Why we chose the Faction Agent 4.0: Relatively lightweight, versatile, charger
Lengths (cm): 171, 179, 185, 191
Sidecut (mm): 141 / 116 / 131
Radius: 23m (185 cm)
Rocker Profile: Rocker-Camber-Rocker
Weight (per ski): 1800g (185 cm)
Price: £700
Buy Here
When filming the Backcountry Ski Guide with us in 2019, there was just only one pair of skis Sam Anthamatten was reaching for throughout the whole week (no matter the conditions). These skis were the Faction Agent 4.0. Unreleased at the time, Mr. Anthamatten was singing their praises. After seeing how they performed (albeit on some seriously talented legs), we knew that we needed to include them in our next buyer’s guide.
And here they are. The Agent 4.0 sits at the top of Faction’s touring specific ski range. Just like with the rest of Faction’s line, the ‘4.0’ moniker represents the 116 mm waist width of these boards.
“Sam was happily straightlining exposed couloirs, buttering fresh powder, and switch carving groomers”
The reason for this ski being Sam’s daily driver? Well, that’ll be the emphasis Faction has put on downhill performance while creating this ski. When paired with a Look Pivot 18 binding, Sam was happily straightlining exposed couloirs, buttering fresh powder, and switch carving groomers.
Faction Agent 4.0 Build
We’re always a little dubious when brands claim that they’ve created a ski that can charge resorts just like a regular downhill ski, yet remain light enough that you’ve got juice left in your legs to tear the downhill. But, after reviewing the Faction Agent 2.0 last year, we’ve been left impressed with the downhill – weight radio that Faction has nailed with the Agent range.
This is all thanks to the use of a lightweight Paulownia core, which also has a carbon laminate pressed over the ski (this covers the full length of the ski). All of the above results in a flex that’s not too harsh, yet not too noodly (far from it, in fact). Rest assured that when you are able to open the skis up, the Agent 4.0s will be there to support you from start to finish.