M's Pow Wide Skis: 2010

Pow and crud are these skis' natural habitat. But when the clouds won't come, they'll graze the groomed like a ride half their size. Built for experts, and perfect for intermediates learning to surf the deep.

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Atomic Snoop 2009-10

MSRP $749 flat

Dimensions 126-94-118

Category ranking No. 1 (tie)

Average score 3.78

In a word: balance. Some skis are quick but not stable, strong in long turns but weak in short ones, floaty but not carvy. The Snoop puts it all together in a single wood-core, metal-free package that passes every test the mountain throws at it. If there’s a standout quality, it’s quickness—not necessarily a hallmark of Atomic fat skis past. But there’s plenty of Atomic-like stability at speed to go with that agility. “Stable yet nimble, strong yet maneuverable in any type of turn,” said Sabanosh.

Best for Athletic skiers who can handle the rebound

Not for Lightweights or the overly cautious