If you haven’t already, check out our full review of the Mindbender 99Ti for more on that ski in particular. Here, we’re comparing it to a whole bunch of other skis in its class.
K2 Mindbender 99Ti, 184 cm (22/23)
Measured Dimensions: 133.3-98.3-119.3 mm
Stated Radius: 19.6 m
Measured Weight per Ski: 2085 & 2120 g
Measured Tip-to-Tail Profile: 60 mm / 2.5 mm / 26 mm
Measured Length: 184.0 cm
Measured Mount Point: -10.6 cm / 81.4 cm from tail
Available Lengths: 166, 172, 178, 184, 190 cm
Core Construction: aspen + titanal “Y-Beam” layer + fiberglass laminate
K2 Mindbender 99Ti, 184 cm (19/20–21/22)
Measured Dimensions: 137.1-98.5-122.0 mm
Stated Radius: 18.5 m
Measured Weight per Ski: 2311 & 2342 g
Measured Tip-to-Tail Profile: 64 mm / ~4 mm / 20 mm
Measured Length: 183.6 cm
Measured Mount Point: -11.0 cm / 80.8 cm from tail
Available Lengths: 170, 177, 184, 191 cm
Core Construction: maple/aspen + “titanal Y-beam” + fiberglass laminate
We discussed this comparison throughout the full review of the new MB99Ti, but to reiterate, there are a few key differences, most of which come down to weight, rocker profile, and flex pattern. First and foremost, the new ski has a notably lower swing weight — it feels a lot quicker. The old ski felt notably more damp and planted at high speeds, but more sluggish at slower speeds. The new ski is also more forgiving if you get backseat, it’s a bit more energetic, and it’s a bit looser / easier to release / pivot around in tight terrain. Both carve very well while not feeling really locked-in off-piste and floating quite well for their width. If you loved the old MB99Ti because of how damp and stable it was and are seeking a replacement, I’d look to something heavier than the new version (e.g., Volkl Mantra 102). If, on the other hand, the old MB99Ti seemed appealing but you thought it might be too sluggish or too demanding, especially in tight off-piste terrain, the new version would be worth a close look.
K2 Mindbender 89Ti, 182 cm (22/23)
Measured Dimensions: 129.8-88.3-113.6 mm
Stated Radius: 16.6 m
Measured Weight per Ski: 1915 & 1937 grams
Measured Tip-to-Tail Profile: 56 mm / 7 mm / 16 mm
Measured Length: 181.7 cm
Measured Mount Point: -10.55 cm / 80.3 cm from tail
Available Lengths: 164, 170, 176, 182, 188 cm
Core Construction: aspen + titanal “Y-Beam” layer + fiberglass laminate
These two skis share a lot in common, with the differences being pretty typical of what you’d expect when comparing 89mm-wide and 99mm-wide skis from the same collection. I.e., the Mindbender 89Ti is unsurprisingly quicker edge to edge and provides slightly better edge hold on firm groomers. The 89Ti is also quicker to initiate turns and a bit more engaging on mellower slopes, while the Mindbender 99Ti is more composed when making bigger, faster turns (especially in more variable snow conditions). Off piste, the Mindbender 99Ti is notably looser, while the 89Ti feels a bit quicker in terms of swing weight. Overall, I’d say the more you care about on-piste performance and/or the less you’ll be using this ski in soft snow, the more sense it makes to go for the narrower 89Ti. The more you prioritize stability, maneuverability, and/or flotation in deep snow, the more I’d lean toward the Mindbender 99Ti.
