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PTO Review
We skied them. Here's how they stack up.
These skis span 2 categories (Powder, Carving). Scores reflect each ski's intended use — direct comparison across all dimensions may be misleading.
Rustler 11 — powder-day specialists who also want a ski that handles non-powder conditions with some dignity. Octo — intermediate-to-advanced skiers who love carving groomers and want something lighter and more playful than traditional metal carving skis. Check the radar chart below to see where each one wins.
Each row compares all skis on one dimension. 🏆 marks the highest score.
| Dimension | Rustler 11 | Octo |
|---|---|---|
| Carving | 4 | 8🏆 |
| Park | 3🏆 | 2 |
| Playfulness | 7🏆 | 7🏆 |
| Forgiveness | 7🏆 | 6 |
| Stability | 7🏆 | 6 |
| Powder | 9🏆 | 2 |
Powder-day specialists who also want a ski that handles non-powder conditions with some dignity. Big mountain skiers in the PNW, Rockies, or anywhere that gets regular dumps. The second ski in a two-ski quiver.
One-ski quiver seekers, groomer-first skiers, or tight-tree specialists. For everyday all-mountain, get the Rustler 9. For a true powder-only surfboard, there are more playful options.
Intermediate-to-advanced skiers who love carving groomers and want something lighter and more playful than traditional metal carving skis.
Ice coast carvers who need maximum edge hold. High-speed chargers. Anyone who ventures off-piste.
The Rustler 11 is best for powder-day specialists who also want a ski that handles non-powder conditions with some dignity. The Octo is best for intermediate-to-advanced skiers who love carving groomers and want something lighter and more playful than traditional. The right choice depends on your primary terrain, ability level, and riding style.
The Blizzard Rustler 11 scores highest in Stability at 7/10, making it the strongest all-mountain option. It handles groomers, chop, and variable conditions without losing composure, so it's the best single-ski choice for skiers who want one pair for the whole mountain.
The Black Crows Octo leads in Carving with a PTO score of 8/10. Its edge grip on hard snow and groomed runs is the strongest in this comparison.
The Blizzard Rustler 11 is the most forgiving option with a Forgiveness score of 7/10. It doesn't punish imperfect technique, making it the easiest ski to progress on among these.
Not sure? Ask us.