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By Ethan Sullivan

Review: ON3P Charlie Murphy

The ON3P Charlie Murphy brings ON3P’s grown‑up construction to a junior all‑mountain/park package. Elliptical rocker with camber underfoot, a bamboo core, and burly edges give it playful energy in the park with real composure on groomers and in variable snow.

Who is it for?

  • Progressing kids/teens who ski everywhere: groomers, park, side hits, and soft snow.
  • Riders prioritizing durability for rails and hard use.
  • Freestyle‑leaning skiers who still want dependable edge hold.

Build and design

  • Bamboo core: naturally damp, lively, and durable; provides pop without harshness.
  • Tri‑ax fiberglass + unidirectional carbon stringer: boosts torsional support and rebound; improves stability at speed and on landings.
  • 2.5 x 2.5 mm edges + full UHMW sidewalls: standout durability for park abuse.
  • 4001 Durasurf sintered base: fast and tough; rewards regular waxing.
  • Full twin with tip taper and elliptical rocker: easy to smear and butter, with progressive turn engagement.

On‑snow performance

  • Groomers: Camber underfoot bites predictably. The elliptical sidecut builds grip smoothly, which helps lighter skiers feel secure.
  • Park: Very at home. Swing weight isn’t ultra‑featherweight due to the robust build, but balance is centered and predictable. Pop is excellent; landings feel notably cushioned for the class.
  • Soft snow and trees: Rockered tips/tails aid float and keep turns quick and playful. The 88‑mm waist stays agile without feeling twitchy.
  • Chop and crud: Remarkably composed for a junior ski; the bamboo/glas layup damps vibrations better than many peers.
  • Ice: Still junior‑friendly, but not a pure carver; sharp edges and thoughtful detune at the tips/tails are key.

Specs at a glance (what they mean)

  • Rocker profile: Elliptical freestyle rocker with camber underfoot — blends easy initiation and playfulness with on‑edge grip and rebound.
  • Tip / Waist / Tail: 109‑88‑104 mm (141 cm) | 111‑88‑106 mm (151 cm) — 88 mm quick edge‑to‑edge; slightly wider tip/tail aid float and landing stability.
  • Turning radius: approx. 14.5 m (141) | approx. 16.2 m (151) — accessible, medium‑quick turns with room for carving and smearing.
  • Weight per ski: ~1.20–1.38 kg (141) | ~1.31–1.44 kg (151) — light enough for juniors with added mass for damping; expect variability by source and year.
  • Lengths: 141 and 151 cm (current listings often show 151 cm in stock) — two key sizes cover most juniors; bigger teens may graduate to adult models sooner.

Comparisons

  • Line Tom Wallisch Shorty: Lighter and a touch looser; the ON3P is more damp and notably tougher at the edges.
  • Armada ARV 84 (JR/short): Very easy to pivot and learn on; Charlie Murphy feels more planted at speed and on bigger hits.
  • Faction Prodigy 1 JR: Similar do‑it‑all intent; ON3P is typically burlier and more damp, while Faction skews a bit lighter on foot.
  • K2 Poacher JR/Reckoner JR: Fun and approachable; the ON3P offers more heft and longevity, with slightly higher swing weight.

Sizing and mounting

  • Sizing: Park‑focused riders often choose nose‑height; all‑mountain focus can size a touch shorter. 141 cm suits smaller/lighter riders; 151 cm offers more stability and room to grow.
  • Mounting: Near‑center for park balance and switch; a centimeter or two back increases directional edge hold. Use ON3P’s recommended line for your priority.

Durability and maintenance

  • Thick edges and UHMW sidewalls meaningfully extend life for rail laps and artificial snow.
  • Keep the sintered base waxed for speed and longevity.

Potential drawbacks

  • Limited lengths: Only 141 and 151 cm won’t fit every junior; tall or aggressive skiers may outgrow it quickly.
  • Slightly higher swing weight than ultra‑light park skis due to the stout construction.
  • Premium price and variable listed weights across retailers.

Key takeaways

  • Progressive and playful: Freestyle feel with real all‑mountain grip.
  • Built to last: Thick edges, strong base, and bamboo core.
  • Confidence‑inspiring: Calm for a junior twin, even in chop.

Frequently asked questions

Q: Who is the ON3P Charlie Murphy for?
A: Juniors who want one ski for park and all‑mountain. The elliptical rocker keeps it playful, while camber underfoot delivers reliable edge hold on groomers.

Q: How does it compare to the Armada ARV 84 or Line TW Shorty?
A: ARV 84 and TW Shorty are ultra‑approachable and light, but the Charlie Murphy feels more composed at speed and on landings. If durability is a priority, ON3P’s construction stands out.

Q: What bindings pair well?
A: A solid junior or light adult freestyle/all‑mountain binding with an appropriate DIN range. Aim for ~90 mm brakes and mount on the recommended line for your intended use.

Q: Why do weights vary online?
A: Retailers and model years report different per‑ski weights (roughly 1.20–1.44 kg depending on length). Use the range as guidance; for exact year‑specific specs, check ON3P’s product page for that model year.

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