The Nordica Helldorado—like the Nordica Patron—is an excellent ski in consistent conditions. Issues arose for us, however, the more variable things got. Find out if these skis sound like a good fit for you.
After working with Praxis to design the WooTest, Kevin Bazar reports that he now has the best backcountry ski he's ever owned, and that the WooTest could benefit from a few tweaks to improve overall performance.
After testing the 4FRNT Hoji in Niseko's deep pow, Jason Hutchins gives an update from Alta on the Hoji's performance in varied conditions and terrain.
The MOMENT Bella is a relatively stiff yet extremely playful women's-specific all-mountain ski that performs well in pow, rips on hard pack, and inspires confidence in bumps and trees.
For those of you who worried that a 182cm Belafonte sounded too short, but a 192cm Belafonte sounded like too much, well, we've got some very good news for you.
The 2012-2013 Surface One Time is stiff when you need it to be, quick and nimble when you don't, and it reminded Kate Hourihan not to jump to conclusions.
The women's version of the Rossignol S3 (the S3 W) is not only light and agile in pow, but quick, responsive, and strong when ripping consistent hardpack.
Finally, some disagreement around here. The 2012-2013 Blizzard GunSmoke has drawn some contrasting opinions. Andrew Gregovich loved it, but in his 2nd Look Review of the GunSmoke, Jason Hutchins details a mix of problems and positives.
At 185cm, the women's-specific Nordica La Niña is extremely versatile considering its size, and enough fun to make Julia Van Raalte finally use the F-word: "Favorite."
The Line Pandora once again impresses us as a women's-specific, true all-mountain ski that offers a remarkable combination of float, stability, and versatility.
From Niseko, Japan, to Juneau, Alaska, the Blizzard Bodacious proved to be a relatively forgiving ski that is awfully comfortable doing 70+ miles per hour.
At 115 underfoot, the women's-specific 2012-2013 Black Diamond Element shines in powder, but it also rips groomers and (with a slightly forward mount position) handles crud.
Julia Van Raalte put the 12/13 Blizzard Dakota to the test in Niseko, Japan. Now, Emily Cleveland weighs in from Jackson Hole on this ski that is "burly and nimble, unlike any ski I have tried before."
Here's another look at the Rossignol Scimitar, with direct comparisons to the Rossignol S3 and Rossignol Experience 98. The Upshot? We're more convinced than ever that the Scimitar is one of the best values in the entire ski industry.