variable snow conditions. My current touring skis are great on the uphill, but they lack the stability and edge hold I need when things get icy or the terrain gets more challenging. I needed a ski that could inspire confidence while descending with a loaded pack.

The Weston Skyline Carbon Ski arrived well-packaged and the first thing I noticed was how incredibly light they are. Picking them up, they felt noticeably lighter than my existing touring skis, yet the build quality appeared robust. The topsheet has a clean, minimalist design that I appreciate.

Compared to the Atomic Backland 95 and the Black Diamond Helio Carbon 95, the Weston Skyline Carbon Ski stood out because of its combination of features. The Atomic Backland 95 is a great all-around touring ski, but I was looking for something a bit more damp and stable. The Black Diamond Helio Carbon 95 is incredibly light, but some users have noted its less-than-ideal performance in variable conditions. The Weston Skyline Carbon Ski, with its aluminum stringers and freeride-inspired shape, seemed like a good compromise.

My initial impression was one of excitement and cautious optimism. The weight savings are significant, and the construction seems promising. I was eager to get them out on the snow and see if they could live up to the hype.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Weston Skyline Carbon Ski to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Weston Skyline Carbon Ski on a multi-day backcountry trip in the Colorado Rockies. The conditions ranged from soft powder in sheltered bowls to wind-scoured ridges with icy patches. I skinned up steep, forested slopes and skied down open bowls and tight couloirs.

The Weston Skyline Carbon Ski performed admirably in the variety of conditions. They were surprisingly stable on the icy sections, providing a reliable edge hold that boosted my confidence. In the softer snow, the rocker in the tip helped keep me afloat and the ski felt nimble and responsive. No issues arose after first-time use.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, the Weston Skyline Carbon Ski has continued to impress. They have proven to be durable and reliable, with no signs of significant wear and tear despite being subjected to some rough treatment. The bases have held up well to rocks and tree branches, and the edges are still sharp.

Maintaining the Weston Skyline Carbon Ski has been easy. I’ve been using a universal wax and regularly checking the edges for any damage. Cleaning them after each use is a breeze, and the durable topsheet resists scratches and scuffs. They are easily cleaned with a soft cloth.

Compared to my previous touring skis, the Weston Skyline Carbon Ski outperforms them in almost every aspect. The weight savings are noticeable on long tours, and the increased stability and edge hold make them a more confidence-inspiring choice for challenging terrain. They truly bridge the gap between lightweight touring and freeride performance.

Breaking Down the Features of Weston Skyline Carbon Ski

Specifications

• Ski Style: Touring. This design caters to backcountry exploration.
• Ski Touring Type: Touring. This emphasizes uphill efficiency and downhill capability.
• Core Material: Wood (Paulownia with aluminum stringers). The wood core offers a balance of lightweight performance and responsiveness.
• Camber: Camber/Rocker. The combination provides edge hold and floatation.
• Gender: Unisex. These skis are suitable for all adult skiers.
• Age Group: Adults. These skis are designed for adult skiers.
• Base Material: Sintered DuraSurf 4007. This base material enhances durability and glide.
• Wood Composition: Paulownia – 100%. This lightweight wood keeps the ski nimble.
• Shape: Tapered Directional. The shape enhances turn initiation and control.
• Camber Profile: Freeride Ski. This camber emphasizes downhill performance.
• Topsheet: Castor Bean Based Rugged Nylon. The topsheet is durable and environmentally friendly.
• Layup Fibers: Tri-Axial Fiber Glass. This provides torsional stiffness and responsiveness.
• Fiber Reinforcements: Flax Touring Bracket and Inserts Plates. This reinforcement adds strength and durability.
• Base Material: Sintered Durasurf 4001. This base material provides excellent glide.
• Sidewall: Ultra-High-Molecular-Weight Polyethylene (UHMW). This increases impact resistance.

These specifications matter because they contribute to the overall performance and user experience of the ski. The lightweight core and carbon fiber overlay make the ski efficient on the uphill, while the freeride camber profile and aluminum stringers provide stability and edge hold on the downhill. The durable base and topsheet ensure that the ski can withstand the rigors of backcountry use.

Performance & Functionality

The Weston Skyline Carbon Ski performs exceptionally well as a touring ski designed for variable conditions and steeper terrain. The skis are maneuverable in tight spaces and offer surprising stability at higher speeds. They exceed expectations.

The strengths of the Weston Skyline Carbon Ski include its lightweight construction, excellent edge hold, and versatility in different snow conditions. One weakness might be that very experienced freeride skiers may want something even stiffer for charging inbounds. This is expected for a touring ski.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Weston Skyline Carbon Ski is impressive. The materials used are high-quality, and the construction is solid. The skis feel lightweight yet durable, inspiring confidence in their ability to withstand the demands of backcountry use.

The design is user-friendly, with a shape and camber profile that make the skis easy to handle in a variety of conditions. There is a slight learning curve, especially for those accustomed to softer, more forgiving touring skis. After a few runs, most skiers will adapt quickly.

Durability & Maintenance

The Weston Skyline Carbon Ski is built to last, with a durable base, topsheet, and edges that can withstand the rigors of backcountry use. Regular maintenance, such as waxing and edge sharpening, will help to prolong the life of the skis.

The skis are relatively easy to maintain and repair. The base is easy to patch, and the edges can be sharpened with standard tools.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Weston Skyline Carbon Ski does not come with any specific accessories beyond the standard binding mounting inserts. Skiers can customize the skis with their choice of touring bindings, skins, and other accessories.

The skis are compatible with a wide range of touring bindings from brands like Dynafit, Marker, and Salomon. It is always recommended to consult with a professional ski technician when choosing and mounting bindings.

Pros and Cons of Weston Skyline Carbon Ski

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Weston Skyline Carbon Ski?

The Weston Skyline Carbon Ski is perfect for backcountry skiers who prioritize uphill efficiency without sacrificing downhill performance. It’s a great choice for skiers who enjoy long tours, challenging terrain, and variable snow conditions. The freeride-inspired shape and excellent edge hold make it a confidence-inspiring choice for skiers who like to ski aggressively on the descent.

Skiers who should skip this product are those who primarily ski inbounds or who are looking for a dedicated powder ski. Expert freeriders might prefer a stiffer ski for charging harder on the descent.

Must-have accessories or modifications include high-quality touring bindings, climbing skins that fit the ski properly, and a professional binding mount. Consider a lightweight adjustable pole and avalanche safety gear.

Conclusion on Weston Skyline Carbon Ski

The Weston Skyline Carbon Ski is an outstanding choice for backcountry skiers seeking a blend of lightweight performance and downhill capability. Weston has successfully created a ski that excels on the uphill without compromising stability and edge hold on the descent. The combination of a lightweight core, carbon fiber overlay, and freeride-inspired shape makes it a versatile and confidence-inspiring ski for a wide range of conditions and terrain.

The price is justified by the performance and durability of the ski. The high-quality materials and construction ensure that it will withstand the demands of backcountry use for years to come.

I would personally recommend the Weston Skyline Carbon Ski to any backcountry skier looking for a high-performance, versatile, and durable ski. If you are seeking a ski that can handle long tours, challenging terrain, and variable snow conditions, the Weston Skyline Carbon Ski is an excellent choice. Upgrade your backcountry experience.