Rossignol Temptation 88 Alpine Skis
BEST FOR: ALPINE SKIING
We aggressively drove the on hardpack, letting the wide tip pull us across the fall line. There’s a noticeable lack of chatter for a ski that is by no means lacking in energy. When we eased off the gas, the rocker was more noticeable, allowing leisurely turns and enhanced float. But make no mistake: with an 88-millimeter waist, it’s as frontside-worthy as any of the carvers we tested, and all abilities will enjoy the lively ride. Load the tail with energy when you want a springy return. 135/88/124
Head Mya 8 Alpine Skis
BEST FOR: ALPINE SKIING
Just about every tester from intermediate to expert loved the ’s fluid ride. “Carves awesome and cuts through crud with ease,” said one tester. A touch of rocker in the front end makes slow-turn initiations a breeze. But when we pushed it to top speed, the early rise seemed to disappear and all we got was great edge hold. (Head stacks denser wood at the edge of the ski to increase power transfer.) Then, when it came time to shut it down, the rocker returned for feathery finishes—meaning you can dump speed easily. 130/84/112
Line Celebrity 90 Alpine Skis
Our testers praised the Celebrity for its ability to make quick pivots or surf pow—there’s just enough rocker for backbowl powder days. On firmer snow, if you ski with an upright, balanced stance, it’s easy to find the sweet spot and crank out a variety of turn shapes. The beefed-up edges and traditional feel underfoot let it slice a soft groomer just as well as some of its narrower rivals. “No chatter, easy to turn—smooth,” said one tester. If you like to cruise powder and soft groomers while grinning ear to ear, this is your ski. 125/90/113
Moment Bella Telemark Skis
BEST FOR: TELEMARK
With rocker at the tip and tail, a snappy aspen core, and camber underfoot, the was our favorite jack-of-all-trades. “One giant sweet spot,” said one tester. Energy was rated high in every category, and all but very short turns were rock solid. Bonus: made in Reno, Nevada. 134/106/126; 7.3 lbs
Versatility: 4
Power: 4
Nordica La Niña Alpine Touring Skis
BEST FOR: ALPINE TOURING
The only difference between this ski and the Patron, Nordica’s much adored men’s big-mountain ski, is that, thanks to a middle layer of polyurethane, is a bit lighter and more nimble. Otherwise, you get the same stable, dampened feeling. Plus, because the ski’s tip profile extends beyond the contact point, when you put it on edge you get very little vibration (like you do with a lot of other rockered skis). 143/113/132, 9.1 lbs
Versatility: 4
Power: 4.5