The Völkl Secret, all new for 2018-19, has the same Titanal Frame construction found in the new M5 Mantra, but at 92 underfoot has a friendlier turn shape for women and a slight amount of rocker in the tip and tail. This construction gives us the power we want in spring-like conditions and tremendous edge hold when groomers are the choice of the day.
The Black Pearl hit ski shops in 2011 with a huge following as the only women's ski with Flipcore construction; it received a bit of a makeover in 2018 with Blizzard's Women to Women platform, sharing its name with big sister Samba (now the Black Pearl 98) and little sister Cheyenne (Black Pearl 78). Blizzard added carbon to the construction and slightly changed the dimensions, resulting in an easier turn shape and a little more power in chopped conditions and spring crud. It was enough of an improvement that some women took a second look, but those who already loved the Black Pearl weren't abandoned.
The Black Pearl has a bit more rocker in the tip and tail, making it slightly better in powder and slush, while the Titanal Frame gives the Secret a bit of an edge in firm conditions.
- Why choose the Secret? You want a slightly wider daily driver that holds an edge on groomers.
- Why choose the Black Pearl 88? You want a nimble daily driver that you can ski in a little powder and spring slush.
- Insider tip: Both of these skis are stable and confidence-inspiring.