BobK
Member
I have 2 pairs of downhill skis given to me, one of which I was considering using for mountainous backcountry and Telemark use. While I would probably use them on lift served areas a few times (as practice), their primary use would be for steep backcountry travel. One motivation was a trip I took up Pelkey Brook on Phelps Mountain last winter. My trip mates had much more downhill looking equipment – including plastic boots and cable bindings. I did most of Marcy too but kept the skins on for much of the steep descent. I know I’m getting cable bindings for Christmas (Voile – 3-pin with removable cables) and I need to mount them on something. I am about 6' 200# and have been skiing for many years.
My recent BC trips have been on Karhu Orion skis (190CM, 85/70/80 sidecut) using HD 3-pin and fairly high leather boots (two buckles). These float in deep powder and have a waxless pattern that climb well. I do have skins that fit these. The downhill choices are Elan DRC 4.5si Reflex-cap (188CM, 84/63/72), or Volkl Lynz VSP cap construction (180CM, 84/64/80). I have no idea how good or old these are but they are free. I’ll get them sharpened before using.
I assume the downhill skis will not hold wax for long (single camber) and I know they won’t kick & glide well (I have touring skis for gentler terrain). I want them to climb, including with skins, and go down steep slopes with turning ability. Speed is less important than control for me.
Will the downhill skis turn better than the Orions? Which downhill skis would be best? Should I hot wax the entire ski with polar? I plan on upgrading to plastic boots sometime (Garmont Excursions or Scarpa T-4) but that has to wait.
Looking forward to hearing from the knowledgeable folks on this board.
My recent BC trips have been on Karhu Orion skis (190CM, 85/70/80 sidecut) using HD 3-pin and fairly high leather boots (two buckles). These float in deep powder and have a waxless pattern that climb well. I do have skins that fit these. The downhill choices are Elan DRC 4.5si Reflex-cap (188CM, 84/63/72), or Volkl Lynz VSP cap construction (180CM, 84/64/80). I have no idea how good or old these are but they are free. I’ll get them sharpened before using.
I assume the downhill skis will not hold wax for long (single camber) and I know they won’t kick & glide well (I have touring skis for gentler terrain). I want them to climb, including with skins, and go down steep slopes with turning ability. Speed is less important than control for me.
Will the downhill skis turn better than the Orions? Which downhill skis would be best? Should I hot wax the entire ski with polar? I plan on upgrading to plastic boots sometime (Garmont Excursions or Scarpa T-4) but that has to wait.
Looking forward to hearing from the knowledgeable folks on this board.