Ski Tests Chix Value Buy
Group verdict
Six skis stood out, but the edge in price gave the Nordica Fate the title of our 2011 Chix Best Value Buy - it shared the gold medals with the K2 Super Free and Kastle MX 70. The silver medals went to the Dynastar Exclusiv Elit, Elan Inspire and Scott Maya.
Target skier
We asked distributors for a ski/binding package that would sell for $1200 or less and would suit capable but improving women skiers who want an all rounder that looks good and will keep performing well up the ability range. Value for money is a very important factor here.
Skier ability:
On the ski school rating scale, these skis will suit classes 4 to 1.
| Armada Cantika |
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| Comments: Easy turning, but too soft to be pushed really hard; Sue. Great in the soft, doesn't hold and edge so well on the groomed; Joanna.
Verdict: One for off-piste cruisers or improving skiers looking for a forgiving ski. |
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| Blizzard Viva Magnum 7.4 |
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| Comments: Handles well at medium pace, seemed to be itching to take off, but got skittish when it did; Navena. Handles beautifully at medium speeds on medium terrain; Susie.
Verdict: Well-priced option for intermediate-level cruisers. |
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| Dynastar Exclusiv Elite |
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| Comments: Tidy turns with little effort asked; Navena. Really responsive and it holds an edge beautifully; Joanna.
Verdict: Good choice for the category. |
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| Elan Inspire |
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| Comments: The recipe is right - good cruiser for improving intermediates; Sue. Really fits for cruisy skiers at medium to advanced level; Susie.
Verdict: They said it - cool choice for cruisy skiers. |
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| Head Mya No. 5 |
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| Comments: More an entry-level ski and a really good one at that; Navena. Really forgiving - great for intermediates wanting to progress; Joanna.
Verdict: If you don't want to push your skis hard, then this could be one to go with.
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| K2 Super Free |
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| Comments: Best all rounder in the group on-piste and off; Navena. Very responsive, awesome through all snow types; Susie.
Verdict: Has all the credentials. |
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| Kastle MX 70 |
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| Comments: Stable underfoot whatever the speed, not really a cruiser; Sue. Amazing ski for more accomplished women skiers - great response and hold; Navena.
Verdict: Busts the price barrier but a top choice for capable, athletic women skiers. |
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| Nordica Fate |
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| Comments: Great stability all the way through the turn, surprisingly good for this category; Joanna. Really good wherever you take it; Navena.
Verdict: Top of the class here - highly recommended. |
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| Rossignol Temptation |
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| Comments: Great for lower intermediate/entry level skiers - soothing performance; Navena. Hop on and enjoy the ride, but don't go pushing them too hard; Joanna.
Verdict: More an option for skiers starting out or staying on as low-speed cruisers. |
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| Scott Maya |
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| Comments: Great fun wherever, whatever - no negatives; Sue. Super fun, really responsive and lively on piste or off; Joanna.
Verdict: Another top choice; will take you a long way up the ability ladder. |
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