To the delight of many big-mountain chargers, the Voilé X9 is back for 2016-17, unchanged from its 2015-16 iteration. Specifically designed for steeps-loving backcountry aficionados, this model combines a soft aspen core with layers of carbon and fiberglass for rock-solid stability in a lightweight package. The ski also boasts significant rocker and sidecut, allowing for plenty of pop and maneuverability. A durable polyamide topsheet helps to prevent chipping and delamination. Not all days are created the same; some call for hop turns and some call for straight-lining, but all of the above are made better by the X9 factor.

*Ski dimensions are for the 180.