Gear Review: Black Crows Camox Birdie Skis + Stans Poles

Honest thoughts after multiple seasons on these all-mountain skis.

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Close-up of mint green Black Crows Camox Birdie skis crossed on a ski lift in Breckenridge with snow-covered trees in the background.

My Black Crows Camox Birdie skis crossed on the lift at Breckenridge.

Why I Chose the Black Crows Camox Birdie Skis

I wanted a ski that could handle mixed terrain—powder days, firm groomers, and everything. I also didn’t want something that punished me if I wasn’t charging 100% of the time.

I first heard about Black Crows when a friend brought a pair on a trip. I was immediately into the design—the graphics, the colorways—and after digging into the brand a bit, I liked what I found. The skis are made by former pro skiers and are based in Chamonix, and it all just felt legit.

After reading countless reviews, I landed on the Black Crows Camox Birdie. It’s marketed as an all-mountain ski with a playful edge—light enough to maneuver but still stable when you open it up. That’s exactly what I needed.


Where I’ve Skied Them

These skis have traveled with me:

  • Beaver Creek, Vail (including the back bowls), and Breckenridge

  • Midwest resorts like Granite Peak

I’ve used them at Breck on powder days and hard-packed corduroy mornings. They’ve been my go-to skis across a variety of conditions.

On-Snow Performance

Playful but stable: The Camox Birdie turns easily and feels forgiving, but not floppy. I can ski tight trees or side hits without fighting the ski, but it doesn’t wash out when I want to carve at speed.

Floats in powder: With 97mm underfoot and early rise in the tip and tail, it floats well for an all-mountain ski. It’s not a powder-specific tool, but it holds its own in fresh snow.

Edge hold: On firmer snow, it grips surprisingly well. It’s no race ski, but the edge control inspires confidence on groomers.

Flex pattern: Softer in the tip and tail, stiffer underfoot—great for a variety of skier types and conditions.


The Stans Poles

The Stans Poles were a new addition this year. Paired with my Camox Birdies, I use the Black Crows Stans poles. They’re not adjustable, but they’re light, durable, and have held up through trees, rocks, and packed car rides.

  • Comfortable grips

  • Solid construction

  • Travel well in a ski bag

Black Crows Stans ski poles in black with pink pattern shown against white background.

My Stans poles in black with pink detail—light, durable, and go with everything.


What I Like

  • One ski quiver that works

  • Fun and responsive without being demanding

  • Clean design (mine are mint green)

  • Stans poles are durable and travel-friendly

What I Don’t Love

  • Not the cheapest setup

  • You’ll feel more feedback in chopped-up snow compared to a heavier ski


Final Take

If you want a ski that’s fun, easy to handle, and can handle all conditions—from early season hardpack to spring sidecountry—the Camox Birdie delivers.

These skis have become the pair I reach for most. They’re light enough for short tours, capable in pow, and fun on groomers. Add the Stans poles, and you’ve got a setup that travels well and holds up.


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