SkiPress Canada Vol 24-1

HOT IN CHILE: 08’s SIZZLING STYLES

GEAR

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2010 Vol.23 No.1 skipressworld.com Canada FREE Vol.24 CanadaPost PostPublication PublicationNumber Number41336012 41336012

S K I S & B O OT S

+

THE HOTTEST TRENDS IN SKIWEAR…

ANYWHERE!

258 WINNING SKIS

FOR MEN & WOMEN

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LET OUR SKI FINDER FIND YOUR DREAM SKIS AT: SKIPRESSWORLD.COM

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CONTENTS | VOL.24 NO.1 SKIPRESSWORLD.COM

DEPARTMENTS 06 EDITORIAL: STARES ON THE CHAIR

Want a good chairlift conversation? Do like Lori Knowles and buy a new pair of skis — their graphics are bound to get ‘em talking.

08 SNOLIFE

There’s a Snow Leopard from Ghana leaping onto the slopes of Whistler.

Revelstoke’s about to host a World Freeskiing competition. And Olympic athletes get their say… Twitter-style.

22 TEAM ALPINE

BUYERS’ GUIDE 2010 Read all about it… From the latest skis and boots to 2010 trends in style, shape, technology and colour, your new gear is right here.

12 GEAR

G.D. Maxwell predicts Canada won’t get shut out of the medal race at their own Olympics… not this time. And it’s all thanks to Freestyle.

Want to look good? Purple is in this season. So is gold, green, hi-tech and… wait for it... the ‘80s!

12 GOLD — Solid gold style and how not to overdo it.

14 PURPLE — Paint a purple haze the way Jimi Hendrix would have done it.

16 ‘80S — Electric pink, green, yellow and blue… Billy Idol, eat your heart out.

18 HI-TECH — It’s a highly technical race and skiing’s gonna win it.

20 ECO — Sustainable skiwear: it makes snow much sense.

26 ALPINE TIP

32 BOOTS

Team Canada is being forced to shrink for the Olympics… or can ACA fight that nasty FIS-imposed quota? Peter Oliver asks the burning question.

24 TEAM FREESTYLE

DEEP

It’s a big, bad world of boots out there… good thing we’ve got Steve Cohen and Mark Elling to help us map it. In their Alpine Boots Preview, the two esteemed bootfitters give us in-depth reviews of new ski boots on the market this season.

28 THE ROCKER & THE ROCKSTAR

36 SKIS

“It’s early season, mate,” says John Gillies. “Remember skiing’s basics.”

New York, London, Paris, Munich, everybody’s talkin’ ‘bout… rocker skis?

These weird and wonderful powder boards are the talk of the pre-season.

Too bad the late Shane McConkey — an early champion of reverse camber — isn’t here to hear it. Peter Kray tells us how skiing’s rockstar got our mouths — and our tails — wagging.

Want a new set? Curious about what’s on the market?

Ski Press tested 258 skis for you this season. From easyturning boards to powder skis, twin-tips and all-out racers… they’re ranked here in these pages.

40 MEN’S TEST | 50 WOMEN’S TEST

On the cover: Stéphane Godin catches Thibaud Duchosal coming at him in Les Arcs, France. Duchosal is ranked sixth on the Freeride World Tour.

This page: Skier David Kantermo blasts out of the woods at Åre, Sweden. Photo by Nicklas Blom.

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EDITORIAL | EDITORIAL EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Lori Knowles // lori@skipressmag.com SKI TEST EDITOR SKI TEST TECHNICAL ADVISOR COPY EDITOR

Peter Oliver poliver@skipressmag.com Louis Croteau Michael Bourguignon

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Eve Boissonnault, Steve Cohen, Mark Elling, Peter Gilbert, John Gillies, Peter Kray, G.D. Maxwell, Peter Oliver.

PHOTOGRAPHERS Marc Archambault, Nicklas Blom, Stéphane Godin, Yannic Laroche, Dan Milner, Gillian Morgan, Mike Ridewood, Vance Shaw.

PRODUCTION EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Marie-Claude Lalancette // marieclaude@studiosep7.com

STARES ON THE

CHAIR

I can’t say I actually buy skis for their graphics… but I'd like to.

I’m a woman, after all, with an insatiable appetite for all items that look good on snow. Give me a ski jacket whose colour pops off a white background, a pair of funky pants that make me look like a Lange girl, and a candy-coloured helmet designed for next season, and I’m set. For me, looking good while skiing is not a priority; it’s a requirement. And I’ll bet most male skiers — and all female skiers — agree with me, though many might not slide forward to admit it.

But even I stop short at buying skis for their looks. I’ve stood countless times by that long rack in a ski shop, eyeing the boards, thinking…

“Ohhh, that one looks good.” Then I’ll flip madly through the latest Ski Press Ski Test, searching for the ski’s review. If the cutie didn’t make the grade, I simply can’t give it a go… no matter how sweet the bubblegum graphics; no matter how sexy those shimmering threads of topsheet gold.

Nope. I’ll opt instead for the ski our testers say is made for me — usually something light, turny and highly forgiving, but with enough girth to float and enough zip to keep up with the guys. I’ve ended up with some pretty smart-looking skis, but I’ve also been stuck with topsheets that make Stephen Harper look lively.

Lucky for me 2010 appears to be the year ski manufacturers are paying attention to looks. Blame In Style. Blame snowboarders. Blame technology.

Blame the need to stand out in this dour economy.

Blame the proliferation of women now working for ski companies. Whatever… skis are lookin’ good this season.

6

PROJECT MANAGER

Geneviève Boisclair geneviève@studiosep7.com

SKI TEST DIRECTOR

Sophie Harvey sophie@skipressmag.com

OPERATIONS MANAGER

Stéfan De Gagné stefan@skipressmag.com

PHOTO MANAGER

David-Olivier Gascon david@skipressmag.com

ADVERTISERS SERVICE COORDINATOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Claudie-Anne Brien claudie@lexismedia.ca LEXIS MEDIA

PUBLISHING & MARKETING

Take Movement’s new woman-specific Silk: One ski is white, the other is black, and both have threads of gold. “OMG!” wrote one tester. She said it rides nicely, too. Sounds promising.

Then there’s Elan’s new freeriding Puzzle. To say my kids were mesmerized is an understatement. They had more time for the ski’s comic-book graphics than for G–Force in 3D. That’s pretty impressive.

Fischer’s new rockered Watea 94’s design is classic.

Rossignol’s Voodoo is nostalgic. Kästle’s designs are clean. Movement’s skis have edge. Roxy is into pink and plaid. Everybody in the biz is talking about newcomer Vist’s retro look. Flower power and psychedelic designs are reincarnated… again.

But we’re just barely tapping a ski’s graphic potential, says our resident expert, Peter Oliver. “It’s not far down the road,” he predicts, “that skiers will create personalized topsheets using their own images. Credit-card companies have already started — can ski co’s be far behind?”

Can’t wait, Mr. Oliver. Let future skis be all about me.

So what will I be skiing this season? Can’t tell you yet, but with this season’s lineup of hotties I’m thinking they’re going to look pretty…um, good.

They’ll carve cleanly, guaranteed. But a bounty of stares on the chair is what I’m going for. I want conversation starters.

“Do you like those skis?” strangers will ask.

“Love ‘em,” I’ll answer. “They ride well… and they look fabulous, don’t you think?”

PRESIDENT/CEO Jean-Marc Blais // jmblais@skipressmag.com VP EDITORIAL CONTENT ACCOUNTANT

Peter Kray peter@skipressmag.com France Massé admin@skipressmag.com

SALES VP BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER, FRENCH CANADIAN EDITION / SALES CANADA & USA

Harry deHaas (905) 471-9276 harry@skipressmag.com Alexandre Beauregard (514) 270-0997 alex@skipressmag.com

INTERNET WEB DEVELOPER TECHNICAL SUPPORT

LVL Studio Patrick Leith patrick@solutionsgecko.com

CIRCULATION CIRCULATION MANAGER

Marc Allard marc@skipressmag.com

1395 Marie-Victorin, Saint-Bruno (QC) Canada, J3V 6B7 Tel.: (450) 653-1033 / Toll Free: 1 888 854-3121 Fax: (450) 653-1038 Email: info@skipressmag.com Ski Press is published four times a year in Canada by Ski Press World Inc, in English and French, Ski Press is also published in the United States. Visit skipressworld.com to read all these editions online.

Ski Press proudly supports the global snowsports community including CSIA, NSIA, SIA and ISPO, among others. To partner with us, contact jmblais@skipressmag.com. Stay connected to the global snow community on the web, visit skipressworld.com daily.

PRINTER Solisco

DISTRIBUTION Annette Alain, Gallant Distributions Systems Inc, Kanada Tours, Impact Brochure Systems, Chris Ryan, PeakSide2000, Gold Distribution ISSN 1490-7755 Ski Press is audited by the Canadian Circulations Audit Board.

Canada Post publication number (41336012) Copyright © 2009 Ski Press World Inc. All rights reserved.

While Ski Press World takes all possible precautions to ensure factual accuracy in its pages, it is not responsible for errors in the information published. Suggested retail prices printed in the magazine are subject to change without notice.

COMMENTS? letters@skipressmag.com

This magazine can be recycled. Please recycle where it is possible.

Vote for a your No.1 ski ‘look’ at www.skipressworld.com BUYERS' GUIDE 2010

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The North Face速 Snow Report

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SNOLIFE |

Photo: © val gardena-gröden marketing

Photo: ©ulrichgrill.com/Red Bull Photofiles

BY LORI KNOWLES

MCCONKEY’S PONTOON LEGACY

The late Shane McConkey’s influence will be felt everywhere in skiing, but K2 makes it personal with a limited edition, rockered Shane McConkey Ski, built on the legendary Pontoon chassis. Approximately 500 pairs of the individually numbered, commemorative skis will be produced, and available at authorized K2 Dealers and K2skis.com beginning in October. All net proceeds will be donated to Shane’s family.

— PETER KRAY

ONE2WATCH: 2010 Meet Kwame Nkrumah-Acheampong, nicknamed the Snow Leopard, Ghana’s sole member of its 2010 Olympic Winter Games team. He’s come a long way from the point six years ago when he first stepped into a pair of skis at an indoor ski slope in the United Kingdom. But competing in Whistler in February “is not just an opportunity for me to jump on the slopes and ski,” Nkrumah-Acheampong told Whistler’s Pique magazine while visiting last summer.

“There's never been a Winter Olympics... where anybody has actually experienced anything about an African nation.” Alongside those of Austria and Switzerland, the Snow Leopard hopes to establish a Ghana/Africa House in Whistler during the Games where Olympic fans can see drums, spears and shields from his homeland, and maybe even stay up late for some traditional Ghanaian dancing!

(Editor’s Note: For more on Shane’s influence on rocker ski technology, see our story on page 28.)

REVELSTOKE & THE FREESKIING WORLD TOUR

Photo: Vance Shaw

The Subaru Freeskiing World Tour has named its first Canadian stop: Revelstoke. From January 6 to 10, 2010, the BC ski area’s gnarly chutes, cliffs, glades and bowls will test the world’s best freeride athletes competing for $100,000 in prize money. The series has six stops in the 2009/10 season, kicking off in Chile in September.

8

MORE SKI NEWS AT:

skipressworld.com

BUYERS' GUIDE 2010

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SNOLIFE |

SKI NAKED? NOT NECESSARY

Canadian Retailers: ONTARIO Angie's Outdoor • Barrie

Congratulations, skiing! You’ve made the list of the 20 Best Stripper-Free Bachelor Party Ideas. ThePlunge.com declared Alpine skiing No. 9 on its list of relatively safe activities for guys celebrating their plunge into marriage.

“The Plunge's favourite bachelor parties are the ones that incorporate both rugged outdoors and drunken revelry,” the website declares. “Skiing fits the bill: a few runs on the slopes, a few bourbons in the lodge. Bonus? Ski bunnies.” Other stripper-free bachelor party ideas include hunting, poker, herding cattle and killing each other… online, virtually.

Blue Mountain Resorts • Collingwood Greg Christies Ski & Cycle • Chelsea, Qc Mount Kirby Skis & Boards • Oshawa Tommy & Lefebvre • Ottawa Racer Sportif • Oakville Ski Pro Shop • St.Catherines Racer Sportif • Toronto Sign of the Skier • Toronto Sporting Life • Toronto

ALBERTA The Ski Cellar • Calgary Totem Ski Shop • Jasper

BRITISH COLUMBIA Valhalla Pure Outfitters • Kamloops Hillsound Equipment • Vancouver

WOMEN SKI JUMPERS BOTH WIN & LOSE Women ski jumpers lost their fight to have their sport included in the 2010 Olympic Winter Games. A BC Supreme Court judge ruled that while the IOC’s exclusion of women’s ski jumping in the 2010 Olympics is “discriminatory,” she ruled she could not regard it as a breach of Canada’s Charter of Rights and Freedoms. In response, the IOC disagreed. “While we are pleased that the Games can now proceed… we strongly disagree with the court's analysis that the IOC acted in a discriminatory manner. As previously explained, our decision was based on technical issues, without regard to gender…”

Valhalla Pure Outfitters • Vancouver O Canada Trading Company • Whistler McCoos Too • Whistler Icycle Sport • Whitehorse

QUEBEC Bernard Trottier Sports • Greenfield Park • Laval • Pointe-Claire Brunelle Sport • Beaupre Boutique de Ski Fresch • Bromont Intersport • Bromont Atmosphère • Chicoutimi Intersport • Gaspe Pied Sportif • Magog Sports Experts • Centre Fairview Montréal

WHO NEEDS TWITTER? “Rant, rave, inquire, protest.” That’s Ryan Blais’ call to action for International Ski Federation (FIS) athletes.

Blais, a Canadian Freestyle National Team aerialist and newly elected member of the FIS Athlete Commission, has spearheaded the creation of DemocraSki.com, a social media platform for… complaining.

“Athletes are sometimes the biggest complainers out there,” says Blais. “But unless it’s easy they won’t directly do anything about their concerns.”

The site allows members from around the world and across disciplines — from skiing and snowboarding to Nordiccombined — to air their concerns.

Among issues athletes are currently discussing: FIS support for severely injured athletes and athletes’ rights with the World Anti-Doping Agency.

Photo: CFSA

Swiss Sports Haus • West Vancouver

Boutique Mont Saint-Sauveur • Mont Saint-Sauveur Tremblant • Mont-Tremblant Boutique Daniel Lachance • Mont-Tremblant Intersport • Mont-Tremblant Gagné Vélo Ski • Québec Accroski • Repentigny Intersport • Ste.Agathe des Monts Ski Shop • St.Hubert Sport Denis Parent • St. Sauveur / Piedmont G.S. Ski Shop • Sutton

www.x-bionic.com13.8.2009

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Quebec’s Mont Saint-Sauveur has installed an Alpine Coaster — a $2.5-million, 1.5-km bobsleigh-like track that’ll thrill riders at max speeds of 35 km/h over all four seasons…

BC’s Selkirk Tangiers Heli Skiing is now operating out the front door of Revelstoke’s new, slopeside Nelsen Lodge…

WestJet has expanded its service to Kamloops and Sun Peaks with a Vancouver flight connection.

For skiers heading to Sun Peaks, the new flight leaves Vancouver at 12:30 pm, arriving in Kamloops at 1:19 pm…

Skiers flying WestJet to Kelowna to access Big White and Silver Star can ski free on the day of arrival by presenting their boarding passes at the ticket office…

Photo: MSSI

Boutique Sport Alpin • Mt Ste. Anne/Stoneham

IN BRIEF…

Sports Experts • rue Ste. Catherine, Montréal

Quebec’s Le Massif is operating a new shuttle service this season between the ski area and Quebec City, operating daily from December 26 to March 28…

Blue Mountain’s South Base Lodge in Ontario underwent an expansion and interior renovation this summer designed to accommodate more seating. It can now hold up to 980 skiers…

17:32:05 Uhr

8/28/09 3:55:04 PM

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ElbowPads protects elbows from the cold.

SweatTraps to prevent sweat leaks from the beginning, we‘ve radically extended the Evaporation SurfaceExpander in this area to help process sweat from the SweatTraps.

3D-BionicSphere System in the chest area provides cooling without the risk of overcooling.

AirConditioning Channel The channel system ventilates the body with fresh air, without overcooling.

ISO-Pad on the hips, holds warmth on the body.

X-BIONIC® Partial Kompression The special, cardio vascular optimizing partial compression through bars, ensures that blood vessels stay open and blood can complete its essential cooling function. see the scientific proof at www.sportscience-laboratories.com

AirGuides work like spacers and border the AirConditioning Channel.

X-BIONIC® Energy Accumulator

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ExpansionKnee protects knees from the cold.

Innerlap AirConditioningZone woven mesh with zero insulation function allows air to circulate and aids cooling as soon as you start to sweat.

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*More awards and test victories on www.x-bionic.com Phone: 1-800-567-9503

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TRENDS | GOLD

BY EVE BOISSONNAULT

2.

3.

F o r g e t t h e e c o n o m y… glitter and glamour really are affordable this winter!

Gold is one of 2010’s most fashionable on-slope colours.

Dare to wear, but beware: Head-to-toe gold will make you look like the Liberace of the Alpine. Don’t overdo this flashy trend. Instead, accessorize your onecolour ski suit with one of these glittery items. Get it right and you are golden.

5.

1. DELUX GOLD MOON BOOTS from Tecnica tecnicausa.com 2. MAJESTIC GOLD CHROME LENS SEQUINS GOGGLES from Anon anonoptics.com

6.

3. PERLA WHITE AND GOLD SKI POLES from Gabel gabel.net

4.

4. GOLD BUCKLED BANSHE PRO WOMEN SKI BOOTS from Lange langeusa.com 5. WENDY GOLD JACKET from Jean-Charles de Castelbajac for Rossignol rossignol.com 6. BLACK LIGHT PRIMALOFT WOMEN’S LAYERING JACKET from Peak Performance peakperformance.com

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TRENDS | Purple

by Lori Knowles

3.

