Black Crows Mentis Freebird — Review

Overview

The Black Crows Mentis Freebird is an 80‑mm speed‑touring ski built for big vert days, spring missions, and technical lines where precision and efficiency matter. With tip rocker, long classic camber, and a straight, flat tail, it punches above its weight in edge hold while staying incredibly agile and light on the skin track.

Who is it for?

Fitness tourers and ski mountaineers prioritizing uphill speed and accuracy on firm snow.
Intermediate to advanced skiers who value low weight and reliable edge hold.
Less ideal as a one‑ski quiver or for deep powder/resort days.

On‑snow performance

Uphill and handling

Around ~1,000 g per ski (length dependent) keeps climbs fast and kick turns effortless.
Flat tail plus tip skin notch = secure skin attachment and stable transitions.
Low swing weight pivots quickly in tight terrain and steep couloirs.

Descent

Firm/icy snow: long camber and torsional stiffness deliver confident bite; the 18–19 m radius prefers clean, medium‑radius arcs.
Variable spring snow: nimble and precise, though the ultra‑low mass transmits more vibration—ski with a centered, smooth touch.
Soft/boot‑top powder: the 80‑mm waist and shortened tip limit float; keep speeds conservative or step up to an Orb Freebird for more versatility.

Comparisons

Blizzard Zero G 85: notably more damp and stable at speed but heavier; Mentis climbs faster and feels friendlier when managed within its speed window.
Dynafit Blacklight 80: similar weight; Blacklight is snappier and more nervous in refrozen chop, Mentis is a touch smoother and more forgiving.
Atomic Backland 85: better all‑round descender, less uphill efficient. Backland UL 78 is lighter but more demanding.
Black Crows Orb Freebird (90 mm): a better mixed‑conditions partner and occasional resort use; Mentis is the purist’s choice for efficient touring.

Setup tips

Bindings: pair with light tech bindings (ATK/Dynafit/Marker Alpinist) to preserve the ski’s intent.
Boots: 2–3‑buckle touring boots with supportive forward flex keep it composed.
Mount: stay near the factory line (‑9.5 cm) for stability and tail support.
Length: experienced skiers can size to 171/178 for stability; lighter/shorter skiers may prefer shorter for agility.

Specs explained

Rocker profile (tip rocker + long camber, flat tail): easy turn initiation, quick pivots, and strong edge grip on firm snow; straight tail aids skin security and precise finishes.
Dimensions (tip/waist/tail ≈ 109–111/80/100–101 mm): 80‑mm waist = fast edge‑to‑edge and touring efficiency; moderate tip/tail widths keep the ski calm in mixed spring snow.
Radius (18–19 m): predictable turn shape with stability at moderate speeds.
Weight (~1,000 g per ski, by length): maximizes uphill speed; accept less damping on the way down.
Construction (paulownia + glass/carbon, Titanal plate underfoot): keeps weight low while adding torsional control and screw retention for bindings.

Key takeaways

Ultralight speed‑tourer: rockets uphill, remains agile and precise.
Excellent edge hold for the weight: confidence on firm and steep terrain.
Lower damping at speed: can feel chattery in refrozen or cut‑up snow.
Not a deep‑pow tool: 80 mm underfoot favors technical, efficient travel.

Frequently asked questions

Q: Who should buy the Black Crows Mentis Freebird?
A: Skiers prioritizing speed touring, spring missions, and firm‑snow precision. If you value light weight and reliable edge hold over top‑end damping, the Mentis Freebird shines.

Q: How does it compare to Blizzard Zero G 85?
A: The Zero G 85 is heavier and more stable in variable snow and at speed. The Mentis Freebird is lighter, climbs faster, and is easier to manage within its comfort zone.

Q: What length should I choose?
A: Roughly nose‑to‑height works well. Go longer (171/178) for stability if you’re experienced; size down for maneuverability or if you value super‑quick kick turns.