A Subjective List by Tomasz Kurdziel
Every year, I take on the challenge of selecting at least ten ski models that impressed me the most during pre-season ski tests. It’s not easy, but with so many exciting innovations hitting the market, some skis simply stand out.
This past spring, I tested 69 different ski models, thanks to two key events:
✔️ Our Independent Ski Test in Kaunertal
✔️ An industry test event in Switzerland
Additionally, I attended a private Stöckli ski presentation, but since the snow conditions were too soft, I won’t include those skis in my rankings.
🔹 Important note: This list is highly subjective. While I still ski dynamically and efficiently, age brings a different perspective. If I had tested these same skis 25 years ago, the rankings might look a little different. But I’m sure the truly outstanding models would still be here.
So, let’s dive into my favorite skis of 2024/2025!
🏆 1st & 2nd Place (Tie) – Dynamic VR Evolution & Elan Ace SCX Plate
Yes, sometimes two competitors share the podium—just like in Sölden 2002, when three women stood together as GS winners. In this case, two similar yet unique ski models deserve the top spot.
🎿 Dynamic VR Evolution 176 cm
Dynamic is back! This legendary ski brand, once an icon, has been revived by a team of passionate French skiers. Production is handled by Blossom and Atomic, ensuring top-tier quality.
✔️ Hybrid design combining slalom and GS characteristics
✔️ 71 mm waist for a balance between agility and stability
✔️ Exceptional edge grip, even on icy slopes
✔️ Versatile turn radius, handling both short and long turns with ease
If you’re a high-performance skier looking for a race-inspired ski that can handle all conditions on groomed runs, this is an absolute must-have.
🎿 Elan Ace SCX Plate 174 cm
Elan continues to refine its Ace SCX series, and this season’s edition is the best yet. Unlike many brands cutting costs on materials, Elan did the opposite, making these skis:
✔️ Stiffer and more responsive, thanks to thicker wood cores and reinforced sidewalls
✔️ Stronger aluminum layers, improving stability at high speeds
✔️ Superior edge hold, rivaling FIS-level race skis
✔️ Seamless transition between turns, delivering a smooth yet aggressive ride
Compared to the Dynamic VR Evolution, the Elan Ace SCX prefers longer, more powerful turns, making it a top pick for skiers who love GS-style carving.
🥉 3rd Place – Black Crows Mirus Cor 178 cm
This ski is an enigma, blending freeride spirit with aggressive carving DNA. Featuring:
✔️ 87 mm waist but a tight 13m turn radius
✔️ Long rocker in the tip, allowing for playful turns
✔️ Soft, flexible tail, making short-radius carving effortless
✔️ Mounting point close to center, similar to freestyle skis
On hardpack, this ski delivers insane edge angles, making 360° carves feel natural. If you love playful skiing and creative carving, this ski is pure fun.
4th Place – Rossignol Essential 172 cm
At first glance, this ski didn’t catch my eye—its recycled wood design felt more like a sustainability statement than a high-performance ski. But on snow, it proved to be a hidden gem.
✔️ Lightweight yet stable, handling short and medium-radius turns effortlessly
✔️ Surprising edge grip, with a narrow 69 mm waist
✔️ Smooth flex, making transitions between turns feel effortless
This ski is perfect for skiers transitioning from all-mountain to sportier carving skis.
5th Place – Stöckli Laser WRT Pro 172 cm
The previous version of this ski made my Top 25 of All Time, but it had one flaw—it required extreme power and technique. This new model is more accessible but retains:
✔️ Outstanding edge grip on icy slopes
✔️ Dynamic yet forgiving flex, ideal for ex-racers and expert skiers
✔️ Adaptability between short and medium turns
If you love fast, precise skiing on groomed runs, this is one of the best skis on the market.
6th Place – Head Kore 87 177 cm
Finally, an all-mountain ski on the list! Head Kore 87 delivers:
✔️ Carving-like performance on groomers
✔️ Great stability in mixed snow conditions
✔️ Versatility across different snow types
It’s the perfect one-ski quiver for those who split time between carving and light off-piste adventures.
7th Place – Nordica Enforcer 89 179 cm
A more freeride-oriented version of the Head Kore 87, offering:
✔️ Excellent float in soft snow
✔️ A forgiving yet powerful ride
✔️ Smooth handling in variable conditions
If you want a second pair of skis for powder days, the Enforcer 89 is a solid choice.
8th Place – Völkl Peregrine V.Werks 177 cm
For skiers who love high-speed carving, this ski is a masterpiece.
✔️ Effortless edge engagement despite its width
✔️ Stable at any speed, handling everything from ice to soft snow
✔️ High-performance construction, using V.Werks lightweight technology
A dream ski for advanced skiers who want one pair for everything.
9th Place – Dynastar Speed Omeglass Master SL R22 165 cm
A race-inspired slalom ski, positioned between retail and FIS models.
✔️ Superb edge grip, even on icy courses
✔️ Responsive flex, offering explosive rebound
✔️ Best for short-turn specialists
For expert skiers who love fast-paced, technical skiing, this is one of the best slalom skis available.
🔟 10th Place – Fischer The Curv GT 85
A versatile, high-performance ski for those who ski all day, every day.
✔️ Handles everything from ice to slush
✔️ Powerful carving ability
✔️ Forgiving flex, making it accessible to a wide range of skiers
An excellent choice for intermediate to advanced skiers looking for a one-ski solution.
Final Thoughts – The Best Skis for 2024/2025
This list is not influenced by brands or sponsors—it’s purely based on how the skis performed on snow. If you’re looking for the best skis for your needs, check out our full Independent Ski Test PDF for detailed reviews and comparisons.