K2 Mindbender 108Ti, 186 cm (22/23)
Measured Dimensions: 135.9-107.4-124.5 mm
Stated Radius: 22.8 m
Measured Weight per Ski: 2220 & 2237 g
Measured Tip-to-Tail Profile: 64 mm / 4 mm / 19.5 mm
Measured Length: 185.7 cm
Measured Mount Point: -9.55 cm / 83.3 cm from tail
Available Lengths: 172, 179, 184, 193 cm
Core Construction: aspen + titanal “Y-Beam” layer + fiberglass laminate
As you’d expect, this is basically the opposite story as the Mindbender 89Ti comparison. The Mindbender 108Ti feels more planted and stable at speed, more sluggish, and less ideal on piste vs. the Mindbender 99Ti. The 108Ti unsurprisingly floats better and feels looser in deep snow, though I wouldn’t say it feels much looser on firm conditions, whereas the Mindbender 99Ti feels notably quicker, making it feel notably easier overall when skiing tight off-piste lines when the snow is firm. Both are good carvers for their respective widths, but the Mindbender 99Ti is better overall, with slightly better edge hold and quicker turn initiation. Deep chop and crud are where the Mindbender 108Ti’s better stability is most noticeable, so if you ski a lot of that, like to ski it fairly fast, and/or will just be using this ski in a lot of fresh snow, the Mindbender 108Ti will probably be the better call. If you prioritize quickness, on-piste precision, and/or tight-terrain maneuverability, the Mindbender 99Ti is a better choice.
Renoun Endurance 98, 184 cm (21/22–22/23)
Measured Dimensions: 133.2-96.8-118.4 mm
Stated Radius: 18 m
Measured Weight per Ski: 1901 & 1902 g
Measured Tip-to-Tail Profile: 68 mm / 4 mm / 29 mm
Measured Length: 182.2 cm
Measured Mount Point: -10.1 cm / 81.0 cm from tail
Available Lengths: 163, 170, 177, 184 cm
Core Construction: aspen + 6 “VibeStop” channels + titanal (2 partial layers) + carbon & fiberglass laminate
The Endurance 98 kind of feels like a quicker, easier-going Mindbender 99Ti. The Endurance 98 has a lower swing weight, it’s a bit more forgiving if you get backseat, and it’s a bit looser / easier to release. On the other hand, the Mindbender 99Ti is more damp and stable, particularly in chop and crud. On piste, the two feel similarly stable, but the Mindbender 99Ti is notably better when it comes to turn initiation and edge hold. So if you prefer a quicker, lighter ski but want to minimize the degree of stability and suspension you lose when going with a lighter ski, the Endurance 98 could be a great fit. If you prioritize stability and/or carving performance, the Mindbender 99Ti will probably be a better call.
Faction Dancer 2, 182 cm (22/23)
Measured Dimensions: 126.6-95.6-116.4 mm
Stated Radius: 19 m
Measured Weight per Ski: 1981 & 1991 g
Measured Tip-to-Tail Profile: 61 mm / 6 mm / 24 mm
Measured Length: 180.5 cm
Measured Mount Point:
“Newschool”: -7.75 cm from center; 82.5 cm from tail
“Progressive”: -9.25 cm from center; 81 cm from tail
“Classic”: -10.75 cm from center; 79.5 cm from tail
Available Lengths: 163, 171, 177, 182, 187 cm
Core Construction: poplar + titanal (2 layers) + fiberglass laminate
The main differences here come down to weight, rocker profile, and flex pattern. The Dancer 2 feels like a more precise, nimble, and stiff ski. It’s got a lower swing weight, but it’s also not as easy to release and slash, especially on firm snow. The Dancer 2 can also feel a bit more punishing if you get way backseat, though its lower swing weight does mitigate how demanding it feels. On piste, both are very good carvers for their width; I think I’d give the nod to the Dancer 2 when it comes to edge hold, but it’s not a massive difference. The Dancer 2 could be a good alternative to the Mindbender 99Ti if you want something a bit lighter and prefer a more precise, “grippy” ski over a looser one. The Mindbender 99Ti could be a good alternative to the Dancer 2 if you want better suspension and/or easier maneuverability off piste.
