Over the past few seasons Völkl has been extending its 3D.Ridge design to encompass almost all of its RTM, All-Mountain and Big Mountain collections. Last year, Völkl significantly upgraded what is now its signature design with the addition of 3D.Glass. An added base layer of prepreg fiberglass hardly sounds newsworthy, but its impact can scarcely be over-stated.

The special sauce in 3D.Glass consists of flaps in its center section that fold up and over the sidewall, interlocking the base with the rest of the 3D.Ridge. For an on-trail ski like the RTM 81, 3D.Glass is transformative. When the RTM 81’s long front and rear rocker blend with the camber zone underfoot as the ski is flexed, the security on edge is first rate. As pressure abates through the turn transition, the energy stored in the flexed glass provides the rebound that makes a skier feel weightless as he tips into the next arc. Advanced skiers who enjoy the zippy reactions of an all-glass ski will find the RTM 81 responsive and reliable. “Rock solid in medium and long turns at speed,” confirms Will Griffith of Salter’s Ski Shop.

Women, lighter weight men, teens and all skiers just shy of advanced ability should note that the RTM 81 comes in 163cm and 156cm lengths. The shorter sizes will accentuate its quickness and improve its ability to find a path through chopped-up moguls. If you’re in the market for new boots as well as skis, the Marker bindings that come with the RTM 81 features Grip Walk, so it can be used with any Alpine boot sole.