At first blush, it would appear that the Atomic Vantage X 86 CTi is an extension of the Vantage X series of Frontside system skis (i.e., sold with bindings), but it’s a lot more than just a wider version of Vantage X. It’s a completely new construction, shared with the all-new Vantage series, called Prolite. The Prolite concept takes a different tack to creating a lightweight ski: instead of stripping away elements from existing constructions, begin with the most skeletal structure possible and add on only what’s necessary to achieve the desired performance.

The key structural elements in the Vantage X 86 CTi are Titanium Tank Mesh – imagine chain mail made from elongated loops – and Energy Backbone, carbon-reinforced wood-core shoulders that direct pressure to the edge. Because Titanium Tank Mesh is thin, light and strong, Prolite minimizes the amount of core material (ash and poplar) required to make a stable ski.

Like most Frontside skis, the Vantage X 86 CTi features an almost fully cambered baseline, with only a smidgeon of tip rocker. Unlike most Frontside skis, it has a fairly narrow tip (121.5mm) and an overall slender silhouette that suggests it doesn’t like to stray far from the fall line. When you fire this arrow downhill, it proves to be responsive, smooth and above all, light. Compared to other skis with a carve-centric attitude, the Vantage X 86 CTi feels like it weighs next to nothing.

Our testers weren’t confident that this Atomic has much appetite for off-trail conditions, but its on-trail aptitude was deemed spot on. A tester for Joe’s Ski Shop calls it a “precise skis, handles well, holds a carve well at speed.” Because it doesn’t have a lot of beef on its bones, the Vantage X 86 CTi feels easy to bow and maneuver without much effort, making it a good Power ski for a Finesse skier. It’s so light, it should prove less fatiguing to ski all day, a boon to aging bones. We therefore award it a Silver Skier Selection.