By Olivia Bennett
Moment Sierra 96
Overview and purpose
The Sierra 96 is a versatile all‑mountain ski aimed at skiers who want a single daily driver capable on groomers and softer snow. With a 96 mm waist it strikes a balance between crisp edge hold and usable flotation in chopped or light powder. The Triple Camber Twin Rocker yields precise edge pressure underfoot with a pronounced tail rise that encourages slashes and controlled releases. Overall it’s a ski that rewards confident technique but stays accessible, making it suitable for intermediates progressing to advanced skiers who want one capable ski for most mountain days.
Construction and materials
Construction blends a full‑length poplar/pine core (knot‑free, vertically laminated) with a modified extruded ABS sidewall and a carbon hybrid laminate of triaxial fiberglass plus carbon. That recipe produces lively pop, good torsional rigidity, and a damp, controlled feel thanks to VDS rubberized damping placed where vibrations matter most. The carbon‑infused 7500 Series sintered base aids speed and wax retention, while the 2.2 mm Euro edge is durable and sharp. Handmade in the U.S., the build emphasizes quality and on‑snow composure rather than being ultralight for park tricks.
Specs and what they mean
Geometry and specs tell the performance story: 129/96/119 mm means a fairly full tip for easy turn initiation, a 96 mm waist that balances carving and flotation, and a slightly wider tail for release and play. Radii of 17.0 / 17.5 / 18.5 m across 154/164/174 cm give a mix of quick turns on short lengths and stability on the long. Weights are competitive — lighter skis feel more nimble — and the Triple Camber profile (rocker tip, camber underfoot, exaggerated tail rise) combines solid edge grip with playful tail behavior. The progressive mount point moves the ski’s balance toward ease of turn initiation and tail play.
On‑snow performance
On snow the Sierra 96 shines on groomers while remaining confident in softer snow. The camber underfoot provides predictable edge hold and drive through turns; the tip rocker smooths turn initiation and handling in variable snow; the lifted tail encourages playful slides and quick tail releases without sacrificing control. Compared to wider touring‑oriented skis like the Bella 101, the Sierra 96 is snappier and better on hardpack. Versus the Siren 98 it’s slightly more frontside focused and offers a crisper feel in tighter turns, while still keeping enough versatility for mixed days.
Verdict — who it's for
Verdict: the Sierra 96 is a very capable, well‑rounded ski for intermediates to advanced skiers who want one reliable mountain ski. Strengths include balanced versatility, stable high‑speed behavior thanks to VDS and carbon layup, and a fun, slashing tail. Potential drawbacks are limited flotation in deep powder and a partial twin‑tip that’s less ideal for extended switch skiing. If you value a responsive, confident all‑mountain ride with playful tendencies, the Sierra 96 is an appealing choice as a single‑ski quiver.
Loading images...
Community Opinions
Missing a hand while carrying ski gear?
A friend of mine created Clipstic, the easy way to attach your poles to your skis! Using this link you get 10% off as well as support for Pick-a-ski!
Check it out!