Black Diamond Helio Carbon 102 Ski 2027

Black Diamond Helio Carbon 102 Ski 2027

Black Diamond have been producing lightweight touring skis with carbon construction for over 12 years. From the earliest Carbon Convert models to the Helio Carbon series, these skis have gained a loyal following since they combine a light yet robust construction with a snappy flex and superior downhill performance. Just what you need in a modern touring ski. Black Diamond have always emphasized the downhill capabilities of these skis, with for example their well known publicity "It's all about the Down", however these skis are equally effective when climbing, the carbon construction and latest generation design features making these skis very light for their width.

For 2027 Black Diamond have updated the series. There are still four models. The Helio Carbon 88 & 95 retain the same width underfoot, while the wider skis have been been slimmed down from 104 & 115 mm to 102 and 108 mm, the latter more practical width for powder touring.

Black Diamond have given the Helio Carbon 102  a poplar wood core rather than the usual paulownia used for touring skis, resulting in a ski that is both stronger and more playful.  Built with a sophisticated pre-preg carbon fiber layup and robust full-perimeter ABS sidewalls, the Helio Carbon 102 provides even better downhill stability, vibration damping and responsiveness even in demanding conditions.
Black Diamond have also changed the rocker proflie and the Helio Carbon 102 has double rocker, the progressive tips offering improved flotation in both powder and mixed conditions.
Despite being 2 mm narrower than the previous version, the Helio Carbon 102 weighs about 90 g more per pair (178 cm), Black Diamond having preferred to achieve better vibration absorption and downhill performance, also helped by the new poplar core. 

The Helio Carbon 102 offers higher downhill and soft snow performance with a playful character and remains sufficiently light for long tours. We really liked the 104 and are impressed with the updates that make these skis even better. The Helio Carbon 102 is a hard-charging powder ski for year-round, backcountry performance. Recommended!