By Ethan Sullivan
Faction La machine 4
Overview
The La Machine 4 is an ultralight backcountry powder ski built for long approaches and big lines in soft snow. With pronounced tip and tail rocker and a broad profile, this ski is aimed at advanced to expert skiers who want maximum float without carrying excessive weight uphill. On the skintrack it feels efficient and lively, while on descent it offers playful pivoting and confident flotation—provided you accept that its sweet spot is soft and variable snow rather than hardpacked groomers.
Construction and specs — what they mean
Construction pairs a lightweight Paulownia wood core with two full-length carbon fiber layers, XL Full Strength sidewalls and Anti-Chip Micro-Cap at the tips and tails. The 139/117/131 mm dimensions translate to strong flotation (wide tip), manageable turning (117 mm waist) and tail support for surf and quick release. Extended tip & tail rocker boosts turn initiation and pivoting. The Elliptical Sidecut and Mustache Flex pattern tune turn shapes and flex zones. Overall this mix gives very low uphill weight and surprising torsional rigidity downhill.
On-snow performance
On snow the ski excels in powder and soft, variable conditions: it planes up quickly, initiates turns with little effort and feels exceptionally nimble in tight trees or chop. The carbon layup helps keep the ski lively and reasonably stable at speed for such a light design, but it won’t damp chatter like heavier freeride skis on hard, icy tracks. Compared to other ultralight powder skis it’s among the more surfy and playful options while still delivering credible stability when you push.
Sizing, weight and mounting advice
Sizing and setup advice: lengths run 171–191 cm. Pick longer sizes (185–191 cm) for added stability and float if you’re heavier or chasing deep powder; shorter sizes (171–179 cm) suit lighter skiers and uphill-focused missions. Per-ski weights range from about 1630 g (171 cm) to 1790 g (191 cm) — roughly 3.3–3.6 kg per pair. For a powder-oriented feel, consider mounting slightly back from center (around 2–4 cm) to favor flotation and surf, but personal preference and binding weight should guide final placement.
Verdict and recommendation
Verdict: La Machine 4 is a compelling choice for skiers who prioritize flotation and low uphill weight. Strengths include lightness, exceptional float, and a modern flex/sidecut that simplifies turn initiation. Trade-offs are reduced damping on frozen or very rough terrain and less aggressive carving capability than heavier all-mountain or freeride skis. If your days are mostly touring and soft-snow lines, this ski rewards with efficiency and fun; if you need a hard-snow carver, look elsewhere or pair it with a stiffer model.
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