Head Kore 87: The All-Mountain Ski Review

Alright guys, let's dive deep into the Head Kore 87, a ski that's been making some serious waves in the all-mountain category. If you're looking for a ski that can handle pretty much anything the mountain throws at you, from groomers to crud to a bit of soft snow, you've come to the right place. The Kore series from Head has always been about a blend of lightness, power, and versatility, and the Kore 87 is no exception. We're talking about a ski that aims to be your go-to option, whether you're lapping the park, venturing into the trees, or just cruising the piste. This review is going to break down what makes this ski tick, who it's best suited for, and whether it deserves a spot in your ski quiver.

What Makes the Head Kore 87 Stand Out?

So, what's the secret sauce behind the Head Kore 87's popularity? It really boils down to its innovative construction and design philosophy. Head has packed a ton of technology into this ski to create a lightweight yet powerful ride. First off, the Graphene integration is a big deal. Graphene is an incredibly strong and lightweight material, and Head uses it strategically in the Kore 87 to enhance performance without adding unnecessary bulk. This means you get a ski that's nimble and easy to maneuver, but still has the stiffness and stability you need when things get fast or the snow gets chopped up.

Another key element is the Karakoram Ultraweave fabric used in the ski's layup. This material is super strong and durable, contributing to the ski's overall responsiveness and energy return. It’s like giving the ski a shot of adrenaline, making it pop and rebound eagerly out of turns. Plus, it adds to the ski's longevity, so you can be confident it'll hold up season after season. The wood core is also carefully selected, typically a blend of lighter woods like paulownia and denser woods, to provide a balanced flex and good damping. This combination of materials results in a ski that feels lively and engaging, not sluggish or heavy. You'll appreciate this when you're doing lap after lap or dealing with variable snow conditions where quick reactions are key.

The Kore 87's waist width is also a crucial factor in its all-mountain prowess. At 87mm underfoot, it strikes a fantastic balance. It's wide enough to offer good float and stability in softer snow and crud, giving you confidence when you venture off the freshly groomed trails. Yet, it's not so wide that it feels sluggish or difficult to edge on harder snow or groomers. This means you can transition from a fast groomer run to a short off-piste excursion without feeling like you're making a compromise. It’s the kind of ski that encourages you to explore and push your boundaries, providing a stable and forgiving platform to do so. The rocker-camber-rocker profile also plays a huge role. The tip and tail rocker make turn initiation super easy and help with float in powder, while the camber underfoot provides that essential edge grip and pop for carving on firmer snow. It’s a design that truly embodies the spirit of an all-mountain ski, ready to tackle whatever the mountain has in store.

Performance on the Slopes: Groomers, Powder, and Everything In Between

Now, let's talk about how the Head Kore 87 actually performs out there on the snow, because that's what really matters, right? On groomers, this ski is surprisingly zippy and responsive. Thanks to its lighter weight and the snappy feel from the Graphene and Ultraweave, you can initiate turns with ease. It holds an edge well, offering a confident feel even when you're pushing it at higher speeds. It’s not a super stiff, race-inspired carving machine, but it has enough torsional rigidity to give you a satisfying grip and allow for dynamic carving. You can make short, quick turns, or open it up for longer, arcing turns with confidence. The rocker in the tip and tail helps make turn transitions smooth and effortless, so you don't feel like you're fighting the ski.

When you venture off-piste, this is where the Kore 87 really starts to shine. The 87mm waist width provides a decent amount of float for its class. It won't be like skiing on a dedicated powder ski, obviously, but for everyday variable conditions, it's more than capable. Whether you're hitting up some soft snow bumps, navigating through trees, or skiing through light powder, the Kore 87 stays on top of the snow surprisingly well. The tip rocker helps the ski plane forward and prevents the tip from getting buried, making it much easier to stay in control. It's forgiving enough that even if you get into a bit of crud or uneven terrain, the ski absorbs some of the shock and doesn't feel like it's going to buck you off. This makes it a really fun and approachable ski for exploring beyond the freshly groomed runs.

