Whoever at Völkl came up with the model name “Deacon” deserves some recognition, like a better parking spot perhaps, for applying a moniker that matches the demeanor of the new series. The Deacon 76 moves with a serenity that comes from inner peace, one way to describe the calm that pervades every move the Deacon makes. All the Deacon models (there are four), use 3D.Glass, giving them a deep energy reserve that can be tapped by more aggressive skiing, and Titanal to amplify edge grip. Full sidewalls assure accurate communication with the edge. So the Deacon has all the power a smooth cruiser could ever need, but it doesn’t flaunt it.
Atomic probably could have just appended a “W” on its unisex Vantage X 80 CTi and it would have already had a damn good women’s ski. Instead, Atomic makes three modifications that together make this model one of the most accommodating for female skiers. To make it lighter, Atomic pulls the ash out of the men’s model from which it is cloned, replacing it with poplar. To keep the unrockered tail from taking over at the end of a carved turn, Atomic uses a V-shaped sidecut that allows the narrower rear to slide out of the turn exit. To help women keep their lower center of mass forward where they’re able to pressure the ski from the top of the arc – a Vantage X 80 CTi W advantage – Atomic subtly elevates the heel.
Over the past few seasons Völkl has been extending its 3D.Ridge design to encompass almost all of its RTM, All-Mountain and Big Mountain collections. Last year, Völkl significantly upgraded what is now its signature design with the addition of 3D.Glass. An added base layer of prepreg fiberglass hardly sounds newsworthy, but its impact can scarcely be over-stated. The special sauce in 3D.Glass consists of flaps in its center section that fold up and over the sidewall, interlocking the base with the rest of the 3D.Ridge. For an on-trail ski like the RTM 81, 3D.Glass is transformative. When the RTM 81’s long front and rear rocker blend with the camber zone underfoot as the ski is flexed, the security on edge is first rate.
