Salomon QST Blank Skis Review
When the Salomon QST Blank Skis first hit the market, they created an immediate buzz that made them difficult to find. The hype was well-deserved, as the Blank quickly rose to the top of the heap for freeride skiers who demand the best. This ski is designed to tame anything the mountain throws at it, from hip-deep powder and formidable mank to crusty, tracked-up leftovers. With its versatile Freeride Rocker Profile and innovative construction, the Blank is a tool for every condition. It’s built for those who love to go fast and strong, offering a unique blend of stability and agility that empowers you to demolish the entire resort with confidence.
Tech Specs (At a Glance)
- Ability Level: Intermediate-Advanced
- Terrain: Big Mountain, Powder
- Rocker Type: Rocker/Camber/Rocker
- Core/Laminates: Carbon, Flax, Wood
- Tail Type: Partial Twin Tip
See the Salomon QST Blank Skis
Unmatched Stability and Dampness
The QST Blank is built to be a rock-solid platform for charging through variable conditions. Its Full Poplar Woodcore provides a powerful foundation from tip to tail, maximizing ski-to-snow contact and filtering out unwanted vibrations. This is complemented by Salomon’s innovative Cork Damplifier in the tip and tail. Cork is 16 times more absorptive than Koroyd, effectively soaking up chatter and providing a smooth, planted ride. This damp construction allows you to hit the gas and blast through crud and chop without a hint of instability, giving you the confidence to ski fast and hard.
Playful Yet Powerful Performance
Despite its stability, the QST Blank is surprisingly agile and playful. The Freeride Rocker Profile (28% tip rocker, 25% tail rocker) is designed to provide excellent float in deep snow, making it a go-to for powder days. The camber underfoot ensures you have a strong edge hold for carving on groomers and firm snow. This unique profile, combined with the ski’s medium turning radius, makes it easy to turn and maneuver through tight spots like trees. As one reviewer noted, the skis feel “super lively” and love a “fore-aft bounce and foot-to-foot pow skiing,” making them fun and intuitive to ski.
Advanced Core Technology
Salomon has packed the QST Blank with cutting-edge technology to create a lightweight yet powerful ski. The C/FX Carbon Weave is a key component, combining the strength and minimal weight of carbon with the dampening properties of flax. This unique laminate enhances the ski’s stability and power without adding unnecessary weight. The Double Sidewalls Technology also contributes to the ski’s performance, creating a strong platform underfoot for maximum grip on hard snow, ensuring a solid, responsive feel when you need it most.
A True All-Mountain Freeride Ski
The QST Blank is a ski for the entire mountain. While it’s a powder-day dream, it’s also remarkably versatile on other terrain. Reviewers have praised its ability to rip carves on groomers and crush through chop and crud with poise. It’s the kind of ski you can confidently take out on any day, regardless of conditions. While it might be a bit much for a beginner or intermediate skier, as one reviewer noted, it’s a perfect “quiver killer” for the advanced or expert rider who wants one ski that can do it all.
Designed for the Demanding Skier
This ski is built for those who demand performance. Its weight and construction are geared towards strong, aggressive skiers who want a tool that won’t give up. The QST Blank is an absolute beast when it comes to stomping big landings and charging through varied terrain. It’s a ski that rewards a more forceful approach, but its forgiving rocker profile makes it easy to manipulate. If you’re looking for a ski that feels rock-solid and confident while still being nimble enough for fun, creative skiing, the QST Blank is a phenomenal choice.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent stability and dampness at high speeds
- Great float and maneuverability in powder
- Versatile performance in a wide range of conditions
- Poppy and lively feel
- Strong edge hold for its width
Cons:
- Can feel heavy for some skiers
- Topsheet durability could be better
- May be too much ski for less aggressive or intermediate riders
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Rocker Type | Freeride Rocker Profile (28% Tip Rocker / Camber / 25% Tail Rocker): A balanced rocker profile for float, versatility, and playfulness. |
| Core | Full Poplar Woodcore: Provides optimum stability, powerful rebound, and a damp ride. |
| Laminates | C/FX Carbon Weave: Combines the strength of carbon with the dampening of flax for a lightweight yet powerful feel. |
| Dampening | Cork Damplifier: Utilizes cork in the tip and tail to absorb vibrations and decrease weight. |
| Sidewalls | Double Sidewalls Technology: A high-density ABS platform underfoot for maximum grip and a strong, stable feel. |
Where to Buy
The Salomon QST Blank Skis are available for purchase from trusted online retailers like Evo.com. Evo is a popular destination for outdoor gear, offering a wide range of products for skiing, snowboarding, and other adventures. They provide detailed product information, customer reviews, and expert advice to help you find the perfect gear for your needs. When you buy from Evo.com, you can be confident that you’re getting a high-quality product backed by excellent customer service and a commitment to the outdoor community.
See the Salomon QST Blank Skis
Final Verdict
The Salomon QST Blank lives up to its immense hype. It’s a top-tier freeride ski that provides a powerful, damp, and stable ride without sacrificing agility or playfulness. While it might be overkill for a casual skier, it’s the perfect tool for the advanced and expert rider who wants to charge hard and confidently in any condition. The Blank is a testament to Salomon’s innovation, offering a unique blend of core materials and construction that creates a truly exceptional ski for demolishing the mountain.
