shpecky4

I can't imagine a better all around ski. Since buying these, I've skied corduroy, bumps, packed powder, granular, ice, and a foot of fresh powder. The skis were very good in all conditions; great in the groomed and powder. I was worried about the skis being too flexible for me, I'm 6-1 180 lbs and ski aggressively. However, I've noticed the light weight more than the flex. There are better skies for each of the conditions I listed, but few that can handle them all so well. In ice, ruts, and loose granular snow, they demand a little more effort to maintain an edge because of the light weight they want to hunt and bounce around a little. I also use these skis backcountry and the light weight is really appreciated there. I highly recommend these skis for anyone of any skill level who wants an all around pair.

I primarily ski downhill but venture backcountry once in awhile and needed a binding that could do both. The Barons are perfect for the job. They are a great downhill binding that can also tour. On downhill slopes they have good feel and power transfer edge to edge. If you can afford a dedicated set of downhill bindings, there are better, lighter choices, but if you want a binding that can do both, these are perfect.

I bought these poles for a multitude of winter activities including downhill and backcountry skiing and snowshoeing. I've used them for several days of downhill skiing and was happy with the results but if you want a dedicated downhill pole, you should get a one piece pole. That being said, the poles withstood everything I dished out on the slopes with no slipping at the telescopic joint which is very strong and easy to use, even with gloves on. The poles worked well snowshoeing with the large baskets and the adjustable length was handy on different slopes. Bottom line is these are great, sturdy, all-around poles for the money. I will even use them in the summer for backpacking.