2014 HEAD REV 85 Pro Review

While fatter skis get more attention these days, a mid-80 mm underfoot ski is a must have for the days the snow isn't fresh & deep.

One of the best - and one of the best values - in the category, is the HEAD REV 85 Pro, coming in at only $799 with 12 DIN bindings.

As Jim and Phil said, this is a versatile ski for the segment, great at carving on the groomers, but also fun in the bumps and even in the trees. A relatively low turn radius (15.5 m) keeps it quick, reminiscent of the racier HEAD i.Supershape skis.

But get it into some crud, soft snow and bumps, and the moderate flex made it quick and lively, snaking its way through any line you pick with composure. Just a touch of early rise in the tip keeps it from hooking in these conditions as well.

Testers called it predictable with a nice even flex with no tip flap and good but not grabby engagement in the beginning of the turn, with great grip in the turn that's not difficult to release at the end. They said these skis plowed through crud, unflinching in carving through uneven snow.

Comparing it to other known quantities in this category, Sierra Jim said it's more damp than the Volkl Kendo, and less demanding than the Blizzard Magnum 8.5 Ti.

This plus a 100 mm plus big mountain powder ski makes for a solid quiver of two to cover conditions just about anywhere in the country, east or west.