L i l a c , l a v e n d e r, v i o l e t , plum… the ski world for women will be painted pretty shades of purple in 2010. But men get their Hendrix fix of purple haze, too, with boots, bindings and hats in halcyon shades of berry and grape. Now… scuse me while I kiss the sky.

2.

1.

1. Baldwin women’s jacket from Orage orage.com 2. Receptor Bug helmet from POC pocski.com 3. Gretchen (as in Bleiler) goggle from Oakley oakley.com 4. Agent 90 men’s ski boot from Tecnica tecnica.com

5.

5. Electra Earphone Peruvian hat (earphones included) from Bula’s Stereohead collection bulabula.com

4.

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TRENDS | 80s

by Eve Boissonnault

4.

8

The s Are Back...

Again!

Inspired to moonwalk down the mountain? Feel free.

Eighties fashions are back… and they’re BIG. Patchworks of pink, green, yellow and brilliant blue will be splashed all over goggles, helmets, jackets and boots for this brilliant backto-the-future trend on the all-white slopes this season.

5.

1. Girls Just Want to Have Fun Roxy’s Mumbo Jumbo rockered powder skis. roxy.com/snow

3.

2. Alive and Kicking The Matte Pop helmet in Giro’s Shiv park collection. giro.com 3. The Sun Always Shines on TV Scott’s Alias SnowBlind goggles. scottusa.com 4. Shake It Up Armada’s Checker Cyan hoodie. armadaskis.com 5. Walking on Sunshine The Kizamm jacket for women from The North Face. thenorthface.com

2.

1.

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TRENDS | TECH

BY PETER KRAY

WINTER’S TECH RACE

Sport is science, what with all the angles and curves and coefficients. And nowhere more so than in skiing, where going faster, steeper, warmer and safer all ser ve as the ultimate carrots at the end of the research and design stick.

For this season, here’s what the future already looks like.

4.

KCT: Key Cool Technology

1.

1. OPEDIX CW-X STABILYX TIGHTS KCT: Better joint alignment and muscle development. opedix.com 2. SALOMON IMPACT 10 SKI BOOT KCT: Heat-mouldable custom shells for an outrageously good fit. salomonsports.com 3. HEAD JIMI SKI KCT: Ripping rocker, bomber sidewalls, and such sweet graphics. head.com

5.

3.

4. UVEX MAGIC GOGGLE KCT: Liquid crystal technology that lets you micro-adjust the lens for changing light. uvex.com 5. BACKCOUNTRY ARSENAL KCT: Integrated probes and snow shovels that slide into the shaft. backcountryaccess.com

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TRENDS | ECO

BY PETER KRAY

ECO ALERT

GREENING THE WHITE

2.

Some slow folks won’t think global warming is real until there’s no more snow on the slopes. But skiers think faster than that. And from Aspen to A r b or, a nd Cha o s to Quiksilver, they’re working hard to make snowsports so sustainable that we never get to the ‘no-snow’ point.

3.

KGI: Key Green Ingredient.

1. PATAGONIA WOMEN’S SIDEWALL KGI: Recycled Polyester patagonia.com 2. ROSSIGNOL JONES BOARD KGI: Topless technology that uses fewer materials, inks and solvents. rossignol.com 3. CHAOS AJAX HAT KGI: Recycled post-consumer pop bottles. chaoshat.com 4. LINE AFTERBANG SKI KGI: Graduated core construction uses 60% less wood. lineskis.com 5. GETTING GREEN DONE: Hard Truths from the Front Lines of the Sustainability Revolution KGI: Excellent book by Auden Schendler, executive director of Sustainability at Aspen Skiing Company. gettinggreendone.com

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TEAM | ALPINE REPORT

BY PETER OLIVER

Britt Janyk

Photos: ACA/Pentaphoto

Jon Kucera

PAINT-BY-NUMBERS, OLYMPIC-STYLE FIS drops an Olympic-sized bomb on Canada’s 2010 plans… can the new ACA prez find a solution?

The road to 2010 can be a crazy hopscotch of numbers. Just ask the Canadian Alpine Ski Team.

When the 2008-2009 season ended, all seemed well for arguably the strongest team Canada was preparing to send to the Olympics in 30 years. Jon Kucera, Manny Osborne-Paradis, Erik Guay, Michael Janyk, Britt Janyk, Emily Brydon, Kelly Vanderbeek — the list of legitimate medal contenders was long.

But early this summer, FIS (International Ski Federation) dropped a bomb on Canada’s Olympic plans. After months of collaboration with the International Olympic Committee, FIS devised a complicated formula determining how many athletes each country would be allowed to send to the Olympics. When the calculation smoke cleared, Alpine Canada’s leaders were dismayed to see the team given only 15 quota slots, well behind Austria, Switzerland, France, Italy and the USA. Also shocking: that number was well below the 22 slots awarded Alpine Canada for the 2006 Olympics (18 athletes actually participated).

“Foul!”

The Canadian team immediately cried foul. “We planned on putting the best home team out there... and now that’s been taken away from us,” Max Gartner, chief of athletics for Alpine Canada, told an online reporter.

22

Manuel Osborne-Paradis

After the initial shock, however, Alpine Canada began reassessing its situation.

The Canadian team can assign its slots to whomever it deems most deserving, so no stars are at risk of becoming quota victims. Only long-shot medal hopefuls currently straddle the cusp. And final quota numbers won’t be determined until January. Canada can gain additional slots if more Canadian athletes improve their FIS points.

But not so fast... The current formula weighs overall performance over performance in individual disciplines, according to Alpine Canada President Gary Allan. Canada could manipulate the quota system by entering World Cup specialists in lower-level Nor-Am events to better their overall standing. That, however, raises the uncomfortable proposition of tweaking “athletic plans that were already in place,” says Allan.

A Better Way Allan thinks a better way of playing the numbers game will be for Canada to petition for slots unused by other countries. In the interest of broad international participation, the IOC has given quota slots to such countries as the Cayman Islands and Senegal, slots that can be reallocated if unused.

In all, 320 slots are available for Alpine racers, and just 287 competed in Torino.

With so many slots theoretically available, Allan is optimistic that the IOC will prioritize host-country Canada in any reallocation plan.

But even if Canada does maximize its quota, its numbers problem might not end there. The men’s speed team might be up against a dilemma that powerhouse Austria has faced regularly: a team too deep. Olympic rules allow no more than four athletes from any country in any event. The Austrians, often with eight or more potential medal contenders, have used pre-Olympic training runs as a qualifier for the big show. A talent-rich Canadian speed team might find itself doing the same thing.

In other words, a potential Canadian medalist — Robbie Dixon? François Bourque? — might find himself on the Olympic sidelines. Wouldn’t that be just plain crazy?

BUYERS' GUIDE 2010

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OCTOBER 15

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TO

18, 2009 • BETTER LIVING CENTRE • EXHIBITION PLACE

www.torontoskishow.com

8/12/09 2:19:08 PM

team | freestyle

by G.D. Maxwell

Just Desserts Will the end of our national nightmare come early?

Max thinks the odds are finally in our favour.

Oh, the ignominy. Oh, the humanity.

History, at least Olympic history, has not been kind to Canada. The year was 1976, the city, Montréal. With thousands of pregnant men in attendance — led by swollen-bellied mayor Jean Drapeau — Canada carved its place into Olympic record books. Winding up the Games with five silver and six bronze medals, Canada earned the distinction of being the only country to ever host the Summer Games without winning gold.

Being a winter country, we wore that particular honour with characteristic grace and humility.

Our shot at redemption came 22 years later when Calgary played host to the XV Winter Olympic Games. Our medal take was two silver, three bronze and wood in men’s hockey. But we clinched our place in the history books, surpassing Yugoslavia, who’d only failed to win Olympic gold at home once.

So the question on everybody’s mind, as we ramp up to Vancouver 2010, is whether Canada will pull off an unparalleled hat trick — and leave Own the Podium with about $110 million worth of ‘splainin’ to do — or at long last, mine Olympic gold in the rich veins of the Great White North.

I’m bettin’ on gold. And I’m bettin’ the quest will end early.

On February 13th, the second day of competition, Jennifer Heil will stand

Photo: Mike Ridewood/CFSA

Photo: Mike Ridewood

Jenn Heil

Steve Omischl

atop the mogul course on Cypress Mountain, getting ready to do what she does better than any woman in the world. Jenn short-circuited our national angst in Torino in 2006 with her opening-day gold and despite last season’s disappointments — a second-place-overall World Cup finish and another second in dual moguls at the Worlds — the smart money is on her to do it again in Vancouver.

Should Ms. Heil misstep and draw out the tension, there is still salvation within the ranks of Freestyle skiing. The next best thing to a sure bet, and that’s admittedly splitting hairs, will either be an anticlimax or a nailbiter.

While Canada may be golden before February 25th, if the country’s still on the edge of its collective seat, that’s the day Steve Omischl will peer down the approach ramp, visualize contorting his body in ways most of us will need a slow-motion replay to even begin to comprehend, and take his best shot at forever vanishing the ghosts of Olympics past.

Canada’s Freestyle gold miners don’t end there. While Jenn and Steve seem to have dominated their disciplines for the past several years, there is a handful of Canadians poised to carry the dynasty well into the future.

Alexandre Bilodeau, for example. Starting as Rookie of the Year in 2005-06, Alex has advanced steadily in the rankings. Alas, no more. When you’re at the top, as he is after last season’s six gold and three silver medals — and with only two non-podium performances on the mogul circuit — there’s no more there, there. Not to say staying at the top isn’t its own reward.

And with Ski Cross a medal sport this year, Canada’s men and women are as good a bet to come out of the free-for-all with gold as anyone else. Stan Hayer, Chris Del Bosco and Davey Barr are all ranked in the top 10. On the women’s side, Kelsey Serwa came out of nowhere to finish third overall last season with Ashleigh McIvor and Aleisha Cline nipping at her heels.

So take heart, Canada. The past is the past but the future looks golden — nary a three-peat in sight.

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ALPINE TIP |

Photo: Yannic Laroche/Skiers: Sunny Verreault, Louise Rice

BY JOHN GILLIES

REMEMBER

THE BASICS! Anticipating those first runs of the year, it is easy to picture yourself gliding effortlessly down the mountainside. The reality is often more brutal. Your skis seem to have a mind of their own as you fight to reacquaint yourself with the sliding feeling. Get on the right track this year — early season is the right time to remember the basics.

How you stand is how you ski… It’s not rocket science, it’s balance!

If your stance is loose and supple you will feel solid and be quick to react.

Your ankles, knees, hips and back should work together to stay over the middle of the skis and be ready to respond to the things that are trying to throw you around.

Contact with the snow… Your control depends on good snow contact.

Like driving, your suspension system affects your steering. Tune in to the

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BROUGHT TO YOU BY

feedback you are getting from below and strive for soft and even pressure against the snow. Absorb the little bumps and hollows and don’t let ski reaction throw you into the air.

Balance on the outside ski… When in doubt, stand on the outside ski. It is the most efficient way to turn, and keeps you from twisting and leaning with the upper body. To go left, it’s the right ski that does the work and vice versa. Counter-intuitive, but essential!

Finally, early season is the time to make sure your gear is right. Make sure your skis are tuned. If your boots hurt, get them fixed — they will only hurt more as the season progresses! Start the season with the basics and you will benefit all winter long.

9/1/09 4:25:20 PM

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Titan Atlas IQ MAX

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Your Choice.

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DEEP

Freerider Matt Reardon rocks a set of Vรถlkl Gotamas, skis based the new rocker technology championed by the late Shane McConkey.

28

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ROCKER

THE

AND THE

ROCKSTAR

SHANE McCONKEY DIED TOO SOON, BUT NOT BEFORE HIS ENGINEERING GENIUS TRANSFORMED SKI DESIGN.

Photo: Dan Milner/Courtesy of Völkl

BY PETER KRAY When Shane McConkey died while ski BASE jumping in Italy on March 26, 2009, the news sent shockwaves through the entire world of skiing. Another young king was gone, lost in his prime, leaving behind a young wife and young daughter, and the world at his feet at the age of 39.

So many great ones are gone too soon — like Trevor Petersen, Dave Murray, Spider Sabich or Doug Coombs, just to name an amazing few. And in their absence, their influence only grows, subtly or sensationally affecting how we see and ski the mountains.

But the magic of McConkey was that he was so completely living in his own time.

His legendary skiing helped set the big-mountain standard, and his commitment to the sport saw the birth of the International Free Skiers Association (IFSA). His sense of humour, so polished and outrageous, resulted in transcendent sequences in Matchbook Productions films like Yearbook and Claim, and in tight-silk-shortwearing spoofs on skier training guides in the pages of POWDER magazine.

For big-mountain skiers all over the planet right now, McConkey’s insights into how skis float, carve and flex in off-piste conditions have also completely revolutionized ski design.

When he first championed the Volant Spatula, and then the K2 Pontoon in 2006, two massively rockered, reverse-cambered skis that resembled the twin hulls of a catamaran, the weird-shaped waterski-looking things were met with a kind of incredulous fascination. But McConkey explained that skis had to resemble hulls in some manner, because skiing was like walking on water. Then he proved it by slapping some bindings onto a pair of waterskis and ripping big lines. As he confidently told this magazine, “Over the next few years, all the companies out there are going to start making rockered skis. It just works too well.”

Which is exactly what has happened. By engineering a reverse cambered, or rockered shovel — point your toes toward your head to get the idea of how the ski flexes up toward the tip — in wider off-piste skis, ski designers are suddenly able to offer instant flotation and more maneuverability at the same time.

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DEEP

Shane McConkey in Squaw Valley

Photos: © Jason Shields/Red Bull Photofiles

Shane McConkey

30

Long gone are the powder planks and slow-steering whales.

With literally dozens of new “rockered” skis being introduced this season, ski companies have put the construction of McConkey’s Alpine epiphany into overdrive.

“By adjusting the length and height of the camber, as well as the profile of the tip of the skis, we can use varying amounts of rocker on different width skis to give the benefit of flotation, but also balance the need for edge grip and stability (in off-piste conditions),” says Mike Aicher, the Salomon’s US Alpine manager.

The elongated tip of a rockered ski smoothly surfs over mixed snow, while the narrowing sidecut and cambered waist provide a kind of cockpit for each powdery flight, with remarkable control and pop into the new turn. For those that still haven’t tried it, it feels like the surfy slide of a long GS as you initiate each arc, but with the control and energy of a slalom ski as you load the turn. And the sensation only improves in steeper and deeper conditions!

“Seriously?” you ask. “Fat skis that float and carve?”

Like a butterfly. And on a dime.

But that doesn’t mean that everybody’s jumping to centre stage with rocker this season. Some notable exceptions, like Elan and Nordica, are crushing off and on-piste conditions with game-improving flex technology in their Magfire (Elan) and Speedmachine (Nordica) lines. And even some of rocker’s biggest promoters say the new skis are just the latest evolutionary refinement of a long-standing design.

“Look at wooden skis from the late 1800s or early 1900s and you’ll see long, rockered tips,” says Thomas Laakso, ski category manager at Black Diamond, the Utah backcountry-based company that has recently made big moves in-bounds with its innovative all-mountain ski designs. “Or look at early powder-gun snowboards and you’ll see the same.”

Of course, the technology is 200 years better this time around. And like the men we’ve put on the moon, these skis are taking a lot of skiers to places they had never been.

Often in-bounds.

A string of at-resort avalanche deaths blindsided seasoned snow control professionals in the Rockies last season, the result of a persistent November rain crust and the fact that an increasing wave of well-equipped skiers are pushing resorts earlier and earlier to open extreme terrain.

In response, a kind of mini industry has sprung up to help the new breed of Alpine astronauts understand the potential — and limits — of the new technology they’re riding. From Kicking Horse to Whistler to Snowbird to Portillo, clinics and camps have opened to help even the most experienced skiers understand how to read the new wealth of available terrain.

And even in-bounds, more and more savvy skiers are wearing transceivers each season.

“Skiers need to see the mountains in the same way that they see moving water,” freeski legend Dean Cummings once said to me in describing some of the more cerebral skills he teaches at his Big Mountain Ski Experience Camp at Snowbird, Utah. “They need to picture how they can ride that water, but also how that white wave can come crashing down on top of them.”

Just like Shane said. It’s an Alpine ocean that we’re riding, and the ability of our winter wavecraft just keeps getting better all the time.

Thanks, man. We can’t wait to rip it up in your name.

BUYERS' GUIDE 2010

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Winter Wonderland.

Engadin St. Moritz.

Allegra and welcome to a winter wonderland of stunning contrasts and incredible diversity. The sun-blessed Upper Engadin is the largest winter sports region in Switzerland with 217 sublime miles of slopes, 118 panoramic miles of cross-country ski trails, 93 idyllic miles of winter walking paths and a wealth of culture and tradition. Thanks to its high altitude and dry climate, Engadin St. Moritz is a snow reliable region famous for its champagne powder.

Valais - Matterhorn Region.

A stupendous mountain world with fantastic ski slopes. A vacation resort for all tastes: down-to-earth and elegant, carefree, child friendly and car-free, cosy and natural. Switzerland’s highest ski slopes guarantee memorable vacations, snow reliability and pure skiing fun. Venture forwards on untouched slopes or trace your own tracks back along a coat of freshly fallen powdery snow. Such natural and invigorating excitement is only experienced in Valais!

Interlaken/Jungfrau Region.

The classic winter sports area around the Eiger, Mönch and the Lauberhorn has much to offer to its guests. Glide down snowy slopes, explore the winter footpaths, race down the toboggan runs, relax in one of the wellness oasis or enjoy local specialties on a sun-terrace: in the Interlaken / Jungfrau area with Grindelwald, Wengen and Mürren the winter belongs to you.

For more information on Switzerland contact MySwitzerland.com For booking contact 1-866-648 7757 or www.thevacationstation.com

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NARROW

RT

MEDIUM

Hawx

WIDE

M-Series

X-WIDE

B-Tech

Denny Hanson’s eponymous Hanson boots were popular in the late 1970s and early ‘80s thanks to their then-radical rear-entry design and thermo- wax liners. His new Apex is a similarly far-reaching departure, sepa rat i n g fit, closure and flex as it marries a carbon fibre outer shell with a heat-mouldable walk-away innerboot with a Boa cable closure. You’ll pay for uniqueness; Apex’s single model is the most expensive on the market at $1,295.

