W's Cruiser Skis: 2010

You're an expert who demands performance. But you'd prefer to do the driving, thank you very much. These skis are a little less touchy and a little less aggressive than their high-end brethren, but still have plenty of power when you shift into overdrive.

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Atomic Cloud 9

MSRP $749 w/binding

Dimensions 117-73-106

Category ranking No. 2

Average score 3.55

This ski wants to chew up the hill. With classic Atomic bite, the Cloud 9 loves to corkscrew slalom turns down the groomed. It’s on the precise and stiff side, but not in a punishing way: Rather than smoothing over your mistakes, the Cloud 9 capitalizes on your strengths, edging you in the right direction. In other words, it may not be as easy to ski as some of the others in this category, but its rewards are that much greater. “Smooth and flowy, with good rebound energy,” said Forland.

Best for Holding an edge at speed

Not for The sidelines. This ski likes action.