We tested the best womens-specific all-mountain skis and many unisex skis in all types of terrain to find the best all-mountain skis for women. We skied in snow ranging from deep powder to East Coast ice. And we pushed the limits of terrain at Stowe Mountain Resort in Vermont, Wyoming’s Jackson Hole, more than half a dozen resorts in Idaho, and Utah’s Powder Mountain. Below is our A-List, the cream of the crop of women’s all-mountain skis.

　　Whether youre looking for the overall performance of the Atomic Maven 103 CTI or something a bit more budget-friendly like the Blizzard Black Pearl 88, weve got the spread covered.

　　Editor’s Note: We updated this buyers guide on February 14, 2025, by adding information about waist width and ski profiles and adding our new pick for the most versatile all-mountain skis for women, the Elan Ripstick 100 W, to the lineup.

　　The Best All-Mountain Skis for Women of 2025 Best Overall All-Mountain Skis for Women: Atomic Maven 103 CTI Best Budget All-Mountain Skis for Women: Blizzard Black Pearl 88 Best Powder Day All-Mountain Skis for Women: Black Diamond Impulse Ti 104 Most Versatile All-Mountain Skis for Women: Elan Ripstick 100 W Best All-Mountain Skis for Women Who Love the Park: K2 W Reckoner 102 Atomic Maven 103 CTI $800 at evo

　　Specifications Price: $975 Lengths (cm): 156 cm, 162 cm, 170 cm, 178 cm Dimensions (mm): 128.5/103/116.5 (162) Turn Radius: 16m (162) Other Available Waist Widths (mm): 84. 86, 86C, 93C Best For: Skiers looking for a one-ski quiver, skiers who like to carve, all-mountain skiers who prefer a slightly wider setup Pros Fun everywhere on the mountain Excels at both high and low speeds Comes in 178 cm for taller/more aggressive skiers Cons Doesn’t have the grip of a pure frontside ski Not as agile as some others Berne Broudy Atomic’s Maven 103 CTI ($975) is a confidence-inspiring women’s ski that we were happy to have on our feet every time we took it out, anywhere on the mountain, in conditions ranging from hardpack to powder. It’s a ski that beginners can grow into and one that’s ready to rock and roll for intermediate and advanced skiers. Redesigned in 2024 by Daron Rhalves, an Olympian and one of the most accomplished downhill racers of all time, according to the U.S. Ski and Snowboard Hall of Fame, this ski grips confidently in all kinds of snow. Click in and it’s easy to maneuver, and it’s versatile. And, like Daron, it’s not a “slarver,” but a carver.

　　The 2024/25 Maven is a serious upgrade from the previous version of this ski. We skied cruisy, smooth runs, including Stowe Mountain Resort’s Sunrise, North Slope, and Nosedive. We soaked in the winter sunshine, got our skis on edge, made trench turns, and soared down the mountain. This all-conditions charger now uses less metal, fiberglass, and resin than its predecessor. It also uses a highly engineered blend of ash and poplar at its core. That makes the Maven stable and reduces its vibration at speed. In short, it turned the Maven from a good ski to a great ski.

　　The Maven CTI construction blends carbon and Titanal metal. That makes this ski energetic on the slopes and in the woods without compromising its agility on tight trees. The carbon and Titanal are springy in the bumps, and on crowded slopes, they made the ski responsive and predictable. If you’re in the mood to cruise, not hammer, the ski performs just as well. Though Atomic builds this ski to last, even if you ride it hard every time you take it out. In contrast, the Black Pearl is a ski made to excel at moderate speeds, and it wasn’t fun to ski off-piste. It felt too stiff and too narrow for deep snow. Of course, that ski is 88 underfoot, and it’s designed for groomers. The Maven held its own on groomers but became a sportscar in soft snow.

　　One of our favorite features of the 2024/25 Maven is its HRZN tip, which Atomic uses on many of its skis. It’s a hollow, beveled, three-dimensional tip that increases the ski’s surface area so that the tip stays afloat in deep snow. And, when the grooming is less than perfect, and the slopes are littered with icy chunks, the HRZN tip deflects those imperfections without interrupting your flow.

　　While the Maven is a solid performer in all conditions, including icy ones, it’s not a pure frontside ski, one that’s under 90mm underfoot, and designed to be a one-trick pony that’s all about trenching turns on groomers and aggressive grip. Because it’s 103 underfoot, it’s also not the quickest-turning, most agile ski. But the wider underfoot waist was superb in soft snow, and it gave us the kind of downhill swooping ride that powder dreams are made of. At Utah’s Powder Mountain, we skied the Maven in a storm cycle and took it everywhere on the slopes, from groomers to steep glades, with equal glee. We pointed our tips toward the lift-access side of the country and danced and floated down the mountain.

　　Then, home in Vermont in firmer conditions, we could drive this ski down Stowe Mountain Resort’s Front Four. It was powerful enough to carve (not ricochet) down Liftline and National, slithering between bumps on Starr. In the steep chute that is Goat, the ski didn’t come around as fast as some others, so it took some effort to dodge the exposed rocks and wiggle through the couloir-like trail. But when we opened it up on the groomers to the bottom, it was stable and ripping fast.

　　Many women’s skis top out at 170cm. We appreciate that Atomic made a 178 in this ski so that advanced skiers and women who prefer a longer ski can find a good fit with the Maven.

　　Best Budget All-Mountain Skis for Women Blizzard Black Pearl 88 $700 at evo$700 at REI

　　Specifications Price: $700 Lengths (cm): 146, 152, 158, 164, 170, 176 Dimensions (mm): 126.5/88/108.5 (164) Turn Radius: 14m (164) Other Available Waist Widths (mm): 84, 94 Best For: Beginner to intermediate skiers who plan to stay on the slopes Pros One of the top-selling skis in the world in any category Designed from the snow up specifically for women Comes in short lengths Cons Not a quick handler in the trees Not the favorite of more advanced skiers Berne Broudy The Black Pearl was first introduced in 2011, and since then, it’s just gotten better. Womens-specific designs are a core part of Blizzards philosophy, and the 2024/25 Black Pearl 88 ($700) showcases just how every element of this ski’s design is unique to the women’s all-mountain category.

　　Answering the needs of female skiers from coast to coast who ski anything from firm groomers to chalky steeps to chopped-up bumps, the new Black Pearl 88 uses Titanal, but the metal is in thinner sheets than in the men’s equivalent ski. It’s also segmented into three sections placed in two distinct layers. That makes this ski stable and damp from tip to tail. Because the metal plates shear slightly as you ski, they have less torsional rigidity. That makes entering and exiting turns easy, natural, and instinctive. We never felt like we had to muscle this ski into a turn. Compare that to the Volkl Secret 96. The brand softened up the Secret for 2024/25, but it’s still a ski that wants to be driven, not danced down the hill. Where the Secret is geared to intermediate and expert skiers, the Black Pearl is a handholder. It feels safe and controlled at any speed and will help beginners grow into it as they progress in their skiing.

　　In the core, stringers of dense beech are concentrated underfoot for power and stability where you need it. They taper toward the tip and tail, giving way to softer poplar. The result is a wood core that is specifically designed to be stiffest underfoot and get progressively softer toward the ends of the ski to match the rocker profile and metal layup for a smooth, balanced flex. Because the layout of the stringers is specific to each size, every core for every ski and every length ski is specifically designed. Every ski and every length ski has its own specific core, fine-tuned to optimize the performance of that one ski for that one skier.

　　The Black Pearl 88 is as approachable as ever but gives skiers more confidence and control. It rips groomers, and it holds well on harder snow better than previous versions. Hit a lump, and it plows through. It’s damp and forgiving. More camber gives it a more lively feel than previous versions. And more tip and tail rocker make it easier to get out of one turn and into the next; whether you’re bopping between bumps or slashing, GS turns down fresh corduroy. It carves at all speeds.

