The West, Kästle’s big-mountain/powder offering in the “Colby James West” line, won huge honors from testers in the playfulness and versatility areas. Though its soft flex pattern docked it in the carving department, that same flex plus early rise in the tip and tail was what ultimately made it an Editor’s Pick. “A little too soft for going fast,” said one tester, “but it was very smooth and exceptionally easy to ski.” For skiers looking for a wider ski that doesn’t demand high speeds and a lot of aggression, the West offers an easy, playful day on the mountains.