The Faction Candide 3.0 skis return as an editors’ pick this year thanks to its playful prowess in the mountains. The 112-mm waist, with generous tip rocker and moderate tail rocker, allows it to be nimble enough for almost any condition, and very slight camber underfoot gives you the control you need. “Felt very confident in all varieties of terrain and snow,” said one tester. The profile will not have you winning any Super G races, but this ski is meant for cork 7s, nose butters and a damn good time.