Head ski reviews 2010
As it did with the "thangs", Head has renamed the Monster collection, known now as "Peaks." With one exception, the returning Peaks are identical to the Monsters save in name and paint job. Far be it from us to criticize, but the confusion this has created was apparent early; it is easy to find "expert opinion" in various forums describing the Peak 78, for example, as performing differently. We also received dozens of test cards from our skiers on what are, essentially, carryover models. This is unusual; ordinarily test skiers concentrate on new or changed models. All that aside, the line remains as top tier. Xenons are gone, the TT collection is an all new group of frontside skis.
If you don't find the ski you are interested in, check the drop-down list on the right: chances are the ski is reviewed on our subscription site: more information here
Worldcup i Speed
Head is one of the decreasing number of companies that have race skis available for testing. While this ripper does not meet FIS regulations (27m radius), it is legal for Masters and other citizen racing programs and remains a single-purpose workhorse for GS. Very few skiers will want to muscle this ski around during free skiing, but serious sub-NCAA level racers will find it superb in the gates.
Supershape Speed
This is the Head race-derived product for frontside free skiing and is also an excellent citizen race tool. Very stable, holds fiercely and while not as demanding as the World Cup Speed, still requires energetic input and strong modern skills to perform at its best. Successor to the xrc 11/1200.
Supershape Magnum
Almost as solid as the Supershape Chip, more nimble. Skis "lighter" than the Chip. Ice hold not quite as good (still good by any standard), quickness and rebound are almost in the same class as the original SS. This is probably a more versatile choice for all but the fastest and most aggressive skiers. Easier to control in bumps than the Chip.
Peak 88
Confusion—and clarification. The Peak 78 is identical, except in name and paint job, to the Monster 78. Ditto the 82. This one, the 88, actually is new, with less titanium than the old Monster 88, although deemed on the stiff side for less aggressive skiers. Overall the consensus is that the new 88 is more versatile for more skiers than the older model. Good ski for skiers who spend a lot of time off-piste, but who also appreciate hard snow and competent frontside performance. Changes are for the good; this ski was exceptional when it appeared in 05/06 and the updates keep it the running. The most appropriately renamed of the Monsters. The only question: Does Head really need both the 88 and 82?
Perfect One
Less demanding than the Power One and recommended for skill improvement, along with groomer cruising, even at fairly high speed. Is it actually "perfect?" Probably not, but it's close for the right kind of skier.
Wild One
Power-tool 1-ski-quiver for strong female skiers who are oriented toward big mountain and deep snow adventure. Demands energy, but delivers top notch performance, even on hard snow and groomed, although this really is best off-piste. Unshakable in crud and chopped up snow.
