Blizzard Black Pearl 88 Skis 2025 // Women's

STILL THE BEST.

REVIEWED BY: Joe Riccio

The legendary Black Pearl family got an overhaul for the 24/25 season and unsurprisingly still consists of some of the best skis out there. When a ski as good as the Black Pearl gets rebuilt the anticipation is always interesting because of the "if it ain't broke, don't fix it" mindset. Luckily with the direction Blizzard has been going with all of their skis, we weren't too worried about the Black Pearl and they nailed it. The new ski improves upon the previous model without straying too far from the core characteristics that have made this ski so popular. The new version consists of an updated titanal layout and a completely new wood core, resulting in a ski that's more powerful tip to tail, and less rigid torsionally. What this means is the new ski is both more confident and more manuverable. Double Whammy! The Black Pearl is just an unbelievable ski. Stable without being demanding, nimble without being nervous, easy without feeling that it lacks anything. This ski has always checked all of those boxes, but the new version checks them EVEN HARDER. From expert testers to intermediate testers everyone loves the Black Pearl. A huge reason it's loved by everyone is because it makes you a better skier, no matter your level. It feels easier to pivot, turn initiation basically just happens, and then it provides confidence and balance through the turn. It handles ice really well, is down for a trip through the woods if that's what you're in the mood for, and will keep your legs happy because they do not take a lot of work to turn. Before I finish this love letter to the Black Pearl let me be clear, it's a groomer-focused ski, but it's an incredible ski. It's just one of those skis anyone can get on and have a great day. Iconic. 

Who's this ski for? Everyone. While it's true that powder skiers might want wider, park skiers might want less directional, racers might want something stiffer, (etc.) the Black Pearl would still make those skiers happy. 

Who isn't this ski for? Seriously, if you're looking for a powder ski get something wider. 

Tested by

Devon Scovill

Garrett Finn

Joe Riccio