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Top List
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Mar 29, 2025
5.0
Nicolas Martin
Ski Expert
I grew up in a small French town between the mountains and the ocean. Ski season in Colorado, surf trips in Central America, and multi-pitch climbing in the Alps, Enduro-DH: traveling to find new playgrounds is my passion. I recently bought a van to get the most out of the outdoors, even if all my gear doesn't fit in it. I haven't figured out what I like best yet, but I'm sure I can help you find the best choice for you.
As an avid skier and outdoor enthusiast, I've had the pleasure of testing countless skis over the years. But when I first strapped on a pair of Liberty Skis Radians, I knew I was in for something special. These skis represent a perfect fusion of European manufacturing expertise and Colorado-inspired design, resulting in a line that's raising the bar for all-mountain performance.
Liberty Skis has made a bold move by shifting their manufacturing to Europe, a decision driven by both quality and sustainability goals. This transition has allowed them to ensure that every wood core is FSC-certified, guaranteeing sustainably harvested wood, and to implement eco-friendly epoxy in their production process. It's refreshing to see a brand taking such concrete steps towards environmental responsibility without compromising on performance.
The company now sources key materials like bases and edges from Europe, while still incorporating their signature bamboo from Asia. The majority of Liberty skis, including the Radian series, are now assembled in their European-based factory, with some models still being pressed in Canada. This global approach to sourcing and production allows Liberty to leverage the best materials and manufacturing techniques from around the world.
The shift to European manufacturing for the Radian and Horizon models has resulted in a noticeable upgrade in the ex-factory finish of these skis. As someone who appreciates the finer details, I can attest that this improvement in quality is immediately apparent when you first lay eyes on a pair of Radians.
Let's dive into two standout models from the Radian series:
The Radian 92 is a testament to Liberty's commitment to blending performance with accessibility. These skis offer easy turn initiation and ample stability underfoot, making them incredibly user-friendly. I've found that this combination of characteristics makes the Radian 92 a joy to ski, regardless of your experience level.
GOOD FOR
Versatile all-mountain performance
Easy turn initiation
Stable at speed
AVOID FOR
Deep powder days
Aggressive, expert-only terrain
Designed as an all-mountain ski, the Radian 92 strikes a balance between freeride capabilities and carving precision. This versatility is what makes it stand out in Liberty's lineup. Whether you're carving up groomers or exploring off-piste, these skis adapt seamlessly to your style and the terrain.
The construction of the Radian 92 is where Liberty's expertise really shines. Utilizing Variable Metal Technology, the ski incorporates a full sheet of Titanal underfoot for stability, which tapers off in the tip and tail. This design choice results in easier turn initiation and increased forgiveness, making the ski nimble in bumps and trees while maintaining precision where it counts.
During my time on these skis, I was consistently impressed by their ability to handle a variety of conditions. From early morning corduroy to afternoon chop, the Radian 92 remained predictable and fun.
Now, let's talk about the Radian 100 - a ski that's been turning heads and winning awards. This model offers an impressive balance of all-mountain performance and big mountain powder capabilities. What's particularly exciting is that Liberty has managed to shave off approximately 100 grams per ski compared to previous models like the Evolv100, all while maintaining incredible stability.
GOOD FOR
All-mountain versatility
Powder performance
Lightweight construction
AVOID FOR
Narrow groomers
Beginner skiers
The Radian 100 has been racking up accolades, and it's easy to see why. FREESKIER magazine named it an Editor's Pick for 2024-25, praising its carving abilities:
This ski loves carving. It adores big, fat railroad turns on super firm snow and also finds great stability in the moguls, with the energetic tail helping snap the ski around. East Coast resorts and West Coast groomers, beware—the Radian 100 is coming for you.
As someone who's skied both coasts, I can attest to the Radian 100's versatility. Its 100mm waist provides enough float for those powder days out West, while still maintaining the agility needed for tighter East Coast runs.
Blister Gear Review also gave the Radian 100 their stamp of approval, noting its quickness and versatility:
If you want a very quick ski that's fun to carve and outperforms its width in fresh snow, the Radian 100 warrants consideration.
In my experience, this assessment is spot-on. The Radian 100 feels nimble underfoot, allowing for quick direction changes, yet it doesn't sacrifice stability when you want to open it up on longer runs.
What makes the Radian series so special? It's all in the details of their construction:
The Radian series features VMT (Variable Metal Technology) combined with a core made from poplar and ash woods. This is further enhanced with titanal and carbon materials, as well as ABS sidewalls. The skis also boast IS7200 Series Sintered Bases and a half-cap construction with full-length carbon fiber.
This combination of materials results in a ski that's responsive, stable, and durable. The use of carbon fiber, in particular, adds a lively feel to the ski without compromising on weight.
Liberty describes the Radian and Horizon models as "Precision-Guided Directional Freeride" skis. This design philosophy aims to help skiers with strong frontside skills translate their abilities to off-trail skiing seamlessly. As someone who loves to explore all aspects of the mountain, I find this approach incredibly appealing.
One aspect of Liberty Skis that I particularly appreciate is their commitment to sustainability. While they import components like German steel edges, Austrian plastics for the topsheet and ptex, and American adhesives, they're doing so with an eye towards quality and environmental responsibility.
A unique feature of Liberty Skis is their use of a special type of bamboo that grows only in a specific region of the East China Sea. This bamboo contributes to the lightness and responsiveness of the skis, setting them apart from competitors. It's this attention to material sourcing that helps make Liberty skis stand out in a crowded market.
After spending time on both the Radian 92 and Radian 100, I can confidently say that Liberty Skis has hit a sweet spot with this series. They've managed to create skis that are accessible to a wide range of skiers while still offering the performance that more advanced riders demand.
Model |
Waist Width |
Best For |
|---|---|---|
Radian 92 |
92mm |
All-mountain versatility, groomed runs |
Radian 100 |
100mm |
All-mountain performance, powder capability |
Whether you're a dedicated resort skier looking for a one-ski quiver or an adventurous soul who likes to mix it up between groomers and backcountry, the Radian series has something to offer. The combination of European craftsmanship and Colorado-inspired design has resulted in a line of skis that are not just high-performing, but also a joy to ski.
So, next time you're in the market for a new pair of skis, give the Liberty Radian series a try. Whether you opt for the nimble 92 or the more powder-oriented 100, I'm confident you'll find a ski that will elevate your mountain experience. After all, as we say in the skiing world, the best skis are the ones that make you smile at après – and with the Radians, that smile is all but guaranteed.
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