Vantage 97C - Review 2023

The Vantage 97 is the widest ski in its class that doesn’t include some metal in it. Instead, much like the 107 Ti we just discussed, they use a mesh made of high-tensile carbon to add structure and support to the ski. Again this one lands right in the sweet spot for intermediate and advanced recreational skiers who favor stability and engaged maneuverability over the newschool slashy style. 

This isn’t like the Redster in that you need to be going lightspeed to get it to turn. Even compared to the 107 titanium version, the 97C is much lighter and does better in tight terrain. But it’s still more than capable of opening up and ripping up groomers. The one place where the 97C is lacking is on bulletproof morning snow or tracked out crust. In both of these cases, you’ll probably find yourself wanting a ski with some metal in it.

So who is the Vantage 97C actually for? It’s a refreshing alternative for skiers who favor heavy charging skis. This is a great way to keep that style of skiing and blasting through soft, variable snow. It gives you some more options if you find yourself in a tight treestand or dodging groups of ski school students on crowded slopes.