K2 Mindbender 89Ti Review

The Mindbenders of past years have provided a predictable and polished experience. The current Mindbender 89Ti, unfortunately, loses a few steps compared to those that have come before it. Despite an overall drop in performance – especially compared to the K2 Mindbender 90Ti we tested previously – the new Mindbender 89Ti is still a good-looking ski with some glimpses of liveliness.

Stability at Speed

The Mindbender 89Ti simply doesn't handle vibrations well. Our testers commented that the ski tip absorbs vibrations decently well. However, the body of the ski has the tendency to lose stability after that initial shock, even mid-turn. There is a considerable positive change in performance when we can ski smooth snow, but if you go off-road, you'll notice a sharp decline in stability.

Carving Ability

Mindbenders of the past have scored well in the carving metric, as does the 89Ti. K2 continues to use its unique Ti Y-Beam technology in these skis, with a forked layer of titanal spread closer to the edges through the shovel of the ski. This design provides precise, powerful turn initiation and support through the rest of the turn. Yet, the Mindbender 89Ti is still a bit slower edge to edge compared to other narrower-waisted models in our lineup.

When the conditions line up, this ski can feel polished and progressive, especially through medium-radius carves. However, as soon as we encountered cut-up groomers or softening crumbly off-piste rollers, the Mindbender 89Ti would lose its composure and grace. For our test team, everything depended on the snow surface with this ski.

Powder Performance

Like the Mindbender 90Ti we tested previously, the 89Ti is surprisingly good in powder. A middling score in this metric reflects the ski's reluctance to make short turns easily rather than its ability to float – despite its relatively narrow waist, this ski floats decently well. Though at only 89 millimeters underfoot, it will never be a true contender among wider skis that perform better in deep snow.

Crud Performance

K2's All-Terrain Rocker profile is described as a “gradual rise in the tip with a short, low section in the tail for greater versatility in all conditions.” Early rise tips generally improve turn initiation and bolster a ski's ability to pop up and over chunky snow. Unfortunately, our team had a difficult time initiating turns in crud. Like our experience at speed, the tip could sustain hits, but the middle of the ski was squirrely, especially during periods of heavy vibration.

Terrain Playfulness

The Mindbender 89Ti is fun to pivot, pop into the air, and play around as long as you're in smooth, rolling terrain. However, it was hard to maneuver quickly in moguls. Not only does it have a tough time with rough surfaces, but it doesn't make quick turns very easily – two prerequisites for a quality bumps ski. The Mindbender 89Ti is fun enough on the right day and on the right part of the mountain. Similarly to recognizing your own limitations as a skier, it is important to keep things mellow with this ski.

Should You Buy the K2 Mindbender 89Ti

A lightweight, intermediate skier who enjoys fun runs on smooth, mellow terrain will likely enjoy the Mindbender 89Ti. We wanted to find a bit more, but this ski simply didn't deliver as well as we hoped it would be based on previous experiences with similarly sized skis in the Mindbender line. Cut-up and rough snow surfaces tend to adversely affect performance, which makes it difficult to recommend the 89Ti as an all-mountain ski.

What Other Skis Should You Consider?