12 August, 2011

DPS Wailer 112 RP Ski Review

Summer has been going on for a while. Most people are out enjoying the sun, biking, climbing, running, and getting after it. But there have been a lot of comments about winter lately. The building stoke for the season to come. People are swinging by the shop researching ski shapes, and deciding on what models to buy. There are a lot of models of skis out there, some poorly designed but well marketed, and others extremely well thought out, built to perform, and marketed a touch less.
(Photo Above:  Posted earlier in the year, Zack Wasson on his Wailer's enjoying some blower pow)
The DPS Wailer 112RP ski was the one ski that made me feel brand new again. I've skied on a lot of skis from ski tests to demos, to nabbing friend’s skis. Last winter was no exception. I got on the Wailer 112RP, skiing it as much as possible, and desperately trying to find its weaknesses holding off on a review. Skiing the 190cm in blower powder, corn, ice, chunder, breakable crust, groomers, and sastrugi, this 112mm waist ski is seriously fun.  (Photo Below:  Holding The Wailer 112RP, photo by:  Tobias Van Veen)

Maneuverability
Whenever I read reviews in magazines about how this ski turns on a dime, and so on, I roll my eyes as it seems every year someone else is pulling this generic saying out. But it this case, it truly does. The 112 starts, holds, and finishes its turn exactly when you want it to. Great so it turns….. But here’s the difference between all other skis. With the 112, you can straight-line your run getting up to an incredible speed, and simply throw the Wailer sideways and start wiggling through the trees with ease and control. All other skis out there would most likely double eject you into a tree well for trying to push them so hard.

The past few years, people around town have been praising the Rossi S7. My friend Matty Richard has noted the amount and scale of terrain people have now been able to get into, due to its quick easy turning, massive float, and ease of use. The Wailer 112 is no different in the sense that it can get a less advanced and experienced skier into rowdy terrain, but that with a slight shaping change, it performs better for the advanced and elite skier while giving the less experienced skier far more for/aft stability. The biggest difference is in the tail.
(Wailer 112RP Tail above)
The tail of the 112 is less rockered that the S7. This provides the skier with more control and power in his or her turn. It also makes stomping landings off cliff’s or pillows far more simple and the worry of having your skis take off from under you, or flipping back because you don’t have enough tail is gone. Those skiers who like a powerful tail, and release from their turns, will be delighted with the difference the Wailer provides.  More for/aft stability, more control at higher speeds, sounds like a better design to me. This leads us to talking more about Rocker.

Rocker
If you haven’t heard about, or understand Rocker in skis yet, welcome to the future. It’s pretty much the difference between getting punched in the face and eating ice cream on the beach. So I’ll explain it for those who still may be rubbing their cheek after that last experience. Rocker is essentially, and in the most basic way, extending the arc of the skis shovel (tip) and tail farther down the running length of the ski, creating a monster shovel and tail and effectively reducing the skis length of camber.  If I have already lost you please refer to the diagram below. What is does is keeps the skis tips above the snow, allows a 190cm ski to turn more like a 170cm ski, while still feeling stable and in control. Turning, pivoting, hucking, slashing, straight-lining, is all effortless and far more enjoyable; *please see eating ice cream on the beach.
(Rocker measurement from 190cm ski)
The 112 is well balanced and importantly not overly rockered. It is incredibly stable and solid under food, due  to the rocker being perfectly aligned. To be honest, I found skiing it in conditions I wouldn't exactly call stellar (read breakable crust), it made the poor conditions fun. I know, who could have thought breakable crust could ski well?

One key feature to my breakable crust experience, and which translates to better tracking of the ski, is it’s narrowing of the tip. Where the ski comes of the ground (effectively where the rocker starts) and where the ski is it’s widest (450mm from the tip) the ski begins to narrow again. This really helps the ski track because when the ski is put on edge, the tip and edges still maintain some rise, stopping the tip from catching on crust or the rapidly moving soft surface, which would cause you to “catch an edge.”

Construction
The Wailer 112RP, comes in two options for the consumer. A Hybrid core: A mix of fiberglass, carbon and bamboo. Typically this is a touch heavier, but has a bit more dampening for in-bounds crowd. I ski on the Pure Construction, which is a Carbon and Nanotech Resin core that is built off a Poplar/X-Wood core. The Pure is much lighter and great for the touring crowd, but also skis in bounds extremely well.

Both the Pure and Hybrid core skis have 2mm edges, and great Austrian World Cup Race Bases. These  bases are hard! A few times I have landed hard on a shark fin rock, expecting to have absolutely destroyed my bases, and been prepared for hours in the shop fixing and patch the skis. But to my surprise not even a core shot, only a long scratch, which I didn't even bother about.

Yes, I’m stoked on these skis, but there is a negative. And here it is, the bases are very high end, and I do have to wax my skis on a regular basis, otherwise they can dry out. What a big negative (sarcastic tone). Funny enough, people have complained to me about that, but honestly, for the speed and durability of the base that’s a small price to pay.

