High-performance skis combine the best of both worlds: the precision and stability of race skis with the versatility of sporty piste carvers. If you love dynamic turns and enjoy picking up speed on groomed slopes, these skis are perfect – without being as aggressive as full-on racers.
At the World Ski Test, the latest models for the 2025/2026 season were put through their paces. Here’s a look at which high performers came out on top.
The Perfect Mix for Sporty Piste Skiers
High-performance models are technically advanced carving skis that excel in both long and short turns. They offer exceptional stability and smoothness at high speeds, while requiring less effort than pure race skis. Their playground is perfectly groomed slopes, where they shine with precise edge grip and dynamic handling. However, a certain level of skill, fitness, and athleticism is definitely required – these skis are too demanding for beginners.
Men High-Performance Tested in the National Park Region
The 2025/26 World Ski Test took place for the third time in the sporty resort of Heiligenblut at Großglockner in the Hohe Tauern National Park region. At the end of March, conditions were perfect, and the results were impressive: one model topped the ranking with an “excellent” rating, while the entire field consistently scored “very good.”
Target Audience: sporty to highly athletic piste skiers who value precision, stability, and performance
>> Full results of the high-performance models for women are available.
Test Winner: Atomic Redster X9S RevoShock S
With an impressive 42.7 points, the Atomic Redster X9S RevoShock S comfortably takes the top spot in the High-Performance category. Rating: excellent. The Austrian model shines across all disciplines, setting the standard especially in long, carving turns. Its outstanding edge grip ensures maximum safety, while the exceptional stability impresses even at higher speeds.
The icing on the cake: the Redster X9S won Gold in the SnowStyle Design Contest. Performance and looks in perfect harmony – the testers give it a clear recommendation!
| Rating | |
|---|---|
| Long Turn | 8.7/10 |
| Short Turn | 8.2/10 |
| Edge Grip | 8.8/10 |
| Stability | 8.4/10 |
| Effort Required | 8.6/10 |
| Total Score | 42.7/50 excellent |
2nd Place: Salomon S/Race GS 12
With a solid 39.6 points and a “very good” rating, the Salomon S/Race GS 12 secures second place. The French model impresses with sporty versatility and a clear racing DNA. Its strengths shine particularly in long, carving turns at higher speeds – precise, stable, and smooth. At the same time, it remains pleasantly effortless, making it suitable for longer runs as well. The price-performance ratio is also very convincing. Recommended!
| Rating | |
|---|---|
| Long Turn | 8.1/10 |
| Short Turn | 7.7/10 |
| Edge Grip | 7.9/10 |
| Stability | 7.9/10 |
| Effort Required | 8.0/10 |
| Total Score | 39.6/50 Very Good |
3rd Place: Fischer The CURV
Claiming third place is the Fischer The CURV with 38.7 points. This thoroughbred race ski from Ried lives up to its name: sporty, precise, and powerful. It really shines in long-radius turns, with perfect edge grip and excellent stability providing a confident ride even at higher speeds. Bonus: The CURV also took Silver in the SnowStyle Design Contest for its outstanding design. A clear recommendation!
| Rating | |
|---|---|
| Long Turn | 7.9/10 |
| Short Turn | 7.5/10 |
| Edge Grip | 8.0/10 |
| Stability | 7.5/10 |
| Effort Required | 7.8/10 |
| Total Score | 38.7/50 Very Good |
All test results for Men High Performance
| Rank | Ski Model | Design Award | Rating | Score | Price (RRP) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Atomic Redster X9S RevoShock S | SnowStyle Gold | 42.7/50 | Excellent | €1,259.99 |
| 2 | Salomon S/Race GS 12 | - | 39.6/50 | Very Good | €950.00 |
| 3 | Fischer The CURV | SnowStyle Silver | 38.7/50 | Very Good | €1,300.00 |
| 4 | Elan ACE SCX Fusion | - | 38.5/50 | Very Good | €949.95 |
| 5 | Völkl Peregrine 72 | - | 38.2/50 | Very Good | €1,000.00 |
| 6 | Blizzard Thunderbird R15 LTD | - | 37.1/50 | Very Good | €1,200.00 |
| 7 | Nordica Dobermann Multigara DC FDT | SnowStyle Bronze | 36.2/50 | Very Good | €1,200.00 |
| 8 | Kästle RX11 | - | 35.6/50 | Very Good | €1,099.00 |
>> Detailed ski test results are available on the pages of each ski model.
