Dynastar M‑Menace Team Kid – Review

The Dynastar M‑Menace Team (Kid/Kid‑X) is a lightweight, forgiving junior on‑piste/all‑mountain ski that helps kids progress fast without punishing mistakes. An Active Air/Microcell core, cap construction and moderate tip rocker make turn initiation easy, edge‑to‑edge quick, and fatigue low. It’s sold as a ski + junior binding set (Team Kid or Kid‑X, depending on length/year).

Note: Some retailer pages mention “double rocker,” while Dynastar’s official spec lists TIP ROCKER (tip only). If twin/double rocker matters to you, verify the specific model year.

Who is it for?

Beginners through advancing intermediates moving from green/blue to red runs.
Kids who want a playful, confidence‑building ski with reliable grip on hardpack.
Parents seeking a complete, adjustable set that can grow with their child.

On‑snow performance

Groomers: The 74–76 mm waist and short radius (7–14 m by length) produce easy, controlled turns; the tip rocker lets the ski enter the turn without hooking. Grip is solid for its class on typical resort hardpack.
Crud/variable: The lightweight core offers decent damping for a junior ski and the cap build keeps it lively. There’s a speed ceiling on rough, icy surfaces—the soft flex prioritizes control over bulldozer stability.
Softer snow: Tip rocker adds a touch of float for a fresh dusting. This isn’t a powder tool—the waist is narrow and the tail isn’t rockered—but kids can explore off the side of the trail.

Construction and specs explained

Rocker profile (TIP ROCKER): Rocker in the tip with camber underfoot. Speeds up turn initiation and forgives stance errors while preserving edge hold.
Sidecut & radius: Sidecuts like 106‑74‑98 mm (short) and 108‑76‑100 mm (longer) yield short, smooth arcs; the short radius helps at low speeds and skill development.
Waist width (74–76 mm): Quick edge‑to‑edge on groomers; less natural float in deeper snow.
Core & build: Active Air/Microcell (very light PU) + cap construction for low weight, durability, and a forgiving flex—ideal for growing skiers and long days.
Weight (1.4–2.0 kg/pair): Low weight reduces fatigue and makes handling easier for kids.
Bindings: Team Kid/Kid‑X with multi‑size plates, easy to adjust for growth or different boots.

Sizing & setup tips

Length: Aim between chin and nose. Go shorter (chin or slightly below) for beginners; longer (to nose/forehead) for stronger or more confident kids.
Mount/setup: Use the plate markings; have a shop set BSL and DIN correctly.
Kid vs Kid‑X: Functionally similar; differences are in plate/binding options and size range. Confirm the exact year/spec.

Comparisons

Rossignol Experience Pro JR: A bit more frontside bite and carve power, but less playful off‑piste. The Dynastar is more forgiving.
Salomon QST Max Jr: Often slightly wider with more rocker—better in soft/chopped snow. The M‑Menace Team is crisper on firm groomers.
Head Supershape Team: More frontside‑focused with stronger edge hold, but less tolerant of mistakes than the Dynastar.

Key takeaways

Easy turning: tip rocker + short radius = fast progression.
Light and forgiving: Active Air core and cap build keep fatigue low.
Piste‑first, all‑snow second: manages mixed snow, not a deep‑pow tool.
Complete package: adjustable junior bindings that grow with the skier.

Frequently asked questions

Q: Is this a “double rocker” ski?
A: Dynastar lists TIP ROCKER (tip only). Some retailers cite “double rocker” on certain years. If twin/double rocker is important, verify the exact model year.

Q: What length should I choose?
A: As a rule, between chin and nose. Shorter for beginners/lighter kids, longer for heavier or confident skiers who want more stability.

Q: Is it good for learning parallel turns?
A: Yes. The tip rocker, narrow waist and short radius make edging intuitive and smooth, ideal for transitioning from snowplow to parallel.

Q: How adjustable are the bindings?
A: The Kid/Kid‑X plates are multi‑size and simple to adjust as kids grow or change boots. Always have a shop set DIN and verify forward pressure.

Verdict

The Dynastar M‑Menace Team Kid is a standout choice for young skiers who want to build skills quickly and have fun doing it. It’s light, playful, and confidence‑inspiring with enough grip for daily groomers and enough versatility for mixed conditions. Dedicated carvers or powder hunters may prefer more specialized models, but for all‑round junior progression, this hits the sweet spot.