2018-2019 Icelantic Nomad 105 Lite

More on Length

I mentioned at the top that I was conflicted about which length of the Nomad to ski. I often opt for touring skis closer to the 181 cm length, but my inbounds skis are much closer to the 191 cm length. After skiing the Nomad 105 Lite, I’m very happy I went with the 191 cm. It’s not as agile in tight trees, and the ski is not as easy to hop and pop around, but I’ve been shocked at how well it combines maneuverability and stability.

Cy Whitling reviews the Icelantic Nomad 105 Lite for blister Gear Review
Cy Whitling on the Icelantic Nomad 105 Lite, Togwotee Pass, WY.

If you’re planning on skiing mostly tighter terrain and trees and are conflicted about the sizing, I’d have no hesitation recommending the 181 cm. But if you ski mostly open terrain, or don’t typically have a problem muscling skis around when you are on tighter lines, then I think the 191 cm version will be the better choice, and you’ll get a very stable platform for the landings of bigger airs.

Who’s It For?

I mentioned before I’d skied the Nomad that, “Icelantic’s Nomad 105 Lite fills an interesting niche as a touring or 50/50 ski that’s oriented toward playful, jibby skiers. However, the 191 cm version, at least, seems like it could also work well for more traditional skiers looking for a slightly more playful ride, or bigger skiers looking for a playful touring option.”

After skiing the Nomad 105 Lite, I stand by that assessment. Mounted at -5 from center, I’ve been very impressed with the Nomad as a touring ski for jibby skiers. But I think more traditional skiers will also get along with the 105 Lite very well with a more rearward mount point, and bigger skiers will appreciate the length and flex.

Personally, as a playful skier who tries to tour mostly for powder, the Nomad 105 Lite fits into my quiver as the most versatile touring ski I’ve used. It’s not the best weapon for spring mountaineering lines or apocalyptic powder days, but it covers a much broader spectrum of use than many touring skis, and is easy and predictable, capable and stable. I plan on reaching for the Nomad 105 Lite on the majority of my touring days next season, and will update this review once I’ve had more time on them in various conditions.

Bottom Line

With the Nomad 105 Lite, Icelantic has created a very versatile ski that will appeal to a broad range of skiers. As a playful skier that’s been looking for a backcountry ski that feels similar to my daily inbounds ride — without the weight penalty — the Nomad 105 Lite is the closest thing I’ve found to the Holy Grail. And more traditional skiers who are looking for a slightly more playful ride will also appreciate the Nomad 105 thanks to its stiff flex, long length, and minimal taper.
NEXT: Rocker Profile Pics

5 comments on “2018-2019 Icelantic Nomad 105 Lite”

  1. Wasn’t sure about these skis until I came across your thorough review! Great stuff and thanks a lot for the time spent putting this together. Placed the order for the skis, but now need to figure out what bindings and boots will make for a good match with these. Was debating the Adrenalin 16 A/T bindings and have no idea on the boots yet.

    Any recommendations for either by chance?

    Thanks!
    -Josh

  2. Same question here. And same thanks for the thorough review. I’m thinking about maybe getting these skis now and then waiting to mount the Salomon S/ Lab Shift bindings when they come out in the fall. And then choosing boots by fit and price or, if the Shifts accept my current old Alpine bindings, keeping those for a while and saving for a new, lighter pair. What do you think about boots and bindings?

  3. Hello Blister’s reviewers!

    Thanks for this one, very interesting :-).

    Did you already try the new Icelantic Natural 101 (132-101-117, 3’159g @ 178cm) and do you plan to do a review? This ski is also available in @171cm & @185cm.

  4. Really hope you’ll review the Icelantic Natural 101 and compare them to this one and some others like the Black Diamond Helio 105 :-).

    Thanks and have a nice weekend!

  5. Hey there,
    I was looking at the reviews by manufacturer, and I think you should review more Icelantics! The new Pioneers are sick, and I’ve always been curious about the Natural 101 and 111s for touring.

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