By Andrew Ingold
Head Crux 99 review
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Overview
The Crux 99 is a modern touring/backcountry ski aimed at riders wanting a versatile 99 mm waist for mixed conditions. It strikes a balance between uphill efficiency and downhill performance, making it a good all-round choice for long tours and technical descents. The tip-and-tail rocker with camber underfoot provides predictable edgehold and enough float in softer snow. Thanks to its relatively modest rocker profile and long camber section, the ski feels stable at speed yet responsive when initiating turns, which suits intermediate to advanced tourers.
Construction, weight and specs explained
Construction mixes LYT Tech for lightweight behavior with a multilayer full triaxial carbon jacket and Graphene reinforcement to improve strength-to-weight and dampening. The core is a lightweight wood (poplar on standard, Karuba on the Pro in some listings) with sandwich/cap construction and a structured UHM-C base. Tip (132 mm), waist (99 mm) and tail (117 mm) widths influence flotation, turn initiation and release. Rocker profile and camber affect flotation versus edge grip. Weight and turning radius affect uphill effort and the ski's turning character on the descent.
On-snow performance
On snow the ski is efficient uphill: light enough for long approaches and practical features like a tail notch help skin handling. The modest tip rocker eases turn initiation in variable terrain while the camber underfoot maintains edge bite on firmer snow. Downhill the Crux 99 delivers stability and confidence at speed, with enough agility in tighter terrain for controlled short-radius turns. The 99 mm waist is a true middle ground—good enough in powder for short float but agile and quick on harder, tracked snow.
Comparisons and intended rider
Compared with rivals in the 95–105 mm touring category, this model stands out for its balance of weight and downhill performance. It’s more forgiving and damped than ultra-light race-oriented touring skis, yet noticeably lighter and more efficient on the climb than heavier all-mountain freeride boards. If your priority is pure powder performance you’ll prefer a wider, heavier ski, but for users who want a single ski capable of long ascents and competent descents, this design is a compelling compromise.
Drawbacks and final verdict
A few caveats: there are both standard and Pro variants with differing weights and (sometimes) core materials, so check the exact spec for your chosen length. The 99 mm waist is versatile but not a specialist in deep, unconsolidated powder, and longer lengths have a larger turning radius that can feel slow for tight, rapid turns. Overall, for tourers seeking a reliable, versatile ski that leans toward the downhill without sacrificing uphill efficiency, this is a strong, sensible option.