Video and Words by: Gavin Smith
Whitedot Freeride makes high quality skis that are made to tackle big mountains. Their all-mountain ski, “The Preacher,” does just that and more. I ski on the 189cm length and have been loving them since I mounted them up three weeks ago. They are great for every type of condition, they will float well in pow, make quick turns through icy chutes, and they are ultra-stable at high speeds.
www.freeride.net
The aspect that I enjoy most about this ski is the small turning radius (19m in the 189cm length). This feature helps most when skiing in tight situations and making fast turns on steep terrain. The tip is somewhat soft, allowing for the ski to be playful through moguls and crud. The tail and underfoot still have plenty of girth to allow for a stable ride at high-speeds. This is now my go-to ski for every day conditions, since it is such a versatile/playful ski. Try them out!
www.tribevine.com
I saw these at Twin Peaks in Cottonwood Heights, Utah. They look sick! Almost bought some, but went with the Amplid Hill Bill instead.
I don’t trust reviews from anybody who doesn’t wear their pole straps.
I haven’t used pole straps for 30 years,
but haven’t done ski reviews either.
pole straps break thumbs
With the avalanche training I received from a number of guides, the recommendation is to ski without your hands in the straps. It frees your hands up in the event of an avalanche so you can do things like cover your face, operate your airbag, even try a swimming motion if it helps. You can’t do that if your hands are anchored below you by your poles and straps.
you like your poles more than your arms
I tried some of these too and others from the company…
They funkin blow
Too many skis. There is no way to choose.
they look super gay i’ll tell you that much
Lamest. Skis. Ever.
This is easily one of the best most versatile skis on the market! It rips through everything! Crud, Powder and the funnest groomer ski of ALL TIME! I can rip Gyros on mine and touch the ground at 40. The Preacher is a skiers’ ski! So if you’re not a “skier” then i guess you wouldn’t like it.