K2 Wayback 96 review 2019

PROSKILAB™ reviewers' comments

This year, the K2 Wayback 96 was again selected for the PROSKILAB ski test and reaffirms its excellent performance (which we already noted last year).

The K2 Wayback 96 features a very progressive flex that makes it incredibly smooth and fun to ski. It is at ease in all types of terrain and in relatively soft snow conditions, including on groomed trails.

The ski is easy to use, lively, and a solid performer. The even flex provides solid edge grip, which helps on steep slopes, and allows the ski to blast through chopped-up snow.

According to K2, the Wayback 96 weighs 1.4 kg per ski (177 cm), and so it is one of the lightest skis in this category.

For freeride touring, we look for lightness for climbing combined with strong downhill performance. The testers said it was "perfect for this activity." The Wayback 96 is a good choice for intermediate to advanced skiers.

Review: Pros

• Accessible, solid performance, inspires confidence
• Versatile, comfortable in all snow conditions
• Happy on groomers
• Progressive flex

Review: Cons

• Limited performance at high speed

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Manufacturer's remarks

It’s long been thought that reducing the weight of a freeride touring ski meant sacrificing downhill performance. The Wayback 96 is here to shatter that stereotype. This year we have added a layer of metal between the layers of reinforced fiberglass to make it the most versatile backcountry touring ski on the market today. The topsheet was designed to prevent snow from sticking to the top of the ski, so it is lighter and quicker during the ascent, while the sintered base makes it ultra fast. The tip and tail grommets are perfectly compatible with the pre-cut K2 skins so transitions are easier and faster.

Features of the Wayback 96

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Reviewed by PROSKILAB™