NORDICADOBERMANN SLR

As last year, these were the most divisive skis in an exceptionally closely matched category. There were very few neutral cards; enthusiastic and negative reviews appeared in equal numbers. The conclusion is obvious: these are skis with a strong personality that will not suit everyone. Comments included: “They demand attention and commitment, but put some energy into them and they repay you with interest. They have a built-in sport mode. For people who want something more.” Another tester wrote: “Responsive, dynamic and quick from arc to arc. Fairly stiff, requiring stronger pressure to finish the turn. You can feel the edges catch and bite into the slope. For ambitious skiers who want to carve tight turns on morning corduroy, then continue playing in free skiing for the rest of the day. They may be too demanding for others.” We also heard: “Are these true, sharp Dobermanns? Almost… The rebound is good, although not exceptional. Stability and smoothness through the arc are fine. You feel energy in the turn, but nothing excessive. Edge changes are quick, initiation is clean and changing radius comes easily. In the gates – OK.” At the opposite end of the scale: “They look attractive – the graphics are excellent, and that is where the praise ends. Very difficult to steer. They can chatter even on hard snow. They take a long time to move from one turn to the next. Sorry…” And: “They lack edge grip through the arc, perhaps because the plate under the bindings is too soft. Fairly agile and dynamic.”