Overview
Skiing on these skis is game changing to say the least. I won’t review an obviously flawed or poor product, only the cream of the crop, and these are one of the best products out there. I cannot put into words how well they ski. Any skier, elite to intermediate, will benefit from this ski.  DPS has more genius in the works, and those who really love to ski will be smart to take notice. There is even more I can say, but may end up going to far, and overloading the Ski Theory server. You want these skis.

Lengths
168cm, 178cm, 184cm, 190cm
More detailed dimensions here.

84 comments:

  1. Great review, where did you mount them?

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  2. Mounted them at +1cm. I've mounted nearly 95% of the ones at work at +1cm's, as I work as ski tech, and everyone seems to really like this mounting position.

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  3. Great review and the skis seems amazing. There is only two things I worry about. The first is that I am afraid that the ski will hook into the 16m radius turn on heavy snow when going fast and you just want to slide/slarve out the speed. The second thing is that I can see on the right side of your web-page that you are sponsored by DPS...

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  4. Thanks for the comments Øyvind.

    First let me just put your mind at ease with the fact that regardless of sponsorship this ski rocks. While organizing sponsors and working with companies I let every party involved that I won't compromise the integrity of the website. DPS has also been a great company to work with as they are very transparent, and have asked me to be brutally honest, and if something is horrible to make note of it and do so publicly. Which most other ski companies try to cover up.

    As for the 16m radius, because of the shovel and the narrowing tip profile, you will find it extremely hard to have the ski hook up. With a ski that isn't rockered, the ski would probably launch you off the mountain, with a sudden turn like that.

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  5. Thanks for the good answers. I am really hoping that I will have a chance to demo these skies in Norway.

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  6. i'm accustomed to riding traditional non-rockered skis in the 180-185cm range.

    my experience on rockered skis is pretty minimal, but i understand that with a rockered ski i should generally go with a bit of a longer ski, as the amount of ski on snow diminishes. would i be more comfortable on the 184cm or should i man-up and go for the 190cm?

    i'm just under 6 feet tall.

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  7. You are correct in thinking about going a bit longer. I am 6'1" and ski the 190cm, and have really found it to be one of the easiest turning skis I've ever skied. I also ski primarily 185cm skis when I ski a traditional ski, so I would say go for the 190c as it sounds like you are a good skier. Just know that it won't be trying to control you like a traditional ski, you control it!

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  8. Good write up on rocker. Curious what you did for bindings? I am thinking about adding Plum 185s (at Alexis' suggestion for mount strength) to my 112s.
    thanks

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  9. Dane, I have the Plum Guides on my 112's. I ski them with a four buckle boot, I'm sure they will take the 185's, but the only caution I would say is that because of the ski's width and power they will perform better with the guide as there will be more stiffness in the binding which translates over to the ski. That being said, the boot should match the binding and ski too. It's all one system! Hope that helps.

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    Replies
    1. Would i be able to mountthe Knee carbon bindings on the DPS 112 RP?

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  10. Alex, thanks. No question the gear should be compatible to take advantage of the complete package.

    Stiffness? Really? I would have thought that with the larger rear base plate and 8 screws (185) instead of 6 (on the guide) would be the stiffer between the two. Don't have them in fornt of me yet but had wondered.

    You mentioned Trevor's lwt Stoke package some time back. Then I saw Jon Moceri over on WSnow running 112s with RTs and DyNAs mostly lift and cat skiing.

    I have a pair of Hi5s with RTs that I really like with either TLT boot in soft snow. The carbon 112s are a lighter ski than the Hi5 and more rocker. Stiffer torsionally as well I would bet. Other wise the hand flex seems very close.

    Which got me thinking about that set up.

    A shorter pair of Stokes would likely be more practical with the TLTs.. And something I am more likley to actually tour in.

    Thanks for your time just looking for feed back before I mount these.

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  11. Dane,

    The 185 and the Guide both only have 4 screws on each base plate to attach to the ski. The other screws hold the actually heel piece's track on the base plate. So there is no difference in stiffness because of the screws. The stiffness comes from the cnc'd single piece toe on the Guide, and larger post. Simply just more material for lateral stiffness.

    As for the other fat skis and light boot matches out there, the Scarpa Maestrale is probably the best match for a 112rp in my opinion. It is the lightest 4 buckle boot out there, it's stiff, but has the walk-mode close to a race boot. Nothing is sacrificed with it, and it is matched to both the stoke and specifically the 112's flex patterns. Plus it's a boot that actually tours and has a real walk mode, unlike many other boots on the market.

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  12. Now that I've got my sexy 112's, what skin and width did you go with? I was thinking of giving G3 a shot again after abandoning them a few years back.
    Mike

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  13. I wouldn't buy anything over 125mm, as you are paying for the material, which you are cutting most off. 125mm with glide, grip, and edge into hard snow well without a single drawback.