Fischer Ranger 102 FR, 184 cm (18/19–20/21)
Measured Dimensions: 137.8-102.4-127.7 mm
Stated Radius: 19 m
Measured Weight per Ski: 2101 & 2104 g
Measured Tip-to-Tail Profile: 65 mm / 4.5 mm / 35 mm
Measured Length: 183.8 cm
Measured Mount Point: -9.9 cm / 82 cm from tail
Available Lengths: 156, 163, 170, 177, 184, 191 cm
Core Construction: beech/poplar + titanal binding reinforcement + carbon tips + fiberglass laminate
We get questions all the time from folks looking for the ideal replacement for the original Ranger 102 FR. And unfortunately, there still isn’t a perfect replacement. With that said, the Mindbender 99Ti is probably the best currently available ski I can think of to replace the OG Ranger 102. Both skis offer a blend of stability and maneuverability that I think a lot of skiers will like. Both carve really well for how maneuverable they feel off piste and in soft snow. There are a few differences, though. First, the Mindbender 99Ti’s swing weight feels a bit heavier, and it’s not quite as energetic. Second, if you were someone who liked the OG Ranger 102 mounted several centimeters forward of its recommended line, know that the Mindbender 99Ti doesn’t let you ski quite as centered and I wouldn’t recommend mounting it much closer to center than -8 cm from true center. In terms of upsides, I think the Mindbender 99Ti is a bit better than the OG Ranger 102 when it comes to turn initiation on piste, I think it floats a bit better in deep snow, and its suspension might be a tiny bit better.
Fischer Ranger 102, 183 cm (22/23)
Measured Dimensions: 137.5-102.2-127.8 mm
Stated Radius: 19 m
Measured Weight per Ski: 2057 & 2061 g
Measured Tip-to-Tail Profile: 70 mm / 4 mm / 34 mm
Measured Length: 181.2 cm
Measured Mount Point: -10 cm / 80.6 cm from tail
Available Lengths: 155, 162, 169, 176, 183, 190 cm
Core Construction: beech/poplar + titanal (1 partial layer) + fiberglass laminate
So, what about the new Ranger 102? There are a few key differences. First, the Mindbender 99Ti feels more damp and stable overall. It’s not a massive difference, but it’s noteworthy in my opinion. Second, the Ranger 102 feels a bit quicker in terms of swing weight. Both skis are really good carvers for their widths, but the Mindbender 99Ti’s shovels feel less vague and it finishes turns with more energy / pop (though the Ranger 102 is easier to bend into tighter turns). Off piste, the two feel pretty similarly loose, with the Mindbender 99Ti being a bit easier to release, and maybe a little bit more forgiving / accepting of centered or slightly backseat skiing. Both are versatile skis and do many things well, but I think the Mindbender 99Ti bests the Ranger 102 in most regards, unless you want a slightly lighter ski that’s a bit more engaging on piste at slower speeds.
Atomic Maverick 100 Ti, 180 cm (21/22–22/23)
Measured Dimensions: 129.0-99.4-118.5 mm
Stated Radius: 19.2 m
Measured Weight per Ski: 1781 & 1795 g
Measured Tip-to-Tail Profile: 70 mm / 6 mm / 22 mm
Measured Length: 177.6 cm
Measured Mount Point: -9.2 cm / 79.6 cm from tail
Available Lengths: 172, 180, 188 cm
Core Construction: poplar + titanal (2 layers) + fiberglass laminate
Very different skis. The Maverick 100 Ti is much lighter than the Mindbender 99Ti and that’s very noticeable. The Maverick 100 Ti has a much lower swing weight, but it’s also a whole lot less damp on firm snow and less stable at high speeds. On piste, the Maverick 100 Ti wins when it comes to turn initiation and edge hold, but it gets knocked around much more if the groomers are roughed up / variable. Off piste, the Mindbender 99Ti is much easier to release and it’s less punishing if you get backseat. The Mindbender 99Ti also floats notably better in deep snow. If you spend most of your time on piste and prioritize energy and precision, the Maverick 100 Ti might be a better choice. If you prioritize off-piste performance, suspension, and/or stability, the Mindbender 99Ti is a better call.
Blizzard Bonafide 97, 177 cm (20/21–21/22)
Measured Dimensions: 135.6-96.2-118.1 mm
Stated Radius: 17 m
Measured Weight per Ski: 2281 & 2284 g
Measured Tip-to-Tail Profile: 56 mm / 4.5 mm / 9 mm
Measured Length: 175.9 cm
Measured Mount Point: -11.05 cm / 76.9 cm from tail
Available Lengths: 165, 171, 177, 183, 189 cm
Core Construction: beech/poplar + titanal (2 layers) + carbon tips + fiberglass laminate
These are quite different. The Bonafide 97, even when comparing the 177 cm Bonafide to the 184 cm Mindbender 99Ti, feels like much “more ski.” I.e., the Bonafide is more sluggish, it’s more demanding (especially in tight bumps), and it’s also more damp and stable at high speeds. The Mindbender 99Ti is considerably easier in tight off-piste terrain, it floats far better in soft snow, and it generally feels like it requires less speed and aggression to come alive and feel engaging. Both are good carvers, but the Bonafide requires more effort to really get it carving on edge, while the Mindbender 99Ti’s turn initiation and edge hold feel more accessible (it doesn’t require you to drive it as hard to get it on edge). And if we were comparing these skis in more apples-to-apples lengths, all of these differences would just be even more pronounced. So if you know you want a very heavy, strong, precise ski, the Bonafide 97 is worth a look. If you want a more balanced combination of stability and maneuverability, or just prioritize off-piste maneuverability and quickness, the Mindbender 99Ti makes more sense.
