The best skis 2014

K2 is a new entrant in the ProSkiLab™ ski-test programme, and our testers were pleasantly surprised by the quality of the products submitted for testing. The Amp 80 XTI was no exception to the rule, and was recommended by our testers in the Advanced category. The ski - "almost perfect", according to one of our testers - perfectly reconciles performance, accessibility and versatility, and is highly recommended for a wide range of users (from intermediate to expert) looking for a comfortable, easy-to-handle ski that performs well in all types of conditions.

“An excellent surprise” as one of our testers told us. The Head REV 78, which manages to combine genuine accessibility with great performance, is a real success story. It has extremely wide scope of action and is perfect to help skiers to make technical progress (the key criteria in this category).

The Viva Power 350 is an athletic ski. Slightly more demanding than the other skis in the freeride category, our testers loved it. Its performance positions it between the Versatile Freeride and the Advanced categories. An excellent choice for athletic skiers from more or less good to very good indeed, and who're looking for a ski that's easy to use, enjoyable and extremely efficient.

As an excellent compromise between performance and accessibility, the Nordica Dobermann Evo GS R EDT was our "Testers' Choice" in this category. It is highly recommended for good to expert skiers, or for beginner Giant Slalomers looking for a powerful tool to "carve up" the slopes, but without constant physical engagement.

Like the Mya 5, the Neva is a perfect ski for making progress, and is very well positioned in this category. The model is highly accessible and will help beginners and intermediate skiers to make good progress.

We initially felt that the name, "The Ski" was somewhat pretentious, and we were eager for the opportunity to put this new model from Scott through its paces. And what a surprise! The ski was nothing short of impressive and truly dominated the other contenders in its category. Performing very well both on- and off-piste, it is a true multi-purpose ski, successfully combining effectiveness, versatility, ease-of-handling... Read on

It may not be very playful, but the Viva 7.7 is fluid, very easy to use, enjoyable, and a wonderful toy that you won't get tired of. Its accessibility and level of performance make it an ideal ski for the Advanced category, and we heartily recommend it for a wide range of skiers, from intermediate to expert.

The MYA 5 is the ideal ski for this category. Accessible to all, it will help its owner advance to the next level, especially when carving out turns.

The Bonafide is a ski with a lot of character, and the ideal choice for athletic freeriders looking for a ski they can have fun with, which performs very well on the slopes - preferably in long-radius turns - and which is highly effective on off-piste terrains. Average-sized skiers would do well to choose a shorter model.

A very well-balanced ski, and a "Testers' Choice", the Nordica Dobermann SLR Evo delivers an unbeatable combination of performance, accessibility and pleasure. We would recommend this ski for good to excellent skiers (or beginner-level slalomers) looking for a capable ski that is nevertheless pleasant underfoot, versatile and fun to ride.

In keeping with other Scott products, which have often done well in the Freeride category, the Venture was this year's "Testers' Choice" in this category. An excellent ski for intermediate to very good skiers who are looking for a very well-balanced ski that delivers a stress-free experience on all types of terrains.

The Scratch already caught our attention last year, and it remains a reference in this category which requires a high level of performance both in the park and on piste. An excellent choice for average to confirmed freestylers looking for a tool that's both playful and efficient.

Our "Testers' Choice" in this category, the Dynastar Cham 97 is a well-balanced ski that is playful and pleasant underfoot, both on the slopes and in off-piste conditions. The model is suited to intermediate to good skiers looking for a versatile ski that is fun to ride.