http://www.backcountry.com/k2-talkback-96-ski-womens?cmp_id=VD_K2S003X
The counterpart to the men’s WayBack 96 ski, the ladies Talkback 96 is a ski specifically designed for touring and backcountry exploration.
I tested these skis out on a 8” pow day in Northern Utah and found them to be a great powder tool. They are super lightweight at just under six pounds per pair and the incorporated skin grommits were easy to use when preparing for an ascent. They also have K2’s snophobic topsheets that keep snow off of the skis for better efficiency in the skin track.
In bounds I found the ski to be versatile in variable snow. I did notice some chatter and instability at high speeds, making me think this is more of a cruiser ski than a speed demon.
The Talkback is 128mm in the tip, 96 underfoot, 118 in the tail and features a tapered shape for nimble and simple steering in soft snow. The All-terrain rocker profile gives you slight camber underfoot with a lifted nose that makes for smooth planeing and prevents tip dive in the fresh stuff.
The K2 Talkback is going to be awesome for hut to hut trips, multi-day excursions, or those looking to ski both backcountry and a little frontside in the resort. Essentially the perfect ski for ladies who want to venture into the backcountry but who don’t want to invest in multiple setups.
