Try out one of these new skis if you want a little more heft for going off trail.
Rossignol EVO XT 60 Positrack
$270 (includes Turnamic Tour step-in bindings) | rossignol.com | 1,340g/pair (175)
sidecut: 60/50/55
Rossignol updated the camber of this entry-level, nonâmetal edged touring ski and, as with the rest of the EVO line, offers it in shorter sizes for a larger platform with more maneuverability. The ski scored highest in stability and climbing prowessâitâs perhaps a little too good at the latter, as many testers desired more glide on flats, less noise and vibration on descents. For skiers developing downhill confidence, however, this built-in âbrakingâ could prove a boon. The ski is just narrow enough to fit within a groomed track, making it a good choice for a beginner who wants more stability, yet wide enough to use for off-trail exploring. âA great ski for a casual tour through the golf course or park,â summed up one tester.
Where to buy
Salomon Escape Outback 83
$460 | salomon.com | 2,200g/pair (180) | sidecut: 83/61/72
Designed for adventuring off the groomed track, this new addition to Salomonâs Escape line of touring skis comes with a waxless base and full metal edges. It earned enthusiastic props from testers, who used it with an NNN BC binding. One takeaway? Donât judge a ski by its cover. âI was shocked by the stability,â wrote a tester. âFor a relatively small and straight backcountry ski, I didnât expect it to handle higher-speed descents and rough snow as well as it did.â Unlike a true backcountry ski, however, this one retains enough camber for kick and glide, making it perfect for a long tour, or even a hut trip, over rolling terrain.
Where to buy
NEW BUT NOT TESTED
Madshus Panorama SF 62
$268 | madshus.com | 1,690g/pair (192) | sidecut: 83/62/70
This addition to the Explore line is designed for longer tours on ungroomed, undulating terrain. Different patterns within the waxless grip zone optimize kick and glide, while Madshus touts the lack of metal edges as safer for skiing with your dog.
Where to buy
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