32

APEX

APEX

M70

Atomic continues to upgrade its liners. The new Asymmetrical Advantage liner has split construction with firm, grippy materials on the inside for strong medial control and a cushioned, perforated material on the outside to ease out of edge changes.

After five days in Vail, Colorado, this past spring testing next year's bestperforming boots, one thing was evident — this may be the best boot-buying year ever for large expert skiers with wide feet. Our WideBody Performance category crushed expectations virtually across the spectrum of manufacturers with 102 and 104 mm boots weighing in with beefy flex indexes ranging from 100 to 120.

This is a far cry from even the recent past when good skiers looking for truly wide fitting boots were relegated to marshmallow -flexing models. Accomplished skiers with massive dogs, or those just looking for an ample width fit, won't have to sacrifice performance anymore.

The workhorse Medium-Fit Performance category — those boots in the 100-102 mm zone that comprise the largest market for skilled North American skiers — all came to the test-off with a little extra width, a little extra length, and a touch more volume through the instep. They mark the 2009-10 class as perhaps the most comfortable of any fleet of expert all-mountain boots to ever hit the slopes.

For in-depth reviews on the boots we tested, visit our website at www.skipressworld.com. For now, here’s a look at key developments in the alpine boot arena.

Joining the popular 9 8 m m Il Moro in Dalbello’s core park collection next season are the Blender and Voodoo. These two new models fuse the Il Moro’s three-piece architecture and innovative Hyperband closure system with a wider 103 mm comfort last. The Tango is a specialty freestyle model uniquely proportioned for women’s feet and lower legs.

NARROW

Krypton/Il Moro

MEDIUM

Proton/Electra

WIDE

Axion/Raya

X-WIDE

Aerro/Aspire

RAYA

ATOMIC

BY STEVE COHEN & MARK ELLING

FAT TIMES FOR BIG FEET

DALBELLO

ALPINE BOOTS PREVIEW

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MEDIUM

Progressor

WIDE

Viron

X-WIDE

NONE

SETH MORRISON

NARROW

Raptor

NARROW

Comp/Banshee

MEDIUM

Vector

MEDIUM

Fluid/Exclusive

WIDE

Edge

WIDE

Blaster

X-WIDE

i-Type/Peak

X-WIDE

Concept/Venus

DOBERMANN PRO EDT 130

LANGE

VECTOR 120

HEAD

Head’s new Vector is a three-model performance/ comfort hybrid that replaces the S line. It uses triinjection technology and unique Spineflex buckles for precision fit retention without excess pressure.

Simplification is the watchword at Lange.

All collections now have distinct, 10-point flex index jumps and fewer feature changes as you move up the ladder within a collection.

Blaster is a new 102 mm last collection aimed at “sidecountry” skiers who want AT-style boots with limited cuff release for easier walking.

NARROW

NONE

MEDIUM

NONE

WIDE

ALL

X-WIDE

NONE

NORDICA

RC4

Using a “Hamburger Helper” marketing model, Full Tilt takes what is essentially one model — Raichle’s old Flexon design — and morphs it into a complete freeski and park line with the use of adventurous cosmetics and component swaps. All models feature heat-mouldable Intuition liners.

BLASTER

NARROW

FULL TILT

ONEHUNDRED

FISCHER

The focus continues to be on the Soma-Tec Power Grip design, which slides the upper shell slightly outward off the centre line axis to put the foot in an abducted stance. Fischer says this speeds power transmission to the ski and provides better grip.

Nordica’s new Efficient Dynamic Technology (EDT) provides more power to the ski with less effort in updated Dobermann designs. EDT is designed to reduce the structural inefficiencies caused by flex/torsional deformations of the shell during skiing.

The technology uses an extruded aluminum boot board that is affixed through the shell with four pins. The EDT system is said to boost sole torsional stiffness by 40% and lateral stiffness by 6%, providing improved biomechanical efficiency.

NARROW

Dobermann/ Hot Rod Pro

MEDIUM

Speedmachine/ Sportmachine/ Most Hot Rods

WIDE

Some Gransports

X-WIDE

Some Gransports/One

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ROSSIGNOL

THE METHOD TO OUR MADNESS

NARROW

X3/Falcon/ Instinct (all expandable to x-wide)

MEDIUM

Impact/Idol (expandable to x-wide)

WIDE X-WIDE

34

Radical/All models with Pro designation

MEDIUM

Sensor³ models

WIDE

Synergy/Vita

X-WIDE

Exalt/Xena

ZENITH 100 SENSOR3

TECNICA

The company’s unique Custom Shell technology that permits 6 mm of width expansion in the forefoot spreads from top-end Falcon to Impact and Idol high-performance models. New Falcon X3- RC (men’s) and Instinct X3-10 (women’s) are gutsier, with spine reinforcement and more upright cuff position.

New Mission RS 12 is a stiff, 102 mm forefoot model targeted to heavy, big skiers with wide feet who need boot with pluck.

NARROW

PHOENIX 100 HIPERFIT

SALOMON

RS

Rossignol literally expands its Sensor³ concept (so-called because it links the tripod balance points beneath the heel, first and fifth metatarsals). There’s now a more relaxed fit 102 mm last that is called Sensor. Sensor boots use reduced profile boot boards and the foot perimetre sits in direct contact with the shell for improved energy transmission. The Sensor collection (Synergy for men, Vita for women) uses the same anatomical toe box and heel as the Sensor³, but are wider in all the key fit zones.

The four-model Phoenix collection replaces the popular-Vento as Tecnica’s higher volume series. The all-new last provides improved foot envelopment and cushioning. The Delta Force System on the Phoenix allows skiers to easily adapt power and rebound flex to their personal preference for the day’s conditions. The boots also get a higher, more form-fitting tongue for improved wrap and flex as well as ultra-slim, ultra-strong carbon steel buckles.

NARROW

Diablo/Attiva Pro & Dragon

MEDIUM

Dragon/Attiva P

Mission/Divine

WIDE

Phoenix/ Attiva M

All Custom Shell models

X-WIDE

Phoenix HVL/ Mega

America's Best Bootfitters, the international group of elite bootfitting shops, teamed up with Ski Press this past April to create a new-school boot test. For the first time ever, we tested and reviewed boots the same way that good bootfitters select them for a customer — by width and flex — and then judged them the way a customer would — by fit and performance. A simple concept, sure, but not easy goods to deliver.

For the sake of the ABB/Ski Press test, we decided that we would only test the best: high-performance boots for accomplished skiers. These boots fell into a flex index range of 130 at the stiffest, down to 100 on the softer side, plus or minus a bit. Essentially, we were interested in testing the boots targeted to advanced and expert skiers, without diving into the dedicated race product that appeals to a slim slice of the skier population.

A good bootfitter looks at a skier's foot and decides how wide a chassis that foot is going to need. The meatiest, Fred Flintstone foot will need the widest chassis and the super-slender kangaroo foot tends to find a match in the narrow last family. But there is an in-between width available too. Similar to the flex index scale, there is now a way to roughly identify a boot's last width. Manufacturers across the board have begun measuring their reference size (26 on the mondopoint metric scale) at the internally widest part of the boot shell (at the forefoot) and using this measurement as a way to group families of boots.

We asked manufacturers to send us their best stuff in the narrow last category (98 mm or narrower), in their medium-fit group (100+ mm), and in their wide-body family (102 mm and up). Then, to be sure we didn't miss anything we also asked to test any boot they felt merited special attention in our Wild Card category — for the most part we got best-bang-for-the-buck boots or technologically unique models here.

Each boot received an intensive exam as we judged the boot's fit, flex, feel and features in over 20 categories — and that was before the boots met bindings for a terrain tour and judgment on how they turned a ski. For detailed test results, visit our website at www.skipressworld.com.

We partnered with Vail Resorts and held our test on Vail Mountain, an ideal testing venue for its diversity of terrain, reliable April snowpack mountain-top testing facility. The killer food, penthouse condo at the Vail Landmark and inexhaustible nightlife didn't hurt either. — MARK ELLING

BUYERS' GUIDE 2010

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9/1/09 4:51:08 PM

THE GIRISH

LORDOF THE MOUNTAIN

Featured: The Girish ski and the Hot Rod PRO 125 boot OfďŹ cial Sponsor

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8/19/09 4:19:53 PM

SKI PRESS SKI TEST 2010

SCORE! Ski makers shoot… then score with new skis for 2010 — Ski Press test scores are higher than ever.

BY PETER OLIVER & LORI KNOWLES

Score!

If you’re looking for a reason to buy skis this year, take our testers’ word — or score — for it: The current crop of skis may be the best ever. A team of 189 testers put 252 models through a total of 4,051 trials. All that data produced average scores that, in many categories, were higher than they’ve ever been in a Ski Press test.

Testers went particularly gaga over carving skis, which earned an average score of 87.12. That’s an enlightening result, particularly with many ski-world cognoscenti all but writing off narrow-waisted skis. The current buzz is all about rocker design in powder-happy fatties. But not so fast… Our testers still love that feeling of engaging a deep sidecut with firmer snow and ripping through fast, clean arcs.

That doesn’t mean, of course, that carvers are for everyone. Plenty of great all-mountain and freeride boards are out there, and, in another good sign, bargains abound. A few models this year are actually less expensive than a year ago, and while some boutique skis — like those from stylish newcomer Vist — are pretty rich, prices have largely stabilized. If trying to meet a budget is a concern, this is as good a year as any to shop for new skis.

W o m e n ’ s r e s u lt s begin on page 50.

36

Photo: Marc Archambault

Our men’s ski test starts on page 40.

BUYERS’ GUIDE 2010

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FOR MO RE

ON HOW

THIS

SEE PAGTEST WORKS, E 38 , OR VISIT THE SKI T EST PA AT G SKIPRESS WORLD.C ES OM

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SKI PRESS SKI TEST 2010

TESTING 1, 2, 3 Photo: Gillian Morgan

How the Ski Press Ski Test Works

ORE FOURT SKM I SELECTION ABO

AILS, AND TEST DET GO TO LD.COM SKIPRESSWOR

When 111 testers assembled in late March at Mont-Sainte-Anne, they prepared to do, for the 17th year, what Ski Press does better than anyone else in the business — assess the quality of the year’s new skis. Among those who put a batch of carving and all-mountain skis through the ringer were some of the most talented male and female professionals in the ski world, along with a group of recreational “sport” testers. The mix of terrain and snow at Mont-Sainte-Anne — groomers, hardpack, bumps, trees, slush — was ideal for testing these particular skis.

A few weeks later, another 78 testers gathered at Whistler to test fatter freeride skis on its big-mountain terrain and in the softer conditions for which freeride boards are best suited. When the results for both testing sessions were sorted out, the top eight skis in each category were ranked, to be covered in the magazine, with additional top skis covered online.

While the skis in most categories are ranked according to their test results, don’t assume that the best-scoring ski is best for you. Selecting a ski is a very personal decision, based on size, skiing style, terrain and conditions, and even cosmetics. A ski that exhilarates one skier often disappoints another.

Test results represent an average of often divergent tester opinions.

HOW TO READ THE WRITE UPS 07 | ELAN

8 Icons Explained We’ve used the following icons to highlight the outstanding feature of each ski, when compared with other skis in the same category.

1 SL WF 8 3 cm | 4 5Medium | $1,100 6 w/b | 116-66-104@165 R 12.9 | FLEX 2 87.53% Flick, flick! With a minimum of effort, the SL links one quick turn after another with one quick flick of the feet

Strong aggressive

Easy to turn

7 I felt I could explode through my turns,” wrote one tester. But think of explosions like Chinese firecrackers

Best for lighter skier

Great bargain

Best for heavier skier

Looks cool

after another. This ski is like a wine spritzer — light and refreshing, but with plenty of zest. “Super lively — — lots of quick, small bangs, no big booms. Performance drops off when the turn shape lengthens. Think tight turns, and flick away.

1 NAME of the manufacturer and of the SKI MODEL tested.

NORMALIZED SCORE: The scoring is corrected so that the occasional ‘rogue

2 result’ doesn’t distort the testers’ intentions.

3

DIMENSIONS: At the tip, at the waist, at the tail, in millimetres. It reflects the sidecut of the ski.

TESTED LENGTH: The length of the ski we tested.

Technological

ws

When we identify a ski as women-specific, the ski is made specifically for women.

RADIUS: The arc or size of a turn. Long-radius turns are wide and deep, while

4 short-radius turns are quick and shallow.

FLEX: The stiffness of the ski while in motion. A soft ski will feel like it absorbs

5 changes in terrain, whereas a stiff ski will transfer all the energy directly to you.

6 PRICE: The cost of the ski. Includes the binding when it’s part of the package.

WRITE-UP: A summary of the shared assessment of our team of testers in 7 THE rating each ski for a variety of criteria.

Try our personalized

SKI FINDER at skipressworld.com!

38

BUYERS’ GUIDE 2010

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Matching Ski to Terrain What’s the most suitable terrain for each type of ski? This chart shows the different terrain mix for where each ski performs best.

ON-PISTE

OFF-PISTE

Groomed Carve

90%

10%

Groomed Cruise

80%

20%

All-Terrain Medium

70%

30%

All-Terrain Large

50%

50%

Freeride XL

40%

60%

Freeride XXL

30%

70%

Freeride XXXL

20%

80%

9/1/09 5:51:27 PM

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groomed carve

HIGH-PERFORMANCE

(MSA)

PERFORMANCE (MSA)

For advanced and expert skiers who like making fast, tight turns mostly on groomed and hard-packed snow. Deep sidecuts mean turn radii are mainly under 15 metres, typical of a slalom race ski. These are racy skis also able to tackle bumps and trees.

Designed for making slalom-shaped turns with a radius of under 15 metres, these skis are for intermediate and advanced skiers getting a feel for what groomed-snow carving is all about. Moderate speeds are generally the name of the game here.

01 | DYNASTAR

01 | BLIZZARD

Zip! Zap! Zoink! Envision a ski with the springy energy of a pogo stick underfoot, and the picture that will come to mind is the Omeglass TI. What really impressed testers about this ski was the energetic enthusiasm with which the ski leapt in and out of turns. “This ski pops and reacts — extremely quick and zippy,” was one tester’s comment. Not to mention surprisingly versatile. The only downside — all that energy can take effort to control.

But otherwise . . . zowie!

Looking for your new best friend? The G-Force Sonic is a ski able to become best buddies with any skier, easily morphing from relaxed smoothie to race-ready bomber. That means feisty, aggro types will enjoy it as much as laid-back cruisers, both of whom will enjoy its powerful edge grip. The word most popular among testers: “lively.”

The ski zips easily from one slalom turn to the next, but it’s no one-turn specialist, with the versatility to take on the whole mountain. In short: a best friend you can take anywhere.

02 | ATOMIC

02 | ROSSIGNOL

Welcome to the Atomic power hour. “Power” was a word that kept coming up in tester comments. This ski is like a benevolent dictator — always in total control but never punishing. Throughout the turn, the ski is pure, confident stability, taking charge as it flows unerringly from one arc into the next. Weaknesses — none the test team could find, although lighter skiers might have to dig a little deeper than usual to feel fully empowered on a fairly stiff, energetic ski.

How many words can you use to express smoothness? Silky, comfortable, effortless, easy and smooth itself — testers applied them all to the Radical R8S. But guess what? They also used words like lively, dynamic and energetic. Silky smooth is not necessarily synonymous with wimpy. The real surprise to testers: how seamlessly the ski travelled from firm, groomed snow to softer, cruddier stuff. Scoring high marks across the board, the Radical R8S was either brilliant or merely great, making it a solid choice for skiers seeking all-mountain versatility.

03 | ELAN

03 | VIST

It’s wintertime, and the skiing is easy. If George Gershwin had been aboard the SLX, he surely would have been inspired to write those words. In a category often known for skis that need to be worked to be enjoyed, skiing the SLX is the equivalent of lounging on the back porch on a sultry afternoon. Lighter skiers, rejoice — “suits a light, agile skier; super easy in all types of turns,” wrote one tester. Light, lively, and a pure pleasure — just like a Gershwin musical.

Pump some iron and power up those quads. The Super Front Two prefers forceful pilots willing to push pedal to metal. Muscle is required to get this stiff ski to bend into submission, but when it does, the rewards are considerable. Tight turns, big turns — both can be executed with equally satisfying results. For intermediates moving up? Probably not; according to one tester’s assessment, “This ski would suit ex-racers who still want to feel they’re in the game.”

04 | ROSSIGNOL

04 | DYNASTAR

Think of that favourite chair you like to curl up in, that comfort food that always puts you in a good mood, those reruns of your favourite TV show. The Radical 9S is a longtime Rossignol all-star, a ski that continues to put smiles on skiers’ faces with its comfortable, predictable ride. Nervous racer rocket? No way, says one tester: “It may look like a race ski, but it’s really a powerful, all-mountain weapon.”

The votes are in, and the votes are unanimous: Easy, easy, easy. Every tester checked the easy-turning box in rating this ski. The Contact Groove flows like stream water from one slalom-shaped turn into the next, maintaining a clean, tight turn shape regardless of how hard or soft the snow might be. “As soon as you get to the bottom of the hill, you want to keep it turning, over and over,” wrote one tester. For smooth, short turns, the Groove is the voters’ choice.

05 | VÖLKL

05 | NORDICA

Grrrr. This is a snarling slalom beast that devours fast, quick turns on hard snow. Racers will relish the unwavering precision with which the RaceTiger slices and dices slalom turns. That might come at the expense of all-mountain versatility, but this ski is on a focused mission: make many turns as fast as possible. “Forget first and second gears,” was the comment of one tester. “Shift directly to overdrive and ski as if you were on a course.” Grrrr.

Turn on the ignition, and hear the engine thrum with horsepower. The Spitfire Pro is a lean, mean, turning machine, loaded with muscle and energy but still user-friendly enough to make turns with elegant ease. Finesse skiers will like this ski, but those who punch each turn with a little extra vigour will fall in love. “This ski is for the strong skier who likes to put on a helmet and get to the bottom as fast as possible,” one tester commented.

