Every skier knows the frustration of a ski that is either too lively when you are tired or too soft when you finally get going. HEAD’s new Discovery range is designed to solve that, with a progressive flex that is easy at low speeds and pushes back harder the more you put in.
As featured in InTheSnow magazine, Issue 82
The Discovery Range is new from HEAD this year. This season is all about progressive flex. The harder you push the ski the harder is pushes back. Engineered to feel lighter, easier to turn and control, agile when you want it and stable when you need it, this is real progress. With multiple widths there is a model for everyone.
| Key specs | |
|---|---|
| RRP | £505 to £660, model dependent |
| Type | All-mountain |
| Widths | Multiple, from narrow piste models to an 86mm waist |
| Example: Discovery 82 Pro | 129 / 82 / 112mm, 14.4m radius (170cm) |
| Example: Discovery 86 Pro | 130 / 86 / 113mm, 15.2m radius (170cm) |
| Flex | Progressive, stiffens as you load it |
| Technology | Auxetic structure, Superframe construction, graphene |
| Ability | Intermediate to advanced |
| Stockist | Multiple UK retailers |
What makes the Discovery different?
The clever part is HEAD’s Auxetic technology. Auxetic materials do something counter-intuitive: when stretched lengthwise, they get wider rather than thinner. Built into HEAD’s Superframe construction, this means the ski becomes progressively stiffer as it bends into a turn. Add graphene, which HEAD uses to keep weight down while adding strength, and the result is a ski that feels light and forgiving when you are cruising and supportive when you commit.
Which Discovery model is right for me?
Discovery replaces HEAD’s previous Shape series, and the range covers everything from entry-level and package skis up to the stronger Pro models. Early reviews of the Pro models are encouraging. SkiEssentials’ first impressions found the 82 Pro quick edge to edge with good grip on hard snow, while the 86 Pro felt smoother and more stable but slower to engage. That is the classic trade-off between a narrower carver and a wider all-mountain ski.
As a rule of thumb, if you spend most of your time carving groomers, look at the 82s. If you like to roam the whole mountain and ski chopped-up afternoon snow, the 86 will feel more at home.
Our InTheSnow review
HEAD has retired its long-running Shape series to make way for Discovery, and the early verdict is encouraging, especially for skiers who are still building confidence.
Skipass’s French testers described the Discovery 86 Pro as accessible, tolerant and reassuring, with easy turn initiation and a forgiving tail that makes controlling your speed simple. Over at SkiEssentials, testers scored it highest for quickness and forgiveness, and one summed it up as light, quick and responsive. That progressive flex really does seem to make it feel easy right up until you start to push.
Realistically, strong and aggressive skiers may find the 86 Pro a little soft and short of punch out of the turn, and SkiEssentials’ testers were split on its grip on very firm snow. If that sounds like you, the narrower 82 Pro is the grippier carver. For intermediates who want to progress, and anyone who’d rather enjoy their week than wrestle their skis, Discovery is a very welcome arrival.
The InTheSnow verdict
InTheSnow rating: 4 out of 5
A genuinely interesting new range that makes progression feel easier. The progressive flex means the Discovery is forgiving when you need it and supportive when you push, which suits the way most holiday skiers actually ski.
What we like
- Forgiving at low speed, supportive at high speed
- Wide choice of widths and price points
- Light and easy to turn
Worth knowing
- Experts wanting maximum power may prefer a full race-style carver
- Wider models trade some edge grip for versatility
- Match model and length carefully with your retailer
Who should buy it?
Intermediates looking to progress and advanced skiers who want an easy-going all-mountain ski for a full week. Pair it with HEAD’s Protector+ bindings for the latest in release safety.
FAQs
What is HEAD’s progressive flex?
The Discovery stiffens as you push harder. An Auxetic structure inside HEAD’s Superframe construction expands as the ski bends, so it feels easy at low speeds and more supportive as the forces build.
Which HEAD Discovery width should I choose?
Narrower models in the low 80s suit skiers who mostly carve groomed pistes. The wider 86 is more stable and versatile in mixed snow. Ask your retailer to match width and length to your ability and where you ski.
How much do HEAD Discovery skis cost?
UK prices run from £505 to £660 depending on the model, and they are available from multiple UK retailers.
Where to buy
Available from multiple UK retailers. See the full range at HEAD.
Specification
Price: £505 to £660