    I recently just got back into G3 skins, by chance. Their Mohair Mix skin is better than the original material, however, I still found their skins slower than a few others out there. After skiing two laps in-bounds with my skins on, before heading out back, they seemed to be much quicker. The grip is really good, and the glue will last a lifetime. I'm still handing down G3 skins from years ago to friends and my girlfriend.

    If you really want to treat yourself though, Pomoca skins are now distributed in North America. They are fast, light, grippy, but require a slight bit of care. That being said the performance outweighs the upkeep.

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  14. Thanks for the thorough discussion on these skis. I'm interested in a pair for this coming season and not sure about the Pure vs. Hybrid construction.

    Are the Pure and Hybrid really that different? I.e. If you got on a pair and didn't know which they were, would you be able to tell in a run or two? If the Pure really are better plus they save over a pound, that sounds good to me, but if the Hybrid's have a better feel then it's probably not worth spending more to save a pound since I don't have the lightest setup.

    I'm going to be on a BD Factor boots and Dynafit Radical FT's this coming season.

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  15. Dan, good question. The Hybrid has a damper feel which is great for skiing inbounds. The Pure carbon is slightly stiffer, at least that's what I found. You would be able to tell the difference after a day of skiing on both, but not enough to that it would make or break your opinion on whether you like them or not.

    That being said, the Pure's are so much lighter. Having mounted some other peoples Hybrids, and friends hybrids, for touring the weight difference is pretty sizable. That weight savings may not seem like a lot on paper, but it really makes a difference. Having the Pure's I've found that I can suck up a tiny bit more weight than a lighter regular setup, but still get in the vert I want for a day without being destroyed from lugging the skis around.

    Overall, sounds like you'll have a pretty sweet setup this year. Hope that helps!

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  16. Thanks Alex for the quick response...that helps. Do you know when Escape Route is getting in the DPS skis for the coming season? I was in there a week or so ago, but there was just one pair of 178cm.

    I bought some Black Diamond Drifts (plus Vertical ST & Dynafit boots) last season in an attempt to shave weight off my S7/Duke/Alpine Boots setup and the weight difference was awesome but I just couldn't charge on the Drifts...they felt like noodles at higher speeds but it could have been the floppy boots. I'm hoping to strike a better balance this season since it's looking like it's going to be 80% back/sidecountry.

    I'll have to swing by ER and chat some more.

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  17. Dan, Escape Route will be carrying DPS, quite a few models too! As for stiff boot selection, the Titan, factor, and quadrants are good choices. For versatility you may also want to try the Maestrale, maybe not as stiff as the ones I listed above, but a worthy choice for the backcountry. Either way you should be solid with the setup you have planned. Swing by anytime!

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  18. Quick question about the pure v the hybrid. I plan on purchasing and not sure which one is best for me. Not going to use for touring, but mostly resort skiing and occational side country skiing when out west. I live in western pa and head west twice a year. I spoke to mike at dps and he recommended the pure. Your thoughts?

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  19. Hey Sam,

    The Pure's will be easier to throw around especially in the tight stuff, mostly due to the reduced swing weight. That does go a long way, although some people may question whether that really matters or not, having skied all kinds of heavy skis to ultra light skis I say it does. The Pure's will also be nice for skiing in the east. That all being said, if you don't want to spend the extra coin, just know that the Hybrid is slightly more damp, and some people do like that while skiing in bounds. Either one you choose, you will be extremely happy with. These are easily one of the most enjoyable skis I have ever had the pleasure to ski on. A quick note on mounting, most people have been going 1 cm ahead when mounting, works great.

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  20. Thanks Alex.

    If money was not a factor and knowing that I get about 20 days in per year, which would you choose?

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  21. I personally will always go for the Pure's, they are the way. If money isn't a factor, there really isn't any other choice! You'll be really happy.

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  22. Alex,

    Can you give me a size recommendation. I am 6'3" and 210 and ski aggressively. I am leaning toward the 190s vs 184. I ski a 180 in a traditional camber ski - surface doubletime.

    Thx.

    Sam

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  23. Hey Sam,
    I would go with the 190cm ski for sure. All sizes have an 18m turning radius, so they are all easy to pivot and turn on. With the 190cm, you'll feel better, and it will be much more stable for your body type. Hope that helps!

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  24. Alex,

    Great review. I'm an upper intermediate skier - 5'10" weighing in at aobut a buck fitty - 46 years old - but pretty fit for an old fart. I ski on 168 traditionals. Does the 178 seem too aggressive or right on?

    Thanks

    David

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  25. David,

    178 seems like the choice for you, maybe even the 184cm. I would say if the 178 seems longer than what you are used to it is probably right. You will be amazed at how easy they are to turn. Rip it up!