　　Most women have smaller feet than men, and we carry our body mass differently. The Black Pearl embraces that physiology. Each ski is tuned by length. Shorter skis are slightly softer and more flexible to accommodate smaller skiers with shorter boot sole lengths. In contrast, longer skis are stiffer. to accommodate more weight. This ski has a smooth flex pattern that doesn’t lock you in; it delivers good pop and rebound. It’s a ski you can drive or dance down the mountain.

　　We also skied the Black Pearl 88 into a sidecountry zone at Stowe Mountain Resort called the Bench; here, they felt too stiff to make quick turns to get through the trees. Part of the problem is that in this waist width, the Black Pearls aren’t really meant for deep snow. And they’re stiff but not springy like the Peak 98 by Bode, which was a blast everywhere on the mountain.

　　If you’re skiing deep snow, opt for a wider waist width. The Black Pearl 88 is best for groomers, even when its piled with spring corn. It’s comfortable at speed, but you don’t have to drive them hard to have fun.

　　Best Powder Day All-Mountain Skis for Women Black Diamond Impulse Ti 104 W $850 at Black Diamond Equipment$850 at evo

　　Specifications Price: $850 Lengths (cm): 158, 165, 172 Dimensions (mm): 135/104/123 (165) Turn Radius: 16m (165) Other Available Waist Widths (mm): 98 Best For: 70% soft snow, 30% hard snow Pros A powder ski that grips in challenging and low snow conditions Same weight as the non-metal version Impressive performance all over the mountain Cons Longest women’s ski is 170 Only two waist widths available Berne Broudy This is the first true frontside ski that Black Diamond has made in a while, and it was worth the wait. The Impulse Ti 104 W ($850)is an all-mountain charger with a 104-mm waist that provides nimble turnability when needed and playful, floaty performance in deep powder. The ski’s flat, solid-core construction has been enhanced by a Titanal sheet and full ABS sidewalls. Both add torsional stiffness and provide power transmission, dampness, and stability which was particularly notable when we were charging on harder snow.

　　Usually, when a manufacturer adds metal to a ski, the weight increases. For 2024/25, Black Diamond added metal to the existing Impulse Ti but was able to keep the weight the same by reducing fiberglass content and maintaining the poplar wood core. The single layer of Titanal gives this ski a constant level of stiffness across all axis and a high level of torsional rigidity. Black Diamond also upgraded the Impulse Ti’s top sheet to a lighter, more durable material which helps save weight. Women get shorter lengths in the Impulse Ti than men. They also get a womens-specific graphic. Other than that, the men’s and women’s skis are identical. The shortest Impulse Ti W is 158, and the longest is 170 cm. That effectively limits which women can ski the women’s version of this ski. Since Black Diamond makes the skis in longer lengths, and since the men’s and women’s skis are the same except for the graphic, why not offer this ski at least up to 178 in the women’s graphic? Enough ranting. If you want a longer ski, get the men’s.

　　These skis also come in two waist widths, which is unusual. Some skis, like Faction’s Dancer 2, come in a single waist width, while others, like Blizzard’s Black Pearl, come in multiple waist widths for different conditions. The Impulse Ti W comes in two waist widths — 98 and 104. Arguably, they are for East Coast powder and West Coast powder. But there should be at least one wider-waisted ski for truly deep days.

　　That said, this ski was fast and fun in a variety of conditions. We primarily skied the east on this ski, lapping blue and black runs and side-country shots at Sugarbush and Stowe resorts in soft snow, this ski’s natural habitat, and in refrozen mixed spring conditions that corned up in the afternoon. We were super impressed with how it handled the more challenging conditions on Stowe’ Perry Merrill and Liftline trails. It edged in the morning on crust and hardpack and had the beefiness to play through wet corn and soft bumps in the afternoon with a playful feel. Some other skis, like the K2 reckoner, got overwhelmed by variable conditions. And while the Elan Ripstick was good at plowing through chunky stuff, it didn’t have the same playfulness that the Impulse Ti 104 did, partly because it has a significantly narrower shovel.

　　Though the Black Diamond Impulse Ti W is primarily designed for soft snow, Titanal has improved its performance in firmer snow, making it more stable at higher speeds and easier to initiate turns. A rockered tip and tail and traditional camber underfoot make this a ski that feels familiar in a good way. It’s made for 70% soft snow and 30% hard snow. It excelled in both. Skiing extremely icy, scraped-off manmade snow groomers one icy Vermont afternoon, this ski gripped with the best of them. In spring corn, when we dipped into the bumps, they were forgiving enough to have fun.

　　Most Versatile All-Mountain Skis for Women Elan Ripstick 100 W $750 at REI$750 at evo

　　Specifications Lengths (cm): 154 cm, 161 cm, 168 cm, 175 cm Dimensions (mm): 134/100/114 (168) Turn Radius: 16.8 (168) Other Available Waist Widths (mm): 88,94, 94 Black Edition, 106 Best For: East Coast skiers, including those who plan to travel to ski; icy groomers to anything else the mountain can dish out; skiers who want maximum control Pros Super versatile Carbon not metal gives big bite, but is light Also available in a range of widths Cons Dedicated left right skis Dont have the grip of a frontside ski Berne Broudy One of the most fun and versatile skis we’ve gotten to try this season, the 2025/2026 Elan Ripstick 100 W ($750) was the perfect companion on a flat, light, windy February day at Utah’s Snowbird Resort when the slopes were hardpacked to icy, but there was still powder in the steep trees.

　　Utah often has champagne powder… and sometimes it does not. Standing in line for the Gadzoom lift, it looked windblown and bony. As soon as we slid off the ramp at the top of the lift, however, we knew we had the right skis for the day because the Ripstick 100s are true all-mountain skis.

　　The first run — a groomer to the base — had been dragged, but the corduroy and a lot of the snow was skied off. The Ripsticks held an edge thanks to their “carbon deck technology,” which uses carbon bands and carbon rods in the core of the ski for grip. Flax fiber in the tip absorbed vibration and chatter. So even when we were going fast, these skis weren’t slapping around. We skied the Ripstick 100s after a few days on DPS’ new frontside Pisteworks skis, so the bar was high for frontside performance. Yet, we remained impressed with the Ripstick 100s grip. While they’re not pure carving skis, they proved their mettle-slicing smooth arcs down the mountain.

　　On our next run, we headed for the trees of Black Forest, Organ Grinder, and Carbonate. The trees in that zone are tight for Utah, but they were pleasantly spaced for a Vermont skier. The Ripsticks pivoted through moguled steeps intuitively and confidently, steering around trees, cliff bands, and other skiers and riders.

　　Elan built two super lightweight Carbon tubes into the Ripstick 100’s lightweight laminated wood core. The tubes follow the arc of the sidecut along the length of the ski. They give the ski side-to-side stability and a lively, energetic feel at a reasonable weight. Combined with carbon, not metal, in the core, the ski was super responsive and easy to ski, which meant we had an awesome day on the slopes, even in sub-optimal conditions. And like most good skis, the more drive we put into them, the more performance we got back.

　　Elan Ripticks come in pairs of dedicated right and left skis. Yes, it can take a minute to remember to check your skis are on the correct feet. But it’s worth it. Elan says the asymmetrical design uses more camber on the inside for grip and stability and more rocker on the outside of the ski for float and control.

　　We say that whatever Elan did, the Ripstick 100W is the ski we’ll reach for when we truly don’t know what conditions we will encounter. They had great float and solid grip, and they were playful and responsive. That’s about all anyone can ask for from an all-mountain ski. Sure, if it’s a blower day, grab your powder boards. But you can feel confident skiing these the other 99% of the time.

