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

One can make a case for the Völkl Kenja being the best ski ever made for the advanced woman skier. Its Titanal laminates – rarely found in women’s skis – give it unparalleled bite on hard snow and the resilience to fight back in heavy crud. The Kenja excels because it doesn’t condescend.

“From year to year the Kenja continues to be the perfect ski for any condition,” writes Skylar from Aspen Ski and Board. “Outstanding edge hold on ice and easy to turn at higher speeds while still maintaining control. I’d recommend it for any advanced woman who loves it all!”

The Kenja doesn’t require aggression, but it rewards it. Most women back off the gas pedal when they transition into cut-up off-trail conditions, but the only way to subdue irascible old snow is to motor through it. If your skis don’t have the guts to resist the resulting vibration, you’ll be compelled to curb your ambitions. You’ll never have to hold back on a Kenja.

Volkl has spent the last several seasons making all their off-trail skis more compatible with choppy terrain. The Kenja caught up with this trend last year, adding taper and rocker to the tip so it won’t get finicky when the snow gets funky. These modifications have made the Kenja easier to ride for everyone, even the athletic intermediate. “This ski takes care of me,” confides Deb from Viking, putting her finger on the comforting feeling the Kenja inspires.