By Ethan Sullivan
Faction Dancer 79
Quick summary
The Dancer 79 is a piste-focused ski with a 79 mm waist, built for high-energy carving and playful finishes on groomers. Its minimal tip rocker, full underfoot camber and limited tail rocker deliver quick edge engagement and consistent contact through the arc of a turn. The elliptical sidecut and available lengths (158–184 cm) with turning radii from 13 to 18 m offer a range of turn shapes, making the ski nimble in short-radius work while still capable of confident mid-radius carves when you pick up speed.
Construction and technology
Construction and technology mix lightweight liveliness with metal-stiffened stability. A poplar core provides natural pop and vibration damping, keeping swing weight reasonable, while dual-span Titanal (two thin Titanal sheets) adds torsional rigidity and high-speed composure. Full sidewalls enhance edge hold and impact resistance, and the Anti‑Chip Micro‑Cap with the 'Moustache Flex' profile (stiffer underfoot, softer tip/tail) smooths inputs. The brand also incorporates recycled materials in topsheet, base and sidewall production, which is a modest eco bonus.
On-snow performance
On snow the ski feels precise and communicative. Minimal tip rocker means fast, decisive engagement at turn initiation; the calculated tail rocker and progressive flat-tail let you pivot and finish turns with a playful release. At 79 mm underfoot the Dancer 79 shines in tighter, high-energy carving on firm groomers and holds an edge well thanks to the metal layup and full sidewall. It copes with bumpier or cruddy resort snow reasonably, but its narrow waist limits flotation in softer conditions compared with broader all-mountain skis.
Size & fit guidance
Choosing length depends on skier weight, style and preferred turn shape. Shorter lengths (158–166 cm) with 13–14 m radii feel lively and easy to flick; 172–178 cm (16–17 m) are the sweet spot for a balance of stability and agility; and 184 cm (18 m) maximizes high-speed steadiness for heavier or speed-focused skiers. Published weights per ski run from about 1,380 g (158 cm) to 1,720 g (184 cm), which keeps swing weight manageable and makes the ski approachable off the lift and during quick maneuvers.
Comparison, pros & cons
Compared to narrow-carve competitors such as some Head Supershape or Salomon S/Max models, this ski is a touch more playful and forgiving thanks to the poplar core and progressive flat-tail. Strengths include crisp edge hold, lively pop and a confident high-speed platform; weaknesses are limited flotation in deep snow and that very heavy or aggressively fast skiers might prefer more damping. Overall, for anyone prioritizing on-piste carving with a freeski-inspired feel, this is a compelling and well-rounded option.
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