　　Best All-Mountain Skis for Women Who Love the Park K2 W Reckoner 102 $600 at evo$600 at REI

　　Specifications Price: $750 Lengths (cm): 149,156, 163, 170, 177 Dimensions (mm): 134/102/127 (163) Turn Radius: 14.3 m (163) Other Available Waist Widths (mm): 92, 110, KF (114), and 124 Best For: Smearing, slarving, and riding park Pros Soft and playful More durable than previous versions Fun graphics Cons Not a ski for hard-driving groomer skiing Not as intuitive as some skis Berne Broudy The new K2 Reckoner 102 W ($750) is a soft and playful all-mountain ski that really hits its stride while youre jibbing, jumping, sliding, and spinning. If you want to ski everywhere on the mountain, but the terrain park is your favorite zone, this is the ski for you.

　　Made for intermediate to advanced skiers, the Reckoner W–the same ski as K2’s unisex Reckoner with a different top sheet graphic and shorter lengths–uses the brand’s patented Spectral Braid technology, the same construction K2 uses in its freeride and freestyle skis.

　　Inside the ski, strands of fiberglass are woven around a milled wood core. That weave lets K2 tune torsion by tightening up the weave for stiffness and opening the weave for flex. In these skis, the weave is tight underfoot for stability. At the tip and tail, the weave is more open, so those zones can bend and contour. Longitudinal carbon stringers woven into the braided core give the ski pop and help it rebound after you land a jump. The Reckoner now uses a plant-based BioResin that has superb cold-temperature toughness and increased bond strength, and it’s more sustainable than oil-based resins.

　　The previous Reckoner lacked durability. The 2024/25 version uses durable, full-length, twin-tech sidewalls for edge feel and performance and a tougher top sheet that’s better resistant to ski impact damage. Together, those elements will increase the life of this ski. However, we’re not sure if it has the extreme durability of the Peak 98 by Bode or the Atomic Maven 103.

　　This ski is extremely playful, which means that you have to ski it a little differently than some of the more traditional skis in this review. On groomers, it’ll get on edge and carve hard as long as you’re willing to put some effort into turn initiation. It’s not as intuitive as a lot of skis. You have to think about what you want the ski to do. If you’re looking for a truly intuitive ski, nothing beats the Black Pearl 88. The Black Pearl seems almost intuitive when its rider wants to turn, whereas the Reckoner requires some effort. And if you want a ski with a new school feel that’s also fun bopping on and off groomers, try the Faction Dancer 2, which has a broader breadth of skills. But nothing plays around in the park like the twin-tipped Reckoner.

　　On the other hand, this twin-tip ski has near instantaneous edge release, which makes it fun to zip around in the trees, and super forgiving in bumps, which we found on a powder day at our local hill, Bolton Valley Resort. There are better choices if you’re looking for a ski for fast and steep slopes. If you’re a skier who likes to wiggle and play, bumping off side hits and exploring, and you want a ski that will give you some suspension on the landings, the womens Reckoner from K2 is a great choice.

　　More Womens All-Mountain Skis We Loved Blizzard Sheeva 10 $800 at evo$800 at REI

　　Specifications Price: $800 Lengths (cm): 156,162,168,174,180 Dimensions (mm): 133.5/102/122.5 (174) Turn Radius: 16m (174) Other Available Waist Widths (mm): 96, 112 Best For: Beginner to advanced resort skiers who like to ski all over the mountain Pros A great choice for aggressive skiers, and beginners who want to grow into their skis Solid edge hold and a smooth ride Available in a wide range of sizes Cons Not available in narrow widths Don’t perform well if ice and hardpack are the most common surfaces you ski Berne Broudy The ski makers at Blizzard describe the Blizzard Sheeva 10 ($800) as a “do-it-all boss lady,” and we wholeheartedly agree. The versatility, reliability, and unflinching edge hold make these skis a solid choice anywhere you love to ski.

　　The Sheeva 10 is maneuverable and forgiving, and it’s a top performer when pushed into long-radius, GS-style turns, whichever size you ride. The sidecut is graduated with length for a consistent ride feel across all sizes of this ski. Blizzard offers a broad size range in the Sheeva 10, with 156 cm for beginners and smaller women and up to 180 cm for more aggressive skiers.

　　We found that the Sheeva is equally as at home on firm groomers and steep powder runs. The wood core uses a precise blend of woods — poplar, beech, and pawlownia- which together give it a chameleon-like personality and maximum versatility on the slopes. In this ski, Blizzard has engineered harder flex into the center of the ski for strength, stability, and grip, medium flex in front of and behind the binding for control, and softer flex in the tip and tail for easy entry into turns and release. The result is a smooth and balanced ski that’s a great tool for meeting your skiing goals and reaching your potential on the slopes.

　　Metal in the Sheeva 10 construction is part of what makes it feel planted, grippy, and reliable in all conditions. But it’s not so heavy that you can’t mount this ski with a hybrid binding for uphill skinning at the resort or dabbling in more remote backcountry adventures.

　　When a friend who used to ski but hasn’t skied for a while asked us to recommend a ski she could use on the slopes and in the backcountry, one that she would grow into, not grow out of, this is the ski we recommended. On a soft snow day, we ripped all over the mountain at Stowe Mountain Resort on this ski, including dropping off the backside on the Spruce Side, and had a blast. In technical steeps, its edges held. Bopping down a soft mogul field at Sugarbush, we got cheered on by onlookers while having so much fun. These skis are aggressive underfoot but softer in the tips and tails, which makes it easy to bring them around quickly. By comparison. the Peak by Bode wasn’t the ski we’d prefer to take in the bumps. In soft snow it had a similar capable and controllable feel to the Maven.

　　Blizzard offers several different widths of Sheevas, including the Sheeva 9 (96 cm underfoot) for those who seek fast carving and the Sheeva 11 (112 cm underfoot) for free-riders and powder hunters. For us, the Blizzard Sheeva 10 hits the sweet spot. It’s a great everyday ski for most skiers, inspiring confidence no matter the conditions. We recommend beginner skiers size down and that intermediate and advanced skiers go with your normal ski length.

　　Völkl Secret 96 $850 at evo$850 at REI

　　Specifications Price: $850 Lengths (cm): 149, 153, 166, 170, 177 Dimensions (mm): 139/96/121 (all sizes) Turn Radius: 18m 166) Other Available Waist Widths (mm): 80, 84, 88, 102 Best For: Hard-charging skiers who want all-conditions versatility Pros Aggressive Confidence-inspiring in difficult conditions Sizing up or down gives this ski different characteristics Cons Too stiff for bumps Too much ski for most beginners Berne Broudy The Völkl Secret 96 ($850) has been in Völkls lineup for years, and for 2024/25 the brand makes the Secret more accessible to more skiers. In the past, this ski was a frontside trencher that only shined when driven hard. This year, the ski is still hard-charging, but it’s easier to get in and out of turns, and it’s fun when you’re dallying down the slope as well as when you’re soaring.

　　The new Secret 96 is more stable, lively, and maneuverable, which makes it a more versatile ski and better adept both on and off groomers. The ski uses Völkl’s proven Tailored Titanal Frame, a cutout sheet of metal that follows the ski’s profile along the ski’s edges. Völkl’s adjusts the frame width by ski length to minimize ski weight and maximize ski agility with less effort from the skier. That tweaks the ski’s power and stability to a skiers height, weight, and strength.

　　Tailored carbon tips contribute to the Secret’s precise control in variable conditions and make the front of the ski nimble for quick turns. The orientation and thickness of the fibers enable the ski to load for energy for entering and exiting turns. In the new Secret, the layout of the carbon stringers has been re-configured to optimize torsion and rigidity in the tip for precise ski control.

　　While this ski has a stated turn radius, it turns how you want it to when you want it to, without tip deflection in chunky crud. The new Secret 96 features four different radii along the length of the ski. creates a unique combination of tip precision, resilience, and agility. A tight 20m radius in the shovel helps the ski engage fast. Just behind the shovel and in front of the binding, a more open turn radius, around 40 m, gives the Secret the chops to excel in variable conditions and at higher speeds. A tight radius—15 m—underfoot amplifies the Secret’s agility and ability to respond intuitively to any edge movements from the skier, whether that skier jumps into a series of short turns or lays into sweeping GS turns. A moderate radius, approximately 25 m, in the tail gives the Secret a feeling of control at the end of a turn, and it supports the skier’s entrance into the next turn. Size up for full GS performance. Size down for a ski that’s a little more nimble and turny.

