The Best Skis for Hard-Packed Snow

Elan Skis for Advanced Skiers

Elan revolutionized skiing by introducing shaped skis to the general public. It is one of the few manufacturers still making narrow-waisted skis. The Elan Speed Magic, for example, has a 65 mm waist. This women's ski is famous for its superior edge grip on hard-packed snow. Advanced male skiers will enjoy the Elan Speedwave 14 White Fusion. This stiff carving ski has a 72 mm waist and performs well on hard pack and icy conditions.

K2 Skis for Intermediates

The K2 True Luv may help female intermediates learn to love hard-pack conditions. They are stiff enough to be responsive on hard-packed snow, but flexible enough for female skiers who are still developing their carving muscles. The True Luv is part of the K2 T9 line. These female-specific skis feature a forward-mounted binding, which accommodates a woman's lower center of gravity, enabling her to put more pressure on the tips of her skis. Intermediate guys will find the same type of hard-pack enjoyment on the K2 Apache Rangers. The True Luv and the Apache Ranger both feature vibration dampening MOD technology, which minimizes chatter and enhances stability.

Salomon Novice Skis

Novice skiers fall. Falling on hard pack hurts, so forgiveness is an important feature in these skis. The Salomon Origins Amber, for example, is a novice women's ski that is described as "tolerant and forgiving." It provides control and stability when the ski is on its edges. Novice male skiers get superior grip and stability on the X Wing 4, which offers "effortless" skiing throughout the day. The Origins and the X Wing both have carve-friendly 72 mm waists. Both skis have narrow tails, which will forgive the occasional skidded turn.