Why the Moment Countach 104 Is My Go-To Ski for Less-Than-Perfect Days
Moment has built a cult-like reputation over their twenty-plus year history. As one of the largest domestic manufacturers of skis, they’ve gained a loyal following among core skiers because they simply make the kind of skis rippers want. Unapologetically anti-corporate, some of their models are pure niche, and they like it that way. While the Countach 104 doesn’t sport a wild head turning design–except, maybe for this year’s graphics–it’s also not a radical departure from Moment’s freeride DNA, even though it does represent a more directional expression of it.
The Countach family is a departure from the freestyle-influenced Wildcat and Deathwish lines that feature a more overall rockered profile. With a supportive flex, intuitive directional stance and stability that was unveiled with the Countach 110 in 2023/24, Moment effectively distilled those traits into a more practical, all-conditions width. Within the Countach family, the 104 is the middle sibling, with the wider 110 and narrower 98 on either end of the spectrum.
I’ve been able to put several days on the 182cm Countach 104 at Alta and Snowbird in variable early-season conditions that have included dust-on-crust, scraped-off groomers, soft afternoon chop and pockets of soft snow. That variety showcased what this ski is, and what it’s not; ultimately allowing it to reveal itself among an increasingly crowded 101-106mm category.
Moment Countach 104 Specs
- Size Skied: 182cm
- Lengths available: 170cm, 176cm, 182cm, 188cm
- Sidecut: 137 – 104 – 124mm
- Radius: 18m (182cm)
- Profile: Low tip/tail rocker with camber underfoot
- Weight: 2050g (182 cm)
Shape, Flex and Construction
The shape and profile of the Countach 104 makes its intentions pretty clear. Moment has trimmed back the rocker–especially in the tail–compared to many of its other skis in this width, extending the effective edge and creating a longer section of true running length. The tip rocker, which starts low and rises gradually, works in harmony with the wider-than-average 137mm tip width to help the ski initiate turns smoothly, without feeling hooky. The tail rocker is more subtle still. It doesn’t give the ski a locked-in, flat-tailed feeling, but it does reinforce the directional nature of the platform by providing ample support.
The flex pattern is stout and consistent, with supportive shovels and a strong tail that rewards good mechanics. Although it’s far from punishing, you still need to be on your game. There’s enough backbone to push through chop without folding up, yet the ski still feels energetic and responsive rather than overly stiff and planky. Think powerful, but not overpowering.
Chad Brower
Weight plays a large role in the ski’s personality. At just above 2000 grams per ski for the 182cm version, the Countach 104 hits a sweet spot between being sturdy enough for aggressive all-mountain skiing but still light enough to feel lively and quick. It’s especially noticeable in bumps and trees, where the low swing weight keeps the ski reactive and easy to flick around without feeling flimsy.
As always with Moment, the construction is dialed. It’s built with full-width sidewalls, a thick base, burly 2.2mm edges and a European beech core that’s wrapped in a custom triaxial fiberglass/carbon fiber blend. Made with the durability the brand is known for, it’s the kind of ski you mount and trust.
On-Snow Performance
The defining theme of the Countach 104 is versatility. This ski adapts well to different conditions, and definitely performs best when driven from the front of your boots.
On groomers, the Countach 104 engages quickly and delivers a solid feel, especially when compared to other ~105mm waist width skis. I wouldn’t classify it as a full-on trench digger, but the low rocker lines and longer effective edge give it a clean, predictable initiation. Once tipped on edge, the ski holds well on grippy or moderately firm snow. It feels nice and stable at speed and predictable through the mid-body of the turn. On the hardest, scraped-off zones, it remains predictable but requires a bit more precision and strength.
When you take the Countach 104 off piste, it really comes into its own. On chalky steeps, soft chop and in the trees, the ski feels far more dynamic. The lower weight becomes a true asset. The ski transitions quickly from turn to turn, is easy to pivot and remains remarkably composed for something without metal in its layup.
In soft snow, you get the best of this ski. The tails release willingly, the tips stay predictable and the whole platform feels surfy without getting overly loose. It’s a fun, controlled agility that many heavier skis don’t match.
Chad Brower
In firm bumps, the ski gets noticeably more demanding. The stiff tail likes to stay engaged, and if you get pushed into the backseat it can take you for a ride. It’s not unmanageable, but you definitely feel it.
In chop and irregular snow, the Countach 104 offers respectable suspension for its weight. It doesn’t hammer through everything like a ski with metal in it, but instead balances support and agility. Again, it’s at its best when you’re driving it from the front.
Comparisons
Overall, the Countach 104 sits on the more precise, more directional end of the spectrum. While a ski like the Volkl Mantra 102 is more stable, damp and demanding, the Countach 104 performs better in soft snow and tighter terrain.
The Atomic Maverick 105 CTI is a fair comparison for skiers wanting a directional ride that has similar levels of nimbleness and energy. While the Atomic is a slightly better carver, the Countach busts through chop and crud a bit better.
Alex Hunt
What Type of Skier Is It Best For?
The Countach 104 is ideal for directional skiers who like to drive the front of their boots but still want a ski that stays lively and maneuverable. If you spend your days ripping gladed trees, navigating steeps, and occasionally opening it up in big terrain, this ski will feel incredibly dialed.
It’s less suited to skiers who want a super-surfy freestyle platform or those whose top priority is high-edge-angle carving on icy groomers. If you want a solid, supportive, all-mountain ski that stays light on its feet and thrives in the kind of variable conditions most of us ski the majority of the time, the Countach 104 is one of the most compelling options in its category.