23/24 Test Day 15: Volkl and Peak Skis

Bluebird test days are some of the best test days. Temps and vibes were high while we were testing skis from Volkl and the new Peak series from Bode Miller. 

Designed by former World Cup alpine ski racer and Olympic champion Bode Miller, the Peak skis are newer to the market, and made with Keyhole technology. The idea behind this is that a portion of the metal laminate of the ski is cut through to create an inflection point in the flex that allows for a more forgiving turn. 

Jamie Bottino — a member of our customer service team — skied the Peak 88 and enjoyed its responsiveness edge to edge. He and TSM co-founder Eric Gerrmann spent several runs swapping the Peak 88 and Volkl Kendo 88 so they could test them back to back. Of the Peak 88, Gerrmann said it was “more accessible than the Kendo and wasn’t nervous at high speeds.” He agreed that it held an edge well, but felt it performed particularly well at a higher edge angle — once it got it up a little higher, it really shined. 

Comparatively, the Kendo 88 also rips at higher speeds, but can often feel a little too stiff at lower ones. “You really have to get them going,” he said. “Once you do they are super solid and stable, just not as fun in shorter turn radius situations.” The Volkl lineup for the 23/24 season has the same construction, just new graphics. 

The same goes for their women’s line — tested by the head of our softgoods department, Devon Scovill. She felt the Kenja 88 was perfect for the snow conditions — fun groomers with hardpack underneath. “The Kenja has always been a super stable ski great for keeping up speed and making fast turns,” Scovill said. “It holds an edge when it meets icy patches and keeps its confidence throughout the day.” 

Compared to the Kenja, the Secret is wider and a little less stiff feeling underfoot. For the day's conditions, Devon preferred the Kenja for its stability but noted that on a day with some softer snow, she could see how the Secret would be more desired. 

Devon also tested the Peak skis. Even though they were in a length longer than she would normally ski, she felt the 88 was pretty fun. “It was not as forgiving and took a little work, but once it got up to speed I felt confident and in control," she said. It also held up a little better than the stiffer Volkls in the afternoon when things got choppy. 

We also had boot fitter Dylan Lavoie out testing some snowboards. He spent the day on the K2 Manifest. One of his consistent favorites, the Manifest is more of a powerful board that still lets you cruise and have a good time. For a stronger board, it is still easy to ride at lower speeds, but as you keep putting more into it, it won’t let you down, holding a turn well from start to finish. 

We’ll keep testing these skis/boards and more throughout the winter. Check out our YouTube channel for other direct ski-to-ski comparisons. 

For any questions about gear book an appointment to come see us in Boston or contact one of our gear experts!