Gentlemen, start your engines.

06 | BLIZZARD

06 | ATOMIC

Think of the SLR Magnesium as the light beer of the category — it might lack the brawny, full body of its competitors, but it’ll still give you a buzz. Smaller guys looking for a responsive dance partner, drink up — the SLR Magnesium flits adroitly from one slalom turn to the next, although it can become a little unsettled in bigger turns at higher speeds. The word of the hour among testers: “fun.” And, like a light beer, plenty of oomph in a reduced-calorie package.

When is a carving ski really an all-mountain ski? One good answer is the VF 75, a ski that, as one tester put it, “had good adaptation when the terrain changes.” Also when the turn shape changes; the ski actually scored better in long turns than in the short turns it was designed for. And it is a beefy bruiser, at it’s best under the control of a beefy, bruising pilot. Big-mountain big boys, here’s a ski that can unquestionably bring satisfaction.

07 | FISCHER

07 | ELAN

The mantra of the SC Pro: Turn, turn, turn. For every turn some other ski might want to make, the SC Pro wants to make three. This is a slalom radius maestro, getting in and out of turns with the ease of an orchestra conductor waving his baton. Testers rated it a ski that an occasional racer might love: easy to turn but still strong and precise. All-mountain versatility is limited, but on a slalom race course — turn, turn, turn.

Flick, flick! With a minimum of effort, the SL links one quick turn after another with one quick flick of the feet after another. This ski is like a wine spritzer — light and refreshing, but with plenty of zest. “Super lively — I felt I could explode through my turns,” wrote one tester. But think of explosions like Chinese firecrackers — lots of quick, small bangs, no big booms. Performance drops off when the turn shape lengthens. Think tight turns, and flick away.

08 | SALOMON

08 | HEAD

You grew up racing, but you’re done with gates now. Yet you still want an all-mountain ski that responds to race-like commands. The 3V might disappoint a skier looking for a thoroughbred racehorse, but it’s got plenty of giddyup to romp all over the mountain, even in moguls. “Great versatility, even if that’s not what it’s designed for,” wrote one tester. Stick to short-radius turns and keep your feet moving, and the ski will bring back memories of your race days — without the hard work.

The answer to the question is a question. Who would like the Super Shape? Answer: Who wouldn’t? Expert, intermediate, beginner, ski instructor, ski patrol, carving specialist, weekend skier — all were people who testers thought would be happy on the Super Shape. Short turns might be its specialty, but its hallmark is its consistency on all terrain and through various turn shapes, having received high scores across the board. “Ready to obey all my commands without complaining,” summed up one tester. Any questions?

Omeglass TI 92.08% | 118-66-102@165 cm | R 12 | FLEX Medium-stiff | $899 w/b

D2 Race SL 91.25% | 118-66-107,5@165 cm | R 11.5 | FLEX Medium-stiff | $1,550 w/b

SLX WF 90.40% | 116-66-104@165 cm | R 12.9 | FLEX Medium | $1,300 w/b

Radical 9S WC 89.93% | 124-70-112@165 cm | R 12.3 | FLEX Medium-stiff | $1,300 w/b

RaceTiger SL Racing 88.82% | 118-66-101@165 cm | R 13 | FLEX Stiff | $1,300 w/b

SLR Magnesium IQ 88.22% | 121-68-105@167 cm | R 13.5 | FLEX Medium-stiff | $1,580 w/b

RC4 WorldCup SC Pro 88.09% | 118-66-99@165 cm | R 13 | FLEX Medium-stiff | $1,449 w/b

Powertrak Powerline 3V 88.01% | 117-65-100@165 cm | R 13.2 | FLEX Medium | $1,350 w/b

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G-Force Sonic IQ 91.44% | 121-68-105@167 cm | R 13 | FLEX Medium-stiff | $1,320 w/b

Radical R8S 91.28% | 124-70-112@165 cm | R 12.3 | FLEX Medium | $1,200 w/b

Super Front Two 88.27% | 116-66-101@167 cm | R 14 | FLEX Stiff | $1,995 w/b

Contact Groove TI 87.99% | 118-66-102@165 cm | R 12 | FLEX Medium | $749 w/b

Dobermann Spitfire Pro 87.92% | 120-70-105@170 cm | R 14 | FLEX Medium | $1,450 w/b

VF 75 87.61% | 121-75-111@166 cm | R 13 | FLEX Medium-stiff | $1,000 w/b

SL WF 87.53% | 116-66-104@165 cm | R 12.9 | FLEX Medium | $1,100 w/b

Super Shape 87.38% | 121-66-106@165 cm | R 11.4 | FLEX Medium-stiff | $1,450 w/b

MORE WINNING SKIS, THE SKI FINDER AND ALL TEST SCORES CAN BE FOUND AT SKIPRESSWORLD.COM

8/28/09 4:02:29 PM

Volk.indd 20

8/21/09 5:23:06 PM

Groomed Cruise

HIGH-PERFORMANCE (MSA)

PERFORMANCE (MSA)

Think of these skis as groomed and hard-snow rippers, for skiers who like barreling down the mountain making round, high-speed turns. Turn radii are typically between 15 and 20 metres, comparable to the shape of a giant-slalom turn.

“Cruise” is the operative word here. These skis are a good match for advanced and intermediate skiers who stick mainly to groomers and who like making big, swooping turns. For relaxed, moderate-speed days in the saddle, these are good horses to ride.

01 | ATOMIC

01 | VIST

Start chugging protein shakes... The D2 Race GS is one amazing ski, but to appreciate it fully, you need a bulldozer build. Testers over 200 pounds were seen salivating at the bottom of the hill. “Everything is perfect,” gushed a 215-pound tester. This ski might be too much of a bruiser to finesse through all-mountain subtleties.

But go big, go fast, and go eat an extra meal, and in the D2 Race GS you might discover the perfection of everything.

I love you, man. The Super Mountain One has a whole lotta love for just about any skier, adapting easily to different skiing styles. Aggro cannonballers — step on it and go as hard as you want. More easygoing cruisers — the ski loves you, too. It knows no speed limit, yet there is no need for speed. “A great choice for an allmountain skier of any ability level,” wrote one tester. Test scores showed consistent brilliance across the board.

Ya gotta love it.

02 | FISCHER

02 | BLIZZARD

The RC Pro is like a loveable bulldog — muscular, determined, and ferocious, but with a sweet and easy disposition hiding inside. Rare is the ski that can blast through racy, high-speed turns, then transform into a versatile, all-mountain marvel when the terrain changes and the speed is throttled down. An all-skier marvel, too — the RC Pro works for big guys, little fellas, finesse skiers and power players. “The perfect combination of a GS ski and an all-mountain ski,” wrote one tester.

OK – let’s give the Blizzard marketing crew a nod. They bill the G-Force as a ski where “maximum speed meets maximum versatility and maximum control.” What testers encountered: a great all-mountain, all-snow ski able to handle a variety of turn shapes at any speed. Weaknesses? None the test team could find, especially the bigger boys. “The most versatile ski I’ve been on in a long time,” enthused one happy tester. Fun to the max – and that’s not just marketing hype.

03 | DYNASTAR

03 | DYNASTAR

Exactly what is a GS turn? Look back at the arcs etched in the snow by the Speed Course Ti, and you’ll find an answer. No slipping or slopping, just pure, clean carving in any kind of snow. This is a precision-oriented, GS racing machine that’s still easygoing enough to take out on a fast, all-mountain cruise. One tester described it as an “easy-to-use speed machine” that’s a great choice for “beer-league racers.” For lovers of the pure GS turn — questions answered.

Think of metaphors for smooth: silk, milkshake, velvet, baby’s skin. A power-packed ski might not come to mind, but the Contact Cross can be added to the metaphorical list. There’s just enough stiffness to provide stability and precision in long, fast turns, but enough forgiveness to allow you to glide over rough spots when you back off the throttle. “The ski performs at a high level with minimal effort,” was one tester’s comment. In short, a well-rounded smoothie, something like silk on snow.

04 | ROSSIGNOL

04 | MOVEMENT

A single, four-letter word best describes the Classic 70Ti: easy. Start a turn? Easy. Finish a turn? Easy. Change turn shapes? Easy. Easy, easy, easy — the ski might not be demanding, but that doesn’t make it a lifeless noodle.

It’s got plenty of all-mountain game, executing whatever is expected of it with confidence and consistency. It won’t push the excitement metre into the red zone, but for an all-fun, all-the-time confidence booster, it’s easy to pick the Classic 70Ti.

Carving ski? The Yaka can certainly snap off a clean, crisp turn when called on, but at heart it wants to take off and explore the whole mountain. Relatively light and stiff, it easily changes turn shapes without losing its sense of direction. “Best for skiers who prefer backwoods/off-trail adventures,” summed up one tester. Not so fast – it is still designed to be a carving ski, so for Eastern adventurers who split time between groomed and gonzo, this ski has a lot of heart.

05 | VÖLKL

05 | NORDICA

How great it would be to have a single ski that could switch from hard-snow carver to all-mountain softie with just a magical twitch of the nose, as in the old TV show, Bewitched. That, more or less, is the idea behind the TigerShark’s Power Switch, allowing you to change the flex pattern of the ski. Good idea, but the reality is still classically Völkl — a stiff and powerful carving machine. “You must be very aggressive,” cautioned one tester.

On rare occasions, the look says it all. As one tester wrote, “The Spitfire looks like an Italian race car and skis like one, too.” So strap into your shoulder harness and secure your helmet – this ski delivers a rocking, power-packed ride. Great in long turns, it still has the ability to dart through shorties. Big guys in particular will love its beefy feel. Whether you’re racing or just recreational ripping, Italian race-car drivers have a word for it: Bravissimo!

06 | HEAD

06 | VÖLKL

Power meets polish, and the result: performance. Just because the SuperShape Speed responds best to a strongwilled pilot doesn’t mean it demands excessive force. Even the lightest tester found a ski that turns “with buttery ease.” But jump into turns with brawny bravado, and the ski delivers a rollicking ride. Finesse works well, but aggression works even better. A bit of a hulk in trying to zip through tight turns, the SuperShape Speed is otherwise incredible. Power up!

Sometimes, a single, succinct tester comment says it all. “Starts easy, holds strong, finishes smooth,” wrote one tester of the AC 10’s ability to glide like a racing sloop into a turn, then ride it out with the stability of a battleship. The ski loves long turns but is versatile enough to execute snappy shorties if necessary. Sometimes, a tester needs to invent a word to tell it all. “Fanfabulous,” was another tester’s neologistic summary of the AC 10’s performance.

07 | BLIZZARD

07 | FISCHER

Find the halfway point between an all-terrain vehicle and a race-car thoroughbred, and you’re likely to find a pair of G-Force Supersonics. Put another way, the ski is a compromise of characters: enough raciness to give it power and stability at speed, enough kick-back cruise-ability to be an easygoing, everyday ski. Testers doubted it would satisfy hard-charging experts, but thought it great for improving intermediates. One tester called it “forgiving and very aggressive” — a rare and curious combination of characters.

In taking on the challenges a mountain can dish out, the old saying applies: when the going gets tough, the tough gets going. The Progressor 8+ is a ski that brings its A game to the table when things get tougher. One tester wrote that it “handles pressure well,” as if psychoanalyzing the ski rather than skiing it. Testers liked its facility of getting in and out of turns, but still, wrote one, “the Progressor likes to be ridden hard.” Get tough, get the Progressor.

08 | ELAN

08 | ELAN

As an ex-racer, you’ve had enough of demanding skis that make you work hard to control every turn. So let the Speedwave 14 lighten your load. The Speedwave is like a race ski with every screw turned back a quarter of a turn, making it easy, versatile, but still substantive. Testers were also impressed with how lithely the ski flowed through softer, cruddier snow. “It feels like I’m floating on the snow,” wrote one tester. Hey, Wave riders —softsnow surf’s up.

Think of sipping cocktails on the back of your yacht in rough seas. Elan’s Waveflex technology, combining torsional stiffness with softer fore-aft flex, contributes to terrific yet easygoing stability even when conditions are bumpy or uneven. That makes the Speedwave 12 a cruiser’s dreamboat, linking smooth, big turns as if all snow were ego snow. One impassioned tester was so impressed he sounded positively in love: “This incredible ski made me hot!” Think martinis on a Saturday afternoon cruise. Aaaahhh.

D2 Race GS 90.71% | 109.5-70-99@179 cm | R 18.4 | FLEX Stiff | $1,549 w/b

RC4 World Cup RC Pro 90.65% | 112-66-96@175 cm | R 16 | FLEX Medium-stiff | $1,449 w/b

Speed Course Ti 89.94% | 120-72-104@178 cm | R 15 | FLEX Medium-stiff | $779 w/b

Classic 70Ti 89.48% | 124-70-112@175 cm | R 13.9 | FLEX Medium | $1,300 w/b

TigerShark 11ft 88.76% | 121-75-104@175 cm | R 16.8 | FLEX Stiff | $1,450 w/b

SuperShape Speed 88.61% | 117-69-101@177 cm | R 15.7 | FLEX Medium-stiff | $1,450 w/b

G-Force Supersonic IQ 87.47% | 123-72-103@174 cm | R 15.5 | FLEX Medium-stiff | $1,580 w/b

Speedwave 14 86.37% | 123-72-105@176 cm | R 10-16 | FLEX Medium | $1,150 w/b

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Super Mountain One 90.29% | 123-71-105@170 cm | R 17 | FLEX Medium-stiff | $1,495 w/b

G-Force Pro IQ 89.07% | 121-72-103@174 cm | R 15.5 | FLEX Medium | $1,190 w/b

Contact Cross Ti 88.42% | 120-72-104@172 cm | R 15 | FLEX Medium-stiff | $949 w/b

Yaka 87.63% | 126-75-107@175 cm | R 15 | FLEX Medium-stiff | $700

Dobermann Spitfire 87.46% | 122-70-105@170 cm | R 14 | FLEX Stiff | $1,240 w/b

Unlimited AC 10 86.79% | 117-72-103@170 cm | R 15.4 | FLEX Medium-stiff | $700 w/b

Progressor 8+ 86.77% | 120-72-103@170 cm | R 12-16 | FLEX Medium | $1,095 w/b

Speedwave 12 85.26% | 114-68-100@168 cm | R 15 | FLEX Medium-stiff | $1,549 w/b

MORE WINNING SKIS, THE SKI FINDER AND ALL TEST SCORES CAN BE FOUND AT SKIPRESSWORLD.COM

8/28/09 4:03:05 PM

ATOMICSNOW.COM

SAVOUR EVERY HUNDREDTH OF A SECOND THE NEW ATOMIC DOUBLEDECK RACE GS, ORIGINALLY DEVELOPED FOR WORLD CUP COMPETITION, DELIVERS MORE SPEED IN ANY SKIING SITUATION. THE FREELY GLIDING DECKS COMBINE MAXIMUM AGILITY WITH MAXIMUM STABILITY – MEANING LESS EFFORT AT EVERY TURN, LEAVING YOU WITH ENOUGH ENERGY TO ENJOY EVERY SKIING DAY RIGHT DOWN TO YOUR LAST RUN.

Salomon.indd 20

8/7/09 6:36:42 PM

All-Terrain Medium

HIGH-PERFORMANCE (MSA)

PERFORMANCE (MSA)

These skis are designed for demanding skiers who like to tear up the whole mountain - steeps, bumps, trees, groomers - at high speed. But with waist widths of about 80 mm, they can still handle the occasional foray into powder.

These skis are for all-mountain explorers who like to stay in a relatively easygoing comfort zone. Everything but super-steep double blacks are in the game plan, with a premium on the versatility to handle a variety of snow conditions.

01 | SALOMON

01 | FISCHER

The XW Tornado has a gift to keep on giving. Take it out for a laid-back cruise, and it’s like taking a nap on a La-Z-Boy lounger. Soooo easy. But as the mood changes to a more aggressive mentality, the ski continues to deliver performance. Any place on the mountain, any challenge — the ski has a way of adapting. “An intermediate can have fun, and an expert can blow his mind” — that’s the way one tester summed up the XW Tornado’s unique gifts.

Where’s the extension cord? The Watea 78 is so loaded with power and energy, you’d think it was electrified.

The result is a ski without limits — a ski you can push as hard and fast as you want. Push all you want, and still, wrote one tester, “this ski asks to be taken to the next level. A man among boys.” The 255-pound tester gave it especially high scores, so you big boys — flip the switch and light it up on all terrain and snow.

02 | VIST

02 | VÖLKL

Race ski slips into a phone booth, quick change, and out steps... Superski! The word “super” kept coming up in tester comments about a ski that, despite its powerful, racy character, was an all-mountain wonder-board. This is no ski for passive, Clark Kent types; as one tester commented, “you must be centered and attentive at all times.” When you are, all turns and terrain can be conquered. Put an “S” on your chest, and take flight with Vist’s Cross-Over 2.

Think of a slingshot launch — elasticity loaded up and released, and boi-yoi-yoing!, an explosion of raw, projectile power. That’s the feeling of skiing the AC20, with energy that generates a slingshot thrust from one turn into the next. That’s energy that melds neatly with an agility one tester called catlike — “somewhere between a jaguar and a cougar.” A little extra bulk can help keep that energy under control, but all in all, this is a ski that can launch an intermediate into expertland.

03 | ATOMIC

03 | ATOMIC

Bop! Boom! Bam! The Blackeye strikes at the mountain with a punishing force, blasting out GS turns with blistering consistency. This might not be the most forgiving or versatile ski in the category, but it’s hard to beat for those with a fighter’s passion for blasting through big turns. “Once you start turning, you will never reach its limits,” wrote one tester about the Blackeye’s deep power reserve. It may be an easy turner, but delivering the big bang is the Blackeye’s game.

Sometimes, the best parts of life and skiing aren’t the good things that happen but rather the bad things that don’t. The Smoke Ti never deviates from what’s expected of it — no straying from its turn arc, no hiccups at speed, no quirky behaviours, no muss, no fuss. One tester described it as being “like an obedient dog — serving its master well and doing what it’s told.” Another tester was more succinct: “No surprises.” And that is a very good thing.

