While Volkl's Gotama received a blizzard of accolades when it established (almost single-handedly) the twin-tip backcountry revolution, Volkl didn't mire today's Gotama in the tradition of old-school conformity. Nearly every season the Gotama receives refinements and innovations, which makes sense when you consider that most backcountry freeskiers are hardcore innovators. This season Gotama has new dimensions wider in the tip and waist, but slightly narrower in the tail, which allows you to transition from turn to turn with less effort. What this means is that you can still ski switch in backcountry powder, but you'll now enjoy easier turn initiation on the resort hardpack and groomed slopes--and that makes it a big mountain twin that you can ski every day this season. It features a Sensorwood core consisting of vertically laminated poplar and beech wood with a new Tough Box enhancement that wrap layers of fiberglass strands around the durable Power Construction and wood core. Carbon stringers further enhance the flex and feel of this rugged design without bogging you down with a bunch of excess ounces. This year's Gotama also features Volkl's Elongated Low-Profile (ELP) rocker design, which is a complicated way of saying that the reverse camber shape is easier to turn than the Gotamas of seasons past (and we loved them all). The idea is that ELP rockers bend to float in deep snow but still have the edging potential to keep you turning as you approach the packed-down stuff around the base of the chairlifts. Volkl specifically adjusted the ELP on the Gotama, so it offers distinctive handling that makes the ski unique compared to other Volkl freeride skis--even when those skis have similar shapes. If you're looking for a backcountry powder twin but you can't afford a quiver of skis for other snow conditions, this year's Gotama will have you smiling all the way down the mountain.
Purchase USD$45 or more and get free shipping. The Volkl Gotama Flat Freeskiing Skis for Men is available through Altrec.com.
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