By Sophia Reynolds
Faction Agent 2
Overview
The Agent 2 is a hybrid free‑touring ski that pairs uphill efficiency with confident downhill performance. With a 96 mm waist and tip/tail rocker combined with camber underfoot, it delivers a versatile profile: light enough to ease long ascents but substantial enough to handle varied snow. The overall feel is of a modern, technical touring ski that doesn’t overly compromise on piste performance while remaining surprisingly capable in softer or variable snow. It’s a true do‑everything touring tool for skiers who want a single, light setup.
Construction and specifications
Construction is built around a Karuba lightweight wood core with a full carbon weave (multiple unidirectional strips per side), XL 2.5 mm edges, full‑strength sidewalls and an anti‑chip micro‑cap. Tip width (127 mm) increases float in soft snow, 96 mm waist balances agility and stability, and a 117 mm tail aids exit and soft landings. Per‑ski weights range from ~1260 g (155 cm) to ~1620 g (187 cm); lighter skis reduce uphill fatigue but trade a little mass that helps at very high speed.
On‑snow performance
On snow the Agent 2 feels responsive thanks to the carbon reinforcement: it offers lively rebound and energetic drive out of turns. The camber underfoot provides edge hold and precision on firmer surfaces, while rockered tip and tail make turn initiation easy and boost float in variable snow. In chopped or firm variable conditions the ski remains predictable and absorbs small bumps well, but it won’t offer the same surfy flotation as much wider freeride skis in very deep powder.
Who this ski is for
This ski targets tourers who want the best of both worlds: lightweight uphill performance without sacrificing the ability to ski demanding descents. If you do long laps and need a single, efficient pair that still skis confidently in mixed conditions, the Agent 2 fits well. Compared to ultra‑light race‑tour skis it provides more downhill authority, and versus wide freeride boards it gives far better climbability — a true hybrid compromise for serious backcountry use.
Pros and cons
Strengths include a smart balance of weight and downhill performance, durable construction with XL edges and sidewalls, and a versatile elliptical sidecut that makes turn initiation intuitive. Potential drawbacks are the 96 mm waist which is a compromise — extremely versatile but not ideal for days of deep, soft powder — and the relatively light mass which might leave heavier or high‑speed skiers wishing for more dampening at very high speeds. Overall it’s a compelling choice for committed tourers.
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