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  26. Thanks so much for the quick response

    David

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  27. Alex,
    Great thread on DPS. I'm an old horse. I've been tele skiing for the past 20 years. I'm trying to lighten up my gear as much as possible without sacrificing performance or reliability if possible. I've been on Eric Pollards two years. Before that I had Icelantic Shamans. Before that I went through several pairs of Solomon Pocket Rockets. Never skied a rocker, but I'm ready!

    One thing I hate about all the twin tips I've had is loss of tail pressure when you need it with a guide pack. Are these about the same or worse? I'd like a lot of for/aft stability for variable conditions.

    I've been in the 170s range without the rocker. Should I go a little longer? I'm reluctant to do that because I have so many years on that size.


    Finally,
    Do tele skiers like it as much as you? I now Mike Cannon does, but hey, he's selling them.

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  28. Gary,
    You won't look back, rocker really is the future of ski shaping. These aren't mounted like a twin, so skiing with a guide's pack is no problem. I actually enjoy my rockered 112's more than the 105 when I have my full guides pack on, just because of how playful it is. Variable conditions are also much less 'variable' and funny to ski, as the ski really plows though and stay on top, with very little chance of the edges catching compared to a regular ski. It gives most guides that rockstar skier halo while your clients are watching amazed in breakable crust.

    Don't be afraid to go longer, these skis ski like a short ski regardless, as all sizes have an 18m turning radius. You can go 178cm without blinking.

    As for tele skiers, everyone I've seen on them loves them! That being said, the mounting position is not like a regular tele ski, finding pin line. I would mount it in the same way you would an alpine ski. There are a few differences between binding systems, but overall most are pretty straight forward. Hope that answers your questions!

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  29. Alex-

    I'm sold on the Pure's.

    Primarily for BC in the Elks with a minimal amount of front and sidecountry thrown in. The down's as important as the up.

    Dynafit TLT's or something beefier, i.e. Freerides or Barons?

    Thanks

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  30. 5ft 8, 78 kilos , 52 year old git looking at 112's , Advanced not Expert but ski 40 days plus a year in France . Ski on 170 piste ski , and 174 all terain . Swaying to pure after reading thread but really not sure about lenghth 178 or 184 . Any advice or thoughts much appreciated

    David

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  31. The comment section is officially on fire, awesome! As for the choice of bindings, I would always choose a tech system (Plum, Dynafit, ATK, Trab, etc) instead of a Fritschi or Marker. The reason is that they ski like an alpine binding, are incredibly durable, more so than a Fritschi (Toe Pieces) or Marker (AFD's break), if something does it's rare and won't wreck your day, they are lighter, walk better, last for decades, and also keep you closer to the ski which in turn allows it to ski better.

    Binding trends are changed big time, there was a time not too long ago, I would mount one Tech binding a week, and dozens of fritschi's. Instead now, I'll mount all Tech bindings, with may one Fritschi every two weeks.

    David,
    The Pure are great as they're so light, and have a beautiful feel to them. As for size I would say 178 would work. Hope France gets dumped on this season!

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  32. Alex

    Thanks for your very prompt response , I was thinking of Marker Baron bindings . You seem to prefer other tech systems , what 's your first call binding for the 112 's

    Will be in whistler in march so hoping for major snow this year both sides of the pond !

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  33. I would choose Plum Guides, but the Radical ST or FT are also great choices. As for Whistler, it's currently dumping right now, and people have been hiking up for some turns since mid October. It's looking pretty good for March!

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  34. Hi,

    I tested the new dynafit Green Machine with full carbon cap in April 2011. This is a very tasty, stiff, light 4 buckle boot with full touring mode 40 degrees and <1600grams per boot. But I have not seen them promoted in the US, maybe due to price. They should work nicely on the 112.

    Regards
    Fredrik

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  35. Alex - any idea who might have stock? DPS is out and it seems every dealer is out.

    Thanks

    David

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  36. David,

    Escape Route still has stock in the 184 and 190's,in both the Pure's and Hybrid's but nothing for the 178's. I think there may be some more available later in the season if that's what your after, but I'd move fast. I have never seen skis sell like this, ever. Hope that helps!

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  37. Hi Alex - Just bought some 112RP Pure's from ER and trying to make a tech binding decision. I'm an East coast skier (Newfoundland) hoping to make it my one ski quiver for b/c and resort. I'd really like a the Plum Guide but not comfortable without a brake. If I go with the Radical FT now but decide to go with the Plum Guide down the road (when brakes are available) do you have any advice wrt inserts? Use them now or not? Thanks, Ryan

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  38. Ryan,

    The Radical bindings have two front holes that are now slightly more forward than the previous pattern which was shared with Plum. The holes at the back are the same, as are the two rear toe holes. If you go with Guide down the road, you will just have to drill two new holes, and plug the front ones, which is no problem. Either way you have to drill two holes, inserts or none, so I would say hold off on the inserts. Hope that helps, I've heard Newfoundland has some wicked skiing!