04 | ELAN

04 | SALOMON

Quick reminder: skiing is play, not work. For those who think of a ski as a toy rather than a tool — made for fun rather than force — the Magfire 78 delivers kid-in-a-sandbox satisfaction. This Elan comes out to play for a wide range of skier abilities, intermediates to experts. There’s a nice balance between soft, all-mountain forgiveness and stiff, high-speed stability. Minimum effort, maximum fun — the Magfire can bring out the fun-loving kid in anyone.

Beat your chest, let out a battle cry, then step aboard the Tornado for a mountain-busting, manly ride. This hard-driving ski will bring out the warrior in you, at its best making fearsomely fast and powerful turns.

Testers did, however, discover in this war club a surprising touch of quickness, so it won’t wimp out in the guerilla combat of glades skiing and tighter turns. “Perfect for a guy who wants to feel like a racer,” wrote one tester. Or a warrior.

05 | ROSSIGNOL

05 | BLIZZARD

Game on. When you’re ready to gear up for hand-to-hand combat with the mountain, you need a weapon that won’t wimp out when push comes to shove. The Classic 80Ti packs some serious punch, and the skier can be the punchee if he leaves his power game in the base lodge. “Not for the weak,” was one tester’s simple summary. While some smaller testers felt worked, bigger testers were happy to be in the game. Go hard, or go home.

Reality check: not all turns are the same. Different terrain and different snow conditions demand different turning strategies — sometimes it’s best to carve turns; sometimes allowing the skis to slide is better. Some turns demand aggression, others a delicate touch. The Magnum 7.6’s multi-turn skill set makes it an all-mountain master, able to carve precisely but also able to release from a carved arc when terrain and snow dictate. “From sliding to carving, this baby can do it all,” wrote one tester. That’s the reality of all-mountain versatility.

06 | VÖLKL

06 | ROSSIGNOL

If a ski were an energy drink — combining a caffeinated wake-up call with sugary sweetness — the ski would probably be an Unlimited AC 30. You can almost feel the ski quivering with forcefulness when you pick it up off the rack. It charges through big turns like a ski in search of a GS race course, and is in its element on hard, fast snow. “For hard skiers who love to push their skis,” wrote one tester. Drink up, you big boys.

Ahhh, love at first sight. When it comes to good looks, sweet dreams are made of this. Testers were universally smitten by the Avenger 82’s graphics, but was beauty only top-sheet deep? Turns out the ski can deliver one sexy ride, especially charging through long, warp-speed turns. “Looks like a hot blonde but rides like a cowboy,” was one tester’s complimentary assessment. Performance drops a shade in short turns, but for high-speed cruisers, this could have the makings of a long-term relationship.

07 | DYNASTAR

07 | ELAN

Dynastar’s catchphrase for the Contact 4X4 is “all-terrain fluidity.” One tester had a different way of putting it: “Rewards good technique, but forgives mistakes.” Power turns on hard snow may not be the 4X4’s forte. But head out in variable-snow conditions, and this crud-buster floats easily through textural transitions. Après-skiers, line up: You can ride the 4X4 all day and still have plenty of energy to quaff some après “fluidity” after the lifts shut down.

Think of a long, warm bath. Think of closing your eyes, letting a smile spread across your face, and drifting into dreamland. Welcome to the oh-so-easy zone of the Magfire 74, a ski driven by a single, encompassing mandate: make skiing as effortless as possible. “Easy” echoed throughout tester comments — a word applied to all turn shapes, regardless of snow conditions. Burly, aggro skiers need not apply; settle into what one tester called “a huge sweet spot” and drift gently into neverland.

08 | NORDICA

08 | NORDICA

The Nitrous is like a six-pack — at least six different skis wrapped into a single package. Some testers praised a great long-turning ski; others thought it best for shorties. Some found an aggressive ski, others a relaxed, easy rider. One-turn bomber, agile, all-mountain darter — who knows? Clearly the ski is capable of just about anything, but how it performs best depends on who is at the controls. You’ll find something to find about this ski, but try it first to find out what that something is.

When training a new puppy, it’s often best to be authoritative in your commands. Lay down the law, and an unruly mutt can become a docile and responsive pet. So it goes with the Igniter Ti. It can be an obedient and remarkably easygoing ski, but you’ve got to let it know who’s the boss. “Good ski if you’re ready to commit yourself by pushing hard,” wrote one tester. Use unwavering insistence, and the Igniter Ti can be one good doggie.

XW Tornado Ti Powertrak 83.99% | 120-77-105@180 cm | R 16.3 | FLEX Medium-stiff | $1,350 w/b

Cross-Over Two 83.38% | 131-77-111@176 cm | R 15 | FLEX Medium | $1,895 w/b

Blackeye Ti 82.65% | 114,1-79-108,5@178 cm | R 17.5 | FLEX Medium-stiff | $900 w/b

Magfire 78 Ti 81.26% | 123-78-105@176 cm | R 17.2 | FLEX Medium | $950 w/b

Classic 80Ti 80.82% | 124-80-112@175 cm | R 17.6 | FLEX Medium | $1,300 w/b

Unlimited AC30 80.71% | 124-80-107@177 cm | R 18.4 | FLEX Stiff | $1,100 w/b

Contact 4X4 80.64% | 122-75-106@178 cm | R 16 | FLEX Medium | $1,049 w/b

Nitrous Ti 80.44% | 124-78-108@178 cm | R 17.5 | FLEX Medium | $1,549 w/b

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Watea 78 86.15% | 122-78-107@174 cm | R 17 | FLEX Medium-stiff | $1,049 w/b

Unlimited AC20 82.88% | 118-74-103@170 cm | R 16.1 | FLEX Medium-stiff | $900 w/b

Smoke Ti 82.56% | 114,5-76-104,5@171 cm | R 16.5 | FLEX Medium-stiff | $700 w/b

Tornado 82.03% | 120-78-107@173 cm | R 16.3 | FLEX Medium-stiff | $1,100 w/b

Magnum 7.6 IQ 81.68% | 124-76-107@170 cm | R 15 | FLEX Medium | $1,000 w/b

Avenger 82 Carbon 80.90% | 128-82-112@177 cm | R 18.3 | FLEX Medium | $960 w/b

Magfire 74 80.65% | 121-74-101@168 cm | R 14.9 | FLEX Medium | $750 w/b

Igniter Ti 80.60% | 123-76-107@170 cm | R 15 | FLEX Medium-stiff | $1,040 w/b

MORE WINNING SKIS, THE SKI FINDER AND ALL TEST SCORES CAN BE FOUND AT SKIPRESSWORLD.COM

9/1/09 5:00:32 PM

HIGH-PERFORMANCE (MSA)

PERFORMANCE (MSA)

For the skier who wants to do it all, but who doesn’t want to work hard doing it. Intermediates and advanced skiers who spend most of their time on softer snow - groomers, crud, and in-bounds powder - this is your category.

01 | ROSSIGNOL

01 | ATOMIC

Go on — give it a little spank. The Avenger 82Ti demands a forceful touch to get it going, but ooh, baby, does it get going. One tester called it a “do-anything maestro,” a particularly masterful performer in differing snow conditions. Razor precision on ice couples with a free-flowing ride when the snow softens up. An expert’s dream machine — “tip it, rip it, and hang on,” wrote one tester. When you do, you can give the whole mountain a good spanking.

Forget all those wimpy, slow-speed gears in the gearbox. When at the controls of the VF 82, shift directly into overdrive. This is a ski that craves big turns at big speeds. One tester compared it to a “well-trained stallion” — a ski positively snorting with power, yet power that’s easy to keep under control. The result is a ski accessible to a wide range of ability levels, from low intermediate to advanced. For the guy looking to shift up to the next level, vroom, vroom!

02 | ATOMIC

02 | ELAN

Turning big and fast on the Crimson Ti is almost like cheating on an advanced-studies test. With little effort or preparation, you can jump right to the head of the class in GS turns, especially on softer snow. When turns are tighter or the snow is a little harder, some extra classwork can be required, but the ski still gets more than a passing grade. “Able to offer game improvement at any level,” was one tester’s comment. Give it an E for easy.

May the force be with you. Skis with an energy supercharge are often difficult to control, but the Magfire 78 is an exception to the rule. The ski is loaded with forceful energy, but its energy is meted out perfectly during the course of a turn. The result is a ski that makes power-packed turns on ice feel like easygoing rounders on ego snow. “I felt like I had torpedoes on my feet,” was one tester’s comment.” That’s a force to be reckoned with.

03 | VIST

03 | SALOMON

Think of a Ferrari with a supple suspension that allows you to take it off-road. Or think, as one tester did, of “an SUV you can drive on the highway.” The Cross Over Three combines race-car brio with all-mountain ruggedness and, for the most part, makes the combo work, especially with an authoritative pilot at the wheel.

Short turns might require a little extra work, but open up the radius, and you’re in for one power-packed ride, on or off groomed highways.

Go on — try to find something wrong with this ski. Supple enough for softer snow, yet stiff enough to stick to ice when that’s the name of the game. Beefy enough for strong men, but agile enough for finessers as well. A cruiser’s delight on which a speedballer can also find happiness. A ski, wrote one tester, “that pretty much everybody will enjoy.” The test scores show it: well-above-average scores in all criteria. There’s certainly nothing wrong with that.

04 | VÖLKL

04 | VÖLKL

Like a frisky colt, the AC50 is loaded with pep and is just jonesing to go out and play. That pep can be perilous for lighter skiers who might encounter jumpiness when trying to ease through smooth, clean turns at slower speeds. But with a bigger skier at the reins, the ski can become a carving thoroughbred. And like a thoroughbred, it likes to run fast. For a big guy whose idea of all-mountain skiing is hips-to-the-snow carving, saddle up a pair of AC50s.

All-mountain cruisers looking for a bridge to way-cool freeriding, here it is. Just looking at the Bridge’s flashy graphics and twin tips can put you in a freeride state of mind. But what testers really liked was the fluidity with which it handled variable snow textures — “ice, powder, hard-pack, it doesn’t matter . . . capable of plowing over everything in the way,” wrote one tester. Best for big-mountain bombing, the Bridge is a real beaut for bigger boys.

05 | ELAN

05 | NORDICA

Put on a happy face — this is a ski that seems to embark on its journey with a childlike glee. For skiers looking for an easygoing and playful all-mountain cruise, the Magfire 82 fills the role comfortably, without demanding serious, teeth-gritting commitment. The Waveflex technology provides a fluid — if not the most energetic — ride. Aggressive skiers might overpower it, but for cruisers looking for a friendly, all-day playmate, this is true happiness.

The Jet Fuel takes on skiing as if the sport were viewed through a zoom lens. Fast, big-radius turns come sharply into focus, while most other things fall outside of the picture frame. Try slower-speed squiggles, and things can get a bit fuzzy. But once the speed is ramped up and the big-radius sidecut starts doing its thing, za-zoom! You might not need a race course, but when speed is the focus, the Jet Fuel can make you feel like a GS-racing stud.

06 | BLIZZARD

06 | BLIZZARD

Advice for using the Magnum 8.7: let the ski know right away who’s in charge. The ski respects a strongwilled authority and likes being ridden hard. Once you take command, the ski submits with a cruise-control fluidity; if you’re timid in asserting who’s the boss, the ski can become jumpy and unreliable. So step on it hard for big, high-speed turns, and the message the Magnum 8.7 will send back will be, according to one tester, “Enjoy the ride.”

The Titan Cronus is like a Swiss Army knife, a multi-tasking tool able to get just about any job done. There might be better tools for specific tasks, but you can count on the ski to solve whatever puzzles the mountain concocts. One tester praised it for “having a good reaction when the terrain changes.” The ski might not push the excitement metre into the red zone, but as an all-purpose, all-day tool, it is reliable and predictable wherever you go.

All-Terrain Large

These skis should work well as an all-day, every-day Western ski, or as a do-everything ski for Eastern skiers taking regular vacations to the West. With waist widths between 82 mm to 85 mm, there’s a touch of powder flotation to go with all-mountain versatility.

Avenger 82Ti 83.60% | 126-82-112@177 cm | R 18.3 | FLEX Medium | $1,180 w/b

Crimson Ti 81.88% | 119,5-86-114@176 cm | R 18 | FLEX Medium | $1,100 w/b

Cross Over Three 81.59% | 126-84-112@170 cm | R 17 | FLEX Medium-stiff | $1,895 w/b

Unlimited AC50 81.18% | 128-85-112@177 cm | R 18 | FLEX Stiff | $1,250 w/b

Magfire 82 XTi 81.04% | 126-82-109@176 cm | R 17.2 | FLEX Medium | $1,150 w/b

Magnum 8.7 IQ Max 80.13% | 128-87-113@174 cm | R 18.5 | FLEX Medium | $1,580 w/b

VF 82 86.19% | 121,5-82-111@174 cm | R 17 | FLEX Medium | $1,199 w/b

Magfire 78 84.63% | 123-78-105@176 cm | R 17.2 | FLEX Medium-stiff | $850 w/b

XW Storm 82.13% | 120-76-104@176 cm | R 17.2 | FLEX Medium-stiff | $900 w/b

Bridge 79.94% | 130-92-112@177 cm | R 19.2 | FLEX Medium-stiff | $1,080 w/b

Jet Fuel CA 79.59% | 126-84-112@170 cm | R 17 | FLEX Medium-stiff | $1,300 w/b

Titan Cronus IQ Max 78.71% | 125-88-109@173 cm | R 18.5 | FLEX Medium-stiff | $1,320 w/b

07 | FISCHER

Watea 84 79.66% | 126-84-112@176 cm | R 18 | FLEX Medium-soft | $949 Looking for a Rocky Mountain high? The featherweight Watea 84 is surely a ski that would settle in comfortably on the softer snow of the West, floating with gossamer ease over crud and in-bounds powder. Testers found a ski with good edge grip, though its lightness made it a bit nervous at high speed on hard-pack. But float like a butterfly on softer snow, and the ski can deliver a convincing, confident bee’s sting. Is that Aspen calling?

08 | DYNASTAR

Sultan 85 79.65% | 126-85-110@178 cm | R 16 | FLEX Medium | $950 w/b Imagine a Parliamentary session — it starts with everyone voicing individual opinions, eventually working toward consensus. That seemed to be the way the testing worked with the Sultan 85. Most testers expressed enthusiasm for its long-turning talents, but others were quick to single out its surprising short-swing ability. But they agreed on one thing — the ski really hits its stride on softer snow. Warp speed on ice? Nah, but exploring a half foot of freshies... ahhh.

MORE WINNING SKIS, THE SKI FINDER AND ALL TEST SCORES CAN BE FOUND AT SKIPRESSWORLD.COM

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The Perfect Ski for You!

Even with page after page of the most thoroughly tested, best performing, sexiest skis on the market being presented right here in stunning colour, you may still be saying, “But how do I choose?” With the SKI PRESS SKI FINDER, that’s how. Call it your miracle ski matchmaker. It’s available online, with loads of interactive features to help you match your ski needs - from stability to versatility, carve to float, and grip to rip - with the best of this year’s new gear.

If you want a HAPPILY EVER AFTER NEW SKI EXPERIENCE, then go to SKIPRESSWORLD.COM RIGHT NOW, and find the perfect ski for you!

BUYERS’ GUIDE 2010 45 MORE WINNING SKIS, THE SKI FINDER AND ALL TEST SCORES CAN BE FOUND AT SKIPRESSWORLD.COM

9/1/09 5:01:11 PM

XXL Here’s where the balance shifts decidedly in favour of soft snow. These skis generally have enough sidecut for competent carving, but that’s not their forté. At around 100 mm underfoot and often with rocker technology, versatility ebbs in favour of deep-snow performance.

01 | KÄSTLE

01 | NORDICA

Warning to MX88 skiers: bring your A game. This is a ski that snorts power and wants to attack the mountain from the first turn to the last. Bigger skiers in particular will enjoy the ride aboard a ski with the stability of a Clydesdale but the energy and lust for speed of a thoroughbred. “Let loose your inner stallion. Pony riders need not apply,” wrote one tester. Attack the mountain, and the ski will deliver A scores in all facets of the game.

How many ways can you say “Wow!”? Testers were all but tongue-tied in trying to voice their praises for Nordica’s Enforcer. Here was a ski that did everything well – superbly – on all snow and all terrain. OK – it was only so-so for short-turn quickies, but who buys a big ski like this to make squiggly little turns? “Every turn is exciting,” gushed one tester. “It feels like my first sexual relation, again and again.” As good as sex? Wow.

02 | VÖLKL

02 | KÄSTLE

The old adage applies: if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. The same Mantra that testers loved for a couple of years is back, doing what it does best – just about everything. The fat, 133-mm tip floats over soft, cruddy snow, but an ample sidecut (tapering to 96 mm underfoot) and relative stiffness allow the ski to absolutely devour fast turns on ice. “For anyone who aspires to take strong, on-piste skills to the big mountain, you’ve found your ski,” one tester commented.

Here’s the mythology behind the MX 98: The god of race skis romanced the goddess of powder skis, and the progeny they produced was the MX 98. This burly bomber makes a big-mountain powder run seem like a downhill race – arcing huge turns at huge speeds. “Like having a truck strapped to your feet,” was one tester’s way of describing the ski’s unshakeable stability. That doesn’t make it an easy ski, but for a mythical, big-mountain day, the MX 98 is a true Olympian.

03 | ELAN

03 | VÖLKL

Like a master carpenter, the 888 finds a perfect balance between utilitarian workmanship and creative artistry.

Testers praised a ski with the racy ability to etch precise turns on ice as well as a ski with a big sweet spot, able to turn rougher terrain into a smooth work of art. “The ski doesn’t require constant focus like some stiff, aggressive boards do,” wrote one tester. To master the whole mountain, push hard and then count on the ski to do the work for you.

