Black Crows Atris review
The Black Crows Atris is a 105 mm freeride ski that blends stability with playful maneuverability. Double rocker and medium camber underfoot make it quick to pivot in trees and floaty in powder, while a firm, even flex keeps it composed when you open it up in resort chop.
On-snow performance
- Powder & soft snow: Progressive tip rise provides easy float and intuitive turn initiation. You can smear or pivot at will without the tips diving.
- Chop & tracked snow: The consistent flex and moderate weight deliver reliable stability. Not as damp as a Nordica Enforcer 104 Free, but plenty planted for charging most inbounds conditions.
- Groomers & hardpack: With a ~20 m radius, the Atris prefers medium-to-long arcs and rewards a centered, round turn. Edge hold is solid for a 105 mm ski, though true ice will expose its limits.
- Playfulness & switch: Partial twin and rocker let you butter and land switch. The factory line around −8 cm feels directional; a slight forward mount adds play, a more rearward stance adds support and stability.
Who is it for?
- Advanced to expert skiers seeking a do‑it‑all resort freeride tool for storm days, trees, bowls, and afternoon chop—without giving up groomer competence.
- Riders wanting a balanced middle ground: more supportive and stable than a Blizzard Rustler 10, looser and more forgiving than a full charger like the Black Crows Corvus or Enforcer 104 Free.
Comparisons
- Salomon QST 106: Softer tip, very forgiving and intuitive, but a touch less composed at high speed.
- Nordica Enforcer 104 Free: Heavier and damper; better for blasting through rough snow but not as surfy/loose.
- Black Crows Camox (97 mm): Quicker edge-to-edge on hardpack; less float and smash-through power.
Specs and what they mean
- Rocker/camber/rocker (double rocker): Tip and tail rocker boost maneuverability and float; medium camber adds grip and rebound on firm snow.
- 105 mm waist: Enough platform for powder and chop stability while staying versatile on groomers for resort everyday use.
- Sidecut radius ≈19–20 m: Confidence at speed and smooth, long turns; comes alive when you let it run.
- Poplar wood core + fiberglass: A lively yet composed feel—pop for airs, backbone for rough conditions.
- Semi-cap with ABS sidewalls: Durable edges and precise power transfer.
- Recommended mount ~ −8 cm: Directional stance. Move 1–2 cm forward for more freestyle flair (confirm with your shop).
- Weight (184 cm ≈ 1975 g/ski): Enough mass for stability; not a touring build, ideal for lift‑served freeride.
Key takeaways
- Surfy and nimble: double rocker makes pivots and slarves easy.
- Stable when pushed: firm flex stays calm in chop.
- Groomer‑capable: respectable edge hold for 105 mm, but not an ice specialist.
- Directional with a playful edge: −8 cm feels classic; a touch forward livens it up.
Frequently asked questions
Q: What length should I choose for the Black Crows Atris?
A: It skis true to length. Go near your height for all‑round use. Size up (184/190 cm) for more stability and float; size down for tighter trees and a quicker feel.
Q: How does the Black Crows Atris handle hard icy groomers?
A: Grip is good for its width thanks to camber, but true ice reveals the limits. Keep turns round and pressure progressive for the best hardpack performance.
Q: Should I move the mount point forward?
A: If you value switch skiing, butters, and a looser feel, +1 to +2 cm forward can help. If you prioritize support and stability at speed, stay near the −8 cm factory line.