By Andrew Ingold
Head Porsche 8 series review
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Overview
Overview: the 8 Series is a sporty all‑mountain ski aimed at skiers who want strong on‑piste carving performance combined with comfortable off‑piste cruising. With an 88 mm waist and a performance‑oriented sidecut, the ski feels energetic and precise from the first turns. It suits experienced skiers who value stability at speed and a stiff platform, while still appreciating a ski that can handle mixed snow. The 8 Series strikes a clear balance between edge grip and agility for varied mountain days.
Construction & tech
Construction & tech: the 8 Series uses Graphene Worldcup Sandwich Cap construction with a full wood core reinforced by Titanal, carbon layers and fiberglass, plus Graphene to optimize strength‑to‑weight. EMC (Energy Management Circuit) employs ceramic piezo elements front and rear to absorb vibrations and improve high‑speed stability. The RD Race Structured UHM C base and Superflex PR base plate (race‑inspired, hand‑built in Austria) deliver fast, durable glide and responsive power transfer. These features create a stiff yet manageable ski.
On‑piste performance
On‑piste performance: on groomers this ski excels with strong edge hold and rapid turn initiation thanks to the Speed Rocker (roughly 90% camber / 10% rocker). The wide tip and tail (130/124 mm) aid clean entry and exit of carved turns while the 170 cm radius (13.5 m) delivers an energetic but predictable arc. EMC is noticeable at speed, calming chatter and building confidence on hard snow. If you favor dynamic, aggressive carving, the 8 Series rewards commitment with precise feedback.
Off‑piste & mixed snow
Off‑piste & mixed snow: at an 88 mm waist the 8 Series is not a powder specialist, but it handles variable snow, tracked‑out terrain and softer flanks competently. Speed Rocker aids turn bite and prevents the nose from hooking in soft patches, while the roughly 2,265 g per ski weight provides planted stability without being cumbersome. Expect a ski that transitions well from piste to side‑country laps, ideal for riders who keep piste performance as a priority but want capable behavior off piste.
Pros, cons and who should buy it
Pros, cons and who should buy it: positives include a race‑derived construction, EMC vibration control, Graphene reinforcement and strong carving character. Drawbacks are the relatively narrow waist for big powder days and a weight that may feel heavy to riders prioritizing playful agility. Compared with other sporty 88–90 mm all‑mountain skis, the 8 Series leans more toward piste performance. Recommended for advanced‑to‑expert skiers who want responsive, high‑speed carving with competent mixed‑snow handling.