Overview: The best skis for intermediates in our test are the Atomic Maverick 84, our Editors’ Choice for all-around versatility, and the Dynastar M-Cross 78, the most intuitive and forgiving. The Rossignol Arcade 80 scored highest for carving, and the Head Pure Joy is a ski-and-binding system for women. Ten ski instructors, patrollers, and shop pros tested 13 skis under $650 at Eldora Mountain, Colorado.
Being an intermediate skier does not mean mediocrity. Ski brands know that skill should be cultivated, which is why the best skis for intermediates have characteristics that help skiers gain confidence by offering a stable platform or allowing them to progress through easy turn initiation and great edge hold. The best skis for intermediate have waist widths between 75 and 85 millimeters and lean toward frontside performance or narrow all-mountain versatility.
Though all skis in this category are designed to spend the majority of their time on groomers, our testers were impressed with how many models can help intermediates explore new terrain like trees or moguls. The added bonus of skis designed for intermediate skiers is that, along with qualities like stability at speed, responsiveness, or versatility, they won’t break the bank. Some are even system skis that come with bindings.
Higher-end models often come with a steep price tag and a burlier build. So if your barrier to entry to the sport comes from price or intimidation, check out these intermediate skis that bridge affordability with accessibility. Here are our top skis for intermediates of 2027.
Lengths: 153, 162, 171, 180 cm Dimensions: 121-84-105 mm Pros and Cons + Easy to turn + Epitomizes versatility — Loses stability at speed — Not designed for aggressive skiers The Atomic Maverick 84 didn’t win “Editors’ Choice” just because it suits a wide range of skiers or because it can handle the largest variety of conditions in the category. It wasn’t just the ski’s easy turn initiation and ability to make short-, medium- or long-radius turns with reliable edge hold, either. It wasn’t one skill; it’s the combination of all these skills that impressed testers the most.
The construction strikes a balance between all-mountain versatility and carving performance, thanks to a light wood core with a Titanal stabilizer, designed to cut weight and absorb vibrations without softening the ski too much. The all-mountain rocker helps the 84-millimeter-waisted ski roll easily on edge as well as move through crud and cut-up snow. When really pushed, the Maverick can lose stability at speed, so aggressive skiers who want to push their limits should look elsewhere.
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