　　As experts, we loved this ski. We ripped all day top-to-bottom groomers on it at Stowe Mountain Resort and lapped Sugarbush’s freshly groomed Organ Grinder repeatedly. We had a blast shredding down Spring Fling, also at Sugarbush, and playing with this ski’s multiple-turning radii. We skied it in 177, which is our standard ski length, and carved sweeping GS turns down the mountain. Then we played with it in 170 and wiggled through the woods.

　　The Secret is relatively stiff, and though Volkl worked to make it more approachable by more skiers for 2025, it’s still a ski that shines with an expert skier clicked in. Beginners said they felt like the ski skied them more than they skied the ski, which shows us that you get out of it what you put into it. But those skiers were happy on the stiff but turny and intuitive Black Pearl, so everyone had something they loved. That said, wed put a strong, athletic beginner/intermediate skier with aspirations on the Secret. It is stiff and aggressive, but an athletic woman who wants to be a charger will grow into it.

　　This is a ski that has your back in any terrain and that will quickly respond when you decide to change direction. If you’re spending all your time in the woods, you probably want something softer, but this ski was tops for high-performance playing all over the mountain.

　　Faction Dancer 2 $799 at evo

　　Specifications Price: $799 Lengths (cm): 155, 163, 171, 177,182, 187 Dimensions (mm): 127/96/117 (all sizes) Turn Radius: 18m (177) Other Available Waist Widths (mm): 86, 106, 116 Best For: New schoolers Pros Light and agile Excellent eco profile Playful and versatile Cons No longer women-specific A quiver ski Berne Broudy A ski for free spirits and free riders, the super versatile Faction Dancer 2 ($799) uses two razor-thin sheets of metal over a poplar core for a light and nimble ski that balances weight savings, agility, stability, and edge hold even at mach speed.

　　A generous tip and tail rocker enhances this ski’s turnability and gives it float and the ability to blast through less-than-ideal snow as you explore. For 2024/25, Faction got rid of its X series skis, which were womens-specific and focused on skis for all freeskiers. That’s a bummer for women who want a gender-specific graphic, and it means that Faction loses wall space in retail shops by having a unisex Dancer 2, not two distinct models. But plenty of companies make great unisex skis that we’d argue are also the best skis for women. There is no standard definition of a women’s skis. Sometimes women’s skis have softer construction, or they’re built to suit a lighter-weight rider better.

　　The Dancer 2 uses recycled materials. It’s made in Austria in a factory powered 100% by renewable energy.

　　This is the only ski we tested with three designated mounting positions: classic, progressive, and new school. We mounted our demos classic, which is the best for more traditional skiers, those who like to ski with their tips generally pointing down the mountain not up it, and those who prioritize carving.

　　The progressive mounting point is slightly forward of the classic mark and still offers excellent carving while also setting you up for success if nose butters, smearing, and slashing are on your to-do list. The new school is the farthest forward mounting point. If you ski switch and generally horse around while on skis, try that one. While Faction is historically a new school brand, the Dancer 2 ski excels when you’re pressuring the tips in a classic, forward-facing stance. None of the other skis we review here recommend alternate mounting points. Though the K2 Reckoner W trends toward new school skiers and excels in the park, Faction’s Dancer works for more kinds of skiers, including those who want to carve soft groomers and play around on the edge of the woods and sides of the trail off the gondola at Stowe Mountain Resort as well as off the Forerunner Quad. 

　　Because of its light weight and youthful temperament, this isn’t a ski that we reached for every day. But it was a great ski when the snow wasn’t the deepest, and the slops weren’t the iciest. With the Dancer 2, we could find fun everywhere on and near the slopes on this ski. 

　　Line Pandora 106 $650 at evoCheck price at backcountry

　　Specifications Price: $650 Lengths (cm): 155, 162, 169, 176, 183, 189 Dimensions (mm): 134/106/125 Turn Radius: 16.7m (176) Other Available Waist Widths (mm): 85, 92, 99 Best For: All-Mountain freeriding, all-mountain, all conditions, and everything in between Pros Incredibly playful and lightweight Easy to maneuver and nimble, yet reliable Very reasonable price point Predictable and energetic Cons Not the best on icy groomers No longer women-specific Berne Broudy The Line Pandora 106 ($650) is a hard-charging all-mountain dream ski that makes just about everything fun. Weighing just over 1650 grams, this ski feels light and incredibly nimble while maintaining its dampness and reliability at speed. That’s partially thanks to Line’s integrated “Carbon Magic Fingers” system, which saves grams while adding stiffness to the ski.

　　The Pandora 106 is a quiver killer. Pair it with a hybrid binding, and it can take on anything that the resort, side country, and backcountry throw at you. The Aspenlite core also achieves a delightful balance of responsiveness, pop, and reliability.

　　These skis inspire confidence from the moment you step in. The only time this ski left us wanting a little more was with the edge hold on icy groomers.

　　On a trip to Pico in Southern Vermont, we stepped into the Line Pandora 106 skis to blast down the Outpost Double Chair. It was fun in the bumps on Broco and Pipeline, and it was floaty and responsive between the trails where we found fresh snow in the woods. The carbon gave the ski an energetic feel which helped us launch little side hits, and it was stable, which helped us land them. It was more springy than the Maven, but it didn’t feel flighty, and it was easy to ski. Wed choose the Maven for more groomer skiing and fewer trees and the Pandora 106 for more tree skiing and less groomers since it doesnt shine in the hardpack.

　　For 2024-25, the Pandora collection is now unisex with gender-inclusive sizing across the full collection. The Pandora 106 (and every ski in this collection) is as energetic a carver as ever, delivering predictability and confidence all over the mountain. The collection utilizes Line Optic-inspired shapes with turn versatility and energy in a price-conscious package. Other new features: the ski uses LINEs new Bio-Resin, which has better bonding, better cold-temperature toughness, and is more durable and sustainable. It also now has an FSC-certified wood core.

　　Icelantic Maiden 102 $849 at evo$849 at REI

　　Specifications Lengths (cm): 155, 162, 169 Dimensions (mm): 137/102/129 (all sizes) Turn Radius: 14.5m (162) Other Available Waist Widths (mm): 94, 108 Best For: Freeriding winter cowgirls Pros Balance of float and edge-to-edge transfer Easy to drive Clever component design to reduce chatter Cons Can get a bit squirrelly on hardpack Not the most aggressive ski Berne Broudy Handmade in Denver, Colorado, and extensively redesigned for the 2024-25 season, the Icelantic Maiden 102 ($850) is now a more lively ski, with pop, playfulness, and rebound that makes any day on the mountain a hooting and hollering good time.

　　In redesigning this ski, Icealantic’s goal was to make the ski more predictable and freeride-ready. To give it its energetic personality, the brand integrated four vertical carbon strips above and below the sustainably sourced poplar core with unilateral fiberglass, and they doubled the underfoot camber from 2mm to 4mm. That also enhanced the ski’s responsiveness.

　　Rubber foil adds damping to keep the ski from feeling nervous and chattery. The Maiden’s new FLY-cap construction in the tip and tail reduces the tip fill Icelantic used in this ski. It also lets Icelantic extend the light poplar wood core and carbon further toward the tips and tails. That lowers the Maiden’s swing weight, which makes this ski easier and less tiring to ski and keeps the flex more consistent throughout the length of the ski. Underfoot, a dual-layer fiberglass mounting plate is a solid platform with reliable binding retention.

　　Finally, for 2024-25, Icelantic modernized the shape of the Maiden. It now has more symmetrical freeride-style tips and tails and a more progressive mounting point. We also love the new Wild West artwork. The new Maidens feature cowgirls, cactuses, and desert moonrises.

