MEN’S FREESTYLE SKI OF THE YEAR – FACTION CT 2.0
When reviewers say a ski “felt like an extension of me” they mean there was no barrier between the visualisation of an action and the execution of it. For go-anywhere freestylers this ease of transmission equates to total freedom of expression. And, this year, we think the Candide Thovex 2.0 from Faction Skis is the ski that allows for this in the broadest range of situations.
102mm underfoot may seem on the wide side for this category to some, but ‘freestyle’ to Fall-Line is not restricted to terrain parks – it applies to skis that allow for creativity and expression.
The CT 2.0 is the most balanced freestyle ski we found on test. One that was poppy, but not hyper-active. One that was buttery but not noodley. One with just the right level of edge hold. And one with a width that allows for options all over the hill. You could still stomp side-hit landings into cruddy snow aboard the 2.0 without getting ejected.
The wider skis in Candide’s lightweight Signature Series, the 3.0 and 4.0, have undergone some enhancements to their cores this year, namely the addition of a pachaco wood core. On those models we felt the new core improved the stability at speed over last year by giving a slightly damper ride, but Faction elected not to build this extra layer into the 2.0 since it’s core is durable enough already, so the 2.0 retains its super-fun flex.
Whether you’ve stomped double corks or are still learning your first spins, this is the ski you can grab for any snow conditions and have a wicked time. Faction even offers the Candide 2.0 in six different lengths, which means everyone can find their perfect size. And if you’re still hesitating, go on Faction’s YouTube channel and check out what Adam Delorme can do on them…
TO READ MORE ABOUT THE CANDIDE SIGNATURE SERIES AND ALL THE OTHER NEW SKIS FOR 2020, SUBSCRIBE TO OUR GEAR GUIDE, OUT IN OCTOBER!
STATS
RRP: £549
Lengths: 158, 166, 172, 178, 184, 188
Radius: 16m @ 178
Dimensions: 133-102-133
Weight per pair: 3900g
More Info: FACTION SKIS
MORE 2020 SKIS OF THE YEAR:
2020 MEN’S FREERIDE SKI OF THE YEAR – NORDICA ENFORCER FREE 104