Liberty Genome
If the steep and deep is what you desire, the Liberty Genome ($759, 2010 prices) will help you get the most out of it. The Genome is the widest ski on the market, at 141mm at the waist. Early tip rise and a 170mm girth at the tip help the ski float up almost effortlessly in deep snow, and the stiffer, 156mm tail helps it carve on hard pack. A laminated bamboo core keeps the weight down and ensures a smooth and stable ride. The Genome is only available in a 189cm length.
K2 Pontoon
The K2 Pontoon ($599, 2010 prices) is a Shane McConkey design that floats well in deep, soft powder. Early rocker at the tip combined with a 130mm waist helps the ski rise up, and the 120mm tail and 160mm tip provide enough sidecut that turns are nearly effortless. The tip has a powder-specific tip design, with the widest point at the tip, instead of slightly back from the tip, as is common in most skis. The cap construction, where the topsheet completely envelops the core, shaves weight while maintaining durability. The Pontoon is available in 169cm, 179cm and 189cm lengths.
Icelantic Shaman
The Icelantic Shaman ($649, 2010 prices) combines a super wide 160mm tip with a large sidecut to its 111mm waist so that it is equally comfortable in deep powder and on groomers and the bumps, which is born out by the narrow turning radius of the ski (18 meters on the 184cm length, less on the shorter designs). The Shaman is designed to position the skier's weight forward so that you can maintain an aggressive forward stance even while turning in deep fluff. The Shaman is available in 161cm, 173cm and 184cm lengths.
