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.
The 2027 Black Diamond Helio Carbon 95 ski is a lightweight, high-performance backcountry ski designed for advanced skiers who want a balance of lightness for long tours and strong downhill performance. It features a directional profile with camber and double rocker, and a construction based on a sandwich design using a high-tech Paulownia wood core combined with pre-preg carbon fiber. The ski also has 5mm beveled ABS sidewalls around the full perimeter for durability and dampening, a Titanal binding plate for torsional stiffness and binding security, an ABS tail protector with an integrated skin clip slot, and a premium PTEX 4500 sintered base for excellent glide and durability.
The key update for this winter are: - An updated pre-preg carbon fiber layup that improves dampening for a smoother ride. - The full-perimeter ABS sidewalls have been optimized for better damping and durability. - The paulownia core provides a good balance of stiffness and weight, but the flex and torsional rigidity have been refined for improved downhill precision and reactivity. - Slightly refined turning radius and dimensions compared to the previous model.
The latest generation Helio Carbon 95 provides improved ride smoothness and slightly enhanced downhill performance while maintaining the lightweight and versatile character that makes these such excellent touring skis. Enjoy !!
Length: 162-169-176-183 Sidecut/Radius: 162 cm: 123-95-112 mm / 17 m 169 cm: 124-95-113 mm / 18 m 176 cm: 124-95-113 mm / 19 m 183 cm: 125-95-114 mm / 20 m Weight / pair: 162 cm: 2.88 kg 169 cm: 2.86 kg 176 cm: 2.78 kg 183 cm: 2.52 kg