By Andrew Ingold
Head Crux 93 pro review
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Overview and intended use
The Crux 93 Pro positions itself as a lightweight, versatile all‑mountain touring ski built for randonnee use without sacrificing downhill capability. With tip rocker, camber underfoot and a slight tail rocker, it offers playful float in soft snow and predictable edge engagement on firm snow. Its 93 mm waist is a compromise between flotation and on‑piste precision. The construction and low weight make it ideal for day tours, long traverses and riders who want a single ski to handle powder slashes, chopped snow and groomed runs with confidence.
Construction and technical details
Construction-wise the ski pairs a Karuba wood core reinforced with Graphene, a full triaxial carbon jacket and sandwich cap construction atop a structured UHM C base. Karuba delivers a lively, damped wood feel, Graphene cuts weight while tuning flex characteristics, and triaxial carbon adds torsional stiffness for crisp edge response. The topless tech approach (minimal traditional topsheet with anti‑snow coating) saves grams and reduces snow buildup. These choices create a responsive, light chassis that still behaves like a performance alpine ski on the descent.
On‑snow performance
On snow, the Crux 93 Pro punches above its weight for stability and edge hold. Camber underfoot gives pop and precise carving on hardpack, while tip and tail rocker ease turn initiation and improve maneuverability in variable snow. The 93 mm waist allows quick edge‑to‑edge transitions and controlled carved turns, though it won’t float as well in very deep powder compared with wider 99 mm‑plus options. The triaxial carbon delivers immediate feedback and keeps the ski composed at speed, making it confidence‑inspiring for mixed conditions.
Weight and uphill features
For uphill performance the ski’s low mass matters: weights range roughly from 1,135 g to 1,290 g per ski depending on length, and there’s a practical tail notch for skins. Lower weight reduces fatigue on long ascents and speeds up kickturns and transitions. Exact ski weights are 163 cm = 1,135 g; 170 cm = 1,175 g; 177 cm = 1,220 g; 184 cm = 1,290 g per ski. These numbers make the ski attractive to backcountry skiers who prioritize efficient climbs without a major compromise in downhill performance.
Who it’s for — comparisons and trade‑offs
Who should consider this ski? It’s best for skiers who want a lightweight, do‑it‑all touring tool that performs well both uphill and downhill. Compared to a Crux 99 Pro or wider competing all‑mountain touring skis, the 93 mm version offers sharper on‑piste handling and quicker edge changes but less float in deep powder. Potential drawbacks include slightly reduced forgiveness in very rough, choppy terrain and the premium price associated with advanced materials. Overall, it’s an excellent pick for committed, lightweight all‑mountain tourers.