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Skis - 2008-2009 All Mountain Performance Cruisers

From Tony Crespi, for About.com

Filed In:

Ski Equipment
> Skis

This category is the most versatile, appealing to rising intermediates, experts, and weekend pros seeking a versatile and powerful ski for mixed, changing, conditions. Waists vary with wider waists appealing more to those who favor softer snow and narrower waists for Eastern warriors.

Dynastar Legend 8000 120/79/103

Courtesy PriceGrabber

These are forgiving and fun. It excelled in changing snow conditions during test week, shining in powder and wet snow alike. It was highly versatile although less satisfying on hard snow.

Nordica Hot Rod Nitrous 124/78/108

Courtesy PriceGrabber

These have great grip on hardpack. And they like, well, speed!These are a great Eastern ski! Period!

Blizzard Magnum 8.1 123/81/108

These scored (and soared) in near Blizzard conditions! A forgiving board for intermediates to experts, this defines the new Blizzard line. Great skis. Versatile. Fun.

Manufacturer's Site

Dynastar Contact 10 122/72/102

These are a keeper. Smooth and strong with fabulous edge hold, the Contact 10’s were suggested by a test partner. He was right! These are great carvers who love solid technical skiers. These would work well for lighter skiers and those who like a forgiving ride.

Manufacturer's Site

Rossignol CS 70 124/70/112

One of two of my test favorites, the CS70 was quick, forgiving, and highly responsive. It would seem ideal for a one-quiver performance ski mostly worked on hard-pack and groomed terrain with occasional forays onto Eastern type powder. It responded superbly to technical inputs and smiled in Eastern powder. It’s a test winner.

Manufacturer's Site