Perhaps it was the snow conditions, or the shorter test length than last year, or our maturing sensibilities, but this season's Shiro a model unchanged from last season blew us away. Winner of the coveted Ski of the Year award for skis above 100 millimeters underfoot, it allowed testers to approach any line with confidence and imagination. Powder? Simple and surfy. Crud? Fearless. Hardpack? Yes. Even with full rocker? Surprisingly enjoyable. Charge on it or downshift and enjoy the scenery. "This is what a fat ski should be," said one tester. "Click in and go get some."