　　4FRNT MSP CC $769 at 4FRNT Skis

　　Specifications Price: $729 Lengths (cm): 159, 165, 171 Dimensions (mm): 132/99/121 (165) Turn Radius: 16m (165) Other Available Waist Widths (mm): N/A Best For: Intermediate to expert skiers Pros The weight enhances stability and damping Fairly forgiving Cons Not the strongest performer in icy conditions Berne Broudy The updated 4FRNT MSP CC ($769) wants you to lean forward and charge — this well-crafted design performs at higher speeds, maneuvers intuitively through moguls, and handles variable conditions mountain-wide.

　　We loved how this skis energy carries through the end of each carve. The 16-meter turning radius hits a sweet spot, arcing moderate turns down the frontside. It’s a tad heavy, which gives this ski a solid feel even in challenging conditions. During a dry spell in the Tetons, it plowed through crud, but then it also performed well in soft snow when we finally did get a big storm. The MSP CC features camber underfoot and a little bit of rise in the tip and tail, but not too much. A wider 132-millimeter shovel helps it stay afloat on powder, but carving with it is also a blast

　　The new core of the 4FRNT MSP CC is made from durable maple and aspen sandwiched by Titanal — a layer of metal that includes aluminum, zinc, magnesium, and copper — for grip and responsiveness. The updated core makes the ski a little heavier than previous versions, but we found it more responsive. Neoprene inserts in the tips reduce chatter. A sintered base has a carbon component that helps this ski glide like a racehorse.

　　The 4FRNT MSP CC is the ideal ski for advanced skiers looking for one pair of planks that can conquer everything but the iciest conditions.

　　Peak 98 By Bode Check price at peak skis

　　Specifications Price: $869 Lengths (cm): 160, 168, 178, 184, 190 Dimensions (mm): 126/98/114 (168) Turn Radius: 25m Other Available Waist Widths (mm): 78, 88, 104, 110 Best For: East Coast skiers, including those who plan to travel to ski; icy groomers to anything else the mountain can dish out; skiers who want maximum control Pros Best in-class grip in variable conditions Superb float and flex in a ski with so much metal Confidence-inspiring Cons Possibly too many options to choose from On the heavy side, so frontside only Berne Broudy If you’re scared of wiping out when you hit a patch of ice, get these skis. We skied the Peak 98s By Bode ($869) more than any other skis this winter because whenever the conditions were questionable, we had confidence that this ski almost guaranteed a great day on the slopes. We put these to the test in Idaho while skiing deep powder via lifts and snowcats. We also tackled the bluest hardpack Vermont could dish up, and we never regretted our ski choice.

　　This is a ski you can dance on and also lay trenches with. Made for 50% on-piste and 50% off-piste, it’s the most versatile ski we’ve skied and the one we defaulted to any time we weren’t sure what the day would hold. A lot of skis are versatile, and this one tops the list. On a surprise powder day at Idaho’s Magic Mountain, we thought wed regret having these skis. But we had a blast chasing locals on top top-to-bottom runs that jumped between groomers and trees. The skis reliable stability didn’t compromise its agility. They held tenaciously where the Black Diamond Impulse Ti couldn’t securely grip, and they carved as good as the Maven. They were rock solid at speed — more so than the Sheeva 10, which is another fast ski.

　　A lot of times, when a ski has a good grip on a chattery hardpack, it’s not fun in the trees. This one was fun everywhere we took it. Inside, a paulownia and ash core is sandwiched by two partial sheets of metal with a vertical cutout in the upper metal that makes for buttery turn initiation. For performance in bowls and on big lines, Peak also cut the bottom sheet of metal short so it doesn’t run wall-to-wall. Peak calls the cutout: KeyHole technology. It made turn initiation a breeze, and it never compromised grip or fun.

　　For 2025, the Peak 98s will come with an embedded tracking device to help you find them in the lodge rack, in the deep snow, or when the airport loses them. This feature was not available during our testing window. The 98s were made to rip on packed snow at least 50 percent of the time, but you can also rip them off trail, too.

　　All-mountain skis should enable you to ski just how you want, where you want, no matter the conditions — no compromises; (photo/Jason Hummel)

　　Womens All-Mountain Skis Comparison Chart Scroll right to view all of the columns.

　　We tested a variety of all-mountain skis to find the best performers for women of all abilities; (photo/Jeb Wallace-Brodeur) How We Tested Womens All-Mountain Skis Our Expert Testers The GearJunkie product testing team is made up of alpine and backcountry skiers who test skis worldwide. Lead womens all-mountain ski tester Berne Broudy is an avid skier who calls Stowe Mountain Resort home. She regularly ventures as far and wide as she can to ski. Recent adventures include Norway, Austria, Iceland, and Greenland. This season, her adventures took her to Jackson Hole, where 66” of powder fell in a week. She also skied at Powder Mountain, Utah. There was so much snow she was evacuated from a backcountry hut in a blizzard by snowcat. Senior Editor Morgan Tilton started alpine skiing in her backyard at Telluride Ski Resort at age 4. Three decades later, she backcountry skis in addition to snowboarding and splitboarding in Gunnison county, where she lives today.

　　Our Testing Grounds and Process We’ve been testing womens all-mountain skis for over a decade. Weve skied hut-to-hut all over North America and bell-to-bell resort powder from Virginia to Japan. We’ve trained for the country’s toughest skimo races, guided expeditions, and donned costumes on the slopes. We’ve skied the East, we’ve ridden chairs from singles to six packs, we crushed couloirs and slarved through spring slush.

　　We put this season’s newest all-mountain skis to the test for hundreds of runs at more than a dozen resorts. While we focused on skis made specifically for women, we also included a few unisex options. If youre looking specifically for mens skis, check out our guide to the best all-mountain skis.

　　We took to the slopes in a range of conditions, including thigh-deep pow, below-zero temperatures, blizzards, blustery wind, ice, intense sun, and even rain. While testing skis in-bounds, we assessed each design’s stiffness, maneuverability, and playfulness, as well as the ski’s energy, damping, chatter, weight, shape, edge hold, and turn initiation. we also considered how the size, width, base, and edge tune influenced a skis performance. The entire time, we were focused on figuring out the type of skier and conditions that were the best fit for each ski.

　　In addition to our team’s experience, we considered the most innovative, award-winning, and best-selling skis on the market, as well as a wide range of price points, features, and applications. If you want to round out your kit, check out our guides to the best ski goggles, best ski bibs, best face coverings for skiing, and the best ski jackets.

　　Lead tester, Berne Broudy enjoys the versatility of the Line Pandora 106 as she charges through variable conditions; (photo/Clayton Hermann) Buyers Guide: How to Choose the Best All-Mountain Skis All-Mountain Defined All-mountain skis are designed to perform well everywhere on the mountain. From steeps to moguls to groomers and in any snow conditions from powder to crust to icy hardpack, an all-mountain ski is made to be all-around awesome, though each ski excels in certain conditions.

　　With any of the skis listed in this guide, you’ll be able to explore the resort as you please, from wide-open groomers to pow-laden trees. But if you’re a storm skier, choose one on the wider side. If you routinely hit the hardpack and really love groomed terrain, a ski under 100mm in the waist will be the best choice. Most all-mountain skis have a mid-wide waist between 85 and 105 mm. Additionally, most skis in this category have a traditional shape and profile. With camber underfoot and rocker at the tip and the tail, all-mountain skis are versatile masters of the mountain. Within this jill-of-all-trades category, all-mountain skis can have particular strengths and weaknesses:

　　All-Mountain: Classic all-mountain skis are built to do it all and usually feature a rocker-camber-rocker construction, like Blizzard’s Black Pearl 88. Freeride: Freeride-specific skis are meant for hard-charging, expert skiers who want to ski fast, drop cliffs, and ride at max speeds. Skis that are best for freeride generally feature a longer turning radius and are a bit wider for powder skiing. Two of our favorites are Line’s Pandora 106 and Black Diamond’s Impulse Ti W. Backcountry: The best skis for the backcountry are on the lighter side, and some all-mountain skis are perfectly suited to mounting with a hybrid binding so that you can tour on them, too.