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  39. alex, i bought a pair of 112 pures and a pair of plum guides to go with, however, the shop i bought the 112s from wont mount plums, and i am concerned to give to just any tech to mount, can you recommend a tech in calgary that mount the plum guides on the 112s? many thanks in advance. jk

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  40. JK,
    The Plums can be mounted and aligned using the Dynafit Jig, minus the one front middle screw. Most backcountry shops will have the jig. I don't know of any stores to recommend, MEC may be an option, as they should have everything necessary. Maybe even check out some shops in Canmore on your way to the backcountry, as there are tons of shops that will be on top of it.

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  41. hi folks, I just wanted to say hello, and let you all know I will have a few demos to play with later this year in Whistler -- just email me at tobiasvanveen AT dpsskis DOT com. What I don't have, ER will have to demo.

    Also if you're in BC the following stores are now carrying DPS: Escape Route in Whistler and Squamish; ROAM in Nelson; Higher Ground in Golden; Straightline in Fernie; True Outdoors in Kamloops; and Valhalla Pure Outfitters in Revelstoke, Smithers, Kelowna, Vernon, and Vancouver.

    Also... a note on rocker. Technically --- very technically --- rocker is the distance between the widest part of the ski's nose or tail and the 0 degree baseline. What Alex has measured above is not (technically) rocker, but early rise, which is the distance from the tip or tail of the ski until the ski touches 0 degrees.

    While we're at it, the distance between the tips or tails to the 0 degree baseline is the splay. So I don't want to pick hairs, but but did want to mention that the W112RPs have more *splay* than similar models, ie, the tips peel farther apart, and they have a deep early rise combined with strong rocker. In short what most people call "rocker" is a 3-dimensional property.

    Also, the W112RP has a bulletnose design, which is where the nose is skinny, then fattens out (like a bullet) and then gets skinnier again. This fattest section is where you measure rocker.

    And last but not least, the W112RP has a few mms of camber underfoot. Once the ski touches down to baseline (where the early rise ends), it then peels up again. From the tip to the tail touch-down point is the effective edge. The distance from 0 degree baseline at the highest point (usually in core centre of the ski or true depending on design) is camber.

    Point being, when Alex writes "note, ski is not fully reverse camber" it is worth noting that actually the W112RP has NO reverse camber properties at all. Actually, the W112RP has 3-5mm of camber underfoot. It is this camber which gives the ski its edging properties on hardpack conditions. Also a big bonus here of carbon in the core is that this camber will never go flat and lose its spring. With Pures we call it "infinite flex life."

    The DPS ski that IS reverse camber is the Lotus 138. This ski has 5 dimensional rocker / reverse camber properties and even then, it has a slight contact point underfoot with camber to allow for edging capability. It is a complex design that also incorporates a pintail and a bulletnose. But I won't even try to explain that here. ;) Just take a look:

    http://dpsskis.com/ski/lotus138

    Btw the Lotus 138 has been around for about a decade now... the profile is tweaked yearly.

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  42. Much appreciated Alex, thank you! JK

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  43. soooo, just got these a few weeks ago when I was going to be patroling in Big Sky, company went bankrupt and long story short I'm patroling in new hampshire for the season...are these worth mounting this year or save the money till i get back out west?

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  44. Good question. It all depends on the depth of powder you plan on skiing. They still ski groomers well, but if you already have them, might as well mount them and use them this year and next when you get back out west. There are also a few heli-ski companies that are still hiring here and there too, should you want to go that route and stay in the west.

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  45. Hi Alex , ive just purchased a pair of the 112RP`S ( Pure 190cm ) have not yet mounted , mostly resort skiing but get out the back occasionaly in N.Z & Aus( still want to keep the option ) im looking at either Dukes or Barons or alternatively the MFD All times ... interested in your thoughts (im 6ft 2 190 lbs agressive skier )... will be in whistler from 4th Feb so may get you to mount for me .... Cheers ( Shane from Australia )

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  46. Shane, I think you'd be pretty happy at Midsole, you wouldn't have any problems with +1cm but I'm thinking those may be the sweet right on the basic mounting position for you. Send it big!

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  47. Alex, I've been reading your reviews, great work.
    I ski on the East Side of Sierra, late winter and spring. My favorites are steep couloirs (40-50 degrees, measured).
    I ski on a k2 hardside with ft12s, and I find that the edge grip on firm is not great. I feel that the 112s are a bit large, so I was thinking of the new 99 pure.
    1. In uneven winter snow conditions, wind affected, or simply 2 day old pow in a steep couloir that's been polished by sloughing snow, would the 112 pure do well? Is there enough tail that if you hit a patch of ice and get back, you can still recover quickly?
    2. have you tried the 99s or heard anything about them?
    3. How would the edge grip of the 112 compare to a katana, mantra or k2 hardside? Hopefully you skied these.