Salomon Stance 96, 182 cm (20/21–22/23)
Measured Dimensions: 132.0-96.1-113.9 mm
Stated Radius: 19.5 m
Measured Weight per Ski: 1936 & 2013 g
Measured Tip-to-Tail Profile: 60 mm / 3 mm / 14 mm
Measured Length: 181.0 cm
Measured Mount Point: -10 cm / 80.5 cm from tail
Available Lengths: 168, 176, 182, 188 cm
Core Construction: poplar + titanal (2 layers) + CFX inserts + fiberglass laminate
The Stance 96 feels a bit quicker and more precise than the Mindbender 99Ti, while the Mindbender 99Ti feels notably looser / easier to release and a bit more stable at speed. Both are good carvers, though the Mindbender 99Ti is a bit quicker to initiate carved turns. Off piste, the Mindbender 99Ti’s tail is easier to release and slash, and it’s also a bit more forgiving if you get backseat. The Stance 96 does have a lower swing weight and feels a bit more nimble, but it’s not as easy to pivot / slide / slash through tight lines. So, similar to the Faction Dancer 2 comparison, the Stance 96 could be a good call if you want a slightly quicker, less loose ski than the Mindbender 99Ti. The Mindbender 99Ti is a good alternative to the Stance 96 if you want something a bit more maneuverable, damp, and stable.
Line Blade Optic 96, 184 cm (22/23)
Measured Dimensions: 129.1-95.6-118.7 mm
Stated Radius: 18 m
Measured Weight per Ski: 2077 & 2096 g
Measured Tip-to-Tail Profile: 59 mm / 3 mm / 42 mm
Measured Length: 183.8 cm
Measured Mount Point: -7.0 cm / 84.9 cm from tail
Available Lengths: 163, 170, 177, 184 cm
Core Construction: aspen + partial titanal layer + fiberglass laminate
Both of these skis stand out due to their combination of stability and maneuverability, but they do that in pretty different ways. The Blade Optic 96 is a lot softer, more tapered, more rockered, and more forward mounted than the Mindbender 99Ti. The result is that the Blade Optic 96 is considerably more forgiving, more maneuverable, and more accepting of a centered stance. On the flip side, the Mindbender 99Ti is notably more stable (especially in chop / crud), it’s a bit more damp, and it allows you to drive its shovels notably harder. Both are good carvers, with the Blade Optic 96 being more engaging at slower speeds, but the Mindbender 99Ti being better when it comes to edge hold and stability. If you want a ski with pretty good suspension that’s also very playful (and freestyle friendly), the Blade Optic 96 makes more sense. If you’re a directional skier who prioritizes stability, more precise turn initiation, and/or a stronger flex pattern, go Mindbender 99Ti.
Moment Commander 98, 182 cm (20/21–22/23)
Measured Dimensions: 129.8-97.9-115.9 mm
Stated Radius: 21.5 m
Measured Weight per Ski: 2010 & 2023 g
Measured Tip-to-Tail Profile: 61.5 mm / 6 mm / 20 mm
Measured Length: 181.0 cm
Measured Mount Point: -10 cm / 80.5 cm from tail
Available Lengths: 176, 182, 188 cm
Core Construction: aspen/beech + titanal (2 layers) + carbon & fiberglass laminate
There are a few key differences here. First, the Commander 98 feels stiffer overall than the Mindbender 99Ti. As a result, the Commander 98 requires more speed or force from the skier to really feel engaging (on and off piste), and it’s also a bit more punishing if you get backseat. The upside is that the Commander 98 doesn’t feel much less stable in soft chop, despite being lighter and shorter. Off piste, the Mindbender 99Ti feels a bit looser and a bit more forgiving. On piste, the Mindbender 99Ti offers quicker turn initiation and more energy coming out of a turn. If you like skis that are pretty consistently stiff (including the tips and tails) but don’t want a super sluggish, heavy one, the Commander 98 could be a good fit. If you prioritize maneuverability, a more forgiving flex pattern, and/or a more engaging ride on piste at moderate speeds, the Mindbender 99Ti is a better call.
