Whether a Western ski bum or a weekend warrior spending weekends searching for powder in Vermont powder skis are largely wide (i.e. fat) skis designed to float through fresh snow. Today’s powder skis typically come flat with maximum binding choices.
Dynastar Legend Pro Rider 128/100/118
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The Legend Pro Rider was a test favorite! It turned easily and suggested unusual versatility. While probably not perfect in every condition, the performance suggests strong skills in many conditions and of appeal to those seeking a powder ski on either coast. It is so good it may become legendary.
Nordica Blower 139/110/129
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The Blower was recommended by Mount Snow Valley’s Mark Mancini. For my test ride, this was a delightful, powerful, and playful cruiser. I found it amazingly versatile!
Rossignol Phantom 140/108/120
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The Phantom is somewhat more expensive than its peers. That’s the downside. Still, this is a powerful and highly stable platform for strong big mountain cruisers. The somewhat narrower waist enhances versatility.
Volkl Gotama 133/105/124
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This model virtually defines a powder ski with great floating ability and unusually nice edge grip. It turns nicely but can be less than smooth when the snow turns hard. It’s a test favorite and, to my thinking, defines this category.
Volkl Mantra 133/96/116
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Like the Gotama this ski excels in powder but with a narrower waist it is more versatile and can transition from backcountry to groomed terrain more easily. Like so many Volkl products, it has power steering. Truly, this can be a great choice for the skier looking for that one ski quiver. It COULD be the one ski quiver for Western warriors and a great tree ski in the East.