　　A classic all-mountain ski, the Blizzard Black Pearl 88 is as approachable as ever but gives skiers more confidence and control; (photo/Jeb Wallace-Brodeur) Types of All-Mountain Skis All of the skis on this list prioritize versatility and can readily venture onto all parts of the mountain. Still, “all-mountain” is ultimately a spectrum that contains multiple subcategories of skis. Many skiers like to explore the whole mountain while also maintaining a preference for a certain style of skiing or type of terrain.

　　Groomer-Leaning All-Mountain Skis Skis in this category will perform at their best on groomed runs and firm snow conditions. Typically, groomer-leaning all-mountain skis have a relatively narrow waist width between 85 and 95 mm. On firm snow, an ultra-wide ski can be harder to control.

　　Skis in the groomer-leaning category prioritize stiffness, high-speed stability, and edge hold. While groomer-leaning all-mountain skis tend to sacrifice float in the deep powder, they’re unbeatable for hard carving and sending it down firm runs with control.

　　Groomer-leaning skis are especially worth considering for people in the Midwest and East Coast. The Peak 98 and the Blizzard Black Pearl are both exceptional on groomers.

　　Blizzards Sheeva 10 is a high-performance ski, one that skiers can grow into and one that performs everywhere on the mountain; (photo/Jeb Wallace-Brodeur) Powder-Leaning All-Mountain Skis Powder-leaning all-mountain skis are built to thrive in the deep stuff. Generally, skis in this category have a waist width between 95 and 110 mm. If powder lines (and backcountry skiing) are your jam, these are the skis for you.

　　Skiers in regions with lots of snowfall such as the Cascades and the Wasatch — should certainly consider this category. If you’re a powder hound, check out the Blizzard Sheeva.

　　Backcountry-Leaning All-Mountain Skis

　　Some all-mountain skis excel both in-bounds and out. These skis generally feature a lightened-up construction with integrated materials like carbon to add stiffness without the weight penalty of metal. Skis in this category are a great option for getting into the backcountry without the need for an additional pair of skis. A hybrid setup wont be the lightest setup, but it’s a great place to start for the backcountry curious. Both theFaction Dancerand theAtomic Mavenare great choices if youre going back and forth between the resort and the backcountry.

　　Atomics Maven is ready to rip fresh corduroy, crush crud, and sniggle between the trees when youre on the hunt for freshies; (photo/Mike Donohue) Waist Width Terrain and snow conditions both dictate the proper waist width of a ski. Measured in millimeters, all-mountain skis come with waist widths that range from the mid-80s underfoot to the low 100s. In general, the narrower the waist of a ski, the easier it is to carve, especially in harder snow conditions. A good example is the Black Pearl 88.

　　In contrast, a wider ski can be more difficult to get on edge in firm conditions. That said, there can be benefits to a wider ski, like Line’s Pandora 106, even in hard-packed conditions. Wider skis are often more stable in variable terrain and snow conditions. In soft snow and deep powder, more surface area translates to more floatation.

　　“To find the sweet spot, you need to factor in what type of terrain you ski in, as well as what feels good,” said Preston Case, DPS Product Line Manager for Skis. “At DPS, we consider the surface area of the ski, not just the waist width in determining what a skier can expect.” Case also mentioned that many brands have online tools that can help determine which ski is right for you.

　　Many ski models are available in various waist widths. If you like a specific ski and lean toward a certain type of terrain, be sure to select the best waist width for you. For every ski in this guide, we’ve listed the available waist widths. For most snow climates, we’d recommend something in the 85 to 105 mm underfoot range for an intermediate to advanced skier.

　　Ski Length Ski length is an important consideration, and all skis are available in multiple lengths.

　　A skier’s size, skill, and aspirations determine the appropriate ski length. Shorter skis are easier to handle and maneuver, which often makes them a better choice for beginners. Longer skis often float better in powder, they’re faster, and they’re usually best suited to advanced skiers. A skier’s weight can impact a ski’s flex, maneuverability, and power transfer. And terrain can influence what ski length is right for you. Even if you’re an expert skier, if you ski a lot of tight East Coast trees, you might want a shorter ski than if you only ski wide-open groomers and powdery bowls. Check each manufacturer’s recommendations and chat with your local sho’s ski and ride expert to find the right ski and ski size for you. Volkl’s Secret and Elan’s Ripstick both have exceptional size ranges.

　　For 2025/26, Elan redesigned its women’s Ripstick, which comes in a wide variety of lengths. While the skis are still left and right-boot specific, they’re not as asymmetrical as in previous versions; (photo/Jeb Wallace-Brodeur) Ski Profile: Camber, Rocker, Early Rise A ski’s profile impacts its overall performance. Today, the market is full of skis with all kinds of different profiles, from traditional to experimental and everything in between.

　　Before we dive into how they ski, here are some terms you should understand.

　　Camber is a slight convex bend to the ski. Camber is always underfoot. And it’s what springs you from one turn to the next, which makes skis the Black Pearl 88 so fun to ski. That arch flexes against the snow when you weight the ski to make a turn. It then returns to its convex shape when you release the turn giving you the poppy-feeling energy to carve into the next turn. Rocker is the gentle curve away from the snow in the tips and tails of a ski. It gives you float and keeps your tips up; the Elan Ripstick 100 W has more rocker for added float and control. “A small amount of rocker can help pull you through the turn and keep you above the snow,” says Case. “Rocker is the float you feel when snow conditions are variable, chunky, deep. A ski with too much rocker for the conditions will be chattery. A ski without rocker wont be as compliant in the front of the ski and may feel like it wants to dive. Early rise is different from rocker. When a ski has an early rise tip, the front of the ski lifts visibly off the snow, like in the Black Diamond Impulse Ti 104. It’s easiest to see on hardpacked snow and most useful to have when you’re skiing powder. However, there are times when early rise can help a skier plow through chunky or heavy snow. Early rise gives a ski float in a turn, and it keeps edge initiation through the full arc of turn regardless of snow conditions. How Rocker and Camber Impact Skiing Skis with a more traditional camber profile are shaped like a gentle arch and rise up underneath the foot, making contact with the ground at the tip and the tail. While skiing, your body weight pushes the base of the ski against the snow. For pure carving purposes, traditional camber is still the leading ski profile, and many skis on this list feature some variation on the traditional camber shape.

　　Traditionally cambered skis tend to be rockered or flat in the tip and tail.

　　A handful of skis feature a reverse camber design, which looks like a banana. That shape is more inclined to slide turns than to carve them, but reverse camber skis can be a ton of fun in soft, deep snow.

　　Many of the best all-mountain skis have a rocker-camber-rocker profile, including twin tips, like K2’s Reckoner. To learn more about ski profiles and the complex differences between them, check out this handy video from snowsports retailer Evo.

　　Razor-thin metal over a poplar core gave the lightweight Faction Dancer 2 grip, agility, stability, and edge hold even when we opened up the throttle; (photo/Jeb Wallace-Brodeur) Flex and Stiffness How stiff your ski is will determine how it feels on snow. Soft and flexible skis are easier to maneuver. They’re more playful and better suited for beginner to intermediate skiers. Park and pipe skiers who love to hit boxes and rails may also want a relatively soft and flexible ski, like K2’s Reckoner or Factions Dancer 2. A downside of a soft ski is that it’s prone to chatter at high speeds and feels harder to control. Soft skis don’t always grip well in hard-packed conditions.

　　Advanced and expert skiers who like to ski fast and carve hard often prefer stiffer skis. Stiffer skis usually use metal in their construction. A stiff ski requires power and good technique to ski well. Volkl’s Secret is one of the stiffer women’s skis made.

