As part of Nordica’s complete overhaul of the Santa Ana series, the second-biggest sister in the collection, the updated Santa Ana 97, is built to handle whatever comes her way on the mountain. Boasting an updated core construction, a combination of a poplar and beech wood as well as a rubber elastomer layer sandwiched with a sheet of terrain-specific metal on top, the Santa Ana 97 retains its prowess in arcing turns but now offers a bit more energy to play when you want it to. At 97-mm underfoot, it may seem like she’s too skinny to be an everyday ski out West, but don’t let the number fool you; this girl’s got a surprising amount of float for those sleeper snow days.
A significant increase in the tail rocker makes the ski easier to maneuver at any speed for any skiing ability, and a steeper tip rise gives the ski solid edge contact for smoother transitions and easier turn engagement. The tailored terrain-specific metal underfoot is strategically placed for the ski’s intended use. Since the Santa Ana 97 is the second-widest ski in the collection, she has more metal underfoot than the Santa Ana 102, making her a bit more versatile, whether you’re ripping groomers or exploring in the trees.
“The Nordica Santa Ana 97 is a great carving ski, yet also very capable of handling the majority of mountain terrain,” exclaimed one of our testers. “I was able to handle some very crunchy moguls pretty easily with the Santa Ana 97, and the carving abilities were incredibly impressive—fun to make a wide range of turns, both long and short, without any chatter and with seamless control. For any female skier looking to crush moguls or cruise groomers, you will love this ski and the control you will feel.” Available in lengths ranging from 150 to 179 cm, our testers agree this ski is for every woman and rides just as beautifully as the appearance of the topsheet.