A ski this fat just isn’t supposed to do this many things this well. Despite an ample waist of 106 mm, the Gotama can still slice and dice decent short turns on hard snow. But with its rocker – reverse cambre – set-up, that’s certainly not its forté. “Awesome on a big-powder day,” was one tester’s assessment of the ski’s true soul. So think of a well-balanced meal, with powder as the featured entrée but with plenty of tasty sides for complete, well-rounded satisfaction.

04 | BLIZZARD

04 | FISCHER

Pow! Whap! Pow! With the Titan Atlas, you’ve got a real fight on your hands. Stay passive, and you can get beaten up. But go hard and fast, and the ski becomes like a 300-pound muscled bodyguard, absolutely punishing any challenges the mountain might present. One tester recommended the ski only for a skier with “a takeno-prisoners attitude.” Big, strong guys looking for a ski that won’t buckle when brute force is applied, the Titan Atlas has the punch you’re looking for.

How do you get a ski with a 101-mm waist to carve a turn? Answer: Make sure it’s a Watea 101. As one tester noted, “Skis over 100 mm at the waist have evolved, and this ski is proof – easy to maneuver in short and long turns.” Make that easy with an exclamation mark when it comes to long turns. The ski absolutely flows through long turns with the soothing comfort of water in a stream. A carving fat ski? No longer a contradiction.

05 | ROSSIGNOL

05 | DYNASTAR

Relax! Skiing the whole mountain doesn’t have to be all muscle-rippling machismo. Think instead of the winter equivalent of a smooth, summer sail in a light but steady breeze. Kick back, enjoy it, and don’t worry about the occasional rogue wave that might try to spoil your fun. The SC87 smooths out the rough spots and floats all over the mountain with a genial versatility. “Keep it mellow and they will flow,” were the user instructions of one tester. Ahhhh… how relaxing.

Call in the cavalry! The Pro Rider is a racehorse that wants to charge right out of the gate and keep on charging. Rock-solid stability produces immaculate, powerful turns on any type of snow. But like a frisky thoroughbred, the ski has a lively little kick in it, too. Testers thought the Pro Rider does just fine at moderate speeds, but it really comes into its element at full gallop. To get the most out of the ski, charge!

06 | HEAD

06 | BLIZZARD

Welcome to the power hour. If you aren’t willing to push the pedal to the metal with the Peak 88, then step out of the driver’s seat and find another ski. This might be billed as an all-mountain SUV, but under the hood it’s got race-car energy that really cranks into action at high speed on groomers. Wimps, stay away; the Peak 88 is a serious bruiser’s delight. “A peak performer in the hands of a strong, focused athlete,” was one tester’s summary.

Like a bracing shot of caffeine, The Answer delivers an eye-opening jolt. If you’re not willing to punch the powermetre into the red zone, forgetaboutit. The ski is really looking for a speed-loving muscleman at the controls.

“Suited for a more aggressive skier with an established skill set,” is the way one tester put it. Once warp speed is achieved, the ski delivers a big-turning beauty of a ride, but for short turns at slower speeds, it’s a bull in a china shop.

07 | ATOMIC

07 | ROSSIGNOL

Lay your head back on a cushy pillow, put your feet up, grab a cold frosty, and go into couch-potato mode. That’s about the amount of effort it requires to tame the Savage. Fast, round turns on ice are luxuriously easy; as one tester wrote, “Just put them on edge and carve all day.” The ski is light enough for decent float in softer snow, but listen up, couch potatoes: keep the channel tuned to in-bounds cruising, and happiness will be the reward.

Balance, sweet balance. When designing the Phantom, the Rossi R&D boys must have had a scale in mind. For every bit of carving, there is a balancing bit of flotation. With a bit of high-speed power comes an equal amount of easygoing forgiveness. The result is a ski that might not produce a thrilling ride, but that will always deliver a competent performance wherever you take it on the mountain. “Good compromise,” was one tester’s snappy summary. Or a good balance of ingredients.

08 | DYNASTAR

08 | HEAD

Zippidy-do-dah… this ski darts through turns with the light and lively dance steps of Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers. Rare is the big-waisted ski that performs better at short turns than long turns, but the lightness of the Distorter allows it to make changes of direction with nimble quickness. The ski is “playful,” as one tester put it, relying on agility rather than brawny power. Bigger skiers craving big speed might look elsewhere, but smaller guys looking for an all-mountain dance partner, zippidy-eh.

Metaphors for lightness: A feather, a summer breeze, a balloon, a pair of Head Johns. For you little fellas looking for an all-mountain playmate, John can be an ideal partner. Yes, a ski this light can get a bit balky on ice, but in the softer stuff it delivers an almost perfect combination of fun and ease. What surprised testers was that the ski still packed an energetic punch even if it lacked a heavyweight’s bulk. In short: a breezy beaut of a ski.

MX 88 90.64% | 128-88-113@188 cm | R 22.5 | FLEX Medium-stiff | $1,399 w/b

Mantra 87.75% | 133-96-116@184 cm | R 22.5 | FLEX Medium-stiff | $1,130 w/b

888 85.78% | 128-88-118@177 cm | R 21.1 | FLEX Medium-stiff | $1,050 w/b

Titan Atlas IQ Max 85.66% | 130-94-116@187 cm | R 26 | FLEX Stiff | $1,450 w/b

Phantom SC87 85.23% | 130-86,5-116@186 cm | R 17.6 | FLEX Medium | $880

Peak 88 83.18% | 127-89-113@186 cm | R 21.7 | FLEX Medium-stiff | $1,300 w/b

Savage Ti 82.99% | 133-93-122@186 cm | R 19 | FLEX Medium | $1,200 w/b

6th Sense Distorter 82.70% | 119-87-109@179 cm | R 24 | FLEX Medium-soft | $549

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Enforcer 89.21% | 135-98-125@185 cm | R 21 | FLEX Medium | $1,270 w/b

MX 98 88.16% | 132-98-117@184 cm | R 27 | FLEX Stiff | $1,399 w/b

Gotama 86.77% | 137-106-122@186 cm | R 28.8 | FLEX Medium | $1,330 w/b

Watea 101 86.27% | 134-101-124@192 cm | R 23 | FLEX Medium-stiff | $999

Legend Pro Rider 84.66% | 128-100-118@184 cm | R 27 | FLEX Medium-stiff | $849

The Answer IQ Max 84.46% | 135-110-125@184 cm | R 28 | FLEX Stiff | $1,580 w/b

Phantom SC97 84.00% | 130-96,5-115@186 cm | R 24.6 | FLEX Medium | $930

John 83.84% | 132-94-119@187 cm | R 19.5 | FLEX Medium | $1,100 w/b

MORE WINNING SKIS, THE SKI FINDER AND ALL TEST SCORES CAN BE FOUND AT SKIPRESSWORLD.COM

9/1/09 5:01:58 PM

Freeride

Freeride

XL

With waist widths starting at around 87 mm, these skis are the bridge between all-mountain masters and deep-powder blasters. Waist width provides float, but there’s still plenty of sidecut for carving when the snow gods decide to take a day off.

XXXL Hear the call of the wild. The only time these fatties - about 110 mm or more underfoot, with rocker almost across the board - should touch hard snow is on the way from the lift to the deep-pow goods. The backcountry is where these skis rock.

Freeride

01 | KÄSTLE

MX 108 89.56% | 132-108-122@187 cm | R 31 | FLEX Stiff | $1,499 w/b Step into a phone booth, check that “S” on your chest, and grab a pair of MX 108s, skis that can turn you into a superman. Testers were unanimous – this is a hard-charging power board that can make an all-mountain hero out of any expert. Just leave your mild-mannered, Clark Kent attitude behind. This ski craves BIG-ness – big terrain, big snow, big speed. Or you could simply forget turning… according to one tester: “You can straight-line everything and fly!” Superhero ripaholics… climb on board.

02 | NORDICA

Girish 88.95% | 139-110-129@185 cm | R 26 | FLEX Medium-stiff | $1,370 w/b Here’s a word that rarely gets used to describe a 110-mm-waisted fatty: nimble. The Girish takes the concept of power-packed, big-mountain ski to an exalted level, executing big, fast turns with exceptional ease. But what surprised testers was the versatility rarely encountered in a ski this big – the nimble agility to dart through sweet, small turns on hard snow when necessary. “Like watching a sumo wrestler break into ballet,” was one tester’s description. Big and nimble need not be contradictory.

03 | ELAN

1010 86.69% | 140-110-130@183 cm | R 23.9 | FLEX Soft | $1,250 w/b You little guys know the feeling – a big, beefy powder ski that’s so unwieldy it feels like trying to turn a battleship underwater. Along comes the 1010, the answer to your power problems. Here’s a light, soft sweetie that allows lighter skiers to dance circles around bigger guys in powder and crud. It might be a little chattery on the hard stuff, but clean turns of all shapes come with buttery ease as the snow softens. That’s a nice feeling.

04 | DYNASTAR

Pro Rider XXL 86.44% | 132-109-122@187 cm | R 41 | FLEX Stiff | $899 The XXL is the class bully of this category. It’s a ski that doesn’t just want to meet the challenges of the mountain, it wants to bludgeon the mountain into submission. It’s a big, heavy bomber for big, heavy bombers – a ski that charges down the mountain without taking prisoners. The result is a ski unmatched in its long-turning stability. “A hard-charging ski for going Mach 2 everywhere, but only if you have the strength to hang on,” wrote one tester. Warning: For musclemen only.

05 | VÖLKL

Katana 85.92% | 141-111-131@183 cm | R 25.2 | FLEX Medium-stiff | $1,430 w/b If there’s room for only one ski in your budget and your tool chest, consider the Katana. You wouldn’t think a fat (141 mm at the tip, 111 mm underfoot), rockered ski would be anything but a powder board, but guess what?

Carved turns on harder snow come with surprising ease. “For a strong skier to drop big lines,” wrote one tester.

“Easy to turn in tight places,” wrote another. That’s the definition of versatility – a big ski with little-ski capabilities. A one-tool wonder.

06 | BLIZZARD

Titan Argos IQ Max 84.48% | 135-105-119@186 cm | R 26 | FLEX Medium-stiff | $1,580 w/b The Titan Argos should come with a warning label: Go big and nothing but big. Big lines, big mountains, big turns, big ambitions – this is not a ski for anyone thinking small. It’s a stiff, power-packed monster that needs speed and space to do what it does best: charge. Uneven snow like crud or wind crust? No problem – the Titan Argos blasts right through it. “Best skied with brute force and big plans,” wrote one tester – a combination of praise and warning.

07 | ATOMIC

Blog 83.67% | 134-110-126@185 cm | R 19 | FLEX Soft | $1,000 w/b There is much to be said for the incredible lightness of skiing. The featherweight Blog flutters atop the surface of the snow like a butterfly, making it surprisingly deft at short turns for a wide-waisted ski. Just a quick flick of the feet and – zip! – the ski changes directions. Racy turns on hard snow might not be its forté, but dart through the trees in softer stuff, and the result, according to the word invention of one tester, is “butterific.”

08 | SALOMON

Czar 81.86% | 131-111-121@182 cm | R 54.9 | FLEX Medium | $900 Is that the backcountry calling? Salomon thinks so, officially designating the Czar as a backcountry board. Testers, however, liked its crossover potential for in-bounds exploration, as long as you steer clear of really hard snow.

The rocker shape makes turn initiation a snap, and an even flex pattern provides dependable stability through long turns. “The rockered tip makes the start of your turn easier than your drunk prom date,” wrote one tester.

Whatever your analogy, this is big turning made easy, in-bounds or out.

MORE WINNING SKIS, THE SKI FINDER AND ALL TEST SCORES CAN BE FOUND AT SKIPRESSWORLD.COM

38_CA_SkiTest.indd 47

9/9/09 3:32:41 PM

Park & Pipe

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BUYERS’ GUIDE 2010

38_CA_SkiTest.indd 48

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8/28/09 4:06:21 PM

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Groomed Carve women top 8 HIGH-PERFORMANCE

(MSA)

For advanced and expert female skiers who like making fast, tight turns mostly on groomed and hard-packed snow. Deep sidecuts mean turn radii are mainly under 15 metres, typical of a slalom race ski. These are racy skis also able to tackle bumps and trees.

PERFORMANCE

(MSA)

Designed for making slalom-shaped turns with a radius of under 15 metres, these skis - some of them made specifically for women - are for intermediate and advanced skiers getting a feel for what groomed-snow carving is all about.

Moderate speeds are generally the name of the game here.

01 | VÖLKL

02 | BLIZZARD

01 | DYNASTAR

02 | VIST

115-66-98@165 cm | R 13 | FLEX Medium-stiff | $1,300 w/b

121-68-105@160 cm | R 11.5 | FLEX Medium | $1,580 w/b

118-66-102@155 cm | R 12 | FLEX Medium-soft | $899 w/b

116-66-101@158 cm | R 12.5 | FLEX Stiff | $1,895 w/b

A race tiger? Indeed. “OMG, can it get any better?!” asked one smitten tester. This Völkl’s got great edge grip and energy enough to fire you from one arc to the next. Best suited to short turns, but good marks for versatility and long radius, too. Völkl’s Race Tiger is a tigress… an absolute carving machine.

This Blizzard’s IQ is so high it’s at the top of its class.

Our testers raved over its energy and versatility. It handles both short and long turns with ease. Just stay centred and tighten those abs… the Blizzard IQ may be easy to initiate, but it’s got plenty of whip through the end of each turn.

Exclusive marks across the board for Dynastar’s Exclusive Pro. Stellar short- and long-radius performance, quickness at the start of each turn, and stability in all snow conditions. “They hook you up and swing you around,” gushed one tester. Best part? Sharp cosmetics without being too girly.

Newcomer Vist aces the race with a beefy ski that offers even beefier rewards. “This ski has muscle,” warns one tester. “You must be in the driver’s seat.”

Once you establish who’s boss, you’re rewarded with energy, tenacious edge grip and unmatched stability.

Sure, the Vist takes effort, but your efforts are rewarded with excellent all-around ski-ability.

03 | ATOMIC

04 | ROSSIGNOL

03 | FISCHER

04 | ROSSIGNOL

117-70-107@156 cm | R 11 | FLEX Medium-stiff | $1,550 w/b

124-70-112@155 cm | R 10.7 | FLEX Medium-stiff | $1,300 w/b

118-68-100@155 cm | R 12 | FLEX Soft | $1,249 w/b

124-70-112@165 cm (Tested: 155) | R 12.3@165 | FLEX Medium | $1,200 w/b

“Awesome… if you’re looking for the best dancer at the prom,” quipped one breathless tester. Brush up on your moves ‘cause this ski is for expert dancers only.

Gals who can take the lead will adore the precise edge grip, rock-solid stability and hip-hop energy of this club-lovin’ ski.

Our testers agree, Rossignol’s Radical is “a ripper and gripper…” Our women L.O.V.E.D the 9S’s snappy short turns, stability and rock-ability. The 9S even got good marks for versatility. Best part: these rocket Radicals rip with energy.

Fischer’s Viron 8.8 is succinctly described as “very forgiving and dynamic.” This ski is ideal for an intermediate looking to move up — it’s capable, stable and easygoing. Ski it aggressively, or back off and ski it effortlessly. Either way, the 8.8 turns easily, holds its edge and exudes positive energy.

“This Rossi Radical is all sweet spot,” said one of our women testers. “Great ski with a great look,” said another. Deserved praise for a ski that initiates well and loves short radius. This Rossignol also earned rave reviews for its stability, light weight and effortless edge grip.

05 | HEAD

06 | NORDICA

05 | ATOMIC

06 | NORDICA

115-66-97@155 cm | R 12.5 | FLEX Medium | $1,700 w/b

120-67-103@155 cm | R 11.5 | FLEX Medium-stiff | $1,540 w/b

119-75-109@157 cm | R 12 | FLEX Medium | $1,000 w/b

120-70-103@162 cm | R 13 | FLEX Medium-stiff | $1,450 w/b

Powerful, demanding, with a kick at the end of the turn, Head’s i.SL serves up platefuls of tasty short turns with healthy sides of stability. “This ski likes full throttle,” said one tester. “There’s nooo sweet-spot searching required.” Long turns? Forget ‘em. Like ribs, this Head prefers its radii short, hot and spicy.

Like a dog on a bone, this Dobermann hangs onto short-radius turns with fierceness, insatiable hunger and a ton o’ tenacity. With fantastic energy and edge grip…it’s still not as versatile as some. This wellmuscled Best in Show is about as forgiving as a ravenous Doberman.

Liked for its edge grip, short radius and versatility, the VF 75w earned consistently good marks in all categories.

It’s light, lively and easy to turn, yet very stable. “Strong enough for a man,” said one tester, “but definitely made for a woman.” Best part? Its user-friendly feel makes it ideal for skiers hoping to progress this season.

Marks for edge grip and energy were over the top for Nordica’s Spitfire Pro… but be warned: this Dobermann is no cuddly, forgiving puppy. Short radii are favoured over long, as is strong, aggressive skiing. Advanced to expert, athletic ex-racers, line up to the left. You’ll be runnin’ with the big dogs on this ski, sister.

07 | FISCHER

08 | ELAN

07 | HEAD

08 | SALOMON

118-66-99@155 cm | R 11 | FLEX Medium-stiff | $1,449 w/b

116-66-104@155 cm | R 11.5 | FLEX Medium-stiff | $1,300 w/b

120-65-105@155 cm | R 10 | FLEX Stiff | $1,450 w/b

114-70-97@158 cm | R 14 | FLEX Medium | $900 w/b

Our women labelled Fischer’s RC4 as “a World Cup classic.” It’s easy to get short turns slicing and dicing on these knife-like skis. Long turns and versatility were not rated as highly. The SC Pro is a powerful, aggressive short turner best suited for a hard-working, harddriving… and yes, powerful skier.

Snazzy graphics and a light-as-a-feather feel are trademark Elan. “This ski is springy like a trampoline,” commented one tester. “It’s fantastic for short turns!”

Versatility is not this ski’s forte. For what it’s meant for — short rads — it leaps with a gymnast’s effervescence, energy, ability and tenacity.

