2011 Backcountry Magazine Editors' Choice Ski Selections
Which skis are top-notch for winter 2011? Backcountry unveils a few of the best in this week's Editors' Choice Sneak Peek. But to get the full scoop about these winning products and dozens of other hot skis, boots and bindings, you'll have to wait for the September Backcountry Magazine Gear Guide. Subscribe now to guarantee your copy!
FREERIDE SKIS
Price: $750
Sizes:[CM] 164, 172, 180, 188
Tip/Waist/Tail:[MM] 126-115-124
Weight/Pair: 9lbs 13oz (180cm)
4frnt.com
"Playful yet serious; I couldn't believe the amount of stability and power in all conditions."—Mindy Mulliken, Steamboat Springs, Colorado
DPS Wailer 112RP Pure
Price: $1,399
Sizes:[CM] 168, 178, 190
Tip/Waist/Tail:[MM] 141-112-128
Weight/Pair: 7lbs (168cm)
dpsskis.com
"It's impressive how this ski crushes all manner of snow conditions, and remains this light."—Lance Riek, Bozeman, Montana
Voile Charger
Price: $595
Sizes:[CM] 171, 181, 191
Tip/Waist/Tail:[MM] 137-112-126
Weight/Pair: 8lbs 2oz (181cm)
voile-usa.com
"Big, fast turns or dancing in the trees, this ski performs flawlessly."—Pat Gilroy, Victor, Idaho
Black Diamond Zealot
Price: $700
Sizes:[CM] 182, 192
Tip/Waist/Tail:[MM] 136-110-126
Weight/Pair: 9lbs 11oz (182cm)
bdel.com
"Incredibly stable throughout the turn thanks to the perfect amount of rocker and tail."—Jason Layh, Tahoe City, California
K2 Sidestash
Price: $950
Sizes:[CM] 167, 174, 181, 188
Tip/Waist/Tail:[MM] 139-108-127
Weight/Pair: 9lbs 2oz (174cm)
k2skis.com
"A great all-around ski that can float in pow', blast through crud and carve like no other."—Jay Prentiss, Crested Butte, Colorado
ALL MOUNTAIN SKIS
K2 COOMBAck
Price: $825
Sizes:[CM] 167, 174, 181, 188
Tip/Waist/Tail:[MM] 135-102-121
Weight/Pair: 7lbs 15oz (174cm)
k2skis.com
"Unconditionally reliable, this ski gave back and was quick to respond in variable conditions."—Simon Peterson, Johnson, Vermont
Faction Alias Rocker
Price: $799
Sizes:[CM] 169, 179, 188
Tip/Waist/Tail:[MM] 132-102-122
Weight/Pair: 9lbs 4oz (179cm)
factionskis.com
"Super fun, rippin' fast and holds tight at speed."—Price Gilroy, Victor, Idaho
Black Diamond Starlet (Women's)
Price: $700
Sizes:[CM] 156, 166, 176
Tip/Waist/Tail:[MM] 134-100-121
Weight/Pair: 6lbs 3oz (166cm)
bdel.com
"BD nailed it with the design by integrating a rockered tip into a well-performing, all-around package."—Marla Bailey, Steamboat Springs, Colorado
G3 Zest-T (Women's)
Price: $590
Sizes:[CM] 172, 177
Tip/Waist/Tail:[MM] 132-100-123
Weight/Pair: 8lbs (172cm)
www.genuineguidegear.com
"Handles slop and chowder while feeling poppy and light underfoot."—Becca Friedlander, Gallatin Gateway, Montana
Rossignol S3 Freeride
Price: $700
Sizes:[CM] 156, 168, 178, 186
Tip/Waist/Tail:[MM] 128-98-118
Weight/Pair: 9lbs 5oz (186cm)
rossignol.com
"Predictable and capable with that smooth Rossi' flex."—Shaggy Bailey, Steamboat Springs, Colorado
Dynafit Broad Peak
Price: $650
Sizes:[CM] 149, 158, 167, 176
Tip/Waist/Tail:[MM] 112-74-96
Weight/Pair: 4lbs 12oz (167cm)
dynafit.com
"Stable at speeds, it's the ultimate confidence builder."—Jeff Burke, Jackson, Wyoming