Meet our team of experienced skiers, like Stef, Lucca, Bram, Jack, and others, who have tried and liked the best skis for carving. We’ve tested these skis and want to help you choose the right ones for your skiing adventures. Whether you’re new to skiing or have been doing it for a while, picking the right skis can improve your experience.
In this guide, we’ll look at each ski’s features, strengths, and weaknesses. We’ll help you understand what makes each one special so you can make a good choice. Our team has tested these skis a lot and recommended them. So, to improve your skiing, keep reading to find the best skis for carving. And if you’re new to carving or want to get better at it, check out our guide on what is carving skiing and how to carve .Now let’s find the perfect skis together!
Stöckli Laser WRT Pro
- Brand: Stöckli Ski
- Tip/Waist/Tail (mm): 118-66-100
- Lengths (cm): 167, 172, 180
- Radius (m): 14.8
- Waist Width (mm): 66
- Weight: Lightweight construction
- Gender: Unisex
- Ability Level: Advanced to expert
Our expert Stef, my colleague, breaks down the Stöckli Laser WRT Pro carving ski, revealing it as a top-tier performer designed for advanced to expert skiers seeking precision and power on the slopes. Crafted with Swiss precision, this ski combines race ski technology with versatility, making it an outstanding choice for those who demand exceptional performance.
With a waist width of 66mm and a turning radius of 14.8 meters (for the 172cm length), the Laser WRT Pro offers unmatched edge grip and stability, ensuring confident control even at high speeds. Its stiff flex pattern, reinforced by carbon inserts in the wood core, ensures responsive energy transfer for dynamic turns and acceleration out of transitions.
Constructed with a metal-and-carbon sandwich sidewall layup, this ski prioritizes durability without sacrificing performance. While specific details on dampening technology, tail and tip shapes, and rocker profiles are not provided, our extensive experience with Stöckli skis assures us of their dedication to engineering excellence.
Pros:
- Extremely versatile, excelling in both short and sweeping turns.
- Lightweight construction enhances agility and maneuverability.
- Easy to turn, making it accessible for aggressive skiing styles.
- Excellent all-mountain performance, ideal for varied terrain and conditions.
- Exceptional stability at speed, ensuring confidence on hard snow.
Cons:
- Limited off-piste capability due to its narrow waist.
- Precise technique required for optimal performance.
- The higher price point reflects its premium quality and performance.
- It is not explicitly designed for beginners or casual skiers.
The Stöckli Laser WRT Pro is a top-notch carving ski that represents the best Swiss ski craftsmanship and performance. It’s pricey, but its incredible precision, stability, and versatility make it an intelligent choice for skiers serious about improving their on-piste skills.
Nordica Spitfire DC 74 Pro FDT
- Brand: Nordica
- Tip/Waist/Tail (mm): 118/74/102
- Lengths (cm): 160, 165, 170, 175, 180
- Radius (m): 16.5
- Waist Width (mm): 74
- Weight: Approximately 1,775 grams per ski
- Gender: Unisex
- Ability Level: Intermediate to Expert
Tested by Lucca, the Nordica Spitfire DC 74 Pro FDT is another top choice for carving enthusiasts. Designed with a traditional tail and tip shape, complete camber profile, and stiff flex pattern, it’s built for precision and power on groomed slopes. Its wood core with Energy TI Double Core technology guarantees exceptional stability and responsiveness, ensuring confidence even at high speeds.
While it excels on hard pack and groomed terrain, its limited versatility may not appeal to skiers seeking off-piste adventures. However, for those focused on high-performance carving and looking to elevate their on-piste experience, the Nordica Spitfire DC 74 Pro FDT delivers exceptional results.
Pros:
- Extremely versatile, excelling in medium- to long-radius turns.
- Lightweight construction enhances agility and maneuverability.
- Easy to turn, catering to aggressive skiing styles.
- Excellent all-mountain performance, ideal for varied terrain.
- Exceptional stability at speed, ensuring confidence on firm snow.
Cons:
- Limited off-piste capability due to narrow waist width.
- Requires precise technique for optimal performance.
