Connor Burkesmith Testing the Limits of the Zag Slap 112 Ski at JHMR | Photo Lyrica Miron Mountain Weekly News
Over the last few years, I’ve seen Zag skis gaining traction on the US slopes. These skis are marked by their angular tips, poppy colorways, and durable construction. This year I was thrilled to test out the Zag Slap 112’s. This ski was hard charging, surprisingly versatile and an all-around beast on big mountain terrain.
Handling and Best Use Cases
The Zag Slap 112’s are a wide underfoot ski with a 4 out of 5 flex. Think powerful and fast, think big mountain. At 6’ 1” (185 cm) I decided to go with the 188cm ski. Upon first clip in the Slap 112’s felt large and menacing under my feet – I began second guessing my choice of length. When I began riding them however, everything clicked.
The skis were incredibly responsive with excellent dampening and stability. My first run was down variable wind-blown powder with moguls underneath. The Zag 112’s blasted through the chop no problem. I was excited to test these skis on the rest of the mountain.
As you would expect the 112’s performed great in powder with ample float and could stomp cliff drops beautifully, but what about the other stuff? For such a massive ski I was pleasantly surprised how the Slap 112s could still maneuver down moguls and harder packed snow. The ski felt light and responsive underfoot. On groomers the Slap 112 also held its own. The ski felt very stable at high speeds and had no problem holding an edge during aggressive turns. The Slap 112 certainly doesn’t have the turning radius of a smaller ski but can carve well on hard pack.
This ski would be my first choice on deep days or chunky conditions but I would have no issue carving around the mountain on hard pack. The Zag Sap 112’s are a great versatile ski.
Tech
The Zag Slap 112’s innovative technology is largely responsible for the skis incredible performance as described above. The Heavy Duty Light + Linen construction uses multi-axial fiberglass, increasing the skis stiffness in torsion and flexion, as well as linen fiber to allow maximum vibration absorption. The end result is a light yet stable and durable ski.
The Slap 112 has a 5 point shape that increases the maneuverability of the ski without overextending the rocker (which can result in unwanted vibration and shorter effective length). The ski is also designed with a multi-radius shape which decreases the underfoot radius (increasing handling) while keeping the tip and tail tolerance for harder snow.
Specs
Shape (182 cm) 139.5 / 111 / 128.5
Radius (182 cm) 20.5
Weight (182 cm, kg/ski) 1.97
Lengths 176, 182, 188
Flex (stiffness) 4 out of 5
Tail Rocker 40%
Tip Rocker 45%
Camber Low Camber
Fabrication
The construction quality of Zag skis is apparent upon first glance. The Slap 112s include thick edges that are shockproof resistant and a glossy topsheet which adds durability to the ski. These skis also have reinforcing plates under the bindings to ensure a long lasting secure mount.
Zag Slap 112 Ski Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Excellent stability and dampening
- Surprisingly versatile on varied terrain
- Light and responsive underfoot
Cons:
- Length may feel large and menacing.
- Not the best for tight turns on groomers.
- May not be ideal for beginner skiers.
Overall Impression
Overall, I was quite impressed with the Zag Slap 112 Skis ($919.99). These skis are excellent for powder and big mountain skiing but can hold their own on just about any day. With the excellent stability, dampening, and maneuverability, the Slap 112s are sure to become one of your favorite skis.
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