Black Diamond's New Helio Carbon 88 Skis: Lightweight Versatility for Backcountry Adventures
Black Diamond has introduced the Helio Carbon 88 Skis, designed for backcountry enthusiasts seeking a balance between uphill efficiency and downhill confidence. These skis, with a waist width of 88 mm and a weight of 1,290 g (170 cm), are not intended for deep resort powder but excel in high-alpine adventures and technical terrain.
The Helio Carbon 88 Skis feature a Paulownia wood core and a carbon dioxide fiber layup, providing excellent edge hold and vibration damping. This construction makes them stable at normal touring speeds but may show some chatter on icy groomers at high speeds.
These skis are not meant for the deepest days or bottomless storm days. Instead, they are ideal for extended tours, spring mountaineering objectives, and anyone chasing fitness laps before work. They are ultra-lightweight, versatile, and responsive, offering a great balance of uphill and downhill performance. Black Diamond has designed these skis for skiers who prioritize efficiency on the skin track but don't want to sacrifice downhill confidence.
The Black Diamond Helio Carbon 88 Skis are currently being tested for their performance in the backcountry. With their high-alpine adventure focus and efficient yet confident downhill performance, they are a promising addition for those seeking a versatile backcountry ski.
