Opinions about the NRGY 90 tend to fall into one of two camps: it can do anything asked of it within reason versus it’s a one very-good-trick pony. Those who find it strong but limited in its range of interests note its obsession with staying close to the fall line, unwilling to tighten up its turn radius or back off the gas. “This ski has a unique attribute in that it keeps the skier moving down the fall line,” writes Matt Finnegan from Footloose, putting his pencil on the problem.

Then there are those who ascribe almost mystical properties to the NRGY 90, ready to nominate it for sainthood. Robert Parent of Sun & Snow was gob smacked by the NRGY 90’s versatility. “Best ski I tried,” he gushes, “superior for East and Midwest Frontside terrain. Easy to turn at all speeds in soft and hard conditions. What is their secret?” he plaintively inquires, as if Nordica had found the Grail. The NRGY 90’s only flaw in Robert’s eyes was its vigorous resistance to drifting sideways, an indication it’s not so ecumenical in its approach to turn shape.