　　Most all-mountain skis fall somewhere in the middle of the soft-to-stiff spectrum. Groomer-leaning skis are usually on the stiffer side to best support speed and stability. Powder-leaning skis are more flexible to maximize surfability and playfulness. If you’re looking for pure versatility, midrange flex is the way to go. Many of the best skis are stiff underfoot and more forgiving in the tip and tail.

　　The Volkl’s Secrets aggressive performance will keep you smiling in any conditions; (photo/ Jeb Wallace-Brodeur) Turn Radius and Sidecut The sidecut of a ski, also known as its turn radius, refers to the shape of the curve along either side of its length. To some degree, all skis have an hourglass shape, but the radius of these curves has a crucial effect on steering, speed, and stability.

　　Short Turn Radius Skis significantly wider at the tip and tail than in the waist will have a short turning radius. A shorter turning radius is great for quick and nimble movements in the trees and moguls. Anything less than 16 m has a short turning radius. Elan Ripstick 100 W and the K2 Reckoner both have a short turn radius.

　　Long Turn Radius Skiers who ride fast and carve hard in wide-open bowls and groomers prefer skis with a longer turning radius. While a long turning radius can make small, quicker turns more difficult, a ski with a long turning radius like the Peak 98 By Bode (turn radius of 25) may have better edge hold and stability when laying down fast, GS-style turns. Anything over 20 m has a long turning radius.

　　Other Types Some skis land right in the middle and give you the best of both worlds, like the Black Diamond Impulse.

　　Some brands are now building multiple-turn radii into one ski to enhance their versatility, like the Volkl Secret 96. This highlights that while a ski’s sidecut does partially define its personality, it won’t tell you everything about how a ski will actually feel on the mountain. Other factors — including flex and profile — combine with the shape of the sidecut to define the performance personality of any given ski. The sidecut often changes according to a ski’s length, and some skis are way more versatile than their sidecut on paper suggests.

　　Skier Darian Boyle rails the Black Diamond Impulse Ti, which was just as fun in East Coast chalk as Rocky Mountains powder; (photo/Jeb Wallace-Brodeur) Parts of a Ski All skis have laminates, sidewalls, core, base, and edges.

　　Core and Laminates The core of a ski is the innermost material that defines the ski’s basic structure, shape, and flex. Most all-mountain skis use a wood core made from aspen, poplar, beech, or a combination. You will commonly find foam cores in cheaper, beginner-level skis.

　　Around the core, brands add carbon fiber, metal, fiberglass, and other materials to give a ski pop, rigidity, and dampness.

　　While its flexible enough for park and pipe, K2s Reckoner can also lay down trenches on the groomers. And we love the fun graphics; (photo/Jeb Wallace-Brodeur) Base A ski’s base is the surface that comes in direct contact with the snow. Bases are either extruded or sintered.

　　Generally, beginner skis have extruded bases because they’re more affordable and they’re low maintenance.

　　Sintered bases are the norm for almost all skis on the market. Though these bases require regular waxing and general maintenance, they’re the best option for consistent all-mountain performance. Consider treating yours with Phantom Glide. This is a permanent waxless base treatment that makes your skis feel like they were recently waxed.

　　Sidewalls The sidewalls are the material along the perimeter of a ski. Sidewalls are generally made from plastic that protects the sandwiched core layers. Sometimes, fiberglass and the ski’s top sheet extend to cover the sidewalls. That’s called capped construction. The sidewalls can also use a hybrid construction.

　　For all-mountain skis, its good to select a medium-width waist that can grip hardpack while also floating in soft snow; (photo/Jason Hummel) Women’s Skis versus Men’s Skis Whether you ski a women’s ski or a men’s or unisex ski is a personal preference. In many cases, men’s and women’s models are the same with different lengths available and alternate graphics. Volkl’s Secret and Mantra are the same. So are Elans Ripstick 100 W, and Black Diamond’s Impulse Ti W and Impulse Ti. Some skis are truly designed for and by women, like Blizzard’s Black Pearl and Sheeva.

　　When women’s skis are distinct, they’re often lighter and softer. They can sometimes have a slightly setback mounting point.

　　And ultimately, a ski doesn’t know or care what gender you are. Prioritize performance over whether the ski is labeled men’s or women’s. That’s why we included Peak’s 98. Even though it isnt designed specifically for women, we loved how it skied and felt it should rank among the best.

　　When it comes to choosing a ski, prioritize your goals, skiing style, and performance over anything ; (photo/ Jeb Wallace-Brodeur) A Note on Bindings Boots Without good boots and bindings, the best ski won’t perform. Skis, boots, and bindings work together to make your day on the slopes great.

　　Most boots and bindings can be successfully mounted to most skis, regardless of brand. Some manufacturers and websites (like Evo and Backcountry) allow you to purchase a ski premounted and paired with bindings.

　　Types of Bindings As with skis, there is an overwhelming range of choices for ski bindings on the market. Bindings are generally defined by their DIN rating, weight, and construction. To choose the best one for you, you’ll have to determine a few factors. Consider your ski width, how aggressively you ski, and if you’ll spend any time ski touring in the backcountry.

　　Alpine Bindings We generally prefer an alpine binding for skiing on the resort, which will have a DIN-certified heel and toe piece. DIN, or release value, is important because releasing from your bindings at the proper moment is essential for preventing injuries on the slopes. Choose a binding with a DIN to match your level. The lower the DIN, the less force required to eject from your skis. More experienced and aggressive skiers will want to look for bindings capable of a higher DIN setting. We recommend having your DIN adjusted and set by a professional to prevent injuries associated with unintentional release or failure to release. A certified ski technician will set your DIN based on your ability, weight, and height.

　　Backcountry-Specific Bindings If you want to ski in the side country or backcountry, you’ll need an alpine touring (AT) capable binding. These systems generally must integrate with your boot, usually by inserting pins into holes in the front of the boot to allow for a pivot that enables walking uphill.

　　Bindings for backcountry touring come in a spectrum of styles. Hybrid-style bindings, like the Salomon Shift, have pins for uphill movement but transition to a more traditional binding style for downhill. Traditional AT bindings attach the boot to the binding with pins. To find the best touring binding for your needs, check out our guide to the best backcountry bindings.

　　Ski Boot and Binding Compatibility

　　When considering an all-mountain ski, it’s essential to confirm that your boots can interface properly with your bindings without releasing. If you’re planning on skiing backcountry boots in bounds with a DIN-certified binding, you’ll need to ensure that your boots work with the toe ledge of the binding in downhill mode.

　　Some backcountry-specific boots, especially those with fully rockered soles or without a toe ledge, like the Dynafit Hoji, will not work with those bindings. Additionally, many backcountry-specific boots will not work properly with a resort-specific binding. Ask your local ski shop if your boots and bindings will work together, and be sure to do your research before committing to a particular combination.

　　Make sure your boots, bindings and skis are compatible with each other and compatible with your skiing style; (photo/ Jeb Wallace-Brodeur) Sustainability While building skis hasn’t traditionally been eco-conscious and environmentally friendly, many brands, including Atomic, Elan, and Blizzard, are recognizing the impact of global warming on their sport and striving to be more sustainable. Atomic operates in a factory that uses 100 percent renewable energy. Brands are using plant-based resins instead of petroleum-based resins. At GearJunkie, we’re always keeping an eye out for sustainable innovations in ski gear. Check out our article on how to makeover your ski gear to be more eco-friendly.

　　The Black Diamond Impulse Ti W has a rockered tip and tail and traditional camber underfoot that add to its appeal and performance; (photo/Jeb Wallace-Brodeur) Price Value For most of us shopping for skis, price is a consideration. You’ll pay more for skis that are made in the U.S., and for ingredients inside the ski, like carbon fiber. Sometimes cost is more marketing than anything else. Some brands position themselves in a price bracket to appeal to a certain set of customers. For example, historically K2 and Line skis are some of the most affordable. DPS skis are all over $1000 unless you find a killer sale or buy them used.

