DÉPART.01

The Salomon DÉPART.01 is a wide freestyle ski for skiers who turn powder, side hits and park features into one creative resort run. Its pointed tips, 104–106 mm waist and short 14–15 metre radii give it an unusual mix of soft-snow area and a tight turning shape. The 2027 SkiEssentials test identifies it as a carryover in construction, shape, profile and graphics.

A karuba and poplar core keeps the platform relatively light, while fiberglass and full sandwich sidewalls provide support and rebound. Titanal reinforces the binding area, and wide steel edges leave material for tuning after park use. Rocker at both ends and a tapered outline let the ski release for pivots and slashes, with camber underfoot helping it arc when engaged. Testers liked its float and playfulness, but differed substantially on edge grip and stability, so its composed feel depends on snow and skiing style.

Choose it for an advanced or expert skier who values creative lines and wants enough width for soft resort snow. It is particularly appealing for spring laps, powder and transitions between features. The width slows edge changes compared with a narrow park ski, and the loose shape asks for more engagement on firm snow. A skier who mostly carves groomers or prefers a damp platform for fast, direct lines should look toward a more directional build. Bindings are sold separately.