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
REDSTER X9 RS REVOSHOCK S
The new Redster X9, this time in the RS version – the results for the S version can be found in the Cross-Turn category – comes with a new Icon race plate and matching bindings. It made a tremendous impression on our testers. It finished second on points, and we are still wondering why Atomic entered it in the VIP category rather than among the race-inspired hybrids.
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BLIZZARD
THUNDERBIRD R15 LTD
These skis are already familiar, but this time we tested the stronger LTD version fitted with the new and highly effective FDT Race Plate Pro B. They divided our testers: many considered them the best in the category, while a smaller group raised objections. They unquestionably have character.
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DYNAMIC
VR PRO SL
Dynamic made the bold decision to enter a slalom ski in this category. It is what we call the second slalom model in the range – a slightly more supple version of the flagship ski. Slalom skis are not known for great versatility, of course, yet this model received a very warm welcome.
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DYNASTAR
SPEED 650 KONECT
Among the shortest skis in the group and endowed with the smallest radius, these have an unmistakably slalom-oriented character but a more forgiving construction. They turn very easily and provoked mixed reactions among our testers.
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ELAN
WINGMAN 86 BLACK EDITION
Entering an all-mountain ski in the VIP category is a bold decision, but these are exceptional. Most testers were positively rapturous, and the skis missed the podium by only a small margin on points. Only strong, heavier men wished for the next length up.
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FISCHER
RC4 NOIZE
For the VIP group, Fischer entered its newest creation, the Noize. These are the same skis described in the Cross-Turn category, but in a different length. Our testers regarded them as thoroughly sporting and demanding, yet enormously enjoyable – mainly for powerful pilots.
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FORSZTY
STELA ALLROUND TI
Made in Wisła, Poland – and genuinely something to show off to the skiing world. The Forszty made an impression, finishing just off the podium. Most testers appreciated far more than their graphics.
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HEAD
PORSCHE 7 SERIES
A limited special edition from Head bearing the Porsche name. Noblesse oblige – and most of our testers liked them. The only reservations concerned the size, as the test pair measured just 170 cm.
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KÄSTLE
LEGEND 1956
Beautiful skis from Kästle. This special model, called Legend 1956, uses graphics inspired by the famous ski from that year. At 83 mm underfoot, it is relatively wide and distinctly all-mountain in character. Many testers liked it, although some thought it slightly too short.
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MAJESTY
HNX TI
The latest creation from this Polish company. Although intended mainly for piste use, these are still the widest skis in the group, so outright sporting performance would be too much to expect. Many testers liked them; others had reservations.
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NORDICA
DOBERMANN MULTIPISTA DC FDT
Following the enormous success of the Multigara, Nordica’s technicians set out to create a ski for a wider audience and a broader range of conditions. The result is the Multipista. Opinions were divided, largely because too many testers expected Multigara-level performance.
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ROSSIGNOL
SIGNATURE STRATO CRS KONECT
The fashion for graphics borrowed from the 1960s is thriving – and rightly so, because these skis are exceptionally handsome. Among the most deeply sidecut skis in the group, they have a distinctly slalom-like character. Most testers liked them.
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SALOMON
ADDIKT PRO 66
Number one in the group on points. These skis have delighted our testers for several seasons, and the lightly updated version for the coming winter continues to impress through its versatility. Relatively long, with a short turn radius and a narrow waist. Rather strange – and magnificent.
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STÖCKLI
LASER OREA SC
Beneath the beautiful and unconventional graphics lies an almost legendary ski: the Laser SC, the best-selling model in the entire collection of the famous Swiss company. Our testers liked it, although several pointed to the rather meagre length of the test pair.
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VÖLKL
MANTRA 84
In the VIP group, each company may show the ski of which it is most proud. Völkl chose its cult model, which sells across the Atlantic like hot cakes. Most of our testers agreed with the Americans, although a few were less enthusiastic.
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