EDITOR'S PICKS
#1 Armada- JJ
"A blend between moderately life- changing and genuinely flawless,†elated one tester about the JJ. Year after year the JJ outperforms the rest of the class with its impressive collection of technical features that allow you to conquer pow, crud, groomers and everything in-between. More info
Carving: 4.3 Playfulness: 4.6 Stability: 4.6 Float: 4.9 OVERALL: 18.4
#2 K2 ObSETHed
Seth Morrison knows a thing or two about making skis. He’s had a number of pro models over the years and this year’s ObSETHed hits all the marks. Despite the rockered shape, the ObSETHed “feels very solid underfoot — stiff through the mid-ski,†according to one tester. More info
Carving: 4.2 Playfulness: 4.5 Stability: 4.3 Float: 4.9 OVERALL: 17.9
#3 Rossignol – S6
“The S6 will put you on the podium at Red Bull Linecatcher. So Sick!†exclaimed one tester. While the endorsement may be auspicious, yet far fetched, the fact remains that the S6 is a ski to be reckoned with. Rossignol’s patented WRS system gives the S6 ninja-like quickness in the trees and steeps, while the wood core locks down any sort of high-speed chatter. More info
Carving: 4.5 Playfulness: 4 Stability: 4.5 Float: 4.5 OVERALL: 17.5
#4 Volkl – Katana
Volkl has hit a chord with testers with the Katana. Want to go fast? Check. Float in powder? Check. Rip through crud? Check. Volkl’s celebrated Sensorwood core gives this stick equal amounts of snap and stability, while two titanium sheets add greater rigidity to hold you steady while you fly down the mountain. The slightly rockered tip is enough to get you on top of the powder and keep you there all day long. More info
Carving: 4.3 Playfulness:3.5 Stability: 4.8 Float: 4.5 OVERALL: 17.1
#5 Salomon – Czar
A czar is someone with great power or authority, and that is exactly what the Salomon Czar gives to its user. It can help transform an intermediate skier into an expert, which is no easy task. Using a double Monocoque structure, the Czar grips the snow with authority. More info
Carving: 4.3 Playfulness: 4.6 Stability: 4.6 Float: 4.9 OVERALL: 18.4
