K2 Mindbender 89 Ti Skis 2024

MIND = BENT.

REVIEWED BY: Joe Riccio

The new K2 Mindbender 89 Ti was rebuilt for last season and is a MAJOR upgrade from previous versions. The old Mindbenders were demanding at low speeds and just felt kind of dead. They could be fun to lay down big and fast carves on, but they were difficult to steer at lower speeds. The new Mindbender 89 Ti maintains the same strong powerful feel underfoot but just offers a more energetic feel in the tip and tail. It's easier to pivot, easier to initiate a turn on, and therefore, more accessible. The 89 Ti still grips really well on firm snow and feels stable at speed, so it maintains the characteristics we liked about the old Mindbenders, but it just has a snappier feeling that the previous generation lacked. It's definitely a groomer-focused ski, but the new construction allows for maneuverability that makes the occasional run through the bumps or trees a good time. Everywhere else, turn initiation is smooth and predictable, and it doesn't take much work to get them up on edge. If you like a confident and powerful feeling ski the Mindbender 89ti checks those boxes. If you're a less experienced skier don't let the history these skis have scare you away anymore. 

Who's this ski for? Groomer rippers who prioritize stability but don't want to sacrifice all the playfulness. You want some energy for some shorter radius carving or a trip through the bumps or trees. 

Who isn't this ski for? Brand new skiers and playful skiers/skiers who want a ski that's easy to toss around and slarve through some tighter terrain. 

Tested by

Eric Gerrmann

Garrett Finn

Joe Riccio

Tyler Fuller