The Tour 88s from Dynafit seem to fit somewhere beneath their Race, Speed and Free ranges and without that apparent specialism, we can't help concluding that this should actually be labelled a recreational ski. OK, ski touring requires a certain competency level, but the Tour 88s aren't only for experts. Perhaps those dipping an enthusiastic toe into the uphill arts would be the ideal audience.
Our first impression is that the Tour 88s are ugly as sin. Pure 80s sci-fi, designed for Ripley in Aliens in her deleted ski-scene.
But that might suit the MAMILs who have a natural affinity to the brand. Second impressions were predictable; lightweight climbing focus. So far so Dynafit.
And on the downhill the expectations weren't exactly shattered either. If you ski the Tour 88s from the centre - ie pivoting turns - they are surprisingly stable. But they will not carve, and will barely hold you upright unless your balance is absolutely spot on centred. They are so light that the tips are easily deflected, so no good in chop, and they don't have the float for soft snow.
Essentially these are skis for alpinists or for fitness, and in that sense they're great. But there are now so many skis that can tick those boxes, whilst also providing a comfortable, stable, even fun descent, that you're left wondering whom the Tour 88 is for.
