By Andrew Ingold
Atomic Bent 100
Who it’s for and overall feel
From first chair to last lap, Bent 100 feels like a modern, do‑everything twin that makes mediocre days more fun. At 100 mm underfoot with a light poplar core, it’s quick to pivot, easy to feather, and lively without being nervous. HRZN 3D tips add forgiveness when you’re off balance and help the ski plane at slower speeds. Intermediates will appreciate its intuitive turn entry; advanced riders can smear, butter, and slash at will. Compared with QST 98 or Rustler 10, this ski prioritizes playfulness over bulldozer power.
On‑piste performance
On groomers, camber underfoot provides a dependable platform to stand on and finish turns cleanly. The 19 m radius (179 cm) prefers medium arcs but will tighten with strong edge angles. Edge hold is solid for a non‑metal ski, though true ice calls for careful tune and a centered stance. You’ll feel some flap in the rockered tips at very high speeds, and it won’t lock into a GS trench like damp, metal‑laminated chargers. Keep it in a moderate speed window and it rewards with energy and control.
Off‑piste and soft snow
In soft snow, the 20/65/15 rocker split and added surface from HRZN tips help it float better than many 100‑mm peers. It’s wonderfully pivotable in trees and bumps, and the light swing weight encourages quick, last‑second line changes. In cut‑up or wind‑affected snow, the lower mass does get deflected more than heavier, damper skis like a Ranger 102. Upsizing one length steadies the ride without killing the playful feel. Expect competent float up to about boot‑deep; for storm days, the wider sibling is still the better call.
Park and freestyle chops
Freestyle credentials are real: a true twin outline, Resist Edge for durability, and a balanced swing weight make spins and switch landings approachable. The tail rocker is modest, so it still tracks well exiting carves and off natural features. Rails and boxes feel secure without the edges feeling overly catchy. It isn’t a soft, dedicated park noodle, so lighter riders may find the flex stiffer than expected. Mount close to recommended for all‑mountain balance; go 1–3 cm forward if park laps and butters dominate your day.
Specs explained and sizing
Key numbers tell the story. A 100 mm waist balances edge‑to‑edge quickness with soft‑snow support. The 128.5/100/119 mm shape (179 cm) gives slight taper for easy smears without sacrificing stability. Powder Rocker around 20% tip / 65% camber / 15% tail blends float and rebound. A 19 m sidecut favors calm, medium‑radius turns yet releases easily when you want to slarve. At roughly 1700 g per ski, it feels light and nimble but transmits more vibration in chopped snow. Lengths from 158–186 cm let you size up for stability or down for agility.
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