In mixed conditions, like chopped-up snow or icy patches, the Kore 87 performs admirably for its weight. The combination of the wood core and the advanced materials helps to dampen vibrations, reducing chatter that can sometimes make skis feel unpredictable. While a heavier, more metal-laden ski might offer a bit more dampness and stability in truly hard conditions, the Kore 87’s lightness makes it easier to manage and less fatiguing over a full day of skiing. You'll find that it's forgiving on those days when the temperature drops and the groomers get a bit firm, and it can still handle those patches of slush or wind-affected snow that pop up later in the day. The overall impression is a ski that's playful and energetic, yet stable and reliable enough to inspire confidence in a wide range of snow conditions. It’s a true all-mountain workhorse that doesn’t shy away from a challenge.

Who is the Head Kore 87 For?

So, guys, who should be strapping into the Head Kore 87? This ski is an absolute champion for the intermediate to advanced skier who wants a versatile all-mountain ski. If you spend most of your time on the groomers but like to explore the rest of the mountain when conditions allow, this is a fantastic option. It’s also a great choice for skiers who are looking to progress their skills. The forgiving nature of the ski, combined with its performance capabilities, makes it an excellent tool for building confidence and trying new things. Whether you're looking to start venturing into the bumps, trying out some tree skiing, or just want a ski that can handle anything from soft morning snow to firm afternoon groomers, the Kore 87 has got your back.

It’s particularly well-suited for skiers who appreciate a lighter ski. If you’re tired of heavy, demanding skis that require a lot of effort, the Kore 87 offers a refreshing change. Its lighter construction makes it easier to maneuver, less fatiguing throughout the day, and more playful. This can be a game-changer for skiers who want to ski longer, enjoy their time on the mountain more, and perhaps even explore disciplines like ski touring (though it's not a dedicated touring ski, its light weight makes it a potential option for some with the right bindings).

For those who live in areas with variable snow conditions, this ski is a no-brainer. The 87mm waist width is a sweet spot that allows it to perform well in packed snow and also provides enough float to handle those days when you get a bit of fresh snowfall. It’s the kind of ski you can take anywhere on the resort and feel confident in its ability to perform. If you're an advanced skier who prefers a more energetic and less demanding ski, the Kore 87 is definitely worth considering. It offers a lively feel without being twitchy or unstable, providing a great balance of performance and fun. Essentially, if you're looking for a one-ski quiver that can handle a bit of everything and keep a smile on your face, the Head Kore 87 should be high on your list. It’s a ski that encourages you to explore and enjoy every part of the mountain.

The Verdict: Is the Head Kore 87 Worth It?

Alright, wrapping things up, is the Head Kore 87 worth your hard-earned cash? In my humble opinion, absolutely. This ski consistently delivers on its promise of being a highly capable and versatile all-mountain ski. It strikes an impressive balance between being lightweight and lively, yet stable and powerful enough to handle a variety of conditions and skier abilities. The innovative use of materials like Graphene and Karakoram Ultraweave really sets it apart, offering a responsive and energetic ride without the fatigue often associated with heavier skis.

For intermediate skiers looking to step up their game and advanced skiers seeking a playful yet dependable ski for all conditions, the Kore 87 is an excellent choice. It's forgiving enough to build confidence but capable enough to push your limits. The 87mm waist width is a magic number, offering good performance on groomers while still providing respectable float and maneuverability in softer snow and variable terrain. It’s the kind of ski that encourages you to explore, to try that slightly steeper line, or to duck into the trees just to see what’s there.

If you’re searching for a one-ski quiver that can handle pretty much anything the resort throws at you, from hardpack to light powder, and wants a ski that’s fun and engaging to ski all day, then the Head Kore 87 is a top contender. It’s a testament to smart engineering and a rider-focused design. You’re getting a lot of performance and enjoyment packed into a relatively lightweight package. So, yeah, consider the Head Kore 87 a solid recommendation from me. Get out there and shred!