- The higher price point reflects premium quality and performance.
- It is not explicitly designed for beginners or casual skiers.
The Nordica Spitfire DC 74 Pro FDT is an exceptional carving ski with precise control, stability, and versatility on groomed slopes. While it may not be the best choice for backcountry adventures, its performance on hard snow makes it a top contender for severe skiers looking to elevate their on-piste experience. Our firsthand experience with this ski confirms its reputation as a high-performance option for carving enthusiasts.
Völkl Deacon 76
- Brand: Völkl
- Tip/Waist/Tail (mm): 118-74-104
- Lengths (cm): 165, 170, 175, 180
- Radius (m): 18.1
- Waist Width (mm): 76
- Weight: 1,834 grams (175cm length)
- Gender: Unisex
- Ability Level: Intermediate to Advance
Tested by Bram, the Völkl Deacon 76 carving ski stands out as an exceptional choice for advanced to expert skiers seeking precision and power on the slopes. With its 76mm waist width and a sidecut radius of 17.6 meters (for the 175cm length), it’s designed to excel in carving significant, powerful turns.
Featuring a traditional complete camber profile, this ski provides maximum edge hold and stability, ensuring confidence with every turn. Its Speedwall Multi-Layer Woodcore combines strength with a lively feel, enhancing the overall skiing experience. Crafted with premium materials like carbon fibers and ash core with Titanal layers, the Deacon 76 offers exceptional stability, responsiveness, and durability.
Notably, its slightly squared-off tail shape and wide, redesigned tip with Tailored Carbon Tips contribute to precise turn initiation and reduced chatter, enhancing the ski’s performance on the slopes. Overall, the Völkl Deacon 76 carving ski is a top-notch choice for those seeking a blend of precision, power, and stability in their skiing experience.
Pros:
- Extremely versatile, suitable for on-piste carving and hard-pack snow.
- Lightweight construction enhances agility and maneuverability.
- Easy to turn, facilitating quick edge-to-edge transitions.
- Excellent all-mountain performance, offering stability and control on varied terrain.
- Exceptional stability at speed, providing confidence on firm snow.
Cons:
- Limited off-piste capability due to its design for groomed runs.
- Requires advanced skiing technique for optimal performance.
- The higher price point reflects premium quality and performance.
- It is not explicitly designed for beginners or casual skiers.
In summary, the Völkl Deacon 76 carving ski delivers top-notch performance, stability, and edge grip for precise carving experiences on groomed slopes. While it may not be suited for off-piste adventures, its exceptional performance on hard snow makes it a preferred choice for serious skiers looking to elevate their on-piste experience.
K2 Disruption MTi
- Brand: K2
- Tip/Waist/Tail (mm): 118/74/104
- Lengths (cm): 165, 170, 175, 180
- Radius (m): 18.1
- Waist Width (mm): 74
- Weight: 1836 grams (175cm length)
- Gender: Unisex
- Ability Level: Advanced to Expert
Tested by Jack, the K2 Disruption MTi stands tall among our top recommendations. Coming in various lengths from 165cm to 180cm, this ski is crafted for expert skiers who crave precision and stability, significantly when speeding down slopes. With its slender 74mm waist width and a medium-length turn radius of 18.1 meters at the 175cm length, it’s perfect for carving those exact turns on well-groomed runs.
Our firsthand experience with this ski has been nothing short of exceptional. Its sandwich construction with Titanal I-Beam provides the power and stability we need. At the same time, the mix of Maple and Aspen wood core ensures both responsiveness and durability. The ski’s medium-stiff flex pattern and high torsional rigidity grant us superb edge control and stability, even at breakneck speeds.
One standout feature is its Dark Matter Damping technology. It significantly reduces vibrations and chatter, giving us a smooth and stable ride every time. This ski truly shines in carving performance, thanks to its traditional carving shape, speed rocker profile, and precise edge grip.
Pros:
- Exceptional carving performance
- Precise edge grip
- Lightweight construction
- Smooth, stable ride
- Excellent high-speed stability
Cons:
- Limited versatility in off-piste conditions
- It is not ideal for deep powder or variable terrain
- Higher price range
- It may require an advanced skill level to appreciate fully
- The binding mounting position may need adjustment based on personal preference.