More aggressive females wanted! Energy, stability and short radius are among the Super Shape’s strengths. While stiff, they are easy to initiate. “So energetic!” commented one tester. Like a ripped cardio instructor, the Super Shape will push you hard from one fun turn to another.

Our testers loved Salomon’s new Equipe ski for its gripand-rip abilities. It’s extremely stable with tenacious edge hold. The ski is not as forgiving as some in this category, and initiation suffers. But this Equipe is liquid smooth on the groomed. It’s another ski that’s “made for aggressive skiers.”

Race Tiger SL Racing 92.26%

Race Ti SL 91.47%

i.SL 89.53%

RC4 Worldcup SC Pro 85.69%

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SLR Magnesium IQ 91.71%

EXCLUSIVE PRO 91.93%

Radical 9S WC 90.30%

SUPER FRONT TWO LADY 89.92%

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Viron 8.8 89.30%

Radical R8S 88.64%

PUB

Dobermann SL PRO 88.55%

SLX 84.24%

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VF 75w 88.43%

Dobermann Spitfire Pro 88.02%

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Super Shape 87.67%

Equipe 24 Series 86.95%

MORE WINNING SKIS, THE SKI FINDER AND ALL TEST SCORES CAN BE FOUND AT SKIPRESSWORLD.COM

9/1/09 3:04:38 PM

SKI PRESS SKI TEST 2010

Photo: Marc Archambault

Springtime Cool Mont-Sainte-Anne

Photo: Marc Archambault

When spring comes to Mont-Sainte-Anne, trails on the south side of the mountain appear like white streamers fluttering from the mountaintop ridge, while below, the sun produces a gilded shimmer on the ice floes and waters of the St. Lawrence River. It is a beautiful sight.

Photo: Marc Archambault

But on the mountain’s north side, the snow remains protected from the spring sun, and Ski Press testers gather there to take advantage of the still-wintry snow. That’s one of the great beauties of Mont-Sainte-Anne – with its multiple exposures, it is a mountain for all seasons, regardless of the time of year. Plentiful snow late into the season, plentiful on-mountain lodging, plentiful natural beauty, plentiful fun – all combine to make Mont-Sainte-Anne a logical choice as the perfect springtime site for the Eastern Ski Press Ski Test.

When spring comes to Whistler, ski season is just ramping up. As other North American ski areas close one by one with the melting snow, skiers pack up their stuff and migrate west, converging on this BC hotspot just as its annual Telus World Ski and Snowboard Festival is heating up.

As music, art, sport, comedy and film entertain the village masses, Ski Press testers gather at Whistler’s Peak and prep themselves for two kickass days of Freeriding. Whistler Mountain’s feral terrain — gullies, trees, powder and bumps — is made for Canada’s top pros to put dozens of freeride skis through a series of demanding tests. If a Freeride ski can make it here, it can make it anywhere. Whistler is a logical choice as the perfect springtime site for the Western Ski Press Ski Test.

Photo: Gillian Morgan

Whistler-Blackcomb

Photo: Gillian Morgan

Springtime Hot

Photo: Gillian Morgan

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Thanks to our sponsors For providing products and services to our test team

BUYERS’ GUIDE 2010

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9/9/09 3:31:57 PM

Groomed Cruise women top 8 HIGH-PERFORMANCE

PERFORMANCE

(MSA)

Ladies think of these skis as groomed and hard-snow rippers, for women who like barreling down the mountain making round, high-speed turns. Turn radii are typically between 15 and 20 metres, comparable to the shape of a giant-slalom turn.

(MSA)

Cruise, ladies, just cruise. Skis in this category are a good match for advanced and intermediate women who stick mainly to groomers and who like making big, swooping turns. They’re best for relaxed, moderatespeed skiing. Some are unisex, others are made specifically for women.

01 | FISCHER

02 | VÖLKL

01 | FISCHER

02 | BLIZZARD

112-66-96@170 cm | R 15 | FLEX Medium-stiff | $1,449 w/b

121-75-104@161 cm | R 16.8 | FLEX Medium-stiff | $1,450 w/b

120-72-103@160 cm | R 11-15 | FLEX Medium-soft | $1,095 w/b

118-71-102@160 cm | R 13 | FLEX Medium-soft | $930 w/b

Our women raved over this Fischer’s high-speed cruisability and overall edge grip. “This ski wants to fly,” said one tester. “It’s perfect for a multi-tasker who only wants one pair of skis for GS and slalom,” said another. Fischer’s RC4 Pro is a fantastic combo of lightness, quickness, energy and stability. Best part? It’s got short-, medium- and longradius proficiency underfoot.

A switch on the back allows riders of Völkl’s multitalented Tigershark to vary flex from soft to stiff. The result? A ski with impressive range. Dial it to soft for cruising; dial it to stiff for carving on hardpack and ice.

Stiffness on demand… what a concept. Best part? The concept works!

Wow! Fischer’s Progressor 8+ certainly is progressive.

It’s easy to turn and comes packed with persistent edge grip. Ski short medium and long turns, all with lightning-quick snap. It’s stable, yet lively, and funtablulous in bumps. Best part? “Push it or ski it lightly,” says one tester. Either way, the Progressor 8+ works!

Blizzard’s Viva is as forgiving as your mom, but with better turn initiation! Also, like your mom, it likes short turns at moderate speeds best, but can cut through crud or carve the corduroy on request. “Versatility ought to be its middle name,” declared one tester. Best part? Moms rock at handling the multi-task!

03 | BLIZZARD

04 | ATOMIC

03 | VIST

04 | VÖLKL

123-72-105@167 cm | R 13.5 | FLEX Medium-stiff | $1,580 w/b

109.5-70-99@179 cm (Tested: 169) | R 18.4 | FLEX Medium-stiff | $1,550 w/b

123-71-105@162 cm | R 15.5 | FLEX Medium-stiff | $1,495 w/b

124-73-94@158 cm | R 14.8 | FLEX Soft | $700 w/b

Blizzard’s G-Force hits a girl’s G-spot with versatility and flexibility. It dips into turns easily, then holds onto them with a Velcro-like grip. Plus, the Supersonic really is supersonic in both long turns and short. Best part? “You can feel the rebound,” declared one breathless convert.

Wanted: female speed demons with XX chromosomes.

Atomic’s D2 Race de-to-nates. Says one tester: “These babies are on fire!” High-speed GS is the D2’s strength, but short and medium radius are wonderful as well.

These skis initiate easily and have unrelenting edge grip. Best part? They can burn and turn.

Big marks for this Vist’s stability and long-radius turnability. It initiates easily and provides lots of grip. Not quite as forgiving as some of its competitors, the beefy feel and carvaciousness lend it to strong skiers best.

One powerful tester declared: “This Vist is as versatile as the little black dress!”

Völkl’s Estrella ought to be renamed easy-rella. It starts each turn smoothly and simply — no muss and zero fuss.

Plus, it’s got Völkl’s trademark snap at the finish of each arc. The Estrella is stable, energetic and capable of handling varied conditions at moderate speeds. Best part?

Says one tester: “Everything is easy on this ski.”

05 | NORDICA

06 | DYNASTAR

05 | DYNASTAR

06 | ROSSIGNOL

119-72-104@162 cm | R 14.5 | FLEX Medium-stiff | $1,450 w/b

120-72-104@165 cm | R 15 | FLEX Medium | $779 w/b

118-66-102@160 cm | R 12 | FLEX Medium-stiff | $749 w/b

126-74-105@162 cm | R 13.3 | FLEX Medium-stiff | $900 w/b

Tenacious edge grip and rock-solid stability make Nordica’s Speedmachine a veritable snow rocket.

Starting the turn requires some patience, and the ski can be stern if you dare any backchat. But ladies… use the muscle your mama gave you, ‘cause this ski can fly. Best part? Flying fast with no speed limits.

One thing’s for sure: Dynastar has produced a looker.

Women were wild for the Elite’s In Style good looks.

On snow, the ski is flexible, easy to ride and has a broad range of abilities… if not a lot of energy. Best part? Did we mention the Elite’s supermodel good looks? Mah-vellous.

When you groove Dynastar’s Groove, the ski responds with stability, grip and rhythmical long and short radius.

This ski has talent, our testers told us, as well as some heft, strength and aggressiveness. Stretch out your turns and rocket, get forward and grab… whatever you do, you’ll learn smooth moves you didn’t know you had.

Stable as a table, Mabel! Rossi has nailed grip, versatility and ease of initiation with the Attraxion 6… Now they have to go back to spelling class! Testers reported low and moderate speeds are best, but plowing through varied snow conditions is doable and simple if you insist.

Best part? In this day and age, stability is a must.

07 | HEAD

08 | ROSSIGNOL

07 | ATOMIC

08 | HEAD

111-66-97@163 cm | R 14.2 | FLEX Medium | $1,250 w/b

124-70-112@165 cm | R 12.3 | FLEX Soft | $1,170 w/b

117-73-106@158 cm | R 12 | FLEX Soft | $799 w/b

117-66-101@164 cm | R 12.4 | FLEX Stiff | $1,150 w/b

Those who liked it liked it a lot. The Head Power One is a lightning-quick cruiser that’s also a super easy turner. “Don’t bother slowing down,” said one tester.

“Speed is this ski’s magic ingredient!” Best part? The faster you go, the better it gets.

Soft flex gives the Rossignol Attraxion 12 an easy turn initiation; the ski produces smooth, round arcs at medium speeds. It’s not all race ski… the attraction here is the Attraxion’s versatility and forgiveness. Best part? The Attraxion may be mutual!

Atomic takes you to Cloud 9 by getting each turn started easily, then holding onto it regardless of snow conditions or turn shape. Versatile, lightweight and forgiving, the ski favours moderate speeds. Our women loved its understated cosmetics. Best part? No turbulence on this smooth flight.

Head’s husky Icon 80 provides a stable base for longradius turns. Snappy short turns have to be earned, but this ski starts to hum at high speeds. Said one tester, “This Head skis like a tank when going fast.” The Icon 80 handles crud and chop with equal aplomb, laying treads in the off-piste. Best part? It’ll plow through anything.

RC4 Worldcup RC Pro 90.92%

Tigershark 11 feet Power Switch 90.11%

G-Force Supersonic IQ 89.50%

D2 Race GS 89.43%

Speedmachine Mach 3 87.54%

BUYERS’ GUIDE 2010

38_CA_SkiTest.indd 52

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Attraxion 6 87.62%

Cloud 9 86.35%

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Attiva Estrella 88.49%

Contact Groove 88.48%

Attraxion 12 83.90%

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Viva G-Three IQ 89.89%

Super Mountain One Lady 89.36%

Exclusive Elite 84.93%

Power One 84.47%

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Progressor 8+ 92.81%

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Icon 80 85.90%

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More winning skis, the Ski Finder and scores beSCORES found atBEskipressworld.ca MORE WINNING SKIS,all THEtest SKI FINDER ANDcan ALL TEST CAN FOUND AT SKIPRESSWORLD.COM

8/28/09 4:08:56 PM

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8/28/09 5:42:18 PM

All-Terrain Medium women top 8 HIGH-PERFORMANCE

PERFORMANCE

(MSA)

These skis are designed for athletic, demanding skiers who like to tear up the whole - mountain steeps, bumps, trees, groomers - at high speed. But with waist widths of about 80 mm, they can still handle the occasional foray into powder.

Al

(MSA)

These skis are for women who like to explore the mountain, but who like to stay in a relatively easygoing comfort zone. Everything but super-steep double blacks are in the game plan, with a premium on the versatility to handle a variety of snow conditions.

01 | NORDICA

02 | ELAN

01 | HEAD

02 | FISCHER

124-78-108@162 cm | R 13.5 | FLEX Medium-stiff | $1,100 w/b

123-78-105@166 cm | R 15.4 | FLEX Medium-soft | $875 w/b

122-72-106@156 cm | R 11 | FLEX Soft | $880 w/b

122-78-107@159 cm | R 15 | FLEX Medium-soft | $949 w/b

Our female testers thoroughly enjoyed their Victory laps. “Super dynamic and very versatile,” commented one. “Will take your skiing to pro level!” added another. Nordica’s Victory — No.1 in this category — does it all. It’s grippy, rippy, easy to turn, and stable in short and long arcs. Best part? Its adaptability in bumps, ice, chop, pow…

Elan’s Pure Magic looks like pure magic, and it turns terrifically, too. It tips in easily and is miraculously stable. This ski casts a spell on bumpy conditions.

Short to medium turns at moderate speeds are the Magic’s kingdom. Best part? “For those who want performance,” says one skier, “it’s more than just a detuned race ski.”

Head’s Zen-like woman-specific Every One initiates turns almost omnisciently and oh-so-easily that its scores soared across the board. Quick and secure edge bite, versatility, tranquil graphics and happiness in all conditions define this quiver of one. Group hug, everyone. Best Part?

The Every One may be heaven-sent, but as one tester says: “It still goes like hell!”

In Hawaiian, Koa translates to bravery and fearlessness.

Fischer’s Koa fits its big-island bill. A skilled female skier can demand a forceful edge grip, clean initiation and dynamic energy. Short and long turns were equally well executed. Best part? Fischer’s woman-specific Koa bravely plows through pow and crud.

03 | HEAD

04 | DYNASTAR

03 | ROSSIGNOL

04 | ELAN

123-77-109@165 cm | R 13.5 | FLEX Medium | $1,075 w/b

122-75-106@178 cm (Tested: 172) | R 16@178 | FLEX Medium | $1,049 w/b

127-75-108@162 cm | R 12.8 | FLEX Medium-soft | $1,000 w/b

121-74-101@160 cm | R 13.1 | FLEX Medium | $750 w/b

No, ladies, Wayne Gretzky does not come with this ski. What you will get with Head’s Great One is grrrreat initiation, versatility and forgiveness. Best part? The ski is stable, turny and lightning quick — a consistent goal scorer. Say, that does sound like Gretzky!

Dynastar’s Contact 4x4 is no fashionable crossover… it’s a sturdy old-school SUV! Said one tester: “You can really give ‘er!” This 4x4 plows through crud, powers through long turns at high speeds, and can shorten up radius quickly. Strength and power are rewarded.

Finesse? Not so much.

Our women testers echoed a common theme for Rossignol’s Attraxion Echo: it’s a forgiving and excitingly versatile ski. Lightweight, sturdy and made just for her, the Echo executes each turn cleanly and easily. It prefers short rads to long, but can hold its own on the big mountain. Best part? The Echo’s eco-friendly cosmetics: “Groovy, fun and energetic,” according to one tester.

Elan has the Hallowe’en colours afire on its new Magfire. The look? Polarizing. But how does it ski? This unisex Elan’s best traits include tenacious edge hold and rock-like stability. Women testers raved over its round turns at medium and high speeds. Best Part?

Ripping arcs on the hardpack.

Victory 86.26%

Pure Magic 85.15%

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Great One 82.95%

Every One 86.15%

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Contact 4X4 82.89%

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KOA 78 My Style 85.41%

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Attraxion Echo 83.54%

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Magfire 74 81.93%

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05 | SALOMON

06 | ATOMIC

05 | SALOMON

06 | VÖLKL

120-77-105@159 cm | R 15.6 | FLEX Soft | $1,250 w/b

110,2-79-104,5@164 cm | R 16.5 | FLEX Soft | $850 w/b

120-74-102@160 cm | R 13.6 | FLEX Medium | $900 w/b

126-75-96@158 cm | R 14.7 | FLEX Soft | $800 w/b

Black diamonds can be a girl’s BFF, especially on this multi-dimensional ski. Salomon Origins Diamond’s allterrainability inspires confidence enough to venture around every kind of condition on the ski hill. Jewel cut initiation leads to precise short and long turns — the Diamond is responsively quick edge-to-edge. Graphics split testers: some said “too girly-girl” while others said “attractive and awesome.” You be the judge.

Atomic’s Seventh Heaven delivers on the promise, especially if you are a finesse skier searching for versatility and grace. Moderate speeds are best in short and long turns… but girls, be patient. Heaven can wait. These skis respond to a gentle, loving touch.

Yes, the Opal is precious. Gorgeous cosmetics, easy initiation into each turn and stone-hard stability sparkle on this all-terrain gem. Testers loved its grip on corduroy at high speeds, but on icy crud? Not so much.

Best Part? Jewel-like graphics and the Opal’s groomed-run perfection.

Another stunner, with a mind to match. Völkl Attiva Sol blends pink with silver — it positively glows!

Starting the turn is easy, and the ski follows up with good grip and a forgiving style. High marks for both short and long turns. The Sol also shone in varied conditions. Best Part? Killer looks and a winning personality!

07 | BLIZZARD

08 | ROSSIGNOL

07 | BLIZZARD

08 | NORDICA

123-81-108@165 cm | R 16 | FLEX Soft | $1,320 w/b

124-80-112@165 cm | R 15.5 | FLEX Medium-stiff | $1,300 w/b

122-76-105@163 cm | R 14 | FLEX Medium | $1,000 w/b

123-76-107@154 cm | R 13.5 | FLEX Medium | $800 w/b

Viva la diva! A strong and skilled diva, that is. Blizzard’s Viva responds instantly to aggressive skiing. Vice-like edge grip and stability through slow to medium speeds are its best assets. The ski can be chattery at higher tempos. Stay centred! Says one tester: “You need muscles to turn these skis.”

Classic style meets New Age technology. Updated graphics top Rossignol’s Classic — a ski that’s strong, aggressive and extremely evenly balanced from tip to tail. In fact, the Classic aced the stability test. Best part? Rossi’s Classic will plow through crud, float in pow, and bash the bumps… but girls, you’ve got to be willing to work.

Magnum-sized performance in a wide variety of conditions for Blizzard’s Viva Magnum, with generous marks in both short- and long-radius turns. Smooth initiation and strong edge hold in this all-terrain ski led to a big “Viva Blizzard!” from testers. Best Part?

Easy initiation, plus versatility and forgiveness.

“Drive,” she said, “drive!” Long-radius turns were favoured on Nordica’s Drive, which has easy initiation and impressive edge grip. “It’s like skiing on blades,” commented one tester. Understated white and maroon cosmetics were too girly for some, but others loved it.

