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PTO Review
We skied them. Here's how they stack up.
These skis span 2 categories (All-Mountain Freestyle, Carving). Scores reflect each ski's intended use — direct comparison across all dimensions may be misleading.
QST Spark — entry-level to intermediate freestyle skiers. 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 | QST Spark | Octo |
|---|---|---|
| Carving | 5 | 8🏆 |
| Park | 7🏆 | 2 |
| Playfulness | 8🏆 | 7 |
| Forgiveness | 8🏆 | 6 |
| Stability | 4 | 6🏆 |
| Powder | 4🏆 | 2 |
Entry-level to intermediate freestyle skiers. Younger riders learning park and switch. The affordable first twin-tip that isn't a toy. Smaller adults who want a playful daily driver.
Expert skiers, heavy chargers, or anyone over 180 lbs who pushes hard. For more performance, step up to the Faction Prodigy 1 or 2.
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 QST Spark is best for entry-level to intermediate freestyle skiers. younger riders learning park and switch. 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 Black Crows Octo scores highest in Stability at 6/10, 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 Salomon QST Spark is the most forgiving option with a Forgiveness score of 8/10. It doesn't punish imperfect technique, making it the easiest ski to progress on among these.
Not sure? Ask us.