In conclusion, the K2 Disruption MTi offers expert skiers a high-performance carving experience with precise edge control, stability, and responsiveness on groomed slopes. Its lightweight construction and advanced damping technology make it a top choice for those seeking a ski that excels in carving performance. Its versatility and ease of maneuverability make it an ideal companion for skilled skiers looking to carve up the slopes with finesse. However, it’s important to note that there may be better fits for navigating deep powder or variable terrain, where other skis may offer better performance.
Atomic Redster G9 Revoshox
- Brand: Atomic
- Tip/Waist/Tail (mm): Varies by length, approximately 110/68/96.5
- Lengths (cm): 155, 160, 165, 170, 177, 183
- Radius (m): 11.3m – 13.1m (varies by length)
- Waist Width (mm): Varies by length, approximately 68mm – 68.5mm
- Gender: Unisex
- Ability Level: Advanced to Expert
Tested by Lee, the Atomic Redster G9 Revoshock is a top pick for experienced skiers like us who crave precision and power on groomed slopes. With different lengths available, from 155cm to 170cm, this ski offers choices that suit our skiing style and preferences. Its narrow waist width of 68mm (or 68.5mm for specific lengths) boosts agility and responsiveness from edge to edge, perfect for those aggressive carving moves we love. The sidecut radius ranges from 11.3m to 13.1m, giving us the flexibility to make quick, precise turns based on our speed and preferences.
Crafted with a wood core and sandwich sidewall featuring Titanal layering, the Redster G9 Revoshock gives us exceptional power transmission and stability. Its stiff flex pattern and high torsional rigidity ensure total control and stability, especially when cruising at high speeds. Plus, dampening technology like Servotec absorbs vibrations for a smooth ride on the piste. With its complete camber profile maximizing edge hold powerful turns and minimal rocker, we get strong engagement throughout every turn.
Pros:
- Extremely versatile, suitable for various skiing styles and preferences
- Lightweight construction enhances agility and maneuverability
- Easy to turn, facilitating quick, precise maneuvers on groomed slopes
- Excellent all-mountain performance, excelling in both carving and stability
- Outstanding speed stability, providing confidence at high speeds
Cons:
- Limited versatility for off-piste or softer snow conditions
- The high-end price range may not be accessible to all skiers
- Requires advanced skiing ability due to its demanding nature
- Bindings are sold separately, adding to the overall cost
- It may lack some features found in dedicated race skis
In summary, the Atomic Redster G9 Revoshock carving ski offers exceptional performance and agility on groomed slopes, making it an ideal choice for experienced skiers seeking precision and power in their skiing experience.
Blizzard Thunderbird R15 WB LTD
- Brand: Blizzard
- Tip/Waist/Tail (mm): Varies by length, but the waist width is 76 mm.
- Lengths (cm): Available in 158, 166, 174, and 182 cm.
- Radius (m): 15 meters (174 cm).
- Weight: Approximately 1,960 grams per ski (174 cm).
- Gender: Unisex
- Ability Level: Intermediate to expert
Sarah tested the Blizzard Thunderbird R15 WB LTD carving ski, and our team’s comprehensive evaluation uncovers a blend of features finely tuned to satisfy even the most discerning skiers. With a slender 76mm waist width and a 15-meter turn radius (for the 174 cm length), this ski delivers precise carving prowess on well-groomed slopes.
Its fully cambered profile ensures exceptional edge grip. At the same time, incorporating a double layer of Titanal and a dampening carbon-fiber plate beneath the binding enhances stability and control, particularly at high speeds. Crafted with the innovative TrueBlend Piste Woodcore construction, this ski offers varying flex patterns strategically distributed across its length.
The center exhibits a stiffer flex for heightened stability. At the same time, the area surrounding the binding provides a medium flex for optimal responsiveness. Moreover, the softer flex in the tip and tail facilitates smoother turn initiation. This meticulous design enhances torsional rigidity and edge hold, producing outstanding carving performance.
