Kästle ski reviews 2011

The RX is renamed the RX 12 (same great ski) and for 2011, the brand adds the slalom footprint RX SL, FX 94, wide-bodied MX 128 and two less demanding recreational models, the LX 72 and 82, bringing Kästle's model count to 13. We don't know for certain, but suspect that this is the fastest growing brand, although distribution remains relatively exclusive. Think "Stöckli-esque" . . .

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technical definitions

RX 12

Kästle is becoming a major player, if not in volume, certainly in terms of prestige and quality. Renamed the RX 12 for 2011, the RX remains one of our favorite frontside GS-like skis. Superb carver and easy to handle for a ripper.

"Obeyed all commands without complaint. Great in variety of turn shapes. Perfect balance between power and gentility."

More than one skier stated a desire to own the RX 12.

MX 70

Kastle positions this ski for intermediates but out skiers found it to be much more. The scores tell the tale, as do skier comments:

"Can be skied by anyone, anywhere at any speed. Seemed to be just another part of my body."

"Superior carver. I had a smile on my face the entire run."

"Fun—no shortfalls. Very surprising performance for what it is."

Anyone who found the RX just a bit too demanding will probably find this ski nearly perfect.

LX 82

This member of the new LX pair is deemed acceptable if not outstanding by Kästle standards, which are very high indeed. Like the 72, the 82 is aimed at less aggressive skiers than are the MX models and was a hit with our more relaxed skiers.

Comments ranged from "Fun, great energy, very nimble" to "A lively, damp ski (go figure).This ski will help most skiers look better. Easy to ski and cooperative; very light. Versatile. I just wonder about crud and chunky snow."

Not for hard chargers, but more relaxed recreational skiers will find it accommodating.

FX 84

Fantastic ski, perhaps in some ways Kästle's most versatile. Developed as a back country ski but a superb performer even on hard groomed and ice.

Quick, stable and exceptionally smooth, the ski was judged by some of our testers to be an even better all mountain ski than the 88.

It falls into our category of Big Mountain Carvers, and scored as high as is possible—perfect 5's.

We recommend this ski to anyone seeking a vastly versatile 1-ski-quiver.

MX 128

New big backside entry for a company mostly known, thus far, for it's technical and tactical skis broadens the Kästle new school possibilities. Fakey OK, rockered tip makes for a fairly quick, stable backside platform.

"Young guns will love it, although may be a bit tough on older physiques."

"Great ski for those really deep days; I would probably use it 3 or 4 days a year."

MX 98

"Amazing fun in powder and crud, not as quick to hook up on harder snow as the 94."

Less demanding than the 108, which stronger skiers seemed to prefer, but by no means a pussy cat.

Between the 94 and this, the 94 will probably be a better choice for all but the most aggressive skiers.

for 2011: Confidence Score — Builds Confidence Lowers Confidence No effect either way