Performance first
Skiing for the fun of it isn’t what racing is about. And yet, just a hair below the elite models, you can find skis that are more forgiving and versatile, at the cost of just a few extra grams. For those who are up against the clock and need to consider every last detail when aiming at the podium, there is a wealth of choice and each ski has a slightly different character. Take into account the type of races it’ll mainly be used for. There are highly responsive models that love fast races and might be tiring over longer distances, and there are more versatile sticks that aren’t fazed by a little fresh snow.
Ski of the year
The DNA Pro takes the Pierra Menta’s crown (which nonetheless comes a close second and has won its umpteenth choice award). A tough ski for tough skiers and perfect in the (alas) now prevalent race conditions (compact or far from perfect) where it shoots off like a torpedo. A sign of the times, and things to come, in the run up to the Winter Olympics.
Pro's choice
The choice awards are a little like the selection process we used up to last year; basically like the Oscar nominations. Only more specific. So the Pierra Menta has been dethroned as Ski of the Year, but remains far and away the best in the Pro category, unseating the DNA Pro. Compared to the Dynafit model it’s more versatile; it works anywhere, though less well in certain situations.
People's choice
Easy and eager to please, but not to be underestimated. Mezzalama helps mid-table racers with tired legs and in poor snow conditions, easily initiating turns and holding the line where necessary. If you’re not aiming for the podium, this ski will get you to the finish line with your eyes closed. Be it a local skimo race or a big-name competition like...the Mezzalama. What more can we say?
Smart choice
The mix of different density woods makes Gara more docile than its elite racing counterparts, even fun in certain conditions, because speed doesn’t have to mean suffering. All at the cost of a few dozen extra grams, but they’re well utilized. Undaunted by a little fresh snow and never-ending long-distance races, it’s a solid choice for non-competitive speed and fitness touring.
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Materials are evolving, which is increasing the opportunities for pushing the boundaries of mountaineering splitboarding. It’s no longer just about easy tours, a few jumps and a beer. Thanks to innovative new setups and growing knowledge within the community, long ascents and steep terrain no longer intimidate.
Weighing from less than 100 grams to nearly a kilo, the common denominator are the pins into which you stick your boots and that enable you to climb. From the revolution of the pin binding to the latest hybrids for freeriding, here are all the best bindings the skimo market has to offer.
Probably The most accurate ski test out there.
