For 14 years now, our goal at Blister has been to produce the most honest, accurate, and useful product reviews possible. And over the years, we’ve evolved how we test products in order to raise the bar. A few years ago, we created Blister Labs to combine our qualitative test results with quantitative data. Last year, we introduced ‘Community Reviews’ to allow BLISTER+ members to more easily share their own thoughts on gear with the rest of the community, and to start seeing how well your findings / experience lines up with our reviewers. And this season, our next step forward is to partner with Carv. Why?
If you’re unfamiliar with Carv, we highly recommend listening to episode 323 of our GEAR:30 podcast. There, Jonathan Ellsworth talks with Carv co-founder, Alex Jackson, and pro skier, Marcus Caston, about the origins and evolution of the Carv system.
Long story short: Carv is designed to help anyone and everyone become a better overall skier.
The new Carv 2 system consists of two wireless sensors that clip to your boots’ power straps, and those sensors constantly measure gyroscope and acceleration data while you’re skiing. And while that’s happening, Carv’s app analyses your data in real-time via Bluetooth — even identifying what sort of conditions and terrain you’re skiing — and you can check that out immediately after you’re done with a run; at the end of the day; or you can have Carv provide real-time tips, metrics, and takeaways while you’re skiing.
Our team of reviewers has been using the Carv 2 system every day this season, and we’ve all been blown away by how easily and seamlessly Carv 2 works, and by the information it provides — on two fronts:
First, as individual skiers: we’re already seeing how Carv can improve our own skiing. I’m particularly excited about this potential, since I didn’t grow up ski racing or with any formal instruction, so I’m always interested in learning how to become a more well-rounded skier, and Carv has already helped me identify some aspects of my technique that have room for improvement.
Second, as product reviewers: Why? Because Carv 2’s sensors record a ton of data while you’re skiing. So, in addition to our standard testing process, we also now have a host of metrics to reference — max edge angle, g-force, *actual* turn radius, transition weight release, and many more.
When it comes to our reviews, our goals remain the same as ever — to provide the most useful and honest product information possible — and we’ve already seen how the Carv 2 system can further help us accomplish that. (See our recent reviews of the Fischer The Curv GT 85 and Head Supershape e-Rally.)
So keep an eye out for more data from Carv in our ski reviews this season, and head to getcarv.com to try Carv for yourself.
BLISTER+ Members: Get an Exclusive Deal on Carv
If you’re an active BLISTER+ member, you get 15% off the first year of the Carv season pass (which includes the Carv 2 sensors). Head to the Member Clubhouse to access this and all the other discounts included with your BLISTER+ membership.
BLISTER+ Carv Group
Finally, another thing we’re doing this season is creating a Carv group for BLISTER+ members, so you’ll be able to see exactly what, how, and where we’re skiing. Want to finally confirm that you are, in fact, way better at skiing than Jonathan? Curious about which of our reviewers ski most similarly to you? Want to know how you compare to other members?
Join the fun by becoming a BLISTER+ member and joining the Carv group.
How do we join the Blister+ Carv group? Couldn’t figure it out, which I’m sure is my issue.