Blizzard CMX Comp IQ (2007)

Pro The ski that testers deemed one of the quickest in its category last year returns under a new name (it was the X-Cross 11) but undiminished in its appetite for rapid-fire slalom turns. Its combination of invincible edge-grip and instantaneous power-transmission are signatures of Blizzard’s IQ interface, which secures the binding in a way that improves energy transmission to the edge while promoting a smooth, round flex. The Comp combines a racy wood core with forgiving cap construction, giving the ski integrity without undermining fun. As the narrowest ski in the men’s/unisex category, it’s carve-specific, but that’s the point. "Everything I asked for, I got," said Hogen. "It made every turn shape in the book, with great energy off the edge." Con Lacks the powder versatility of other Cruisers.