The Dictator 4.0 isn’t the lightest ski in the category, but it feels exceptionally feathery on the snow. With a square tail that’s an endangered species among Powder skis, the Dictator 4.0 stays connected to the turn until it’s pulled off the assignment. This gives it a sense of connectedness on-trail that eludes others of the Powder persuasion.

A welterweight ski in heavyweight spring slop can be boxed around, but the Dictator 4.0 isn’t impressed by unruly conditions. It can also travel incognito on the groom, where other Powder skis betray their pedigree by sliding sideways, while the Dictator 4.0 slices by as if it were a 115mm carving tool. More dedicated off-trail skiers should give Faction a second look.