Thorough Evaluation of the Blizzard Bonafide 97 Ski Model

The ski season is upon us, and if you're a woman looking for a capable all-mountain ski, the updated Blizzard Black Pearl 97 and the unisex Bonafide 97 are worthy contenders.

Priced at approximately 190.00 EUR, the women's Black Pearl 97 is a popular choice, offering a blend of performance and affordability. Its unisex counterpart, the Bonafide 97, while not directly price-comparable, is also a standout in the all-mountain market.

Both skis share many similarities in their construction. They both utilize a blend of beech and poplar woods, with beech providing firmness and stability, and poplar offering more flex and less weight towards the tip and tail. Additionally, both models are packed with high-end materials, including two sheets of Titanal and a thin layer of titanium under the bindings.

However, there are differences between the two. The Black Pearl 97 uses one layer of Titanal instead of two compared to the Bonafide, which could impact its performance. The Bonafide, on the other hand, has undergone significant changes in its 2021 model, including a revamped rocker profile, flex pattern, and core construction.

The Bonafide 97 is known for its excellent performance on hardpack and its standout speed and stability. It offers a more athletic feel in the bumps, but it may not be as quick or easy to flick between turns as some other skis. The Black Pearl 97, on the other hand, offers shorter lengths, resulting in a tighter turn radius, making it more maneuverable.

The Black Pearl 97 and the Bonafide 97 share the same focus on stability and power in the all-mountain market. However, the Black Pearl 97 has a unique wood mix in its core construction compared to the Bonafide. This difference could potentially impact the feel and performance of the skis, although further testing would be needed to confirm this.

Another contender in the competitive all-mountain market is the Volkl M5 Mantra. While it is slightly cheaper than the Bonafide 97, it is a formidable competitor in terms of performance. However, the Bonafide's new blended wood core has made it more forgiving and maneuverable compared to the Mantra.

The Bonafide 97 is offered in 6-centimeter increments, ensuring a perfect fit for most riders. The Black Pearl 97, meanwhile, shares the same tip, tail, and waist dimensions, the same TrueBlend technology, and the use of Titanal as the Bonafide, making it a strong choice for women looking for a capable all-mountain ski.

In conclusion, both the Blizzard Black Pearl 97 and Bonafide 97 are excellent choices for women and unisex skiers alike. The Black Pearl 97 offers a more maneuverable and shorter ski, while the Bonafide 97 maintains its stability and power, with improvements in turnability and approachability. Ultimately, the choice between these two skis will depend on your specific preferences and riding style.