[The test results for the Cyclic 115 are from 2016; its only changes for 2017 are cosmetic.]

The engineers at Head would rather burn down their factory than see it turn out skis that can’t carve, which presents a problem in the swivel-centric Powder genre. Their solution was to use half the Cyclic 115’s running surface for smearing and half for edging.

The Cyclic 115’s ample tip and tail rocker not only disengage the extremities for easier swiveling, their soft flex lets the ski bow in soft snow, compressing the cambered center section and energizing the turn exit. The Cyclic 115 knows how to set a rhythm even white guys can dance to, using its coiled rebound energy to guide the skier into the next move. Whether slashing through freshies or crushing crud, the Cyclic 115 slithers through the snow with the confidence and grace of a professional hoofer.

The Cyclic 115 minimizes the tip and tail looseness that accompany fully rockered baselines by using the Tip and Tail Stabilizer System (TTS), a fiberglass and elastomer exo-skeleton that works wonders. First, it’s a powerful shock dampener that takes a shot to the chin every turn and isn’t even deflected. Second, it stiffens the shovel so it resists twist and bites into a turn, a quality sloppy front rockers can’t copy. Third, by obviating the need for heavier core materials, TTS reduces swing weight and abets agility.

It all adds up to a ski that feels nearly as effortless off-piste as it is accurate on edge, earning the Cyclic 115 a Silver Skier Selection.