Völkl Kendo review 2019

PROSKILAB™ reviewers' comments

Last year, the Völkl Kendo lost its "Best Ski" medal by a narrow margin when tested in harder snow conditions, but it managed to get it again back this year. This year, we reviewed a longer model (184 cm vs 176 cm last year), which improved stability and flotation in powder.

The ski once again confirms its excellent reputation and the pro testers gave it rave reviews: "Super ski," "Perfection," "Excellent ski," "Perfect"...

Its performance on groomed runs is excellent. The Kendo could teach many carving skis a thing or two. The ski will amaze you not only with its performance and turn quality but also its phenomenal edge grip and stability. It is quite stiff and is reinforced by two Titanal plates.

Here, we would just like to point out that Titanal is not the same as "titanium," contrary to what most people think, but rather is the trade name given to an aluminum-based alloy. The letters "Ti" are often added to a ski’s name when it has Titanal in it.

Even though it has a 22-meter radius, this "very well-balanced" ski is still remarkably versatile. Obviously, it prefers long turns and speed, but it proved quite capable of rapidly changing the turn radius despite the length of the model tested. It transitions smoothly between skidded and carved turns which are almost effortless. Its predictable behavior and amazing stability make it a great ski for intermediate skiers who can increase their speed with confidence despite having limited technical skills.

The testers felt the ski had "great potential" off-piste. It floats very well in powder and easily charges through chopped-up snow because it is so stiff.

The Kendo is one of those skis that has become a reference in the market. Hailed as a "very good frontside ski with great off-piste potential," it will please a wide range of skiers from intermediate to expert. The size reviewed is perfect for heavier skiers.

Review: Pros

• Good performance on groomers
• Skidded turns
• Easy to carve
• Predictable, inspires confidence, accessible
• Good performance off-piste
• Floatation in powder

Review: Cons

• Requires good technique
• Less at ease in short turns

The ski review scores

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Manufacturer's remarks

Like its big brother the Mantra, the Kendo has always been a hit with testers and good skiers. The Kendo is stable, precise, and powerful on hardpack thanks to two Titanal plates, full sidewall construction, and camber underfoot. It is a good versatile ski with a 90mm-waist and a rocker tip and tail. The Kendo is highly appreciated by instructors who need a high-performance, long-lasting ski that will take them on both groomed hard pack and powder.

Features of the Kendo

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Reviewed by PROSKILAB™