Salomon QST 106 Skis Review
The Salomon QST 106 Skis have cemented their reputation as a top-tier all-mountain choice, particularly in areas blessed with abundant snowfall. Salomon has refreshed the QST 106 with an updated construction, featuring a durable Poplar wood core wrapped in Basalt and Fiberglass. The addition of Cork Damplifier inserts in the tips and tails effectively mutes vibrations, providing a smoother ride on various snow conditions. This new design maintains the QST’s status as a reliable daily driver, offering a balanced blend of stability, playfulness, and performance for a wide range of skiers and terrains.
Tech Specs (At a Glance)
- Terrain: All-Mountain, Big Mountain
- Ability Level: Intermediate-Advanced
- Rocker Type: Freeride Rocker Profile (25% Tip Rocker / Camber / 17% Tail Rocker)
- Core/Laminates: Full Poplar Woodcore, Basalt & Fiberglass Fiber, Cork Damplifier
- Tail Type: Partial Twin Tip
The All-Mountain Icon Gets an Upgrade
The Salomon QST 106 has been a go-to for skiers who need a versatile ski that can handle everything from fresh powder to firm, choppy conditions. The latest iteration of the QST 106 comes with key updates that enhance its performance without sacrificing its celebrated versatility. The new construction, with a blend of basalt and fiberglass fibers, provides a stable and powerful platform. This is especially noticeable when carving on groomers or navigating varied terrain at speed.
Stability Meets Playfulness
One of the most impressive aspects of the new QST 106 is its ability to be both stable and playful. The updated freeride rocker profile, with more rocker in the tail, makes it easier to release the ski sideways for quick turns and slashes in soft snow. At the same time, the full poplar wood core and cork damplifiers keep the ski quiet and confident at high speeds. This combination makes the QST 106 a fantastic choice for skiers who want to ski fast and confidently but also have the option to get loose and creative.
Carving Performance and Edge Grip
Despite being a mid-fat ski, the QST 106 delivers excellent carving performance. The full-length basalt and fiberglass integration ensures superior edge grip across the entire ski. Reviewers have noted that even on firm, groomed runs, the ski holds a pleasing turn. It feels nimble and responsive, allowing for clean, controlled carves. This makes it a great option for a daily driver, as it performs well even on days without fresh snow.
Built to Handle Anything
The QST 106 is truly a “do-it-all” ski, especially for those who frequent snowy, varied terrain. The combination of its stout core and vibration-dampening materials allows it to “gobble anything in front of them,” as one reviewer put it. Whether you’re dealing with crud, tracked-out powder, or wind-blown snow, the ski remains composed and predictable. This makes it a reliable partner for big mountain adventures and everyday resort skiing alike.
Ideal for a Wide Range of Skiers
While the QST 106 is geared toward intermediate to advanced skiers, its approachable nature makes it accessible to a broader audience. The ski is responsive and not overly demanding, making it a good fit for less aggressive or lighter riders. However, it also has the backbone to support heavier, more aggressive skiers when sized appropriately. The redesign has struck a balance that many will find appealing, whether they prioritize high-speed stability or playful maneuverability.
Pros:
- Versatile all-mountain performance
- Excellent stability and dampening due to new Basalt/Fiberglass construction and Cork Damplifier
- Improved playfulness and maneuverability with more tail rocker
- Strong edge grip for carving on firm snow
- Suitable for a wide range of ability levels
Cons:
- May not be stable enough for very aggressive or heavy skiers if not sized correctly
| Size (cm) | 157 | 165 | 173 | 181 | 189 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tip Width (mm) | 136 | 137 | 138 | 139 | 140 |
| Waist Width (mm) | 106 | 106 | 106 | 106 | 106 |
| Tail Width (mm) | 123 | 124 | 125 | 126 | 127 |
| Turning Radius (m) | 16.5 | 17.5 | 18.5 | 19.5 | 20.5 |
| Indiv. Ski Weight (g) | 1500 | 1650 | 1800 | 2000 | 2190 |
Where to Buy
The Salomon QST 106 Skis are a popular choice and are readily available from major online outdoor and ski retailers. For a convenient and reliable purchasing experience, you can find them at evo.com. As a trusted source for ski gear, Evo offers detailed product information, a comprehensive sizing guide, and customer reviews to help you make an informed decision. Remember to check for a compatible binding with a brake width of 106mm or up to 15mm wider than the ski waist to ensure a proper fit. They also provide shipping within the United States and Canada.
Final Verdict
With its thoughtful redesign, the Salomon QST 106 remains a top contender for skiers seeking a single ski that can handle all conditions. The updates in construction and rocker profile have made a great ski even better, providing an exceptional blend of stability for speed and playfulness for fun. It’s a reliable, versatile, and high-performing option that lives up to its “do-it-all” reputation, making it an excellent daily driver for any skier looking to tackle the entire mountain.
