Hey there! This review will discuss our first-hand experiences with the Atomic Bent 100 skis. These skis are great for skiers who are improving but still have some way to go. We’ll discuss their construction, performance on various snow types, and the fun activities you can enjoy with them. Additionally, we’ll cover their aesthetics, durability, and value for money. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting, not very beginner, we’ve rated them among the top choices for intermediate skiers. Please stick with us to discover why the Bent 100 skis might be perfect for your next ski trip!
Personal Experience
In our testing experience, our team of skiers brought a range of backgrounds to the table, from racing to freestyle and backcountry adventures. We tried out different lengths of the Atomic Bent 100 to see how they suited various skiers based on their height and style. With both intermediate and advanced skiers on board, we hit the slopes at Sugarbush, Vermont, a spot known for its mix of terrain and ever-changing snow conditions. From groomed runs to moguls and powder-filled glades, we put these skis through their paces, testing their versatility in different environments. And let me tell you, they didn’t disappoint! The playful nature stood out, making it easy to carve turns and even throw in a few tricks for those who like to mix it up on the slopes. Whether cruising down groomers or diving into fresh powder, these skis offer a responsive and enjoyable ride that’s hard to beat.
Lengths, Weight, and Construction Insights
This ski is designed for versatility across various mountain conditions. It has different lengths, including 158, 165, 172, 179, and 186 cm. The size you choose affects how the ski performs. For example, the 180 cm option balances maneuverability and stability. Longer skis like this provide better stability at high speeds and more float in powder, but they might feel less nimble in tight spots compared to shorter ones.
The 180 cm version weighs around 1784 grams, making it relatively light in terms of weight and dimensions. This lightweight design makes the ski easy to maneuver and helps you maintain speed without feeling weighed down.
The specific sidecut radius, especially in the 186 cm model with a stated sidecut radius of 19.5 meters, can make significant, stable turns while agile in tight terrain. This balance allows for versatility across different types of runs.
The core likely consists of poplar wood, known for its lightweight and shock-absorbing qualities, combined with a fiberglass laminate. This construction contributes to the ski’s responsiveness and agility without adding significant weight.
Design and Technology
The Atomic Bent 100 is packed with design features and technologies that make it a standout performer on the slopes:
First, let’s discuss the traditional camber underfoot. This is a crucial aspect of the ski’s design. It helps the ski grip the snow firmly during turns, which is important when carving precise lines on hard-packed snow. Plus, the camber acts like a spring, storing and releasing energy as you go from one turn to another, giving the ski a lively and responsive feel.
Then there’s the HRZN Tech. This cool Atomic technology adds extra surface area to the tip and tail of the ski without making it wider or heavier. What does this mean for you? It helps the ski float better in powder, giving you a smooth and stable ride even in deep snow. And when you’re hitting up freestyle terrain, that extra surface area makes it easier for the ski to glide on top of the snow, giving you a more relaxed and playful ride.
Last but not least, let’s talk about the rocker profile. This design feature is about making the ski perform its best in soft snow and helping you with your freestyle moves. With a raised tip and tail, the ski can float better in powder, making it easier to start and slide into turns. This is especially handy when skiing in soft, deep snow because it stops the tips from diving and makes the ski easier to maneuver. Plus, the rocker profile also makes it easier to bust out some sick tricks and land switches (that’s skiing backward, by the way).
Performance on the Mountain
The Bent 100 skis are renowned for their versatility and playful progression on the mountain. Designed to tackle a wide range of conditions easily, they are celebrated for their all-mountain capabilities, effortlessly transitioning from powder to piste. Their lightweight build and balanced flex add to their playful character, catering to traditional and freestyle-inspired skiing styles.
Regarding stability and edge hold, it performs admirably in soft snow and off-piste conditions. However, it’s worth noting that at higher speeds and in variable conditions, it may not be as stable as heavier options, occasionally experiencing bucking in denser snow. Nevertheless, features like the Dura Cap Sidewalls and HRZN Tech enhance edge grip on firmer surfaces, providing solid power transmission and edge hold.
