For skiers who crave precision, power, and playful responsiveness on the slopes, the Faction Prodigy 2 Underfoot has become a go-to favorite. This ski is designed for advanced to expert riders who want a tool that can handle a variety of snow conditions while still delivering fun in the park or off-piste. Whether you’re carving groomers, floating through powder, or hitting natural features, the Prodigy 2 brings a unique blend of control and creativity. It’s not just a ski it’s an all-mountain companion that rewards progression and versatility without compromise.
What is the Faction Prodigy 2 Underfoot?
Core Design Philosophy
The Faction Prodigy 2 Underfoot is part of Faction’s Prodigy series, a lineup tailored to progressive skiers who enjoy all-mountain freeride skiing with a freestyle twist. It’s a twin-tip ski, which means it can be ridden both forwards and switch, making it a favorite among park riders and freeriders alike. The Underfoot designation refers to the waist width under the boot, typically around 98102mm for this model, offering a balance between float in deeper snow and edge control on harder surfaces.
Key Specifications
- Waist Width: Approximately 98mm underfoot, ideal for all-mountain versatility
- Rocker-Camber-Rocker Profile: Provides float in soft snow and solid grip on hardpack
- Poplar Wood Core: Lightweight yet durable, offering excellent pop and stability
- Twin-Tip Shape: Enables switch skiing and freestyle maneuvers
- Sintered Base: Enhances speed and durability over a wide range of conditions
Performance Across Different Terrain
Groomers and Hardpack
The Faction Prodigy 2 Underfoot performs exceptionally well on groomed runs. Thanks to the camber underfoot, it holds a solid edge even at higher speeds. The ski responds quickly to input, allowing precise turns and smooth transitions. While it’s not a dedicated carving ski, it still delivers a fun and stable ride for aggressive resort skiing.
Powder and Soft Snow
With tip and tail rocker, the Prodigy 2 floats better than narrower all-mountain skis. Although not a powder-specific tool, it handles light to moderate powder with ease. The wider tips provide enough lift, while the underfoot width offers a comfortable ride through softer terrain. For skiers who encounter mixed conditions, this ski offers the confidence to explore.
Park and Freestyle
Where the Prodigy 2 Underfoot really shines is in the park. Its twin-tip design and poplar core provide excellent pop off jumps, smooth landings, and playful control on rails and boxes. It’s also forgiving enough to accommodate creative lines and butters, making it a favorite for freestyle-oriented skiers who want an all-mountain capable setup.
Trees and Moguls
Agile and light underfoot, this ski performs well in tighter spaces like glades or mogul runs. The rocker profile helps initiate turns easily, while the wood core gives it enough torsional stiffness to handle quick direction changes. Skiers will find it nimble and reliable in technical terrain.
Build Quality and Construction
Durable Materials
Faction is known for high-quality construction, and the Prodigy 2 is no exception. The ski’s poplar core is durable and lively, offering a responsive ride that doesn’t feel too heavy. The sidewalls and base materials are built to withstand hard landings, impacts, and general wear from rails or rocky terrain.
Edge Hold and Torsional Rigidity
Thanks to its camber section and full sidewall construction, the Prodigy 2 offers excellent edge grip and torsional stiffness. This becomes especially important when carving at speed or navigating icy conditions. The ski feels stable and composed, which gives confidence to push harder on challenging runs.
Target Audience and Skill Level
Who Should Ride the Faction Prodigy 2?
This ski is ideal for intermediate to advanced riders who enjoy all-mountain skiing but want a ski with freestyle capabilities. It’s not too demanding for progressing skiers, but it has enough performance to satisfy experts looking for playful versatility. Whether you like carving morning corduroy, lapping the terrain park, or exploring off-piste lines, the Prodigy 2 is built to adapt.
Not the Best For:
- Pure Powder Days: While capable, there are better skis for deep snow days with wider underfoot profiles.
- High-Speed Carving: Though stable, it’s not a race ski, and ultra-aggressive carving may expose its playful limits.
- Beginner Skiers: Its flex and profile are better suited to those who have mastered the basics.
Choosing the Right Size
General Sizing Tips
Size selection depends on your skill level, height, and skiing style. If you’re looking for more control and playfulness, go shorter. For added stability and float, especially in off-piste terrain, a longer size may suit you better. Most skiers choose a ski length between nose and forehead height, though park riders may prefer a size closer to their full height for better stability on jumps.
Available Lengths
The Faction Prodigy 2 Underfoot is usually available in sizes ranging from 159cm to 189cm. This range accommodates a wide variety of skier heights and preferences. Make sure to also consider the mounting point; a more centered mount is great for freestyle, while a traditional stance favors all-mountain riding.
Comparisons With Similar Skis
Faction Prodigy 2 vs. Armada ARV 96
Both skis are freestyle all-mountain options with similar waist widths and rocker profiles. The ARV 96 may feel a bit looser and more surfy, while the Prodigy 2 offers a slightly stiffer and more stable ride at speed. Park-focused riders may gravitate toward the ARV, while mixed-terrain skiers may appreciate the balance of the Prodigy.
Faction Prodigy 2 vs. Line Chronic
The Line Chronic is known for its buttery, flexible feel and rail performance. In contrast, the Prodigy 2 has a more supportive flex pattern, offering better performance in varied terrain. If you want more playful jib performance, the Chronic wins. If you want better all-mountain power, the Prodigy 2 shines.
the Faction Prodigy 2 Underfoot
The Faction Prodigy 2 Underfoot is a powerful, playful, and highly versatile ski that caters to the modern freerider. It bridges the gap between freestyle fun and all-mountain performance, giving skiers the ability to explore the resort and the back bowls with equal confidence. With high-quality construction, a responsive ride, and a profile that welcomes creativity, it has earned its place as one of the top skis in its category. Whether you’re lacing tricks in the park or slashing through side hits, this ski will keep the ride exciting, stable, and stylish all day long.