Dynastar M-Pro 99, 186 cm (20/21–22/23)
Measured Dimensions: 126.7-97.4-116.3 mm
Stated Radius: 22 m
Measured Weight per Ski: 2042 & 2062 g
Measured Tip-to-Tail Profile: 68 mm / 2.5 mm / 19 mm
Measured Length: 184.6 cm
Measured Mount Point: -12.2 cm / 80.1 cm from tail
Available Lengths: 162, 170, 178, 186 cm
Core Construction: poplar/PU + partial titanal layer + fiberglass laminate
These feel pretty different. The M-Pro 99 feels more precise / less loose; its tail isn’t as easy to release and it doesn’t feel as inclined to slide / slash through tight off-piste terrain. On piste, the Mindbender 99Ti is quicker to initiate carved turns, but the M-Pro 99 might be a bit better when it comes to edge hold. The Mindbender 99Ti wins when it comes to suspension and stability, while the M-Pro 99’s swing weight is a bit lower. Go with the M-Pro 99 if you want a slightly lighter ski that feels more precise on edge / not as loose through the tail. Go Mindbender 99Ti if you want a more maneuverable, surfy, easy-to-pivot feel, and/or if you want a ski that’s easier to carve at more moderate speeds.
Nordica Enforcer 100, 186 cm (20/21–22/23)
Measured Dimensions: 134.0-99.5-120.8 mm
Stated Radius: 18.4 m
Measured Weight per Ski: 2326 & 2336 g
Measured Tip-to-Tail Profile: 64 mm / 3 mm / 23 mm
Measured Length: 185.0 cm
Measured Mount Point: -8.2 cm / 84.3 cm from tail
Available Lengths: 165, 172, 179, 186, 191 cm
Core Construction: poplar/beech + titanal (2 layers) + carbon & fiberglass laminate
The Enforcer 100 feels more like the original Mindbender 99Ti than the new one. The new Mindbender 99Ti is much quicker, looser, and more forgiving than the Enforcer 100. The Enforcer 100 is more damp and stable, and maybe a bit better when it comes to edge hold on firm snow. The Mindbender 99Ti is actually a decent replacement for the original, easier, lighter Enforcer 100 (the Mindbender 99Ti isn’t quite as damp, but it’s quicker and looser / easier to slide off piste). The current Enforcer 100 could be a good call if you’re worried the new Mindbender 99Ti is too soft and/or too light / unstable at speed. The Mindbender 99Ti is a good alternative to the current Enforcer 100 if you prioritize maneuverability, quickness, and/or are worried the Enforcer 100 might be too demanding off piste.
Dynastar M-Free 99, 185 cm (21/22–22/23)
Measured Dimensions: 127.6-97.2-119.4 mm
Stated Radius: 18 m
Measured Weight per Ski: 2024 & 2112 g
Measured Tip-to-Tail Profile: 75 mm / 5 mm / 59 mm
Measured Length: 181.5 cm
Measured Mount Point: -7.6 cm / 83.0 cm from tail
Available Lengths: 171, 179, 185
Core Construction: poplar / PU + titanal binding plate + fiberglass laminate
These feel very different. The M-Free 99 is a much more playful, freestyle-friendly ski. It lets you ski more centered, it’s looser, it’s more balanced in the air, and it skis switch better. The Mindbender 99Ti is more stable at high speeds and a notably better carver, with better turn initiation and notably better edge hold. If you prioritize maneuverability, ski with a centered stance, and/or prioritize freestyle performance, the M-Free 99 makes more sense. If you’re a directional skier who prioritizes edge hold and/or stability, the Mindbender 99Ti is a better choice.
