Cover Image By: Gijs Hardeman
When Bode Miller stepped into the ski design arena with his Peak Skis, expectations were high. After skiing the 88s and loving them, we really wanted to click into a pair of the Peak 98s (the ski brand’s answer to the one-quiver solution aimed at the Western skiing populace). So we asked Peak to send us out a pair so we could give them a shake-down on a ski safari across Utah and Idaho.
During my two-week journey, I thoroughly tested the Peak 98 skis. From charging groomers at Snowbasin to backcountry cat-skiing at Soldier Mountain and powder runs at Sun Valley, I attempted to put these skis through their paces. The verdict? Keep Reading or watch the video below.
Versatility
The notion of a “one-quiver ski” often carries with it the implication of compromise—good at many things but master of none. The Peak 98 skis challenge this notion head-on. Their performance across a spectrum of conditions—from the hard, icy groomers at Snowbasin to fresh powder in Sun Valley—was nothing short of impressive. The 98mm width, as well as the flex pattern and mix of camber and tip rocker, allowed this ski to feel very solid on a wide range of terrain and conditions.
Edge Grip and Stability
Bode Miller’s design philosophy shines brightest when it comes to the ski’s edge grip and stability. On the hardpack surfaces, the Peak 98s were unflappable, carving with precision and confidence that belied the varying conditions underfoot. This can be attributed to their meticulous construction, combining just the right amount of rocker and camber to ensure grip without sacrificing the ability to pivot and play when the terrain calls for it. I can not overstate just how much edge grip these skis have. It’s preposterous how hard you can push into these skis without a worry in the world that they will slide out on you.
Powder Performance
The true test of any all-mountain ski is how it transitions from groomed runs to the unpredictable nature of off-piste terrain and powder conditions. Utilizing cat access off the back of Soldier Mountain in Idaho, the Peak 98s were subjected to a wide range of ungroomed conditions and they handled each with aplomb. Their damp, solid feel, a minor caveat for some, translated into an asset in the backcountry, providing stability and dampening vibrations on choppy descents. In Sun Valley’s powder-laden tree runs, the skis floated effortlessly, proving that they’re more than capable of delivering joy on those days when the snow is flying.
The Peak 98s Deliver
After 100+ runs on diverse terrain in all kinds of different conditions, it’s clear that Bode Miller’s Peak 98 skis are a remarkable achievement. They marry stability and edge grip with the kind of versatility that makes them an excellent everyday option for Western skiers. Whether you’re carving groomers, navigating the backcountry, or floating through powder, these skis seem to feel just right.