Elan Ripstick (2007)

These quick and responsive carvers yield a smooth zing out of turns without bucking. Look for top-shelf edge hold underfoot—without a blocky feel. You can ski them from tip to tail. gripes: They’re lackluster in short turns. props: They’re so damp on edge, they track through turns regardless of junk in their path. tester’s take: "They want to go fast! Perfect for skiers who only stop at the bottom." —Georgie Bremner