In its introductory season last year, our panel thought well enough of the Raw Instinct Ti Pro to recommend it; this season, despite nearly identical scores, its star dimmed just enough for it to slip off our list of favorites. Pushing the Raw out of the limelight was its powerhouse partner, the Power Instinct Ti Pro, which put on a tour de force performance after a lackluster debut in 2016.

The Power Instinct’s rise in our collective estimation shouldn’t cast a shadow on the Raw’s talents as they share the same wood/metal/Graphene construction and concentration on carving skills. The slightly narrower Raw feels slightly easier to bow at slower speeds, where its light weight and maneuverability shine.

But if all you do is mosey along on the Raw Instinct, you’ll be suppressing its talent for hugging the belly of a mid-radius arc at lip-flapping speed. The Raw Instinct can’t wait to tap into its deep energy reserves, zooming in and out of turns with the enthusiasm of a cheerleader. It’s broad ability range make it a great step-up ski for the advanced skier intent on improvement.