THE PEOPLE’S SKI TEST - 2024 LINE BLADE OPTIC 96

Line Blade Optic 96
Category: Freeride
Length Tested: 184
Lengths: 163, 170, 177, 184
Dimensions: 129/96/119
Radius: 16m @ 177
MSRP: $799.99
More Info: https://lineskis.com/en-ca/p/blade-optic-96-2024

The Line Blade Optic 96’s generous tip and tail rocker helps successfully position this ski as a true all-mountain freeride weapon. This multi-purpose offering would be best suited for anyone from an intermediate to expert skier who is looking for a ski that thrives in off-piste terrain, but still excels and then some on groomers on the way back to the lift. The unique distribution of titanal—courtesy of Line’s Gas Pedal Metal Overdrive technology—made for a sweet progressive flex throughout the entire turn, and really delivered for me on firm snow by providing a super solid feeling underfoot. If I were to compare this ski to a rock star, it would be Neil Young, because it keeps on rockin’ in the ski world. —PATRICK KINGHORN

Location: Red Mountain Resort in Rossland, B.C.

About This Tester:

Patrick Kinghorn
Age: 55 / Height: 5’3” / Weight: 150 lbs
Occupation: School Principal
Years Skiing: 40
Preferred Ski: 170-175cm Length / 90-102mm Underfoot
Preferred Terrain / Conditions: Groomers / Powder