By Brand

Volkl Bridge Skis

Introduced last year for 08', the Bridge was first marketed as a "Bridge" between park skis and all mountain skis. My first take was that this is an all mountain ski cleverly disguised as a twin tip. For an occasional fling in the park, the bridge is OK, but the stiff tail and wide tip/narrow tail profile limit it's usefulness in switch riding. We have increased the number of twins that we are categorizing as all mountain skis this year. All are in the 50/50 category and most are at the wider end of the spectrum that we categorize as such. Choosing a twin as an all mountain makes perfect sense if you have some park skiing on your agenda. If you don't, then it may still be a fine choice, but you have to consider the pros and cons more carefully. In general, a twin will have a shorter running surface and hence shorter edge contact. They generally will be at least somewhat softer in torsion than other types and will sacrifice a bit of grip by comparison. The biggest con here is that an all mountain twin will not have the stability or positive turn finish of a more conventional ski assuming other factors are equal. OTH, the twin will be more maneuverable than a "normal" ski of similar stated length and will be easier in moguls. Here is my spring update from last year after quite a few days on the Bridge.

Jim's update.................April '08

I've been on the Bridge quite a bit this year and my take is that this is a very good all mountian ski that is cleverly disguised as a twin tip. The Bridge is among the wider skis that we categorize as 50/50 models and yet it is among the most nimble. The nimbleness comes from the light weight, moderate flex and deep sidecut. The sidecut is what makes this ski feel so quick and turny on the groomers and in the moguls. However, the big taper (wide tip, narrow tail) and stiffish tail make this ski less than
ideal in the park or riding switch. Despite the turned up tail the Bridge has only limited usefulness in the park. The bridge is very useful in mixed conditions and fairly deep snow. It also skis crud well but is pretty turny for that application and some thought needs to be given to the mounting point for soft snow use. I think the Bridge should be mounted with the boot center on the rear line for all mountain use. In fact, on the 177, I felt more comfortable @ 1cm back from there. For my size and preferences, I like the 185. A light skier or one who loves snappy quickness will prefer the 177.