By Brand

Salomon Opal w/Z10 Ti Womens Skis

The Opal is a new addition to the Origins lineup this year and is basically a women’s specific Tornado. The Opal uses the same shape and wood/isocell core of the Tornado but with a slightly softer flex and lighter weight. When I tested the Opal I knew immediately that this was a winner because the trademark Salomon "feel" (i.e.: light, nimble, and snappy) is right there in the Opal. This ski is very quick and likes short to medium radius turns the best. It is very maneuverable in moguls and has just the right amount of 'pop’ at the end of the turn for all but the most aggressive skiers. Edge grip is very good and this is a very balanced ski in its attributes. I think it compares well against some higher priced skis. The Opal will have one of the widest ranges of application for different skier types. A solid intermediate will be able to manage the Opal even if she has never carved a turn in her life. The real niche for the Opal though is for the woman that is not quite an expert with a primary terrain preference for smooth snow but with an appetite for small doses of powder occasionally. Among the women’s 90/10 skis, this is one of the best in powder. I give this ski an aggressiveness range of 60-80.