Black Diamond Impulse 98 Ti Skis Review
The Black Diamond Impulse 98 Ti Skis are a versatile all-mountain tool built for skiers who demand performance across the entire mountain. With a 98mm waist, rockered tip and tail, and a variable-width Titanal sheet, these skis are designed to hold their own at high speeds on groomers while still offering float in day-old powder and confidence in steep, technical terrain. Whether you’re carving firm snow or blowing through chop, the Impulse 98 Ti aims to deliver stability, power, and versatility without unnecessary weight.
Tech Specs (At a Glance)
- Waist Width: 98 millimeters
- Sidecut Radius: 17 m (175 cm), 18 m (182 cm), 19 m (189 cm)
- Ski Camber: Tip and tail rocker with traditional camber underfoot
- Core: Poplar with pre-preg fiberglass layup and variable-width Titanal sheet
- Weight (Pair): 7 lbs. 10.75 oz. (175 cm) to 8 lbs. 10.24 oz. (189 cm)
View Men’s at REI View Men’s at evo
View Women’s at REI View Women’s at evo
Construction and Materials
The Impulse 98 Ti pairs a poplar core with a pre-preg fiberglass layup, creating a lively yet damp feel. A variable-width Titanal sheet is laid into the construction to boost edge hold and stability at speed without adding excess weight. Flat-top construction and full ABS sidewalls further increase power transfer and torsional stiffness, giving the ski a solid, planted character on firmer snow.
Black Diamond has also updated the ski with postconsumer recycled content: a 100% recycled race base, 50% recycled sidewalls, and a 100% recycled tip inlay made from old ski boots. It’s a thoughtful touch that adds sustainability credentials without compromising performance.
Performance on Groomers
On-piste, the Impulse 98 Ti feels composed and energetic. The traditional camber underfoot combined with the Titanal sheet delivers strong edge grip and a predictable carve, while the 98mm waist and tip rocker allow for quick turn initiation and easy release. At speed, the ski remains stable and chatter-resistant, making it a confident companion for ripping groomers from first chair to last.
The ski’s 60% soft snow / 40% hard snow optimal use ratio reflects its bias, but it still holds its own on firm conditions. Skiers who like to lay down high-speed carves will appreciate the torsional stiffness and the power that the full ABS sidewalls provide.
Soft Snow and Chop
When the snow gets soft, the rockered tip and tail help the Impulse 98 Ti stay afloat and maneuverable. It’s not a dedicated powder ski, but it handles day-old powder in the trees and chopped-up snow with composure. The partial twin tail allows for easy release and switch skiing when needed, while the rocker profile keeps the tips from diving.
In variable conditions, the ski’s damp feel and stiff construction allow it to blow through chop at high speed without getting deflected. It’s a ski that encourages aggressive skiing in mixed terrain, though deep, fresh powder days may leave you wanting a wider platform.
Steep and Technical Terrain
The Impulse 98 Ti shines in steep, chalky, technical lines. The combination of edge hold, torsional stiffness, and a responsive flex pattern gives skiers the confidence to commit to tight turns and exposed terrain. The 98mm waist is narrow enough for quick edge-to-edge transitions but wide enough to provide a stable platform in softer snow.
The flat-top construction and full sidewalls add to the ski’s precision, making it feel locked-in when traversing firm, steep faces. It’s a capable tool for advanced skiers who want a single ski that can handle the whole mountain.
Who It’s For
The Black Diamond Impulse 98 Ti is aimed at advanced to expert skiers who want a versatile all-mountain ski that prioritizes high-speed stability and edge hold while still offering decent soft-snow performance. It suits skiers who spend most of their time on groomers but venture into trees, chop, and steep technical lines when conditions allow.
It’s a unisex ski available in 175, 182, and 189 cm lengths, and it’s sold flat (bindings not included). Skiers who want a lightweight, playful ski for deep powder may want to look elsewhere, but those seeking a powerful, damp, and precise all-mountain charger will find a lot to like here.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Strong edge hold and stability at speed; versatile 98mm waist; damp and powerful construction; handles groomers, chop, and steep technical lines; updated with recycled materials.
- Cons: Not a dedicated powder ski; relatively heavy compared to some touring-oriented models; sold flat without bindings; may be too stiff for lighter or intermediate skiers.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Best Use | Downhill Skiing |
| Ski Terrain | Groomed and powder |
| Tip Width | 175 cm: 131 mm; 182 cm: 131 mm; 189 cm: 132 mm |
| Waist Width | 98 mm |
| Tail Width | 175 cm: 119 mm; 182 cm: 119 mm; 189 cm: 120 mm |
| Sidecut Radius | 175 cm: 17 m; 182 cm: 18 m; 189 cm: 19 m |
| Ski Camber | Tip and Tail Rocker |
| Tail Type | Partial Twin |
| Core | Poplar |
| Bindings Included | No |
| Boot Sole Compatibility | Bindings Not Included |
| Gender | Unisex |
| Weight (Pair) | 175 cm: 7 lbs. 10.75 oz.; 182 cm: 7 lbs. 14.28 oz.; 189 cm: 8 lbs. 10.24 oz. |
Where to Buy
The Black Diamond Impulse 98 Ti Skis are available at REI and evo. Both retailers offer the ski in multiple lengths and often provide detailed product information, customer reviews, and competitive pricing. Shopping at REI comes with the added benefit of the co-op’s return policy and member rewards, while evo is known for its extensive ski selection and frequent deals. Be sure to check both sites for current availability and any seasonal promotions before making your purchase.
View Men’s at REI View Men’s at evo
View Women’s at REI View Women’s at evo
Final Verdict
The Black Diamond Impulse 98 Ti is a strong choice for advanced skiers seeking a powerful, stable, and versatile all-mountain ski. It excels on groomers and in steep technical terrain, and it handles chop and soft snow with confidence. While it’s not a powder specialist and its stiff, damp build may not suit everyone, those who prioritize high-speed performance and edge hold will find the Impulse 98 Ti to be a reliable and rewarding companion across the mountain.