    thank you

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  48. Hi Alex thanks for the update ... was also after yoiur thoughts on dukes/barons on the 112RP ? do you have any feedback on the MFD ALLTIMES on the 112RP

    CHEERS

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  49. Hey,
    Rod, the 99 is a wicked ski. Mine are coming in in the next day so I will post something once I've skied them. I've had a real good look at them, and have heard tons of stuff, all good. They will be perfect for touring in steep terrain, powder, corn, sastrugi, everything pretty much. They are the main choice for the hardcore backcountry user. I have been also incredibly happy with my 112's. I just got back from the Monashee's and we skied a day of breakable crust, the rest blower, they were perfect in both conditions. Edge grip wise, they are comparable but have a shorter running length, so less edge holding still solid though. Sounds like you may really enjoy the 99!

    Shane, no problem thanks for the comments. I like the Dukes, even though I'm a tech system guy, but would say if you want to tour at all they are a bit clunky. The MFD All Times haven't made many laps in my neck of the woods so I can't comment with any weight behind my words. All of them are pretty good though, with some slight problems with the AFD plate, which is easily repairable should anything go wrong. $15 max for repairing.

    Shred On!

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  50. Are there any pures available? Do any shops have them. DPS is sold out.

    Thanks

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  51. Alex, any more comments on the W99? If I get them, they will be mounted with Plums. I will use them for week old mid winter snow as well as in consolidated spring snow. I am wondering how forgiving they are? I am an advanced skier but my form can slack off at the end of a long day in the BC. Boots: TLT5Ps. I am also looking at the Voile Vector for this purpose as it is much cheaper, has a similar design, is supposed to be forgiving, but still has reportecly good edgehold.

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  52. Harpo,

    No comments yet, still waiting on mine. I've had the chance to play with them at work though, they are pretty sweet. Since they are rockered, sins of slacking off are easily forgiven. I am skiing them with the DyNA similar to your setup, with some Plum Race 165's, so you'll have a good idea on the whole package very soon. I will post as soon as I am finished with some schooling.

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  53. Alex,

    I'm 54 and have skied pretty hard at Whitewater on a pair of legend pro riders in 186's. I've been having a really tough time getting them around the trees in the steeps at Rossland as the snow isn't as deep or forgiving. I'm thinking seriously about the pures but think the 184 might be a better choice than the 190s. I'm pretty sure I'd go with the 188s in an S7 as the alternative. Which length would you advise? My son rips around the Squamish/whistler backcountry on Big lotus 129s and his thought was that the wailers would ski longer than the S7s

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  54. The Wailer skis fairly short, compared to skiing a Legend Pro in 186, they are going to be really easy to turn. My 190's ski and pivot like a little ski, but having skied the Legend Pro a few years ago, I definitely like it's stability at high speeds, which the Wailer does have. If you can ski the Legend Pro in a 186, go 190 Wailer 112, you will be able to throw it around without any problems. If you like speed and big open turns 190, short and tight go 184. Hope that helps!

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  55. Alex:

    I've got my Wailer 112 RP Pure and am now trying to figure out a binding. I will be skiing mostly inbounds this year with only a few back country days and some off the backside. (Maybe a little more backcountry next season) If they work well, a fair amount of bumps (Mary Jane). I've looked at the Baron which seems like a good choice but adds some weight which seems counterproductive given the light ski. Some recommend the Plum Guide -- said it was burlier than the Baron and lighter. I'm concerned about it holding up and releasing if used in the bumps. Cost may be a factor on those. Any thoughts or recommendations.

    Thanks - great posts and answers.

    Tod

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  56. Hey Tod, thanks glad you're stoked! I would say the Baron, I am a fan of tech style bindings, like the Plum Guides but for what you're doing the Baron would be your best choice. Later down the road if you want to tour more, I would swap over to a tech binding. The skis can easily be remounted down the road as the holes on the Markers and Plums don't line up, so they are easy to fit between the old holes.

    Also, even though the Pures are a light ski, the Pure is designed as the highest performing ski it can be. Regardless of binding, you are going to be happy! Hope that helps.

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  57. Hi - looking for a DPS wailer 112rp - I am confused, I am a good skier but definitely not a power skier, heavy skis wear me out - I am late 50's, 5,10" and 160 pounds - should I get the 178's or the 184's? I will be using in a resort only (Crested Butte) alpine binding setup (not touring) - however lots of double black, steep terrain, narrow chutes etc and ungroomed. I am leaning toward the 178 length but have been advised by one owner to go up to 184 - I skied the Armada JJ's in a 185 they were too long - the 175 were great - would appreciate your help. Thanks, Brendan

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  58. Hey Brendan,
    Pardon the late reply. I think the 178cm would be right up you're alley. The Pure's are light, nimble, and extremely fun to ski. Looks like it may be the perfect ski for what you're after, as another choice though, the Wailer 99rp is another cool choice if you're into a narrower width for all around usage.

