Dynastar Contact 11
Sidecut: 122/72/102
The Contact 11 proved stable and responsive at all speeds and, thanks to a cap-construction tip and tail, initiated and released from turns easily. The ski also held extremely well at the apex of the turn due to a solid-sidewall construction mid section. $1275 (with bindings);
Dynastar Legend 8000
Sidecut: 116/79/102
Perhaps the last ski on the market with a classic pointed tip, this wood-core ski ripped giant high-speed arcs with ease and performed moderately well in bumps. $875;
BEHIND THE SCENES
Plus: See exclusive behind the scenes images from our photo shoot in Aspen.
Elan Magfire 12 & Elan Speedwave 14
Elan Magfire 12
Sidecut: 116/76/102
This wood core ski proved versatile and responsive. Our testers liked its medium-stiff feel and appreciated the way it absorbed bumps and crud. $829 (with bindings);
Elan Speedwave 14
Sidecut: 118/69/105
A corrugated titanium layer makes this wood-core ski torsionally stiff, but still soft enough longitudinally to make the ski flex. Maybe even too soft. While our testers liked the way the ski held, most thought it felt sloppy during initiation and lacked power at the end of the turn. $899 (with binding);
BEHIND THE SCENES
Plus: See exclusive behind the scenes images from our photo shoot in Aspen.
Elan M1111 & Nordica Hot Rod Jet Fuel
Elan M1111
Sidecut: 161/121/141
While it may have the best graphics on the market, this huge, heavy powder ski should only be let lose on vast Alaskan faces. Turn radius is relegated to large, and turns are best performed fast. $799;
Nordica Hot Rod Jet Fuel
Sidecut:126/84/112
Jet Fuel is not actually required for these super-fast planks. While our testers found the skis a bit “boardy,” most agreed that they plowed through crud like it wasn’t even there. $1,255.00 (with bindings);
BEHIND THE SCENES
Plus: See exclusive behind the scenes images from our photo shoot in Aspen.
Nordica Speedmachine Mach 3
Nordica Speedmachine Mach 3
Sidecut: 119/72/104
Testers found the Mach 3 very responsive and confidence inducing. No surprise that the ski performed better at higher speeds, where it provided a stable ride on all surfaces. $1,495.00 (with bindings)
BEHIND THE SCENES
Plus: See exclusive behind the scenes images from our photo shoot in Aspen.