Scott Patrol (2007)

I was extremely keen to try the Scott Patrol (£230 + bindings).  With the Patrol being Scott’s entry level ski this season, it replaced the excellent XP Roadster, moving from an on piste carving tool to an all mountain configuration with much wider scope.

Model: Scott Patrol 2007
Size(cm) / Radius(m): 154/11.8 162/13.7 170/15.7 178/17.5
Sidecut: 112-72-102 (154) / 114-74-104 (162) / 116-76-106 (170) / 118-78-108 (178)
Length tested: 170

Manufacturer’s Description:

""A ski to take intermediates to the next level. Constructed to be forgiving without sacrificing performance, the Patrol is the first ski on the road to getting sponsored.""

Ski-Review’s verdict:

Ever since Scott has started producing their skis in Austria (Fischer factory?), the brand has gone from strength to strength, beating more popular and well-known brands in many various categories in various ski tests.

The Patrol did not disappoint—Scott have pitched this one just right, with ease of turn initiation and forgiving nature enabling riders who are still improving their riding skills on and off piste to gain quickly in confidence.

When pushed really hard on piste and particularly on icy terrain the steering becomes a tad vague.  However, this was also true of models from other brands costing around £1100 and upwards.

Off piste the Patrol behaves well enough with just the right amount of rebound not to throw an inexperienced rider around and off balance too much.

All in all, an extremely very good ski for the price.  It will be interesting to see if the Scott Patrol sells as well as the XP Roadster—it is certainly a bold move to introduce an entry level ski in all mountain trim, especially compared to the narrow dimensions of the XP.