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The Hustle series is Blizzard’s answer to one of the ski industry’s most pressing issues. By inviting influence of two of their most successful models, the Hustle 10 happily balances the buoyant skintrack performance of a backcountry ski with the downhill performance of more resort-oriented options.
Building off of the beloved shape of the Rustler series, the Hustle shaves off significant ounces by replacing metal with carbon inserts akin to what we see in the Backland series. Ultimately this allows us to ski all but the most heinous of chopped up crud and hardpack with aplomb, that won’t absolutely ruin your day if you take it uphill.
Blizzard seems like they’re marketing the Hustle 10 primarily as a touring option- we think they make a compelling hybrid option if you split your time between the resort and the backcountry. This “single quiver” application is particularly relevant if you find yourself favoring lighter, more playful skis over heavy metal laminate models.
Notable Features
Carbon Flipcore DRT: A tapered sheet of titanal runs the length of the ski, thickest and most supportive underfoot then gradually thinning out towards the tips and tails where it is replaced by carbon inserts. The end result is a ski that weighs less, with more playful and forgiving shovels that still can hold an edge when called upon.
Trueblend Freecore: Blizzard’s proprietary four-wood blended core uses a combination of wood stringer for a specially tailored feel for each model. These stringers are grouped to provide a consistent flex pattern through the whole length of the ski.
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
-
Borrows the shape of Blizzard’s big mountain skis for backcountry travel -
Excellent choice for a skier who wants to split time inbounds and in the backcountry
Things we don't like:
-
A drop in weight means a significant drop in ability to blast through consolidated snow compared to the Rustler series -
Hybrid gear is all about compromises, a more specialized backcountry ski would save effort during uphill travel
Specs & Features
- Waist: 102 mm
- Length: 156-188 cm
- Rocker Profile: Rocker/Camber/Rocker
- Core: Beech/Poplar/Paulownia
- Tail: Partial Twin Tip
- Turn Radius: Medium
Related Reviews
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
-
Borrows the shape of Blizzard’s big mountain skis for backcountry travel
-
Excellent choice for a skier who wants to split time inbounds and in the backcountry
Things we don't like:
-
A drop in weight means a significant drop in ability to blast through consolidated snow compared to the Rustler series
-
Hybrid gear is all about compromises, a more specialized backcountry ski would save effort during uphill travel
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