Volkl M6 Mantra, 184 cm (21/22–22/23)
Measured Dimensions: 134.8-95.8-118.5 mm
Stated Radius: 32-19-26 m
Measured Weight per Ski: 2178 & 2195 g
Measured Tip-to-Tail Profile: 54 mm / 3 mm / 18 mm
Measured Length: 183.0 cm
Measured Mount Point: -11.5 cm / 80.0 cm from tail
Available Lengths: 163, 170, 177, 184, 191 cm
Core Construction: poplar/beech + titanal layers + carbon stringers at tip + fiberglass laminate
The M6 Mantra is a more precise, stable, and demanding ski than the Mindbender 99Ti. The M6 Mantra is better when it comes to on-piste turn initiation, edge hold, suspension, and composure at high speeds (particularly on firm snow). The Mindbender 99Ti has a lower swing weight, a looser and more forgiving tail, and it floats a whole lot better in deeper snow. So if you prioritize carving performance, prefer a pretty consistently stiff ski, and/or prioritize better stability over easier maneuverability, the M6 Mantra might be a better call. If you want a fairly stable ski that carves quite well but you also spend a lot of time in tight terrain and prefer a looser, quicker, more forgiving ski, the Mindbender 99Ti is a better call.
Salomon QST 98, 189 cm (21/22–22/23)
Measured Dimensions: 133.1-97.7-120.9 mm
Stated Radius: 18 m
Measured Weight per Ski: 2054 & 2063 g
Measured Tip-to-Tail Profile: 67 mm / 3 mm / 42 mm
Measured Length: 187.7 cm
Measured Mount Point: -8.45 cm from center; 85.4 cm from tail
Available Lengths: 169, 176, 183, 189 cm
Core Construction: poplar + basalt / carbon fiber stringers + cork tips & tails + fiberglass laminate
These feel pretty different. The QST 98 feels notably more maneuverable, playful, and forgiving overall. The Mindbender 99Ti is notably more stable at speed, more damp, and offers better turn initiation and edge hold on firm groomers. The QST 98 lets you ski it a bit more centered, while the Mindbender 99Ti’s shovels feel more supportive and precise when driving them hard to initiate turns and blast through variable snow. So if you prioritize maneuverability / a loose ride, a lower swing weight, and/or a more forgiving ride in tight terrain, the QST 98 is worth a look. If you prioritize edge hold, stability, and/or suspension, the Mindbender 99Ti is probably the better call.
J Skis Masterblaster, 181 cm (21/22–22/23)
Measured Dimensions: 132.2-98.2-117.5 mm
Stated Radius: 18 m
Measured Weight per Ski: 2128 & 2186 g
Measured Tip-to-Tail Profile: 63 mm / 2 mm / 36 mm
Measured Length: 178.8 cm
Measured Mount Point: -7.7 cm / 81.7 cm from tail
Available Lengths: 167, 174, 181, 187 cm
Core Materials: maple + titanal (2 strips) + fiberglass laminate
There are a few key differences here. First, the Masterblaster is a softer and more forgiving ski. It’s also a more playful one that’s more accepting of a centered stance. On the other hand, the Masterblaster is notably heavier in equivalent lengths (the 187 cm is probably the closer comparison to the 184 cm Mindbender 99Ti in terms of measured length). So the Masterblaster offers better suspension and stability, while the Mindbender 99Ti has a lower swing weight. On piste, the Mindbender 99Ti wins when it comes to edge hold, by a good margin. The Masterblaster could be a good alternative to the Mindbender 99Ti if you want something that’s both a bit more damp and a bit softer / more forgiving. The Mindbender 99Ti is a good alternative to the Masterblaster if you want something with better edge hold, a lower swing weight, and/or a stronger flex pattern.
