What To Look For
Black Diamond, long a leader in equipment for mountaineers and climbers, offers a full line of skis to suit a variety of terrain. Black Diamond skis are primarily designed for either telemark skiers or alpine touring setups, not traditional downhill bindings; however, many telemark skiers and alpine touring skiers ski both at ski resorts (in-area) and in the backcountry, and need a ski that can handle a wide variety of conditions, such as packed powder and deep powder.
While older Black Diamonds used a foam core, the new models have a wood or wood composite core. Black Diamond makes two women's skis: the Velvet, designed more for in-area skiing, and the Joule, for backcountry and powder but that still skis well in-area. For men, the Megawatt and Justice are fat skis for soft conditions, while the Zealot and Verdict excel at a variety of conditions, including ripping in area lines. The Kilowatt and Havoc are Black Diamond's more go-everywhere type skis, and the Stigma and Cult are both designed for ski mountaineering and technical descents, balancing weight and performance.
Common Pitfalls
It is important to find the right ski for the type of terrain you are most likely to pursue. Ski mountaineers need lighter weight. Powder skiers want a softer-flexing ski with a wider profile underfoot. All mountain skiers will find it important to balance enough width for deeper snow with a sidecut that enables easier turning on packed powder.
Where To Buy
You can buy Black Diamond skis directly from Black Diamond online (see Resources). Many specialty outdoor shops also carry Back Diamond skis. Online outlets like REI.com, Backcountry.com, and Trails.com, are also good places.
Cost
Black Diamond skis are priced between $490 and $825.
Accessories
Black Diamond makes a stretch strap to easily tie skis together. For telemark skiers, the Telekneesis knee pads provide essential protection.
