Stowe, Vermont — Ski gear reviews have evolved over the years. It began with magazine reviews, as these outlets dominated the field for years. That has changed, though, with the decline of print magazines and the rise of the internet.
Now various online outlets publish reviews, which can lead to more comprehensive analysis and critiques of the skis. One example of this is SkiEssentials. The company started in 1984 as Bedside Turners (which became Pinnacle Ski & Sports) in Stowe, Vermont. However, their online retailing sector (started in 2004) and acquisition of another ski shop (Basin in Killington) grew the business. Most people know them now for their annual reviews.
2027 Ski Gear Guide
Each ski features a comprehensive review.
To show you how it’s set up, let’s use the Elan Ripstick 96 (Black Edition) as an example. Each ski review page includes specifications, a video review, photos of the skis, a written review, tester thoughts, comparable skis, and reviews from prior years.
Near the bottom of the page are individual reviews from each ski tester. I expected complimentary reviews from all of them, but one stood out.
One reviewer, Thomas Zicarelli, said that the skis had “terrible edge grip” on a corny day at Stowe. He recommended the type of terrain best suited for the 96 Ripstick as the “ski rack.” Boom, roasted.
Overall, most skiers gave the Ripstick positive reviews and recommended it. The point of sharing that humorous review isn’t to trash the Ripstick, which I do hope to have in my quiver someday. That review shows that SkiEssentials doesn’t sugarcoat when something doesn’t go right.
Click here to check out the SkiEssentials 2027 Ski Test.
Image/Video Credits: SkiEssentials
