Atomic Bent Chetler (2010)

At first glance, it seems that Atomic made kick-ass dimensions, then hobbled them with a short, one-size-fits-all-length. Great, we thought: a much-hyped design, in miniature. But the combination of moderate front and rear rocker, huge tip, and even flex provides a stable, phenomenally playful ski that forgives mistakes. Plus: Smears, carves, hauls, and sneaks through billygoats. Minus: Edges washed out on hardpack.