The Charm of the Cham series skis lies in their shape. Dynastar was the first major brand to go all-in with a 5-point sidecut, a design that deliberately dulls the reactions of the forebody and tucks in that last few inches of tail. Dynastar’s adoption of the 5-point sidecut proved to be prescient, as the “tapered” tip, which pulls the widest point further back on the forebody, has become commonplace.

The net effect of disengaging tip and tail in this fashion is it creates a ski with a big ski attitude with a slalom ski’s reflexes. The Cham 2.0 W 87 hews close to the fall line, managing speed by tirelessly spooling out short turns. Its strength lies in its maneuverability, a trait it transfers to rough terrain. The Cham 2.0 W 87’s baseline complements its sidecut, using tip and tail rocker to keep either extremity from hanging up.

Every key feature of the Cham 2.0 W 87 is tuned to hit its high notes in new, or at least recent, snow. The short-radius sidecut for tight trees, the long-ski surface area for flotation, the rockered baseline to facilitate a quick swivel, are all better suited for choppy snow than groomage. It’s Paulownia core is also lightweight, so lithe lasses can push it around in heavy spring snow.