Salomon QST 99

Mike Douglas here and I am from Whistler, BC with my favorite ski in the Salomon range, the QST 99. I probably skied 95% of my days last season on thi...

So that's been a big improvement. We've tested these out extensively and yeah, super impressed with how it's improved the ski. It's always been a big ...

* Salomon QST 99 or 106 - my most intermediate-friendly recommendation, for accessible, fun, easy balance and still plenty of power. * Armada ARV 106 - for a more a freeride-oriented / playful style, but enough oomph to stick your drops. * Moments, 4FRNTs, ON3Ps, J Skis, Sego for you indie heads.

New gen is definitely softer than the 99s, but were super maneuverable in moguls and trees. They were ok on groomers, but nothing compared to a Camox or Enforcer. I would suspect the 99s to be a bit better on groomers but less maneuverable off piste than the 98s. Based on what you’re looking for, Camox sounds right up your alley, but if you are budget conscious and can find them the QST 99 should suit you well.

Tools: The QST 99 is a pretty good "happy medium" all-arounder; they really shine as a playful boot-top powder stash slasher ski but they handle a wide range of conditions well. And at 188 cm, yours are well-sized for your height and weight. I'll be honest though, they aren't my favorite skis for crud (mostly because their tips are a bit too flappy), nor are they my favorite skis for carving trenches in groomers either (also mostly because their tips are a bit too flappy).

If they do deals for employees you should start with the brands they offer. 40-50% discounts on new gear is pretty sweet. I’d check out the Salomon QST 106 or Blank. Both float well and still get on edge.

Definitely not the Mantra or Stance 102, those will be too much of a handful for you off piste judging by your skill level and description. Definitely not the Backland 100 either, that's a touring ski. Some people might use it in the resort but you really shouldn't, there's hundreds of better resort skis out there. Between the QST 99 and the Maverick 100 Ti, the QST is the friendliest and most forgiving and it still carves really well.

I'm replacing my stolen Salomon QST 99 skis which I loved last season for their versatility and responsiveness with something a little wider, in the range of 100-107mm so I can float a bit better in pow. **But I want something that is still good for carving on groomers.**.

Just picked up Salomon QST 98’s and I love them. They’ve been great on the ice and crud and get great lift in four inches of powder.

If you felt like the coombas were too much ski, I would cross the enforcers off your list. The other two should work. You could also look at the Salomon QST 92 or K2 Minbender 90c (not the ti)