What are next season's ski models capable of and what do they even look like? These questions were asked - and answered - again this year at the WorldSkitest. Before they come onto the market, the ski models for the winter of 2023/2024 were tested from March 21 to 23 in Wisła, and thus for the first time in Poland. Once again, we were part of the test group.
The new ski models in test
Every year at the end of the winter, the new ski models for the next season are tested at the WorldSkitest. For this, the best-known ski brands send one model in each test category into the race. This year's AlpineSkitest included the brands Fischer, Völkl, Atomic, Elan, Stöckli, Salomon, Nordica, Rossignol, Dynastar and Blizzard. The independent testers include professionals and athletes as well as amateur skiers.
Altogether there are three test events: the AlpineSkitest, the FreerideSkitest and the TouringSkitest. We were once again part of the AlpineSkitest, which took place in Poland for the first time in 2023. The test took place on the two slopes of the Skolnity ski resort in Wisła.
- AlpineSkitest: March 21 - 23 in Skolnity Wisła
- FreerideSkitest: 27 - 29 March in Silvretta Montafon
- TouringSkitest: March 30 - April 01 at Falkert
>> Review: That was the WorldSkitest 2022 in Silvretta Montafon
Overview of the test categories
| AlpineSkitest | FreerideSkitest | TouringSkitest |
|---|---|---|
In the race category, slalom (SL) and giant slalom (GS) models are tested in annual rotation. This year it was again the turn of the GS models.
This is how the ski test works
The skis are masked in black and marked with a number. This allows testers to evaluate the performance neutrally and without bias. Only one downhill run is made with each ski. The test sheet is filled out immediately after the run. Testers assign points from 1 to 10 in five evaluation criteria, with 10 being the maximum score. In total, a ski can achieve a maximum of 50 points.
The characteristics evaluated are long turn, short turn, edge grip, stability at speed and general effort. For the latter, the higher the rating, the easier and more pleasant the ski is to ride.
Special characteristics in the freeride and touring ski test
The tests in the freeride and touring areas are basically the same as the alpine ski tests. However, there are some small differences.
The freeriders test in two categories. The narrower models up to 100 millimeters are tested both on slopes and terrain. So, unlike all other categories, there are two test runs and scores for both areas of use. In addition, in the off-piste area, the turning ability of the ski is evaluated instead of the edge grip. This is also the case in the Freeride category over 100 millimeters.
For touring skis, in addition to the skiing characteristics, the handling of the skins is also evaluated. Consequently, the maximum achievable score is 60 instead of 50.
SnowStyle for the best look
Since the visual appearance also plays a role when buying a ski, the design of the models is also evaluated after the test runs. For the SnowStyle Award, all tested models are therefore on display once again without the black tape. The testers award their personal gold, silver and bronze awards for the most beautiful design in each category.
Results before start of the season
As always, you can find the results of the WorldSkitest in our magazine from the start of the World Cup in the fall. As soon as the results are published, we will link them to the table above. Until then, you can check out the results of the last years.
