S/LAB QST Echo

The 2027 Salomon S/LAB QST Echo is a touring-focused freeride ski for skiers who want a capable descent after earning their turns. At 106 mm underfoot it keeps the QST family’s soft-snow range, but its Karuba/poplar core and superlight reinforcement make it substantially lighter than the resort QST 106. Salomon positions it for advanced and expert skiers and supplies it flat, leaving the touring binding and mounting setup to the user.

The mixed Karuba/poplar woodcore reduces mass for the climb while retaining a responsive center, and Flax Carbon Superlight fibers add support without a full metal laminate. Cork Damplifier in the tip and tail quiets impacts, while double sidewalls and recycled ABS sidewalls give the ski useful edge transmission for a lightweight build. Rocker-camber-rocker, taper and generous rocker help it pivot in soft snow. SkiEssentials' 2027 test describes a forgiving, maneuverable ski that works best in softer conditions; it is less suited to sustained resort-speed charging than the heavier QST 106.

Choose the Echo for an advanced or expert tourer who prioritizes uphill efficiency but still wants a substantial freeride shape on the descent. Its lower mass and 106 mm platform suit powder objectives and longer approaches, with less suspension through rough resort snow than the heavier QST 106. The width also gives up some edge-to-edge quickness on hardpack. A narrower touring ski makes more sense when firm traverses and long climbs dominate the plan, while the Echo leaves more room for soft-snow performance.