Stöckli Stormrider 95 vs Renoun Endurance 98 Review

Legend has it, Stöckli was around before the Swiss Alps, and perhaps it’s true. Their tried-and-true Stormrider series has been a staple on the ski slopes ever since with very little changes. So how does it compare to a younger, and more daring, ski from a brand with fresh blood, the Renoun Endurance 98?

Stability:

Renoun's design, featuring non-Newtonian polymer VibeStop™ Technology, offers impressive stability, especially given it’s lighter frame. This technology adapts to different conditions, providing excellent stability at high speeds and in variable terrain. Stöckli's construction is known for stability, offering a solid and damp ride.

Playfulness:

 The Stormrider 95 strikes a balance between stability and playfulness, offering moderate playfulness even with it’s heavier weight. The Endurance 98, with a band of tip-to-tail tinanal metal, packs a punch in this category.

Edge-to-edge:

The Endurance 98 has a quick edge-to-edge transition, allowing for precise and responsive turns, making it suitable for varying turn shapes and terrain, while the Stormrider is a bit more lumbering between turns (even though it’s narrower).

Versatility:

The Endurance 98 showcases remarkable versatility, performing well in various conditions ranging from hardpack to softer snow. Its adaptability across different terrains makes it a versatile choice. The Stormrider 95 is versatile too, handling different conditions effectively, but it may lean slightly more towards hardpack conditions compared to the Endurance 98.

Powder:

If you’re going to the BC backcountry, then neither ski will fit the bill, but for most every-day skiing, both of these skis will float well. Straight by the numbers though, the Stormrider 95 has less surface area for floatation.

While the Stormrider 95 is a time-tested ski, it also lacks character. It’s the same design we’ve seen for years and its stability comes from being just downright heavy. The new Endurance 98, with its innovative technology, accomplishes the same level of steadfastednes, but with far more character and performance — maybe even ‘pizazz’.