Regarding flotation and maneuverability, the 100mm waist width offers decent flotation in powder. The HRZN Tech in the tip and tail further enhances flotation in powder and improves maneuverability across various conditions. Additionally, the rocker profile aids soft snow performance. It contributes to the ski’s freestyle capabilities, allowing for easier turns and tricks.
It shines in open terrain with soft snow, excels in speed and makes big turns. Its design promotes maneuverability, making it suitable for navigating tight tree lines and bumps. While it may face challenges at higher speeds and in variable conditions, its versatility and playful nature make it a strong contender for skiers seeking an enjoyable experience on the mountain.
Freestyle Features
We’ve had the pleasure of testing out the Atomic Bent 100 skis, and let me tell you, they’re a freestyle lover’s dream come true. From the moment we hit the slopes with these bad boys, we knew they were something special.
Let’s start with the flex pattern. It’s like butter – soft and poppy- making it a blast for getting playful on the mountain, especially when you’re making those switch skiing moves. The tips and tails are forgiving enough for pulling off buttery smooth tricks and presses. Yet, they’ve got just the right amount of stiffness underfoot to keep you feeling supported when you’re sending it.
When we took these skis into the park and freestyle zones, they truly came alive. They’re all about that freeride vibe with a sprinkle of all-mountain versatility, giving us the confidence to get creative and push our limits. Plus, knowing they were developed with input from Atomic athletes adds to their street cred.
Switch riding and landing? No problem. These skis handle it like a champ. We were impressed by their stability on landings, especially when we tried them out with different mount points. Having such a wide range of mount points means they can adapt to pretty much any riding style. Whether we were hitting big jumps in the park or tackling natural features in the backcountry, these skis gave us a solid platform to land forward and switch.
These skis’ freestyle features are designed to make you feel like a boss on the mountain. Whether cruising through the park or exploring every nook and cranny of the slopes, you can count on these skis to keep up with your every move. They’re like your trusty sidekick, always ready for whatever adventure you throw their way.
Aesthetics and Durability
- Limited Edition Graphic Design: Our team noted the visually appealing limited edition graphic design, adding a unique touch to its appearance on the slopes.
- Construction Quality and Long-Term Testing: While not explicitly covered, based on Atomic’s reputation, we expect the ski’s construction quality to ensure durability over time, withstanding regular usage without significant wear and tear.
- Weight Considerations: Although its lightweight design enhances agility, some users expressed concerns about its long-term durability, especially in challenging conditions. However, its overall performance and versatility make it popular with adventurous skiers.
Value Proposition
- Value for Money: The Bent 100 offers exceptional value for money, with performance that surpasses its price point compared to other top-of-the-line skis.
- Durability and Long-Term Value: Despite minor durability concerns, the ski provides solid long-term value thanks to its sturdy construction and reliable performance under regular usage.
Boot and Binding Compatibility
We recommended a popular boot and binding combo for the Atomic Bent 100 skis: the Tecnica Cochise 130 boots paired with Marker Jesters bindings. The Tecnica Cochise 130 boots are praised for their tech binding inserts and Grip Walk outsole, which offer compatibility with various bindings, including pin bindings. Marker Jesters bindings are versatile, accommodating alpine, touring, and GripWalk boot soles, ensuring broad compatibility. This combo is well-regarded for its performance and versatility across different skiing styles and conditions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Atomic 100 skis have proven to be a versatile and reliable choice for skiers of all levels. Our extensive testing across various terrains has showcased their adaptability and performance, from groomed runs to powder-filled glades. The design features, including traditional camber, HRZN Tech, and rocker profiles, contribute to an enjoyable and responsive skiing experience. Whether carving precise lines on hardpacked snow or exploring freestyle terrain, these skis provide stability and maneuverability. Additionally, their compatibility with boots and bindings adds to their appeal, ensuring a seamless setup for every skier. With a focus on aesthetics, durability, and overall value, it emerges as a standout option for those seeking adventure on the slopes. So, whether you’re chasing powder or perfecting your park skills, this ski is ready to elevate your mountain experience.