　　Unlike many product categories, when it comes to skis, you can find great options in most price categories. The budget skis that we recommend in this review are great options relative to their price. Just because a ski is more affordable doesn’t mean its a lower-quality ski. But lower prices skis may not be as versatile as more expensive ones.

　　All the skis in the review will allow you to have an enjoyable day on the slopes. More experienced skiers and skiers who go faster or tackle more challenging terrain will appreciate Mid-tier or Premium skis that have more advanced materials and engineering and are often more versatile than lower-priced skis.

　　Budget Narrower skis — skis under 95mm waist — are frequently $50-$100 less than skis that are 103mm or wider underfoot. So, most 95 underfoot skis cost less than skis that are 103 and wider unless those skis use premium materials. Most skis in this category won’t have metal or carbon, which means they won’t hold as well in icy conditions. Most will have traditional camber and flex profiles, they won’t be designed for high speed skiing. While budget skis are great for dipping your toe into snow sports, they likely won’t help you reach your potential as a skier.

　　If you’re looking for the cheapest option out there, beginners should consider a system ski, which is a major cost savings because it comes with a binding already installed. Systems skis can cost $500 or less for skis and bindings. Usually bindings add $150-$300 and potentially more to a ski setup.

　　Buy a budget ski, and you may not get the latest and greatest tech, but if you’re buying from a well-established brand, you will get years of trickle-down technology that should be solid. On the flip side, budget skis also may not be as durable as higher-priced skis. They’re typically made for someone who will ski 20 or fewer days each year.

　　The Line Pandora 106 ($650) is an anomaly in this category. As far as construction and materials, it should fall in the mid-tier range, but Line has kept the price low on this ski, which is worth taking advantage of if it offers the characteristics you want.

　　Mid-Tier Almost all of the skis in this guide fit into the mid-tier price category ($651-$950). They’re not super cheap or crazy expensive, and like a Swiss army knife, they can handle all conditions on the mountain. In this price category, you can find width options for different skier preferences and a variety of constructions for all types of snow conditions and terrain, as well as skier ability.

　　In the mid-tier price category, you can find some of everything. Skis with metal and carbon, skis that are more forgiving for skiing the woods, and ones that may have highly engineered underfoot construction for increased performance across the whole mountain. Our most versatile skis, the Elan Ripstick 100 W ($750), are a solid example. So is the Völkl Secret 96 ($850), which has Four Radius Drive and variable radii in different sections of the ski, which gives the skier more control over how the ski turns.

　　Stepping up to a mid-tier ski from budget skis is beneficial because mid-tier skis generally offer more versatility throughout the range of snow conditions. At the mid-tier price point, manufacturers incorporate more creative rocker and camber profile designs for skiers who are not necessarily looking for a traditional ski.

　　Premium Most premium all-mountain skis cost $950 and above, like Atomic’s Maven 103 CTI ($975). Premium skis are often priced higher to attract a more affluent customer or to create the illusion that they’re better than lower-priced skis, which is not always true.

　　What you get in the premium price category is the latest tech and highest-cost combo of materials that minimize weight and maximize performance. Premium skis often use the best materials available in every aspect of construction. These include pre-preg fiberglass or carbon, the burliest and hardest edges, or the lightest weight edges depending on what the ski is made for, race quality bases that are more durable and faster. Skis with unique construction techniques, like the Maven’s carbon-titanal blend and multidimensional tip, often fall into this category.

　　And custom skis always fall into the premium category. Custom skis are made specifically for each customer, from construction to graphics. If you’re a skier who wants nothing more than a photo of your favorite mountain range, your pet, or a meaningful drawing or painting on your ski, and you have a very specific idea of how you want your ski to perform, consider buying custom skis. We have had the opportunity to ski a number of pairs of Wagner Custom skis, and while each pair is unique, weve loved all of the Wagners we’ve skied.

　　Frequently Asked Questions What are the best all-mountain skis? The best all-mountain skis are the ones that suit your skill level, skiing style, and budget. On this list, we’ve included many top-quality options across a broad range of design characteristics.

　　Our current top choice for the best overall women’s all-mountain ski is theAtomic Maven CTI 103.

　　Are all-mountain skis good for beginners? Some all-mountain skis are excellent for beginner skiers. As a beginner, your priorities are progression and comfort. With these needs in mind, we recommend you choose a ski that is reasonably flexible and narrow. Flexible skis are easier to maneuver, and they won’t fight you for control.

　　Skis in the narrower range (about 85-95 mm in waist width) will be easier to shift from edge to edge. They tend to do better on the groomers where you’ll likely spend most of your time as a new skier. The is one of the best on this list for beginners.

　　Can I use my old boots and bindings with my new skis? Depending on the quality of your old boots and bindings, it may be worth considering an upgrade in order to get the most out of your new skis. Older bindings can’t be indemnified, which means that they don’t release safely and your shop won’t mount them.

　　Are all-mountain skis good for the terrain park? Most all-mountain skis will perform reasonably well in the terrain park. If you’re a pure park skier, we recommend a twin tip. Generally, skis with better-than-average flex and pop are better than stiff and aggressive skis for park riding. The best women’s all-mountain ski that’s also great for park is K2’s Reckoner.

　　Modern all-mountain skis contain a lot of specific and proprietary technology to ensure the best possible ride in a variety of conditions; (photo/Jason Hummel)

　　Are womens skis different than mens skis? Women’s skis are commonly lighter and more flexible than men’s all-mountain skis. Many brands are moving away from women’s skis to unisex skis, or the make the same ski for men and women, but give women an alternate top sheet and shorter sizes. There are some skis that are made specifically for women from design through build including Icelantic’s Maiden, and Blizzard’s Black Pearl.

　　All skiers can enjoy both men’s and women’s models. The differences between men’s and women’s models are often subtle, and we recommend prioritizing performance over a men’s or women’s label.

　　How do I know what attributes to look for in an all-mountain ski? First think about how and where you like to ski. Do you like to ski fast or slow? Do you like groomers, bumps, or trees? Big turns or small ones? Where you ski on the mountain and how much experience you have will determine a starting point for what types of skis to consider. Most skis on the market have a “best for” designation that notes in what terrain the ski thrives, and for what type of skier it’s made.

　　If you’re an East Coast skier, a narrower ski with good edge hold will be great all-mountain option. If you ski somewhere that sees frequent storms, you might consider a powder-leaning all-mountain ski like Line’s Pandora 106.

　　Senior Editor Morgan Tilton testing skis; (photo/Jason Hummel) Can I use my resort all-mountain skis for backcountry skiing? With touring-capable boots and bindings, you can use any ski for backcountry skiing. But a lighter ski will be less tiring to ski on uphill. Check out our guide to the best backcountry skis for more touring-specific recommendations.

　　Why does turning radius matter for all-mountain skis? Although it may seem like a confusing attribute of your new skis to decipher, turning radius — a.k.a. sidecut, changes how the ski will feel more than many other aspects of its construction. A ski with a shorter turning radius will be more playful and more maneuverable, which can be better for beginner or intermediate skiers. A ski with a longer turning radius is best for skiers who like to open the throttle and make large, sweeping GS-turns. Although it provides much more stability at speed, a longer turning radius can also make tree skiing more challenging. Balance your desire for stability and speed with playfulness and maneuverability when choosing a ski.

　　Bindings are designed to stay on–and come off—when needed; (photo/Jason Hummel)

　　The Best Womens Ski Bibs of 2025 We hit the slopes to find the best womens ski bibs. Whether you snowboard or ski at the resort or in the backcountry, weve got you covered.

　　The Best Backcountry Skis of 2025 We tested the best backcountry skis from Atomic, Weston, Voile, and more to help you find the best option for your needs and budget.