Test conditions
I've had the opportunity to test the new Carbon Convert since the end of December. With its 180 cm length and the mounted Fritschi Diamir Vipec 12, it is a set-up that is clearly geared towards touring and freeriding.
My test report is limited to a period of four really good days with fresh snow in sub-alpine terrain, as the winter has been a bit poor so far - but one should never give up hope ... The report can therefore only reflect a part of the range of use of these skis - fortunately super dry powder conditions as well as use on soft slopes.
Test
The Carbon Convert is a downhill-oriented touring ski in ultra-light construction. Basically a shrunken big mountain ski, its smaller dimensions and low weight have been designed for longer tours in alpine terrain.
Compared to the "normal" Convert without carbon construction, the pair weighs almost 400 grams less: 2.9 kg in total to be precise. Its low weight is really impressive when you hold it in your hand for the first time. Depending on which type of binding you mount, this impression can of course be even more (or less). In my case, the Vipec 12 puts the weight saving into perspective somewhat.
The low weight of the ski becomes very clear on the ascent. The effort required when climbing is noticeably less. Pointed turns in steep terrain over 40° can be mastered easily and without additional effort, even with a ski length of 180 cm.
With its 105 mm under the binding, the Carbon Convert 180 meets the requirements of a powder ski with sufficient flotation. The long, rockered shovels typical of BD give the ski sufficient lift and enable fast planing even in flatter terrain. However, the ski shows its real potential at higher speeds and on steeper terrain. Tight turns in steep terrain are just as easy to control as long turns on wide open slopes. And the power transmission is always very direct. Although the ski is relatively soft, it runs very smoothly even at higher speeds thanks to a balanced flex line. No fluttering or flapping of the shovel can be detected. On the piste, however, the large radius of 23 m and the low sidecut of the ski have a rather negative effect and make the ski appear sluggish.
