INDEPENDENT SKI TEST
There is no best ski. Only the best ski for you.
2025/2026 archive group
15tested configurations
Independent Ski Test
15 configurations
ATOMIC
MAVERICK 88 CTI
A completely new Atomic model from the All-Mountain Classic subgroup, which means it carries a substantial dose of freeride DNA. Our testers split into two camps: those who liked it very much and those who could not establish a friendship. On the first day, an overly aggressive tune also caused problems.
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BLIZZARD
STORMBIRD 82 DTI
This new addition to Blizzard’s range earned considerable approval from our testers. Many did feel, however, that it belonged more naturally in the All-Round category because it offered too little in soft snow.
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BLOSSOM SKIS
TURBO AM77
Another familiar model and another one that, according to our testers, is far better suited to groomed pistes than even light off-piste use. Many considered it highly successful, although a few grumblers remained. At just 77 mm, it was the narrowest ski in the category.
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DYNAMIC
VRUN
A new and powerful ski from Dynamic. Like the brand’s other models, it has a strongly sporting personality, which naturally delighted some testers and appealed less to others. For many, it behaved like an exceptionally wide GS ski. Demanding and beautiful.
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DYNASTAR
M-CROSS 88 OPEN
Known from earlier editions of the test and very well received in the past, these skis again earned a positive response. They possess a forceful personality focused on difficult snow and off-piste terrain – a model you will either love or reject outright.
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ELAN
WINGMAN 83 TI
We had never tested this exact model before because Elan had always sent the outstanding version one width larger. The Wingman 83 Ti also earned praise for its versatility and friendliness, although many thought it would have performed even better one size longer.
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FISCHER
THE CURV GT 85
We already knew these from last year, although they remain relatively new to the market in only their second season. They made a very strong impression and finished just off the points podium. Almost every test card was positive, and we shall simply ignore the handful of grumblers.
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HEAD
KORE 88 TI
A completely new construction of which Head is very proud, replacing the skis on which Ted Ligety could carve seemingly impossible arcs. Our testers liked this model enormously too, and it finished third on points.
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KÄSTLE
MX84
These skis are already familiar, yet our testers continue to like them. The word used most often was ‘solid’. They took first place on points, and the cards contained almost nothing but praise.
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MAJESTY
HAVOC 90 TI
A Polish product, and we always appreciate those. Fairly long and the widest skis in the group, with unmistakable freeride genes. Their points score could never be outstanding in this category, yet a surprising number of testers praised them warmly in writing.
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NORDICA
STEADFAST 85 DC FDT
The Steadfast line has been on the market for two seasons, but this was our first test of the 85 mm version. It received an exceptionally warm welcome and finished second on points.
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ROSSIGNOL
ARCADE 88 KONECT
The Arcade line enters its second season on the market. Last year we tested the version one width narrower. This pair seems purpose-built for more difficult conditions. Many testers were delighted, although critical voices remained.
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SALOMON
STANCE PRO 86
New for the season and carrying intriguing graphics, these skis belong to the All-Mountain Classic subgroup. They sit closer to freeride models than many others in the category. Opinions were divided, although a great many testers considered them successful.
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STÖCKLI
MONTERO AR
These skis have been with us for many years in successive, continuously updated versions. They always rank near the top of the category, although this time they missed the podium by a whisker. They have a devoted following and a few opponents.
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VÖLKL
PEREGRINE 82
The Peregrine line enters its second season and has already become highly mature. Many of its models, including this one, use Völkl’s so-called 3D radius – in other words, variable geometry. Most testers liked the skis and awarded them a high points score.
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