2024 Salomon QST Echo 106 Skis Review
By: evo Employees | Last Updated: July 27th, 2023
Review Summary
Avg. Tester Rating: ☆☆☆☆☆ (4.7/5)
The 2024 Salomon QST Echo 106 Skis build on the success of Salomon's best-selling QST skis, catering to ski mountaineering and backcountry enthusiasts.
Built with the exact same dimensions as the regular QST 106, the QST Echo 106 maintains excellent all-mountain capability in a lighter construction optimized for touring. This weight reduction results in a slightly softer feel, but the ski retains great performance overall. Mounting a lightweight touring binding will be the best course of action for those seeking adventure in the backcountry.
Reviewers agree that the QST Echo 106 performs exceptionally well in variable conditions and provides a solid and stable feel underfoot. While it may not quite match the stability of the QST 106, it still holds its ground when needed, which is crucial for demanding backcountry terrain. The ski's versatility shines, making it a reliable choice for tackling challenging slopes and delivering confidence at high speeds.
In summary, the 2024 Salomon QST Echo 106 Skis are an excellent choice for backcountry enthusiasts who prioritize downhill fun and versatility. Its lighter build and capable all mountain geometry make them a go-to option for tackling challenging slopes and exploring remote terrain. Whether you're a touring enthusiast or an aggressive skier, the QST Echo 106 delivers an impressive experience. Shop the Salomon QST Echo 106 Skis
Technical Details
"You asked, we answered: a touring-specific evolution of the iconic QST line. The QST Echo 106 combines a karuba / poplar core, superlight basalt fibers, and cork damplifier, for a light-weight, lively, go-anywhere backcountry ski. "
| Available Sizes (cm) | 157, 165, 173, 181, 189 |
| Dimensions (Tip, Waist, Tail - mm) | 138 - 106 - 125 (@ 173 cm) |
| Radius (m) | 16, 17, 18, 19, 20 |
| Rocker/Camber Profile | Rocker / Camber / Rocker |
| Weight | 1700g (per pair @ 173 cm) |
| Construction | Karuba / Poplar Wood Core + Superlight Basalt Fibers + Cork Damplifier |
Expert Testers & Methodology
Why should you trust evo's Field Tested Reviews? Great question! Over this past winter, evo employees from our various locations across Washington, Oregon, Utah, Colorado and Whistler were selected to provide long-term testing of next year's hottest new skis and snowboards. Employees were also invited to attend exclusive multi-day demo events where brands — like Salomon — showcased their upcoming products for the 2023/2024 winter season. By collecting unbiased, in-depth reviews from our most experienced skiers and snowboarders, we hope to help you find the best gear to maximize your fun in the mountains!
Testing for the 2024 Salomon QST Echo 106:
We had four different testers with decades of sking experience spend extensive time testing out the 2024 Salomon QST Echo 106 skis. As advanced and expert skiers with a diverse background of skiing experience across a variety of mountains, conditions and terrain, they independently compiled their thoughts and each provided us their individual reviews below.
David Hewat
Digital Content Editor
Tester Rating: 5-Stars
Tester Ability Level: Expert
Size Tested: 181 cm
Testing Location: Mission Ridge, WA
Killer Touring Ski!
"If you're a fan of the QST 106, the QST Echo 106 will be right up your alley. It has the exact same dimensions, which means it has the same all mountain capability as the regular version, but in a lighter build optimized for touring. I was able to compare the two back to back and aside from the lighter weight, the only difference is that the QST Echo feels a shade softer. All in all, a great ski. Mount up a touring binding and go for a walk!"
Sammi Bushman
Product Content Writer
Tester Rating: 4-Stars
Tester Ability Level: Advanced
Size Tested: 173 cm
Testing Location: Loveland, CO
Brings the classic QST magic into the backcountry
"The QST Echo 106 brings the legacy of Salomon's best selling QST skis into the world of ski mountaineering and long-haul backcountry terrain. Featuring the same profile with lighter materials, it embodies the philosophies of Cody Townsend: type B fun shouldn't sacrifice ski-ability for ease of use. And that rings true. The QST Echo excelled in variable conditions and felt solid underfoot. While it doesn't feel as stable as the regular QST 106, it still holds its own when you need it too, and in the backcountry that's one of the most important things. I'd recommend the QST Echo 106 for serious backcountry riders looking for a capable touring ski that delivers plenty of downhill fun. While it's not something I'd choose for every day in bounds riding, that's not really what its meant for. I am a skier who likes to push fast and hard and all things considered, the QST Echo 106 felt pretty solid, if not the damp metal platform I adore."
Jake Smith
Studio Photographer
Tester Rating: 5-Stars
Tester Ability Level: Expert
Size Tested: 189 cm
Testing Location: Mission Ridge, WA
A Swiss Army Knife of a ski
"The QST Echo 106 is stable at high speeds and lightweight for a hard charging ski. I felt very confident no matter where I was on the mountain with these under my feet, and cannot wait to take these up the PNW volcanoes in the spring. I am 6' ft and rode the 189cm, which I felt was a good size for my height. I'd opt for the 189cm both in bounds and out of bounds."
Pros
Lightweight Design: Thanks to the use of lighter materials, the QST Echo 106 skis are optimized for touring and backcountry adventures. The reduced weight allows for easier maneuverability during ascents and less fatigue on long-haul trips.
Downhill Performance: Despite being designed for touring, the QST Echo 106 maintains impressive downhill performance. It delivers a solid and stable experience, especially at high speeds, giving skiers the confidence to push their limits on challenging slopes.
All-Mountain Capability: With the same dimensions as the QST 106, the QST Echo retains its all-mountain capability. It handles various snow conditions and terrain types effectively, making it a reliable option for diverse skiing experiences.
Cons
Stability: While the QST Echo 106 performs well in most situations, it may not offer the same level of stability as the regular QST version. Skiers seeking an extremely damp and stable platform for aggressive skiing may find it slightly lacking in this regard.
Limited In-Bounds Performance: Some reviewers noted that the QST Echo 106's primary strength lies in backcountry and touring adventures. It may not be the ideal choice for everyday in-bounds riding, where skiers might prefer a different ski optimized for resort conditions.
Softer Flex: A few reviewers mentioned that the QST Echo 106 feels slightly softer than the regular QST 106. While this can be beneficial for lighter weight during touring, it might not suit skiers who prefer a stiffer ski for more aggressive riding.
Who Is It For?
The Salomon QST Echo 106 skis are best suited for advanced skiers who have a strong focus on backcountry skiing. These skis are designed to excel in touring and long-haul backcountry terrain, making them ideal for adventurous skiers seeking to hit the skin track in search of fresh tracks.
The QST Echo 106's lighter weight and optimized touring capabilities make them a great choice for skiers who value uphill efficiency during ascents. They are well-suited for those who enjoy the journey just as much as the downhill run and appreciate the versatility to tackle various snow conditions encountered in the backcountry. While the skis perform adequately in resort settings and can handle all-mountain conditions, their true strength lies in the backcountry. Therefore, skiers who prioritize in-bounds resort skiing exclusively might find other skis more tailored to their needs.
Overall, the Salomon QST Echo 106 skis are best suited for serious backcountry riders after a lightweight platform that delivers exceptional downhill performance without compromising uphill efficiency.