For outdoor enthusiasts and winter sports lovers, the term Faction Prodigy 3 Underfoot sparks excitement and curiosity. This ski model from Faction Skis has been praised for its versatility, performance, and all-mountain capabilities. Whether you are hitting deep powder in the backcountry or maneuvering tight tree lines, the Prodigy 3 offers a playful yet responsive experience. Understanding what sets this ski apart and how the underfoot width factors into its performance can help skiers choose the right setup for their style, terrain, and skill level. With so many skis on the market, getting to know the specs and feel of the Faction Prodigy 3 is essential.
Understanding the Faction Prodigy 3
A Mid-Fat All-Mountain Ski
The Faction Prodigy 3 is categorized as a mid-fat all-mountain ski. Designed for intermediate to advanced skiers, it aims to bridge the gap between freestyle and freeride. The ski’s profile makes it particularly well-suited for variable terrain groomers, trees, sidecountry, and even soft snow. It gives riders the freedom to explore the mountain without having to swap gear depending on the conditions.
Key Specs Overview
- Length options: Typically ranges from 172 cm to 190 cm
- Underfoot width: Approximately 106 mm
- Turn radius: Around 20 meters, depending on length
- Camber profile: Rocker-camber-rocker
- Flex: Balanced flex suitable for playful turns and landings
The Prodigy 3 is built to be fun without compromising on stability. Riders find it suitable for jumps, presses, and carving turns, while still being able to handle powder and crud effectively.
What Underfoot Really Means
Defining the Term
In the skiing world, underfoot refers to the width of the ski at its narrowest point typically located right beneath the skier’s boots. The underfoot measurement is essential because it determines how the ski behaves on different surfaces. A narrower underfoot (7090 mm) is better for quick edge-to-edge transitions and groomed slopes, while a wider underfoot (100120 mm) excels in soft snow and off-piste conditions.
The 106 mm Underfoot Sweet Spot
The Faction Prodigy 3 has an underfoot width of 106 mm, positioning it as a solid all-mountain ski with freeride leanings. This width gives it extra float in powder, more stability in chop, and a smoother ride in mixed snow. It’s not as quick edge-to-edge as narrower skis, but it compensates with better performance when conditions get soft or unpredictable.
That said, skiers who stick mainly to groomers may find the width excessive. For those who explore everything a mountain offers from park to powder fields it’s a well-rounded option that leans playful.
Performance on Different Terrain
On Groomers
Although the Prodigy 3 is wider than your average frontside ski, it still holds its own on groomed runs. The rocker-camber-rocker profile gives it edge grip during turns while allowing easy release at the tail. It may not snap turns like a carving ski, but it maintains stability at moderate to high speeds.
In the Trees
The ski’s maneuverability makes it an excellent choice for tree skiing. The rockered tip and tail help with quick pivoting, and the moderate flex allows riders to adjust direction easily. While it isn’t a lightweight touring ski, it handles technical lines with confidence when driven properly.
In Powder
This is where the 106 mm underfoot truly shines. The Prodigy 3 floats well thanks to its wider platform and rockered tips. Skiers report that the ski remains playful and surfy in soft snow, letting you smear turns and bounce through pillows with ease. It’s not a full-on powder ski, but for a do-it-all setup, it does remarkably well in deep conditions.
In the Park
Faction’s roots in freestyle are apparent here. Though wider than most park-specific skis, the Prodigy 3 still excels in jumps, side hits, and switch landings. The symmetrical shape and softer flex in the tip and tail offer a fun ride. Whether buttering on rollers or spinning off natural features, this ski accommodates a creative, freestyle approach to the whole mountain.
Construction and Materials
Durability and Strength
The Faction Prodigy 3 is constructed with a poplar wood core that balances weight and strength. It includes a full-strength sidewall, which improves edge hold and durability. The top sheet and base materials are designed to withstand repeated impacts from rails, rocks, and rough terrain.
Tech Features
- Elliptical sidecut: Promotes smoother turn initiation and control
- Anti-chip micro-cap: Reduces top sheet damage
- High-resistance edges: Designed to handle rail impacts and hardpack
Faction incorporates thoughtful features that extend the ski’s life while enhancing its playful nature.
Who Should Use the Prodigy 3?
Ideal Skill Level
The Faction Prodigy 3 is best for intermediate to advanced riders. Beginners might find the width and length difficult to control without solid technique. Advanced skiers will appreciate how it can handle both aggressive and relaxed runs across varying terrain.
Ideal Use Cases
- Skiers who like to mix park tricks with backcountry lines
- Riders who want one ski for all mountain conditions
- Adventurous skiers who value float and maneuverability over high-speed carving
Not the Best Fit If:
- You only ski groomers and want a high-speed carving ski
- You’re looking for a super lightweight touring setup
- You’re a beginner who needs a narrower, more forgiving ski
The Faction Prodigy 3 with its 106 mm underfoot strikes a strong balance between freestyle fun and freeride performance. It’s playful yet stable, wide but not cumbersome, and capable of tackling nearly any type of snow. Whether you’re dropping cliffs, hitting park features, or navigating tight glades, this ski gives you the freedom to ride creatively. For skiers looking for a one-quiver option that leans toward a fun, expressive ride, the Prodigy 3 is a solid contender worth considering.