Our ULTIMATE quiver is coming together. In truth, a bit overwhelming trying to make sure everything is mounted with bindings and fit up with skins. But wow, this really is a dream. This week’s addition: 2011/2012 Dynafit Manaslu human powered powder slayer.
Dynafit Manaslu powder and crud skis delight human powered backcountry skiers, 2011/2012 model continues what is now a classic.
Old news now and covered in our previous Dynafit Manaslu backcountry ski review, but in brief, Dynafit took their original and well-liked Manaslu, added some carbon fiber and shifted the binding mount position forward. Result: The same powder performance as original ‘Slu, with more bite on the hardpack to correct the one glaring weakness of the original plank. The new version works — I’ve skied them a bunch — though they’re still not a cat claw on the hardpan nor what I’d call a “ski that will do everything.” Main thing: Aside from full carbon offerings, Manaslu is perhaps the lightest weight mid-fat powder plank you can get. Thus, if you’re into human powered vert — especially in soft snow — this is your cruise missile and still a top recommendation from WildSnow. 178 cm., 50.5 ounces per ski, 122/95/108.
WildSnow.com publisher emeritus and founder Lou (Louis Dawson) has a 50+ years career in climbing, backcountry skiing and ski mountaineering. He was the first person in history to ski down all 54 Colorado 14,000-foot peaks, has authored numerous books about about backcountry skiing, and has skied from the summit of Denali in Alaska, North America’s highest mountain.