Notably, the Blizzard Thunderbird R15 WB LTD is compatible with most alpine ski bindings and is praised for its durability and stability. However, its directional shape and absence of a rocker may limit its suitability for navigating deep powder or challenging terrain.
Pros:
- Excellent stability and edge grip for precise carving.
- High-quality construction materials ensure durability.
- Versatile for both short and long turns.
- Outstanding speed stability for confident skiing.
- Responsive and easy to control on groomed slopes.
Cons:
- Limited versatility in deep powder or off-piste terrain.
- It may be too stiff for beginners or casual skiers.
- Not recommended for freestyle skiing.
- Higher price point compared to some competitors.
- Heavier weight may affect maneuverability for some users.
The Blizzard Thunderbird R15 WB LTD carving ski is a highly versatile, lightweight option with excellent carving performance and all-mountain capabilities.
Fischer The Curv GT
- Brand: Fischer
- Lengths (cm): 161, 168, 175, 182
- Radius (m): 17
- Waist Width (mm): 76
- Gender: Unisex
- Ability Level: Advanced to Expert
Tested by Philip, our seasoned team explores the intricacies of the Fischer The Curv GT carving ski, a pinnacle of precision and performance on groomed slopes. Tailored for advanced to expert skiers, this ski has features to enhance your skiing experience. With lengths ranging from 161cm to 182cm, a slim 76mm waist width, and a 17-meter sidecut radius, the Curv GT excels in mid-to-wide GS carving turns.
Its traditional camber profile and a slight tip rocker ensure exceptional edge hold and responsiveness. The wood core with Carbon reinforcement perfectly balances liveliness and stability. Featuring Double Titanal Laminate (.8mm) construction and Carbon Bridge technology, this ski delivers power, dampening, and precise edge control, turning each maneuver into a masterpiece of precision. Whether carving up the slopes or cruising through wide turns, the Fischer, The Curv GT, will elevate your skiing experience.
Pros:
- Extremely versatile for various skiing styles.
- Lightweight construction enhances agility and maneuverability.
- Easy to turn, ideal for quick edge-to-edge transitions.
- Great all-mountain performance on groomed runs.
- Exceptional stability at high speeds inspires confidence.
Cons:
- Not suitable for powder or off-piste skiing.
- Limited performance on variable or ungroomed terrain.
- Slightly stiffer flex may require a more aggressive skiing style.
- Premium price range may deter budget-conscious buyers.
- Binding options may limit customization for some skiers.
In summary, the Fischer The Curv GT carving ski is a pinnacle of precision and performance, offering exceptional stability, responsiveness, and edge grip for advanced to expert skiers seeking unparalleled carving prowess on groomed slopes. Its lightweight construction and versatile design make it an ideal companion for those who demand the best in their skiing adventures.
Rossignol Forza 70
- Brand: Rossignol
- Tip/Waist/Tail (mm): 134/77/110
- Lengths (cm): 163, 173, 181
- Radius (m): 13 (163 cm), 14 (173 cm), 15 (181 cm)
- Waist Width (mm): 77
- Weight: Approximately 2 kg (163 cm), 2.1 kg (173 cm), 2.2 kg (181 cm) per pair
- Gender: Unisex
- Ability Level: Advanced to Expert
Tested by Julien, the Rossignol Forza 70D+ V-TI Master R22 carving ski is made for skiers like us who love the thrill of carving precise lines and cruising at high speeds. These skis give us options to match our style on the slopes perfectly. With a 77mm waist width and a sidecut radius ranging from 13 to 15 meters, depending on the length, they’re ideal for tight turns and aggressive carving.
Built with a mix of materials, including a Poplar wood core, titanal laminate, carbon, basalt, and fiberglass layers, these skis have a stiff flex for robust carving. Their high torsional rigidity ensures total control and stability. At the same time, particular dampening technologies keep vibrations to a minimum for a smoother ride.
