Zero G 96

The Blizzard Zero G 96 is a touring ski for long approaches and varied backcountry descents. Its 96 mm waist provides a middle ground between a narrow firm-snow ski and the wider Zero G 105. Four lengths run from 164 to 185 cm. The low pair weights emphasize efficient climbing while leaving a useful platform for soft snow and changing alpine conditions.

Trueblend Tour combines light paulownia with stronger poplar, with an ash insert adding support under the binding. Zoned stringers keep the middle supportive and allow easier flex toward the ends. Early-rise tips and tails help the ski release; camber and partial ABS sidewalls maintain useful edge contact on firm sections. A five-radius sidecut uses different arcs along the edge, pairing a straighter middle for tracking with shaped ends for smoother turn entry and exit.

Choose it for an intermediate or advanced tourer who wants one relatively light ski for mixed backcountry snow. The 2027 SkiEssentials test describes agile, versatile handling with a clear touring focus. It gives up some powder flotation to the 105 and some firm-snow quickness to the 88. Its light build also offers less damping through rough resort snow than a heavier alpine ski, so regular lift-served use is a compromise. Blizzard recommends a Pintech touring setup, with bindings selected separately.