Forget cruise control, this well-muscled womanspecific ski requires supervision.

Origins Diamond 82.75%

Seventh Heaven 79 81.32%

Origins Opal 81.81%

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Viva Magnum 8.1 IQ Max 79.76%

Classic 80 Ti 79.27%

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Attiva Sol 81.32%

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Viva Magnum 7.6 IQ 81.27%

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Drive 80.05%

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9/9/09 3:30:55 PM

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All-Terrain Large women top 8 HIGH-PERFORMANCE

PERFORMANCE

(MSA)

Think of these as all-day, every-day Western skis, or as a do-everything ski for Eastern skiing women taking regular vacations to the West. With waist widths between 82 mm and 85 mm, there’s a touch of powder, flotation to go with all-mountain versatility.

(MSA)

For the woman who wants to ski it all, but who doesn’t want to work hard doing it. Intermediates and advanced skiers who spend most of their time on softer snow groomers, crud, and in-bounds powder, this is your category. Many of these skis are made specifically for women.

01 | ELAN

02 | NORDICA

01 | SALOMON

02 | NORDICA

126-82-109@160 cm | R 13.4 | FLEX Medium | $1,150 w/b

126-84-112@162 cm | R 15 | FLEX Stiff | $1,700 w/b

120-75-103@168 cm | R 15.3 | FLEX Medium-soft | $900 w/b

126-84-112@162 cm | R 15 | FLEX Medium | $1,240 w/b

This No.1 unisex Magfire from Elan lit it up across the board. It turns in strongly, holds exceptionally, and gives the skier a stable platform from which to paint flaming arcs on the snow. Long, short, crud, hardpack… the Magfire scorches them all. Best Part? “A go-anywhere, do-anything ski.”

You better fuel up to ski Nordica’s Jet Fuel Ti! A strong, stable feeling produced superb long-radius control without sacrificing short-turn performance. There’s solid edge grip and tanks full of energy in this unisex ski that’s equally good at handling varied conditions.

Best Part? Rocket-assisted long-radius arcs.

“These skis are like a good bra,” said one earnest tester. “They’re totally supportive and they make you look good in all the right places!” Salomon’s XW Storm also comes with talon-like edge grip, a solid feel and a light touch at initiation. A unisex ski, it’s stable and able to slice through everything from ice to powder.

Best part? It’ll make you feel good all under!

Nordica’s Conquer captured the hearts of our testers.

This fine-looking, woman-specific ski dipped into each turn with plenty o’ gusto, ripped long and short radius, and was stable and responsive through crud and chop.

“A versatile East and West ski,” commented one tester. “Feels like a second skin,” said another.

03 | VÖLKL

04 | HEAD

03 | ELAN

04 | ATOMIC

132-82-103@161 cm | R 15.1 | FLEX Medium | $1,250 w/b

121-82-107@166 cm | R 16.5 | FLEX Medium | $1,125 w/b

123-78-105@160 cm | R 13.8 | FLEX Medium | $850 w/b

119-82-108,5@166 cm | R 16.5 | FLEX Medium-soft | $1,200 w/b

This woman-specific Völkl Attiva Aurora shimmers like the Northern Lights themselves. Heavenly edge grip and easy initiation create long turns that will light up the sky. Short turns aren’t too shabby, either. Best Part?

Experiencing the mastery of long turns on a plasma blade edge.

Multi-dimensional graphics on Head’s Wild One cloak a long-radius Lindsay Lohan. But unlike our Lindsay, this Wild One’s got good stability and a pretty solid (edge) grip. Patience is needed for initiation. Short turns and energy aren’t as strong as long-turn performance. And yes… Head’s Wild One is woman specific.

Another Magfire from Elan, this one prefers rapidly executed short-radius turns. Always eager to initiate an arc, the Magfire 78 also maintains a solid edge grip and a snappy rebound. “It’s an energetic and lively ski,” commented one tester. “It’s all-mountain capable and as nimble as a cougar,” said another. Best part? It’s a short turner that still earned good marks for stability and handling in varied conditions.

Atomic’s Double Deck technology is front and centre here, along with Vario Flex… a.k.a. VF. All this innovation creates a ski with quick initiation, a solid feel and strong edging power. Strong skiers get sturdy longturn performance. “Just put it on edge and…Yahoo!” said one happy Atomic tester.

05 | ATOMIC

06 | FISCHER

05 | BLIZZARD

06 | VÖLKL

127.5-92-116@168 cm | R 18 | FLEX Medium | $899 w/b

126-84-112@167 cm | R 17 | FLEX Medium | $875

123-88-109@166 cm | R 17 | FLEX Medium-stiff | $1,320 w/b

130-92-112@169 cm | R 17.9 | FLEX Medium | $700

Awesome graphics! Twin tips! Wide enough to float a boat! With its new Elysian, Atomic has created an allmountain ski that can do double duty in the terrain park.

Its long-radius prowess earned good marks, yet the Elysian is also quick and maneuverable. “Versatile in varied snow conditions,” commented one tester. Best Part? “All that performance, and good looks to boot!”

Fischer’s Koa 84 likes it fast and straight. Want to turn?

Oookay… so long as it’s long radius, which is this woman-specific ski’s natural arc. Says one tester: “It’s a strong, stable ski that says ‘Let’s ride!’” Patience is needed at initiation. Let the edges grip… then they’ll rip. Best part? The Koa’s awesome looks!

A giant when it comes to stability, the Titan also has solid edge grip and stellar long-turn performance. Best for skiers who ride with force; there’s no doubt the ski prefers titan-sized long rads over short. It’s stiffer and heavier than most skis in this category. “Smooth” and “solid” are two words that sum up testers’ comments.

Advises one: “Don’t rush it. Let this ski follow its own smooth trajectory.”

“If Gwen Stefani was a ski,” said one tester, “she’d be a Völkl Cosmo!” Flashy, fast and a little tough, the Cosmo has wild cosmetics. It’s an all-mountaineer that bubbles with rock star energy, especially in long turns.

Best part? This ski will last the whole concert.

07 | SALOMON

08 | DYNASTAR

126-83-113@170 cm | R 14.6 | FLEX Stiff | $1,175 w/b

126-85-110@165 cm | R 16 | FLEX Soft | $799 w/b

With red fading to black, the XW Fury’s cosmetics rock!

This unisex Salomon has edge grip, stability and longradius expertise. “Robust,” warns one tester, “but not for the faint of heart.” Short radius? If you have to. But the Fury handled varied snow with prowess, plowing through crud and absolutely rrrripping freshies apart.

The Eves of the world will like this woman-specific Dynastar Eden for its tranquil, garden-like initiation and heaven-sent long-radius turns. Forgiving? Yep. Edge grip and solid feel? Check. Short radius? Yes… but you’ll need to work it. Now where’s that goodlookin’ Adam for a cruise test…?

Magfire 82 XTi 87.40%

Jet Fuel Ti 83.31%

Attiva Aurora 81.24%

XW Storm 86.28%

Wild One 80.41%

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Elysian 78.47%

Magfire 78 82.80%

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KOA 84 My Style 77.06%

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XW Fury 76.40%

Exclusive Legend Eden 75.91%

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VF 82 82.39%

Titan EOS IQ-Max 77.59%

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Conquer 84.17%

Cosmo 76.74%

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Looking for the Perfect Match? ws

We know how you feel. With all those awesome skis out there, it can be a little difficult to commit to one pair, while still wondering if another pair might be better for you. The SKI PRESS SKI FINDER is here to help. By matching the findings of our legendary ski test with all your hopes, goals and needs in a ski, WE CAN FIND THE PERFECT MATCH FOR YOU. Personal ski-finding help is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, at SKIPRESSWORLD.COM. JUST FOR YOU.

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Freeride women top 8

Frw

XL

XXL

With waist widths starting at around 87 mm, these skis are the bridge between all-mountain masters and deep-powder blasters. Waist width provides float, but there’s still plenty of sidecut for carving when the snow gods decide to take a day off.

Here’s where the balance shifts decidedly in favour of soft snow. These skis generally have enough sidecut for competent carving, but that’s not their forte. At around 100 mm underfoot and often with rocker technology, versatility ebbs in favour of deep-snow performance. Many of these boards are unisex, while some are made specifically for women.

01 | KÄSTLE

02 | VÖLKL

01 | KÄSTLE

02 | NORDICA

128-88-113@178 cm | R 20 | FLEX Stiff | $1,399 w/b

130-94-113@170 cm | R 21.1 | FLEX Medium | $1,130 w/b

132-98-117@173 cm | R 24 | FLEX Stiff | $1,399 w/b

135-98-125@177 cm | R 17 | FLEX Medium-stiff | $1,270 w/b

Men like this are hard to find, and skis even harder: confident, utterly dependable, yet easygoing, never demanding, and good-looking to boot. The MX 88 finds that perfect balance between power and gentility.

“Stiff but easy to ski,” was one tester’s assessment.

Beauty is not just skin deep. The Aura is a looker, but inside is also a ski of substance. A perfect balance of ingredients means an all-mountain all-star that simply does everything well — no weaknesses. “Looks fantastic, but skis fantastic, too!” gushed one tester. A thing of beauty.

The MX 98 is about as subtle as a Roseanne Barr comedy routine. This bold and bodacious ski brooks no compromise — it’s a brawny board meant to go all big, all the time. “Definitely for an aggressive, big-mountain mama,” wrote one tester. Big really is beautiful.

Get set to pull the ripcord. The Nemesis is for a female skier who wants to reach terminal velocity as quickly as jumping out of a plane. It’s a big-mountain bomber’s delight — a power player for aggressive gals who tear up big lines. A no-nonsense Nemesis.

03 | HEAD

04 | ROSSIGNOL

03 | ROSSIGNOL Voodoo Pro BC110 86.34%

04 | DYNASTAR

6th Sense Big 84.95%

126-88-112@175 cm | R 19.2 | FLEX Medium-stiff | $1,300 w/b

120-92-115@170 cm | R 20 | FLEX Medium-soft | $500

140-110-118@176 cm | R 14.8 | FLEX Medium-soft | $819

124-92-114@176 cm | R 23 | FLEX Medium | $699

The Peak 88 wants to be your new BFF — a ski you can take anywhere and never feel let down. Testers loved its all-mountain, all-snow versatility. “Fast, fun and super friendly; they play with the snow,” wrote one tester. Eat your heart out, Paris Hilton.

If V is for Voodoo, it could also be for versatility. The Voodoo is capable of taking on all manner of mountain challenges without ever putting up a fight. Relatively soft and light, it glides easily, like a hovercraft, atop the snow. An intermediate’s dreamboat.

The Voodoo Pro turns so easily, it’s as if you’re a glamour girl with a limo driver doing the steering for you.

Its all-mountain versatility made one tester effusive: “The best female big-mountain ski ever!” Just keep speed in check, and enjoy this Rossignol’s allmountain magic.

The ‘B’ here isn’t really for Big… it’s for balance. Big skis often lack versatility in their quest for deep-snow flotation. Yet Dynastar’s Big is so well balanced in its design, test scores formed an almost perfect flat line.

A jacklyn of all trades, and a mistress of many.

05 | NORDICA

MX 88 88.96%

Peak 88 85.98%

Aura 86.46%

MX 98 91.31%

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Voodoo BC90 84.41%

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Nemesis 87.39%

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Helldiver CA 84.21%

06 | DYNASTAR

6th Sense Distorter 84.04%

05 | SCOTT

06 | HEAD

132-90-118@170 cm | R 17 | FLEX Stiff | $1,450 w/b

119-87-109@173 cm | R 24 | FLEX Medium | $549

133-92-122@179 cm | R 15 | FLEX Medium-stiff | $960

131-93-118@173 cm | R 17.9 | FLEX Medium | $1,100 w/b

This meaty monster is a carnivore’s delight, a ski that wants to attack the mountain with a ravenous appetite. A ski for strictly big women ripping big lines at big speeds. Finesse-loving petites — find satisfaction elsewhere on the buffet table.

East or West? The Distorter’s mid-fat profile provides sufficient float for soft snow and in-bounds powder, yet testers liked its agility in handling tight, Easternstyle turns. “Snappy and fun in short turns, bumps, and trees,” wrote one tester. East or West? Maybe both.

Clear the way — Scott’s Crusade is coming through.

“It marches over everything,” was one tester’s description of this powerful board that lets nothing stand in its way. Best for big turns, but it can still cut a quick shortie when necessary.

Head’s simply named ‘John’ is like an enthusiastic boyfriend, always game for anything. Big-mountain exploration? Let’s go! In-bounds cruising? Why not? “Fun” and “versatile” were testers’ favourite descriptive words, though the light feel requires some disciplinary control.

Best part? This boyfriend is handsome, too.

07 | ATOMIC

08 | SCOTT

07 | VÖLKL

08 | SALOMON

131-93-120.1@177 cm | R 18 | FLEX Medium-stiff | $1,200 w/b

126-89-115@178 cm | R 14.7 | FLEX Medium | $880

137-106-122@178 cm | R 26.1 | FLEX Stiff | $850

128-99-118@173 cm | R 23.1 | FLEX Medium | $850

It requires an aggro babe to tame this Savage. This burly ski wants to run big and fast. It can handle small turns at moderate speed, but the inner beast is really released when the speedometre goes into the red zone. Oh, Savage.

You know the type… the voluptuous blonde who, at first glance, looks to be an airhead but who turns out to be very smart and as tough as nails. Scott’s slicklooking Rosa might be a sluggish starter, but once up to speed, it’s a clever, smooth-sailing beauty. Bring on the soft snow.

Don’t let that pretty top sheet fool you. Underneath is a power-packed all-Canadian woman, eager to be let loose in the wild. Testers thought the backcountry was the Kiku’s calling. “They make you want to go big,” wrote one tester. Pretty? Or pretty cool?

Women… this is your loyal Geisha, reporting for duty. Like its namesake, this ski is a multi-talented lass dedicated to keeping you happy. With no discernible weaknesses, versatility wins the day.

“Responds well to all commands,” wrote one tester.

Ask and you shall receive.

Savage Ti 83.92%

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Crusade 83.88%

Rosa 82.82%

Kiku 82.72%

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John 82.72%

Geisha 82.61%

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9/1/09 5:06:19 PM

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Freeride women top 8 XXXL

world tour ski trips

Hear the call of the wild. The only time these fatties - about 110 mm or more underfoot, with rocker almost across the board - should touch hard snow is on the way from the lift to the deep-pow goods. The backcountry is where these skis rock.

steep ski clinics in whistler

01 | HEAD

02 | SALOMON

129-108-119@171 cm | R 30 | FLEX Medium | $1,450 w/b

128-108-118@174 cm | R 40 | FLEX Medium | $900

Stable, dependable, confident, never ruffled, goodlooking. The basic makeup of your dream man is the basic makeup of Head’s Jimi. An easy-turning ski, the Jimi is especially dreamy in powder. Take it from one tester: “Like a faithful boyfriend — this is the complete package.”

Salomon’s Czar rules as a multi-tasker, able to solve a variety of terrain puzzles despite its imperial size. Powder, hard-pack, moguls, even park features — testers were impressed with its all-mountain capabilities. “Perfect harmony between energy and control in all conditions,” wrote one female tester.

03 | ATOMIC

04 | ELAN

134-110-126@177 cm | R 19 | FLEX Medium | $1,000 w/b

130-105-122@175 cm | R 25.1 | FLEX Medium-stiff | $900 w/b

Hush, hush, sweet Blog. Get away from the rattle of hard-pack and take the Blog into the muffled whoosh of powder. As the snow deepens, this ski’s talent to execute a variety of turn shapes grows proportionally.

Hear the call of the backcountry wild.

Whap! Bam! Boom! The Spice is not nice to the mountain — it wants to do battle. Rather than floating over powder or crud, the Spice just blasts through it. Girls who like turning big and fast… this could be the spice of your life.

Jimi 86.57%

Blog 84.36%

Czar 85.49%

Deep Spice 81.40%

F$ Mark Going, Columbia Sportswear I$ Peter Smart

1-800-938-9656 www.extremelycanadian.com ski@extremelycanadian.com

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XCanadian.indd 20

05 | 4FRNT

06 | ROXY

128-116-122@179 cm | R 40 | FLEX Medium-stiff | $1,314 w/b

140-110-118@176 cm | R 15 | FLEX Medium-soft | $815

A lady should be gentle, charming and dainty, right?

Nah! 4FRNT’s EHP insists on hooking up with a toughas-nails, hard-charging chick. “Cruiser skiers should stay away,” warns one tester. This ski is all about big-mountain bombing — and looking good while doing it.

If your ego needs a little stroking, strap on a pair of pretty Mumbo Jumbos. “This ski can make an average skier look great,” commented one tester. The reason?

Turning is absolutely effortless on this rockered ski. In soft snow at moderate speed, your ego will bloom like a flower.

07 | FISCHER

08 | SCOTT

146-114-128@176 cm | R 25 | FLEX Medium-soft | $1,049

134-108-128@181 cm | R 21 | FLEX Medium-stiff | $895

Go on, girl, get outta here! Venture beyond the inbounds groomers and hard-pack to the OB land of the untracked. Testers likened the Watea to a big boat, needing deep water to float in. Big turns in big, beautiful snow. Beautiful.

The P4 is like a sleepy teenager in the morning who comes to life only when given a good kick in the pants.

Push hard, and the P4 charges. One tester called it “sleepy” in short turns, but you’ll live big by blasting through long turns.

EHP 81.06%

Watea 114 80.71%

8/24/09 2:44:56 PM

Mumbo Jumbo 80.77%

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P4 80.37%

ws More winning MORE WINNING SKIS, THE SKI FINDER AND ALL TEST SCORES CAN BE FOUND AT SKIPRESSWORLD.COM

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skis, the Ski Finder and all test scores can be found at skipressworld.ca

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38_CA_SkiTest.indd 58

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8/28/09 4:12:53 PM

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BUYERS’ GUIDE 2010 59 More winning skis, the Ski Finder and all test scores can be found at skipressworld.ca

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P: Eric Berger.

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Photos: HR

8/24/09 11:59:31 AM 8/25/09 5:49:16 PM