Fischer Watea 114 (2010)

Another boatlike V-hull design (see TKski review, page TK), another set of preconceived notions shattered. This construction, to keep the tip floating above the snow, genuinely works. It rolls through powder and crud with ease, while the lightweight layup easily steers through both fast and slow turns. Plus: For such a soft ski, it works well on groomers, too. Minus: Soft, though not very forgiving.