The Black Crows Orb Freebird, immediately recognizable in its signature fluorescent yellow livery, is the established reference point in technical ski touring. Cut for precise mountain navigation with a slender 90 mm waist, this ski's success is not measured by its flotation, but by its formidable edge grip and minimized mass. It is expertly engineered for secure, stylish vertical odysseys, making it the uncompromising accomplice for both extended endurance tours and the most radical, high-consequence descents where control is paramount.
The reason this apparatus performs with such reliable precision is due to its sophisticated architecture and perfectly calibrated profile—proof that Black Crows understands the calculus of mountain travel:
Rocker and Dynamics: The finely tuned Front Rocker profile is not aggressive, but deliberate. It initiates quick pivot maneuvers and provides just enough lift to manage variable snow conditions, ensuring the effective running length maintains a very secure grip—a non-negotiable trait for steep, technical terrain.
Edge Engagement Integrity: A Classic Camber is employed along the effective edge. This foundation is calculated to optimize the interplay between straight-line stability at speed and essential agility. It provides maximum spring and power transmission, so when you roll the ski onto its edge, it bites down hard without feeling sluggish or requiring excessive input.
The Flex Formula: The ski incorporates an Intermediate Flex that is distributed consistently along its entire length. This specific tuning provides the necessary performance responsiveness required for dynamic skiing while offering a degree of forgiveness, which effectively reduces the punishment for minor piloting errors encountered late in a long day.
Core and Structural Defense: The internal architecture relies on a feather-light yet reliable Paulownia core. To ensure longevity and superior performance with modern systems, Black Crows integrates a dedicated Titanal Plate directly underfoot. This strategic reinforcement is not only vital for binding pull-out resistance but also crucial for achieving perfect integration with powerful hybrid bindings like the Salomon Shift and Marker Kingpin.
Construction Methodology: A Semi-Cap construction is utilized, transitioning to a full cap structure in the tip area. This method strategically shaves weight at the extremities, significantly reducing swing weight and boosting overall maneuverability while preserving robust ABS sidewalls along the rest of the ski's length for critical edge stiffness.
Waist Geometry: 90 mm. Optimized for intermediate flotation and superior edge-to-edge responsiveness on firm media.
Core Material: Paulownia. Delivers a lightweight foundation for demanding ascents.
Reinforcement: Titanal Plate under the bindings. Ensures structural integrity and secure mounting for high-performance hybrid systems.
Construction: Semi-Cap with Cap Tip. Minimal swing weight and maximum handling efficiency.
Sidewalls: ABS (Tip Excluded). Delivers essential lateral stiffness and reliable edge grip.
Compatibility: Not compatible with telemark