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  59. Everyone here who is looking to use their skis front/side/backcountry should look at the Sollyfit plate by Binding Freedom. U cam mount sally alpine binders or dynas to them as many times as u want. I think they are a much better option than duke/barons, although the same guy also makes a Dynaduke plate.

    Alex, any comments on the w99 yet?

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  60. Also to add to the binding comments. I've installed quite a few Quiver Killers lately, and they seem to be really holding up well, without the weight or compromise in flex of the centre of the ski, so many option on the market now!

    No comments on the Wailer 99 yet, they are currently with me right now while watching it storm on Rogers Pass. Will have a full review in a week or so! Stoked!

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  61. Great review. How do you find them on super deep days. I ski up in Terrace and I figure this would make a great all round ski touring machine. However a few friends are trying to persuade me to go wider. Any comments.

    Thanks

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  62. I really like these skis in crazy deep conditions. They are great and I will ski them on near day to day basis, but for those few days a year when things are super deep, and you got the cash, the Lotus 138 Pure is the way. Or get on the waitlist for the spoon!

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  63. Hey Alex, read that you've been mounting these with inserts for plum/ dynafits and dukes, are you/ customers happy with the result?
    I guess dukes at +1 and plums at 0? Seems like the perfect ski for it. Great review and comment replies, cheers.

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  64. Hey Tom,

    Sorry about the late request, was out in the mountains and couldn't comment. Plum and Dukes or Verts and Dukes work, but the new radical may have more problems as it is a longer pattern. I will always suggest to customers that bringing in both bindings at the same time is vital to balancing the mounting positions and getting the best mount possible. Either way, whatever the combo, with the right know-how you can make anything work by just adjusting heels and lengths.

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  65. Hi Alex,
    I feel like I am weighing in a little late but here goes. I ski in Northern BC at a resort with little if any true free ride terrain aside from steep black diamond mogul runs. I am thinking about the wailer 99 as opposed to the 112 so I can handle moguls with left over powder. Will the 99 far out handle the 112 as a resort ski?
    I currently ski 2 year old Line Prophet’s(179) for soft snow and Salomon 800xt Enduro’s for hard snow. I am trying to sell the Prophets even though I love them if not for the absence of Rocker technology. Love to ski neutral shins against boot tongues.



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  66. No problem! Having now skied the 112 and 99 now, I can say they are different skis. The real difference for what you're looking at is style. You'll find the 99 will rip around through tighter finesse terrain, whereas the 112 can zip through tight terrain but can blast down it at blistering speed. I will have a 99 review out in the very near future. But sounds like you're leaning towards the 99.

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  67. Can you recommend length and mounting position for an aggrssive telemark skier (6'0" 185lbs), currently skiing 183cm Volkl Gotamas (flat - no rocker or camber) with G3 Ascent bindings as powder skis? I live in the Kootenays of BC where its steep and deep.

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  68. 190cm would be great! Ski's like no tomorrow! I would mount it as you would an alpine binding, not balance point or pin line. Hope that helps.

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  69. I have been waiting long time to have these skis. the truth is that I don like them as much as I thought. the reason being is that they turn to much. So I think that there should be a relation between turn radius and width of ski, of course, on paper it my look good that it has a turn radius is 16, but in practice this is way to much for that width, the reason is that it has a lot of lateral leverage (down force), meaning that the ski does not feel natural on its side. It must be a physics thing that im sure has a formulas to be explained, (Width plus radius equals to high downward pressure). The only thing I can say is that they don't feel proportioned. the other thing is that when you go fast on these skis they are catchy (I'm assuming for the same reason) and are difficult to straight line fast. it is because the tip being reversed side cut It make the ski want to go wither one way or the other but not too well straight.
    I would say I have lots of experience on fat skis, and not to stoked on these...I think the other models seem better. such as the 120 that has much less turn radius or if you wanna go in pow, just the 138. but this hybrid do-it-all-ski....better get a conventional fat shape with little rocker or progressive tip.

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  70. I am enjoying my 112s in deep pow and variable conditions, used with tlt5p's.

    Alex, sorry to keep bugging you, but when will we have your w99 review?

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  71. Sorry to keep you waiting. Here it is! http://tinyurl.com/77b8mgb

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  72. Alex,

    Trying to make a call for the upcoming pre-order and could use some help. I am a very aggressive telemark skier, resort ski when it's deep and spend the rest of my days touring. Height: 6'1" and weight 175lbs. I will continue to use TX Comps with NTN's this upcoming winter. This past winter I skied the 112 Hybrids in a 184 and though I loved them, I felt at times that the 190's would be more appropriate for me. I will be splitting my time between the Wasatch and Teton's this coming winter and want to know if there is a chance of being disappointed in the difference in feel of the Pures compared to the Hybrids. I really want to shave some weight for touring, but would love some feedback regarding the difference in "tele" feel between the Pure and Hybrid.

