Nordica Hot Rod Nitrous CA (2010)

The tester favorite earns praise for its balance of performance attributes. Carbon-reinforced laminates give it outstanding quickness, and it’s eminently calm at high speeds. In fact, testers preferred the CA to the metal-reinforced and more expensive Nitrous TI ($1,249), which medaled here two years ago. With a wide, stable platform and a broad tip that dives obediently into arcs, it’s a natural carver with excellent soft-snow skills. “Makes you feel like a better skier,” said Hogen.