An editors’ pick three years running, the Kästle FX104 skis are happiest when the afterburners are engaged. Its ash and silver fir wood core adds stability and torsional rigidity, allowing it to really get on edge when screaming down the hardpack. One tester described the Kästle FX104 as “Flash Gordon fast.” A bit of early rise in the tip helps this ski conquer variable snow and engage turns easily, while the flat, hook-free tail helps power through those turns on any type of terrain. If screaming fast, top-to-bottom laps gets you all hot and bothered, these sticks are worth a look.