    Thanks a bunch for all the great info you provide!!

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  73. Alex,

    I would like to know how good the ski floats? Does it float like a "real" powder ski with a waist around 120 mm? It is floaty enough to ski in 1m deep powder?
    And another question. I'm about 180cm should I take the 190cm or 184cm? I'm (very) good skier on piste and would now like to ski more in the backcountry.

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  74. Hey Guys,

    Sorry about the late response. But for the first Anonymous person, you'll find that the Hybrid is more damp than the Pure, but Pure will give that extra "oomph" which is super fun. The Pure will also be lighter and for touring it makes a huge difference. Most Tele Skiers on them have been really happy with both, and have been even happier with the NTNs.

    Anonymous #2, The 112 floats, enough said. You can get even more float with fatter skiers, but this ski allows you to be in the snow just enough that it makes every condition from 10cm of fresh to chest deep snorkel snow amazing. I would also choose 190cm, as it has the same turning radius as the 184, but will give you a touch more float and stability to giver. Hope that helps!

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  75. What position would you put a Voiler tele binding on Pure?

































    Hi!
    I`ll by Wailer 112 RP Pure, and I ski telemark. I`m 175 cm high and 75 kg. Should I go for 178 cm or 184 cm.
    I`m thinking of putning on Voile Switchback binding. What position do you recomend?
    Thanks c",)





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  76. Hey,
    I think the 178 should be good for you. I would recommend mounting them just like an alpine ski, and use the midsole mark, as most people I know Tele'ing on them are using at that position. Have fun!

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  77. Hi Alex!

    I'm 5'11", weigh 135 lbs, quite scrawny at age 18. I used to race at a very high level until my knee fractured. Last 2 years I have been doing some recovery and am often in the snow park.

    I'm looking into a powder ski I can bring around the world for myself. From the Far East (Japan) to the East (Europe) to the West (Interior BC). I have been researching the Lotus 120 in 184 for quite some time and have been quite set on my decision, however recently a friend told me that a Wailer 112RP would be sufficient. Could you weigh in to the matter?

    I'm also big on park skiing, and was thinking I could just slap some FKS bindings on with extra wide brakes. I have little to no knowledge on professional backcountry breaks and would like to ask for your input on binding selection.

    And last but not least, would either of these skis even be right for me? As I said before, I ski in the park a lot and this is to be my travel for the deep stuff ski (I live East side of Canada). I ski plenty of park and enjoy doing tricks and would probably enjoy doing tricks in the deep stuff as well (backcountry booters). Should I go for the DPS pintail shape at all or a more symmetrical double spoon type shape like the Salomon Rocker 2, Armada Bubba, or On3p caylor?

    I sort of am inclined to getting a very wide ski. It appeals to me a lot due to the scarcity of them around here and me always wanting one. However, if it's not intelligent and better to go for something else, it would be greatly appreciated for someone to tell me that.

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  78. Hey Alex,

    To answer your question, I think the Wailer 112RP would fit exactly what you're after. It will be a bit more park style, but it is not a park ski, as the Lotus 120 doesn't have the tail rocker that you might enjoy. It will fair extremely well in Japan throughout Europe and excel in the Interior of BC. This ski loves powder, but skis breakable crust and various other conditions better than any other ski I've been on.

    As for bindings for the backcountry I always recommend a Dynafit or Tech style binding. They are light, but burly for big mountain and ski mountaineering pursuits. FKS bindings are great if you are skiing 100% in-bounds, but will be useless as soon as you head to the backcountry, unless you have a helicopter.

    As for the final point, I think that if you are planning to ski park a lot, I would go with a park specific ski, and get the Wailer 112RP for when you head out to the bigger mountains and/or deeper powder. I like to think of every ski out there as a good ski, but a good ski is good for one thing and not everything out there, and also for everyone out there. My best advice would be to search out skis that suit exactly what you are doing. Hope this helps, if not feel free to ask more questions, happy to help.

    Shred hard!

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  79. Hi Alex,

    Will 112RP a good choice if I also like to go into bumps whenever there is chance? Or you will recommend other models?

    I am 173cm, weight 75KG. What lengh will you recommend?

    DT

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  80. The 112RP is a great ski, it does work in moguls but isn't designed for that. Your best bet for a ski that would ski moguls well, as well as perform out of bounds would be the Wailer 99. Probably best in a 186cm for you, so you can ski every kind of terrain without being held back. Then again, mogul skis are made for moguls, just use those when you feel like cruising the bumps.

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  81. Just bought my 112RP's and have been blessed from the moment I clipped in....for an older skier....they are a dream...these skis should not be sold by anyone under the age of 62...Thank you DPS

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  82. Would a dps wailer handle a hammerhead tele binding. Nervous about the binding ripping out of the top sheet. Im 6ft 1 inch and 175 lbs

    Thanks
    Adrian Sears

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