The Black Crows Navis Freebird Set (Skis + Skins) is designed for experienced skiers who approach ski touring with a big-mountain mindset: those willing to put in the effort of the ascent to enjoy challenging descents in varied snow conditions. With a waist width of 104 mm, this touring ski is firmly positioned in the freerando segment, where downhill versatility doesn’t come at the expense of climbing performance. Available in three lengths (172, 179, and 186 cm), it offers a consistent performance for skiers seeking a ski capable of handling demanding alpine terrain without sacrificing the practicality of the ascent.

A big-mountain setup tailored for those who climb to descend hard

The Navis Freebird Set (Skis + Skins) is described by its manufacturer as a big-mountain touring ski designed for skiers who crave descents. The balance between ascent and descent is clearly tilted toward the descent: the ski is designed to handle big conditions while maintaining enough maneuverability to navigate varied terrain. Its 21-meter sidecut (for the standard 172 cm length) facilitates dynamic turns, well-suited for steep slopes and transformed or powder snow. This is neither a lightweight competition ski nor a ski for easy backcountry touring: it’s a backcountry ski intended for experienced skiers looking to push their limits in the high mountains.

Construction and Materials: Structured Lightness and Downhill Stability

The fourth generation of the Navis Freebird features a semi-cap construction combining ABS sidewalls underfoot and a partial cap at the tip—a combination that lightens the structure while maintaining stiffness where it’s needed. The wood core combines poplar and paulownia, two wood species known for their lightness and ability to absorb vibrations on rough terrain. The laminates incorporate carbon and fiberglass for responsiveness and energy return, while a Titanal plate is positioned under the bindings to enhance edge grip and stability at high speeds. The sintered base rounds out the design, ensuring efficient glide on both hard-packed and fresh snow.

Profile and dimensions: a wide, rocker-tipped ski for all-mountain versatility

The profile of the Navis Freebird Set Skis + Skins combines a progressive tip rocker, classic camber underfoot, and a slightly raised tail. This Rocker/Camber/Rocker geometry ensures good float in powder thanks to the tip rocker, while maintaining the grip and precision of the central camber on hard or groomed snow. The dimensions for the 179 cm length are 133 mm at the tip, 104 mm at the waist, and 121 mm at the tail, confirming a generously wide ski designed for float and versatility rather than pure speed on the piste. This 104 mm waist width clearly positions this ski for off-piste terrain and unpacked snow conditions.

Compatibility and Equipment: A Ready-to-Use Set

This set comes with pre-cut Pilus Navis Freebird skins, a dedicated accessory designed specifically for this model. The attachment points built into the ski are designed for effortless skin attachment, with a pre-cut design that eliminates the need for any additional preparation before your first outing. As for bindings, the Navis Freebird is compatible with touring-style bindings—whether insert-style or hybrid—giving you the freedom to choose based on your riding style and existing gear.

Weighing approximately 1,575 g per ski in the 179 cm size, the Black Crows Navis Freebird Ski + Skin Set offers a consistent balance between a lightweight design for long ascents and sufficient durability for challenging descents in big-mountain terrain. If your ski touring focuses on challenging outings on demanding slopes and in varied snow conditions, this ski is a comprehensive and ready-to-use tool thanks to the Pilus Navis Freebird skins included in the set.