Featuring Line Control Technology and a Full Titanal Layer, the Rossignol Forza 70 carving ski provides stability and confidence on the slopes. Plus, it’s compatible with SPX 14 Konect GW B80 bindings, ensuring our boots stay securely connected to the skis, giving us peace of mind as we carve up the mountain.
Pros:
- Exceptional carving performance
- Excellent stability at high speeds
- Responsive for quick edge engagement
- Optimized edge grip for enhanced performance
- Suitable for aggressive skiers who prioritize robust carving
Cons:
- Limited versatility beyond groomed runs
- High-end price range
- Expert-level skiing required
- Limited compatibility with bindings
- Minimal rocker profile may affect performance in variable conditions
In summary, the Rossignol Forza 70 carving ski offers exceptional performance for advanced skiers who seek precision, stability, and power on groomed slopes. While they excel in carving and high-speed turns, they may need to be more versatile in variable conditions and terrain. However, their lightweight construction and ease of turning make them highly adaptable for skiers seeking an excellent all-mountain performance.
Head Supershape e-Titan
- Brand: Head
- Tip/Waist/Tail (mm): 133/84/115
- Lengths (cm): 156, 163, 170, 177, 184
- Radius (m): 13 – 18.7 (depending on length)
- Waist Width (mm): 84
- Weight: 4,240g per pair (170cm)
- Gender: Unisex
- Ability Level: Intermediate to advanced
Tested by Laurent, the Head Supershape e-Titan carving ski is perfect for skiers who want precise performance on groomed slopes and hardpack. It’s excellent for different snow conditions, giving you confidence on and off the groomed trails. Made with cool stuff like Graphene, this ski is light but tough, so you stay stable and agile. Starting turns is easy with its flex pattern and tip rocker. It’s fantastic for carving and handles well in all terrain, with a setup that’s 60% on-piste and 40% off-piste.
What’s cool about this ski is how well it carves. It’s stiff, grips the edges perfectly, and responds quickly for fun and exciting turns on groomed slopes. Suppose you’re an intermediate or advanced skier. In that case, the Head Supershape e-Titan will be your reliable buddy, making your skiing experience enjoyable and taking it to a whole new level.
Pros:
- Exceptional carving abilities for precise turn execution.
- The versatile design is suitable for various snow conditions.
- Lightweight construction enhances agility and maneuverability.
- Innovative dampening technology reduces vibrations for a smoother ride.
- Reliable stability and responsiveness at higher speeds.
Cons:
- Limited off-piste versatility compared to dedicated all-mountain skis.
- Specific bindings compatibility may limit customization options.
- Higher price point compared to entry-level carving skis.
- Flex pattern and torsional rigidity are not explicitly specified.
- Details on the tail shape and tip shape should be provided.
The Head Supershape e-Titan carving ski offers exceptional performance and versatility, making it a top choice for skiers seeking precision and agility on groomed slopes. Its lightweight construction and advanced dampening technology ensure a smooth and responsive ride. At the same time, its innovative design allows for effortless turns and confident skiing across diverse terrain. Whether carving up the slopes or exploring off-piste adventures, the e-Titan delivers unparalleled performance for your skiing pleasure.
Season Kin Skis
- Brand: Season
- Tip/Waist/Tail (mm): Rounded tip, 97 mm waist, full twin-tip tail
- Lengths (cm): 163 cm, 175 cm, 181 cm
- Radius (m): 13 m (average)
- Waist Width (mm): 97 mm
- Weight: Approximately 1815/1819 g per ski (175 cm)
- Gender: Unisex
- Ability Level: Intermediate to advanced
Tested by Dyllen Wood, our team has had the pleasure of putting the Season Kin Skis through their paces, and the results are nothing short of impressive. These skis offer a versatile and enjoyable ride, catering to carving enthusiasts and all-mountain adventurers alike. With a length of 175 cm and a moderate camber profile, they deliver exceptional edge grip and responsiveness, ensuring a thrilling experience on the slopes.
Crafted with a Karuba wood core and fiberglass laminate construction, the Season Kin Skis boast a smooth flex pattern that adds to their playful nature. Our firsthand experience confirms that their soft flex rating allows for effortless engagement, making every turn a joy. The full twin-tip tail shape enhances maneuverability, perfect for executing tricks in the park or halfpipe, while the moderate tip and tail rocker profile ensures adaptability across various snow conditions.
