Atomic 2011 ski reviews

The Atomic GS D2 got a 'special mention' from our reviewers who particularly appreciated the performance/pleasure combination. The feeling of safety, comfort and fluidity gives this ski a real edge. It's an excellent choice for skiers ranging from good to competitor who want a ski that offers great performance, is fun to use and exciting.

The Atomic SL D2 is a highly technical ski that is close to an FIS (in other words, a pure racing ski). This ultra-performance ski was penalised by our reviewers for its lack of accessibility. In effect, in the "Slalom" category we're looking for a ski that is not just extremely effective but that is also usable by a wide-ranging public. While it doesn't meet the latter condition, the SL D2 remains... Read on

The Blackeye has been Atomic's choice for our "versatile freeride ski" (70% piste/30% off-piste) for a number of years. The titanium-reinforced 2010 version cut a fine figure and got a 'special mention' from our reviewers. They were impressed by its design, its versatility and the overall level of performance. The Blackeye Ti is great for athletic skiers looking for an all-round ski that performs... Read on

With the Nomad Crimson TI, Atomic has come up with a very good midfat freeride ski that gives excellent performance both on and off piste. Our reviewers were impressed, and we recommend it for good freeriders who want a ski that's both versatile and powerful, capable of cutting through the piste and floating a wall of powder. The size we tested (186cm) is somewhat rigid, making it suitable for very good and/or strong... Read on

The Atomic VF73 is an excellent ski but unfortunately there’s too much emphasis on performance for our "Intermediate" programme. It just missed getting a “reviewer’s favourite” rating as it was considered less accessible than the other models in the category. It’s nonetheless an ideal ski for a wide range of skiers, from the intermediate (relatively sportive) to the good skier who’s... Read on

Atomic's reputation is based on its products' excellent performance, often noted in Winter-Sports.com test sessions. The WF75W is no exception but the level of physical and technical prowess required loses its points in the "Advanced" category where we're looking for accessibility, comfort and suitable for athletic, good to very good skiers who want a powerful ski to carve across the slopes.
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Like many Atomic products, the VF72 was designed for performance. It's a good ski, but too demanding and not accessible enough for the "Advanced" category. Good and very good skiers with larger-than-average build who are looking for an effective tool that will carve turns out of the snow will like it though, particularly on hard snow.

Not really made for the piste, the Atomic Punx is a good ski for beginner and average freestylers, and it has interesting aerial qualities. It's a good choice for freestyle learners and better skiers looking for lightness and manoeuverability in the pipe and rails.

We found this ski difficult to assess. Several reviewers said they found it difficult to handle and, unfortunately, the ski is not accessible enough for this category. A ski to try before buying...