Faction Soma – 16/17

Faction Soma (Model 2016/2017)
The Faction Soma is the kind of all-mountain ski that actually deserves the label. Rather than trying to be excellent at one thing and merely acceptable at everything else, it puts its energy into being easy to ski, playful and confident across a wide range of conditions. With a 90 mm waist, 120/90/110 mm dimensions, twin-tip shape and rocker in the tip and tail, it feels natural in soft snow, bumps, variable terrain and the park.

On groomed slopes, the Soma is light on its feet and quick to pivot. The dual-radius 18/20 m sidecut allows the ski to move comfortably between shorter, quicker turns and longer arcs, while the relatively forgiving construction keeps it easy to manage. Short turns come easily, making the ski particularly enjoyable for bump skiing and softer piste conditions. The catch is hardpack and ice, where the edge grip does not have the same authority as a more piste-focused ski.

The construction combines a Poplar/Beech wood core with Sandwich construction, Microcap protection and Transition Zone Technology. The blended transition zones around the rocker and camber help the ski move smoothly through turns, while the 2 mm camber underfoot keeps it lively and responsive. The slight rocker at both ends adds flotation and makes the ski easier to pivot, butter and generally mess around on.

This makes the Soma especially appealing to intermediate skiers moving beyond the groomed runs, as well as younger or freestyle-oriented skiers who want a ski that can handle the park without feeling out of place elsewhere on the mountain. It is not the choice for someone whose priority is maximum edge hold on icy pistes, but for a fun-loving skier who wants to explore off-piste terrain without fighting the ski, the Soma is a very convincing option.

Specifications:
Dimensions: 120/90/110 mm
Waist: 90 mm
Sidecut: Dual Radius 18/20 m
Construction: Sandwich / Microcap
Core: Poplar / Beech
Rocker profile: Rocker–Camber–Rocker
Camber: 2 mm underfoot
Technology: Transition Zone Technology
Base: Die-cut P-Tex 4000
Edges: 1.8 mm
Intended use: All-Mountain / Freestyle / Park / Soft Snow
Skiing level: Intermediate / Advanced

Summary:
A playful and forgiving 90 mm all-mountain ski with 120/90/110 mm dimensions, dual-radius 18/20 m sidecut and a freestyle-friendly rocker-camber-rocker profile. The Faction Soma is excellent for softer snow, bumps, variable terrain and park skiing, while giving away some hardpack edge grip in return.