BLIZZARD 2023 BLIZZARD HUSTLE 9

OVERVIEW:

New for 2023, the free-rando Hustle skis use the same mould as the much appreciated Rustler series, with a lighter core for reduced weight. This core, called "Trueblend Free Woodcore" uses poplar, beech and paulownia woods, combined to acheive the optimal effect of each wood type.

This design was first developed for the Brahma and Bonafide models and results in a ski with superior ski-snow contact and excellent feedback to the skier whatever the terrain. Blizzard decided to use this successful design for other models, and the result is the Hustle!

To keep weight down in this free-rando ski, Blizzard have replaced the titanal sheet with a Carbon DRT laminate, supplying energy and power with minimal weight.

The narrowest member of the Hustle family, the Hustle 9 has a longer carbon laminate than it's wider siblings and has a correspondingly stiffer flex that gives excellent performance in harder snow conditions or on piste.

Replacing the titanal layer of the Rustler 9 with the carbon laminate has reduced the weight from 1860 g to 1700 g per ski (180 cm length), This is a welcome weight reduction but not dramatic, the idea being that when used in conjunction with the latest touring boots and bindings the overall weight will be much lighter than a traditional alpine set.

The Hustle 9 has a very versatile 94 mm underfoot and is just great fun, with a character that's easy, fun and accessible whether you're looking for a modern free-rando ski or an alpine all-mountain ski that's lighter and less work than the Rustler series.

Combine the Rustle 9 with a lightweight touring binding and you can happily tour all day, or if you're looking for one ski to combine resort and backcountry then pair them with a Marker PT12 or Atomic Shift.

An excellent ski for intermediate skiers, the Hustle 9 is accessible and offers very good perfomance in the backcountry. Expert downhill and heavier skiers may find the twin-tipped Hustle 9 does not offer quite the same high end ability as a resort-only ski, but that's not the programme here.

RADIUS & DIMENSIONS:

• 157:  123 / 92 / 113 R13
• 164:  124 / 92 / 114 R14
• 172:  124.5 / 92 / 114.5 R15.5
• 180:  127.5 / 94 / 117 R17

BINDING RECOMMENDATION:

• Marker Alpinist 12
• Atomic Shift 10
• Atomic Shift 13
• Marker F12 Tour
• Marker F10 Tour
• Marker Griffon 13
• Marker Squire 12 TCX
• Marker Duke PT12

TECHNICAL FEATURES:

• Freeride TrueBlend wood core
• Carbon DRT Laminate
• Tip and Tail Rocker