The Line Honey Bee has clearly been designed specifically for women and for once that's a really great thing.
The graphics are cool and quirky and the lightness of the Aspenlite Core makes for a poppy, playful ski that's both fun and easy to ride. The lengths available are great for shorter skiers and whilst a more advanced skier might like to see an option at 170cm, the Honey Bee will be fit for the majority of female freestylers.
In the park, the soft flex may feel a little uncertain to begin with, but it holds big jumps solidly and is playful and quick on the rails.
The symmetrical flex, classic camber and tip/tail rocker is great for switching it up and trying out new skills. The Thin Tip where the core and sidewalls are reduced for better swing weight help with those initiations. The delightfully named 'Fatty Base' is 30% thicker than normal so will improve the durability and length of life in the skis which is great news for those who like to push their gear and personal limits.
When it comes to off-piste and crud in particular, the Honey Bee is a little less buzzy. The soft flex lacks the power needed to cut through in more challenging conditions. Back on the piste, the Honey Bee does an adequate job but I wouldn't recommend it as an all-mountain option unless you're particularly looking for a super lightweight, entry-level kind of ride.
At £310 without binding the Line Honey Bees are a bargain. Versatile and progressive, they will suit a wide span of skiers, from newbie riders right up to those competing at higher amplitudes. Girly but capable, the Honey Bee comes with just the right amount of sting in its tail.
