YOU KNOW WHAT THEY SAY: IF IT AIN’T BROKE, DON’T FIX IT. That’s the general consensus from the cult-like followers of the 4FRNT Raven 4-Lock, a freeride backcountry ski that’s remained largely unchanged since 2016. Designed and put to the test by legendary skier and engineer Eric “Hoji” Hjorleifson, the 104-waisted Raven is like a slimmer, slicier version of the 112-mm Hoji ski, with a schmeary, reverse camber construction that allowed testers to pivot their way through soft snow and variable terrain. For a reverse camber ski, it lays into turns remarkably well thanks to the long sidecut, an impressively stable ride for such a playful, creative ski. Sums up one FREESKIER tester: “World class. Light as a feather and stable as an ox.” While the 4FRNT Raven 4-Lock only sees an updated top sheet for the 2022-23 season, all Ravens will come with 4FRNT’s 4-Lock Skin Integration system, featuring the signature “Hoji Hole” for reliable skin retention.

Explore the 2023 FREESKIER Buyer’s Guide