The 2025-2026 ski season brings a new chapter in skiing with the introduction of Salomon's QST 94, a versatile model designed for both all-mountain and freeride enthusiasts. Tested at Crested Butte Mountain Resort in Colorado, the QST 94 marks an evolution in Salomon's iconic line, intended to replace the previous QST 92 model.
"QST 94: This piste-forward ski thrives where all-mountain and freeride meet, with a 94mm waist for a versatile mountain experience,” said a representative from Salomon, highlighting the core philosophy behind this updated model.
This season, Salomon chose to roll out substantial updates across their QST series, rather than a complete overhaul. This decision reflects a commitment to gradually enhance performance and meet the evolving needs of skiers. Reviewers have been eager to dissect these new skis since their January reveal. Among them, Luke Koppa shared insights after getting hands-on with the QST 94.
Having logged about ten days on the slopes, Koppa noted, “With a 180 cm length, the QST 94 demonstrates remarkable stability and agility, making it well-suited for various conditions.” The ski features a measured tip-to-tail length of 178.7 cm, aligning closely with its stated specifications of 180 cm.
In terms of physical attributes, the ski is equipped with a traditional sidecut radius of 16.5 meters, designed to facilitate precise turns. Its lightweight design, weighing in at 1862 grams, is complemented by a blend of poplar, basalt fibers, and titanal binding reinforcement within its core materials.
Since Salomon's initial introduction of the QST skis during the 2016-2017 season, the models within the series have consistently evolved. With each iteration, enhancements have been made to construction and materials to cater to the diverse needs of mountain enthusiasts. For example, the first generation highlighted construction variations and performance under human power, whereas recent models have prioritized stability in more challenging snow conditions.
Notably, the transition into the v3 series saw major improvements in ski shape and consistency. The adjustment of the mount point—a factory recommendation of -9.6 cm from the center—coupled with a calculated traditional camber of 2.5 mm, caters to an intuitive skiing experience.
Moreover, testing the QST 94 was complemented with high-performance boots and bindings, specifically the Lange Shadow 130 MV and Salomon Strive 13, ensuring that the combination delivered optimal results on the mountain. “Using quality gear alongside the QST 94 enhances the overall experience,” emphasized Koppa, underscoring the ski’s compatibility with advanced equipment.
The latest QST 94 also showcases aesthetic enhancements, with color options that include both green and black top sheets, appealing to a broad range of skier preferences.
As the winter approaches, the anticipation surrounding the 2025-2026 Salomon QST 94 continues to build. Skiers are eager to see how these advancements will translate into real-world performance on their favorite terrain. With continuous evolution in the QST line, Salomon aims to keep the experience fresh and engaging for both new and seasoned riders alike.
Looking ahead, the 2025-2026 ski season is set to create a vibrant atmosphere filled with excitement about the latest technology and innovations on the slopes. The QST 94 stands poised to not only meet expectations but also push the boundaries of all-mountain skiing.