Lightweight and easy to maneuver, these skis offer excellent all-mountain performance suitable for skiers of intermediate to advanced levels. However, while they excel in versatility and playfulness, they may lack the pure high-speed stability favored by some. Overall, the Season Kin Skis is a fantastic choice for those seeking a dynamic and enjoyable skiing experience across diverse terrain.
Pros:
- Extremely versatile, suitable for various snow conditions and terrains
- Lightweight design for easy turning and maneuverability
- Excellent all-mountain performance, ideal for playful skiing styles
- Smooth flex pattern for a lively and responsive feel
- Full twin tip tail shape for enhanced maneuverability
Cons:
- It may lack high-speed stability compared to other models
- Specific waist width and torsional rigidity are not provided
- Limited information on dampening technology
- Not explicitly stated if compatible with specific bindings
- Price may be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers
In summary, the Season Kin Skis offers a fantastic blend of versatility, playfulness, and performance on the mountain. Their lightweight design and smooth flex pattern provide an enjoyable skiing experience for a wide range of skiers.
Armada Stranger
- Brand: Armada
- Lengths (cm): 172cm and 180cm
- Radius (m): 15.2m and 15.8m
- Waist Width (mm): Approximately 100mm
- Weight: Approximately 2000-2100 grams per pair
- Ability Level: intermediate to advanced skiers
Tested by Kyle, we’ve had the pleasure of experiencing the Armada Stranger carving ski firsthand. Blending freestyle and freeride elements, this ski offers a remarkably versatile ride. Its 100mm waist width strikes a perfect balance between stability and agility, making it a breeze to maneuver while maintaining a lightweight feel. The tight 15.2-meter turn radius ensures quick and agile movements on groomed slopes. At the same time, its progressive rocker with rockered tips and tails, combined with positive camber underfoot, guarantees solid edge hold for carving and float in powder.
Our seasoned team highly recommends the Stranger for intermediate to advanced skiers. It boasts a playful yet “curvy” feel and excels in off-piste adventures and groomed runs. Crafted with lightweight Poplar and Ash stringers, its construction ensures durability and responsiveness, enhancing the overall skiing experience. From its stability and responsiveness to its versatility across various terrains, the Armada Stranger is a top contender for those seeking a dynamic and enjoyable time on the mountain.
Pros:
- Highly versatile to various skiing styles and conditions.
- Lightweight construction makes it easy to turn and maneuver.
- Progressive rocker and positive camber provide stability and edge grip.
- Excellent all-mountain performance for intermediate to advanced skiers.
- Durable materials ensure long-lasting performance.
Cons:
- It may feel less stable at high speeds compared to narrower carving skis.
- Binding compatibility and mounting position specifics need to be provided.
- Flex rating and torsional rigidity details are unspecified.
- Limited information on dampening technology.
- The price range may vary depending on location and retailer.
In summary, the Armada Stranger carving ski offers a fun and versatile skiing experience suitable for various terrains and skiing styles. Its lightweight construction, progressive rocker, and positive camber ensure stability, responsiveness, and easy maneuverability. While some details are lacking, its overall performance and durability make it a solid choice for skiers looking for a reliable all-mountain ski.
Conclusion
Finding the best skis for carving can significantly enhance your skiing experience on groomed slopes. Whether you’re seeking precision, power, or versatility, there’s a carving ski out there to suit your needs. From the precision engineering of brands like Stöckli and Völkl to the playful versatility of skis like Season Kin and Armada Stranger, our experts have highlighted various options to cater to different skiing styles and preferences.
No matter which ski you choose, remember to consider factors such as your skiing ability, preferred terrain, and budget. And remember to pair your new skis with appropriate bindings for optimal performance and safety.
With the right equipment and a bit of practice, you’ll be carving up the slopes like a pro in no time. So, strap in, hit the slopes, and enjoy the thrill of carving on your new skis!