Black Crows Camox Birdie Skis & Stans Poles Review: My Honest Take.
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Underside of my Black Crows Camox skis resting against a ski rack at Beaver Creek.
Skiing is all about having the right gear, and it makes all the difference when you find equipment that truly works for you. After testing out the Camox Birdie Skis and Stans Poles from Black Crows, I can confidently say they’ve earned a place in my ski setup. I put these skis and poles through their paces at some of Colorado’s best resorts—Breck, Vail, and Beaver Creek—where I encountered everything from fresh powder to firm groomers. Here’s my honest take on how they performed and why they might be the right choice for you.
About Black Crows: A Brand Built for Skiers.
Founded in 2006 in Chamonix, France, Black Crows was created by professional skiers Camille Jaccoux and Bruno Compagnet. For those that don’t know, Chamonix is in the French Alps where mountains and snow are plentiful. Their mission was simple: design high-performance skis that balance power, versatility, and style. Known for their bold graphics and innovative ski shapes, Black Crows has become a favorite among freeride and all-mountain skiers. The brand is committed to making skis that perform well in various conditions, from deep powder to well-groomed runs, ensuring we get the best experience.
Camox Birdie Skis: My Go-To for All-Terrain Fun.
The Camox Birdie has been my ski of choice for over a year, and I love how it handles. It’s fun, playful, and easy to ski in almost any condition. Whether I’m cruising groomers or fresh powder, these skis feel just right. Designed specifically for women, this ski balances stability and playfulness, making it an excellent option for those who want versatility in their quiver.
Key Features:
97mm Waist Width – Strikes a perfect balance between float in soft snow and edge control on groomers.
Double Rocker Profile – Enhances maneuverability and allows for smooth turns in variable conditions.
Mid-Flex Construction – Just the right amount of stiffness for stability while keeping it fun and poppy.
Lightweight Poplar Wood Core – Reduces weight without compromising performance.
Durability – Reinforced edges and high-quality base materials mean these skis are built to last.
Performance Review:
I tested the Camox Birdie skis at some of the best resorts in Colorado—Breck, Vail, and Beaver Creek—where I encountered everything from fresh powder to firm groomers. These skis delivered a stable ride with easy turn initiation and impressive versatility. They were nimble in trees, fun on bumps, and carved well at higher speeds.
Stans Poles: Lightweight and Comfortable on the Slopes.
The Black Crows Stans Poles are designed for skiers who want a lightweight and strong option without compromising durability. Made from carbon, they feel incredibly light in hand while offering the strength needed for aggressive skiing. Whether you're a cruising groomer or need a reliable pole for all-mountain riding, these deliver. The Stans Poles from Black Crows are so lightweight that I barely feel them in my hands other than the touch of the grip. Despite being incredibly light, they still feel strong and reliable, giving me confidence whether I'm cruising groomers or navigating variable terrain.
Key Features:
Carbon Shaft – Ultra-lightweight yet strong, making long ski days feel effortless. Ergonomic Grip – Comfortable, non-slip handle for better control. Adjustable Straps – Easy to tighten or loosen for a customized fit. Powder Baskets – Ideal for off-piste skiing and deeper snow days.
Performance Review:
I’ve used the Stans Poles in all kinds of conditions, from packed groomers to fresh powder. The grip feels great, even with gloves on, and the weight is just right—not too heavy, not too light. The powder baskets add extra versatility, making them reliable whether I’m on resort runs or hitting softer snow.
Pros:
✔️ Lightweight yet durable ✔️ Comfortable grip with secure feel ✔️ Sturdy aluminum shaft ✔️ Great for powder skiing
Cons:
❌ Not adjustable in length
Design & Aesthetic: The Black Crows Touch.
One of the things I love about Black Crows is their attention to detail in design. As an art director, I appreciate their bold and often bright color palette, minimalistic graphics, and aesthetic. But what sets them apart is the unique sayings they print on the side of their skis. They own this. Each ski features a small phrase that adds a bit of personality and humor to the gear. I love this subtle, almost hidden touch.
For example, one of their past skis had the "Where do we go from here?" printed along the edge. My skis read Those little details make Black Crows feel more personal and fun compared to other brands. Skiing is fun, and they embrace this notion in their brand.
Pro Tip: The Circa Beanie is Legit Soft.
I am always searching for the best beanie. As someone who has Alopecia Areata, my head needs to be covered in the winter. I decided to try Black Crows’ Circa Beanie since I was already buying the Stans ski poles. And, bonus, they offered the beanie in Navy Blue—any shade of blue is my fav.
Once I put this beanie on my bald head, it was love. I tell you, it is the softest beanie. So, when ordering your skis and poles, grab a Circa Beanie. Legit soft.
Final Thoughts: Why I’m Stoked on Black Crows Gear.
My 2024 Black Crows Camox skis crossed in an X while riding the ski lift.
After spending time on the slopes with this gear, I can confidently say that Black Crows makes some of my favorite ski equipment. The Camox Birdie Skis have been a blast to ski on—fun, playful, and reliable in all conditions. The Stans Poles are so light and comfortable that I barely notice them in my hands, which is exactly what I want in a ski pole. If you're looking for gear that feels great and performs even better, Black Crows is worth checking out.
