Factory 112 review

Extrem’s Factory 112 is a modern big‑mountain/freeride ski that blends charger stability with a lively, approachable feel. A progressive rocker, poplar core, and a Titanal “arrow” underfoot produce confident edge hold on firm snow, excellent float in soft snow, and poise when the terrain turns rough. Built in Åre with a fast base and beefy edges/sidewalls, it’s designed to be skied hard and last.

Design highlights

• Progressive/refined rocker: easy turn initiation on piste, strong float in powder, and solid edge hold in between.
• Poplar wood core + 0.4 mm Titanal strip underfoot: lively rebound with added power and high‑speed stability.
• Damping package: race rubber in tip/tail plus an internal rubber foil tame vibration on hardpack and chop.
• Prepreg fiberglass (HexPly): consistent flex and strength.
• Durability: graphite‑rich race base, extra‑thick edges, and wide ABS sidewalls.
• Factory tune: 88°/1.5° for quick edge engagement and precise bite.

On‑snow performance

• Powder & soft snow: The 111–112 mm waist and progressive rocker keep the tips planing easily. It’s confidence‑inspiring for surfy fall‑line lines and smooth slashes.
• Groomers & hardpack: For its width, the Factory 112 carves impressively well. The Titanal and damping deliver calm, predictable grip; it prefers medium‑to‑long arcs over tight slalom turns.
• Crud & chop: Excellent stability and tracking. The weight works in your favor here—plenty of composure without feeling dead.
• Trees & bumps: Nimble for a 112 thanks to rocker and a supportive, round flex. Not a mogul tool, but manageable with an active stance.
• Air time & landings: Directional tail lands solidly. There’s enough pop for natural features; it’s not a pure butter‑happy twin, but it encourages confident takeoffs.

Specs and what they mean

• Lengths: 185 / 193 cm – Longer = more stability at speed and float; shorter = quicker pivoting and easier handling in tight spaces.
• Tip/waist/tail: 142/111/131 mm (185), 143/112/132 mm (193) – Width and shape drive float (wider) and turn initiation (tip/tail geometry).
• Radius: 20.5 m (185) / 22 m (193) – Suits medium/long turns and high‑speed composure.
• Weight per ski: 2125 g (185) / 2325 g (193) – A touch heavier for class‑leading damping in chop; not aimed at uphill missions.
• Rocker profile: progressive rocker with retained edge hold – Easy pivoting and float with camber‑like security underfoot.
• Mount point: −80 mm from true center (185) – Directional stance for power and stability.
• Factory tune: 88°/1.5° – Sharp, confident edge feel on firm snow.

Setup, bindings, and tune

• Bindings: Classic freeride/alpine bindings match the ski’s weight and intent.
• Mounting: Start on the recommended line (−80 mm). For a touch more playfulness, go +0.5 to +1 cm; for max stability and float, stick to recommended or −0.5 cm.
• Tune: The stock 88°/1.5° grips well. If you ski lots of hardpack, a careful tip/tail detune can smooth turn entry.

Sizing advice

• Manufacturer suggests body height or longer.
• Rule of thumb: choose 185 cm for agility in mixed terrain/trees; 193 cm for wide‑open terrain and higher speeds.

Comparisons

• Nordica Enforcer 110 Free: heavier and even damper on ice; Factory 112 is livelier with comparable crud stability.
• Black Crows Anima: looser and surfier; Factory 112 offers better precision and edge hold on piste.
• Blizzard Cochise 106: narrower directional charger on ice; Factory 112 floats far better and is friendlier off‑piste.
• Salomon QST 106/110: lighter and more accessible; Factory 112 is more stable at speed and more hard‑charging.

Who it’s for / who it isn’t

• For: advanced to expert freeriders who want stability and precision with enough playfulness for natural features and everyday all‑mountain use.
• Not for: intermediates who mainly ski groomers, riders seeking a super‑loose, center‑mounted freestyle feel, or anyone prioritizing ultralight touring.

Key takeaways

• Charger stability: damping + Titanal keep it composed at speed.
• Lively enough: progressive rocker and poplar core add pop and pivotability.
• Built tough: thick edges, stout sidewalls, and a fast base.
• Width/radius bias: excels in pow and chop; less ideal for icy bumps.

Frequently asked questions

Q: What length should I choose in the Extrem Factory 112?
A: Go 185 cm if you value maneuverability in trees and tighter spaces; 193 cm if you ski fast in open terrain. Extrem’s guidance is body height or longer for this ski.

Q: How does the Extrem Factory 112 handle groomers?
A: Very well for a 112‑mm platform. The 88°/1.5° tune, Titanal strip, and damping deliver firm edge hold. Expect medium‑to‑long turns rather than short slalom arcs.

Q: Is the Extrem Factory 112 a one‑ski quiver?
A: In snowier regions with lots of off‑piste, yes. In low‑snow areas or if you prioritize groomer performance, a 100–106 mm all‑mountain ski may be more versatile.

Q: How does it differ from playful freestyle‑pow skis?
A: The Factory 112 is more directional with greater precision and high‑speed stability. It has pop and some looseness, but not the super‑surfy, center‑mounted feel of a pure jib ski.