By Andrew Ingold
Head Kore x 78 lyt pr review
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Overview
Overview: The Kore X 78 LYT‑PR is a narrow all‑mountain ski built primarily for on‑piste performance with modest off‑piste capability. With a 126‑78‑105 mm sidecut (170 cm) and Allride Rocker (around an 80/20 camber/rocker split), it favors quick edge changes and predictable turn initiation. The 170 cm ski weighs roughly 2,028 g per ski — reasonably light for a construction that includes reinforcements. It targets intermediate‑to‑advanced recreational skiers seeking a versatile, responsive ski for varied groomer days and occasional chopped snow.
Construction & tech
Construction & tech: The ski uses a vertically laminated wood core (Karuba/PU insert) reinforced with Graphene and built with a Power Sidewall Jacket. Graphene improves strength‑to‑weight, the wood core provides lively rebound and feel, and the Sidewall Jacket adds torsional stiffness and dampening for confident edge grip. The Structured UHM C sintered base is race‑style and takes wax well. The LYT PR plate requires PR‑system compatible bindings — an important buying detail. These specs translate to direct response and stable behavior on firmer snow.
On‑snow performance
On‑snow performance: On groomers the Kore X 78 LYT‑PR feels precise and quick in short to medium radius turns; the Allride Rocker eases turn initiation without blunting edge feel. The 78 mm waist encourages fast edge‑to‑edge transitions and solid edge contact on hardpack, while the relatively wide 105 mm tail helps finish turns with controlled release. In softer, variable conditions it remains lively but won’t match flotation of wider all‑mountain skis. Overall it’s a carve‑biased, versatile ride for performance‑minded piste skiers.
Comparisons & alternatives
Comparisons & alternatives: In the 76–80 mm segment the Kore X 78 stacks up against lightweight all‑mountain carving skis where differences come down to weight, damping, and edge feel. Versus pure race piste skis it’s slightly more forgiving and versatile; versus softer snow‑oriented skis it lacks flotation but gains agility and quicker edge changes. If you want a lighter, more playful option without a PR plate there are rivals, but few combine Graphene reinforcement and a Power Sidewall Jacket at this waist width and weight profile.
Who should buy it & verdict
Who should buy it & verdict: This ski suits intermediate to advanced recreational riders who prioritize groomer performance with occasional off‑piste forays. Key purchase considerations: verify the LYT PR plate and binding package (PR bindings required), and confirm weight specs on the retailer page (per ski vs pair or with bindings). Drawbacks include limited flotation in deep snow and the plate binding constraint. Overall it’s a modern, responsive piste‑biased ski that balances agility, stability and modern materials well.