BLOSSOM SKISNUMERO UNO XC

These were probably the most divisive skis in the group. Some testers considered them ideal; others – especially heavier, more powerful skiers – complained that the 170 cm test length was simply too short. Even so, this is a model worth examining closely. Comments included: “Getting your hip down towards the snow is no problem on these skis. They return the energy you put into them beautifully and smoothly without launching you into orbit. Secure through the arc, although the tips dominate slightly. Very stable, but they could be quicker from edge to edge.” Another tester wrote: “This is exactly my kind of ski. They carve medium-radius arcs beautifully and securely on edge. At the same time, they remain stable and can be skied fast. Medium turns are their forte, but you can alter the radius almost at will. Sensational!” We also heard: “Another excellent representative of this superb category. A construction that lets you enjoy short- and medium-radius turns all day. They are solidly built and therefore fairly heavy, but you do not feel that weight at all once they are moving.” This was followed by: “A major surprise, because I had not known them before. Quite stiff, yet very easy. Highly turny, while their rebound and stiffness allow rapid transitions from one turn to the next. They grip and track the arc extremely well.” A few words from the dissenters: “Exceptionally turny. They behave like slalom skis. Too short and too tight in radius for this category, and of limited use in longer arcs.” Another wrote: “Friendly skis for carving all day. Among the widest in the group, although you do not feel it. I would still prefer them one size longer.” And finally: “Solid – no more and no less. They initiate nicely, but then very little happens. Perhaps slightly too stiff?”