#10 on this list
GlideLite Mix STS
Black Diamond
The Black Diamond GlideLite Mix STS bridges the gap between Black Diamond's ultra-durable, high-friction nylon skins and the fast-gliding characteristics demanded by modern ski tourers. It is suited for everyday touring skiers who want better glide performance than the burly Ascension, but still require the secure STS tail hardware and robust construction that Black Diamond is known for. The plush is woven from a 65% mohair and 35% nylon blend, a construction that substantially reduces forward sliding friction compared to all-synthetic skins. This makes extended approaches and low-angle logging roads far less fatiguing. Black Diamond's STS tail hardware remains one of the most reliable adjustment systems on the market, offering 10 centimeters of length adjustment and a secure camming clip that stays firmly anchored to ski tails. While the GlideLite Mix packs down considerably smaller than pure nylon skins, it is still slightly heavier and stiffer than minimalist European models from Pomoca. The glue is also quite aggressive out of the box, requiring strong transition mechanics until broken in. Nonetheless, it represents an outstanding, field-proven all-around skin with predictable handling. **Highlights** * 65/35 mohair-nylon mix balances smooth glide with reliable uphill bite * Industry-standard STS tail clip provides 10 cm of secure, reliable length adjustment * Noticeably lighter and more packable than traditional 100% nylon skins * Tough backing material holds up well against repeated edge contact **Watch-outs** * Aggressive glue requires extra physical effort to pull apart during initial use * Bulkier than comparable lightweight mohair blends
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#1 on this list
Free Pro
Pomoca
The Pomoca Free Pro is built specifically for backcountry skiers running wider freeride planks or those looking to shave substantial weight and bulk from their pack. Backcountry travel on fat skis often means carrying cumbersome, stiff skins that take up half a touring pack. Pomoca solves this by using a proprietary ultralight, supple backing membrane paired with a low-profile plush that compresses down to a fraction of the size of standard climbing skins. The plush consists of a 70% mohair and 30% nylon blend, hitting the sweet spot of low-drag glide and reliable mechanical grip. On long approaches and low-angle run-outs, the Free Pro glides with minimal resistance, saving noticeable leg fatigue over a full day of climbing. The factory waterproofing treatment prevents the plush from wetting out and clumping in moist spring snow, while Pomoca's signature glue formula provides solid adhesion without turning transitions into a test of upper-body strength. The primary concession here comes down to durability and cost. With a retail price hovering around $290, this is an expensive piece of equipment. Additionally, the thinner backing material requires more attentiveness around sharp ski edges and rocky bootpacks than standard-weight workhorse models. **Highlights** * Supple, highly compressible backing packs down small inside a jacket or pack * 70/30 mohair-nylon blend delivers fast, low-friction glide on flats and gradual ascents * Factory waterproofing membrane effectively resists snow water saturation * Balanced glue formula allows smooth, predictable rip-and-pack transitions * Reliable tip loop and low-profile adjustable tail clip system **Watch-outs** * High price point compared to entry-level and mid-range competitors * Thinner backing fabric demands careful handling around sharp ski edges
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Specs side by side
| Spec | GlideLite Mix STS | Free Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Plush Blend | 65% Mohair, 35% Nylon | 70% Mohair, 30% Nylon |
| Tail Hardware | STS clip with 10 cm adjustment | — |
| Tip Attachment | Adjustable steel wire bail | Fixed wire tip loop |
| Primary Focus | Balanced all-around backcountry touring | — |
| Adhesive Type | Traditional hot-melt adhesive | — |
| Approximate Price | — | Around $290 |
| Tail Attachment | — | Adjustable low-profile camming tail clip |
| Membrane Type | — | Ultralight waterproof backing barrier |
| Intended Use | — | Freeride touring and fast-and-light travel |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
GlideLite Mix STS
- Noticeably smoother forward glide than traditional pure-nylon climbing skins
- Proven STS tail hardware provides ten centimeters of secure length adjustment
- Durable 65/35 hybrid plush resists wear along ski edges and across abrasive snow
- Dependable adhesive retention prevents edge peel in deep or frigid snow
- Factory glue is extremely aggressive and physically demanding to separate when new
- Heavier and packs down bulkier than thin-membrane European alternatives
Free Pro
- Significantly lower pack volume and weight than conventional climbing skins
- Exceptional forward glide efficiency saves energy on long approaches
- Supple backing material folds easily to fit inside a jacket during laps
- Reliable glue adhesion provides smooth, low-effort transitions
- Premium price point near $290 sits above most competitors
- Thinner backing fabric requires careful handling around sharp ski edges
- Less mechanical grip on firm, icy skintracks compared to pure nylon
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