Black Crows Camox, 186.5 cm (19/20–22/23)
Measured Dimensions: 131.5-96.4-120.0 mm
Stated Radius: 20 m
Measured Weight per Ski: 1925 & 1934 g
Measured Tip-to-Tail Profile: 54 mm / 9 mm / 38 mm
Measured Length: 184.6 cm
Measured Mount Point: -6.1 cm / 86.2 cm from tail
Available Lengths: 168.1, 174.2, 180.4, 186.5 cm
Core Construction: poplar + fiberglass laminate
Very different. The Camox is notably lighter, more forward mounted, and less rockered than the Mindbender 99Ti. The result is that the Camox’s swing weight is lower, it’s more accepting of a centered stance, but it’s not as easy to release and slash / slide around. On piste, both are good carvers, but the Mindbender 99Ti offers quicker turn initiation and better edge hold. The Camox is a lot poppier and better in terms of freestyle performance, while the Mindbender 99Ti is considerably more damp and stable. So the more you care about quickness, pop / energy, and/or freestyle performance, the more I’d lean toward the Camox. The more you care about suspension, stability in rough conditions, and/or a looser ride in off-piste terrain, the more I’d point you toward the Mindbender 99Ti.
4FRNT MSP 99, 181 cm (17/18–22/23)
Measured Dimensions: 134.1-98.5-121.6 mm
Stated Radius: 18.0 m
Measured Weight per Ski: 1998 & 2044 g
Measured Tip-to-Tail Profile: 56 mm / ~4 mm / 18 mm
Measured Length: 180.1 cm
Measured Mount Point: -8.25 cm / 81.7 cm from tail
Available Lengths: 171, 176, 181, 187 cm
Core Construction: Poplar + Titanal (2-layer) + Fiberglass Laminate
The MSP 99 is another ski that offers nice suspension in an accessible package, but there are a few key differences between it and the Mindbender 99Ti. The Mindbender 99Ti is a better carver when it comes to edge hold and energy coming out of a turn, and it also feels a bit looser / easier to slash around off piste. The 181 cm MSP 99’s suspension doesn’t feel far off from the 184 cm Mindbender 99Ti, though the Mindbender 99Ti is a bit more stable overall. If you prioritize an energetic ski, want better flotation and maneuverability in soft snow, and/or feel caught between lengths on the MSP 99, the Mindbender 99Ti is a great alternative. Conversely, if you prefer a more damped, planted ride over a lively one, and/or feel caught between lengths on the Mindbender 99Ti, the MSP 99 could be a good fit.
Wagner Summit 97, 182 cm (21/22–22/23)
Measured Dimensions: 134.2-96.3-118.8 mm
Stated Radius: 19 m
Measured Weight per Ski: 2165 & 2186 g
Measured Tip-to-Tail Profile: 79 mm / 3.5 mm / 30 mm
Measured Length: 179.6 cm
Measured Mount Point: -9.9 cm / 79.9 cm from tail
Available Lengths: 161, 168, 175, 182 cm
Core Construction: maple/ash + titanal + fiberglass laminate (custom available)
This is a decent comparison, with the main differences coming down to weight and rocker profile. The Summit 97 feels notably heavier than the Mindbender 99Ti, with the Summit 97 offering better suspension and stability, but a heavier swing weight. Both are really good carvers, and it’s tough to pick a clear winner there. Off piste, the Mindbender 99Ti feels notably quicker and looser. The Mindbender 99Ti also floats notably better, while the Summit 97 does a better job of muting out / absorbing harsh snow. So the Summit 97 is better if you prioritize suspension and stability, while the Mindbender 99Ti is better if you prioritize quickness and maneuverability.
Black Crows Justis, 183 cm (19/20–22/23)
Measured Dimensions: 137.9-98.6-122.2 mm
Stated Radius: 21 m
Measured Weight per Ski: 2078 & 2138 g
Measured Tip-to-Tail Profile: 68 mm / 3 mm / 33 mm
Measured Length: 181.7 cm
Measured Mount Point: -7.55 cm / 83.3 cm from tail
Available Lengths: 171, 177, 183, 189 cm
Core Construction: poplar + titanal (2 H-shaped plates) + fiberglass laminate
These don’t feel all that similar, despite some similarities on paper. The Mindbender 99Ti feels looser and more forgiving, especially in tight off-piste terrain, while the Justis probably wins when it comes to edge hold on firm groomers (though the Mindbender 99Ti offers quicker turn initiation). The Justis will let you ski it a bit more centered than the Mindbender 99Ti, but the Justis’ tail is a bit quicker to punish backseat skiing. The Mindbender 99Ti offers better suspension and stability, and I think it will work better for most people. The Justis is worth a look if you want something with a stiffer tail and more forward mount point.