ATOMICMAVERICK 88

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. Comments included: “In soft snow they float like good freeride skis. On piste, they are also quite enjoyable in medium- and long-radius carved arcs. Effective in short turns on steep runs. Only on very hard pistes do they demand extra attention, which is hardly surprising.” Another tester wrote: “Versatile skis. Easy to handle and ready for every kind of snow condition you are likely to meet on piste. I could ski them all day without much effort.” We also heard: “Outstanding off piste, but excellent on it too. Stable at high speed and providing plenty of control. Away from the piste, they feel wider than they really are. I would buy them!” From the other side came: “Light and supple. Typical skis for off-piste use and soft snow. Weak grip on hard surfaces, although they do not demand much effort.” Another tester wrote: “We are not on the same wavelength. The tips do not bury themselves in chopped-up snow, but the skis move poorly from turn to turn and lack stability.” Then: “Difficult skis on a hard, uneven piste. The tips chatter, making initiation harder. Unstable through carved arcs.” Finally: “The tune is too aggressive and makes them feel unsafe. I am stopping the test.”