Dynastar doesn’t differentiate between its men’s and women’s Legend models; goose and gander get the same ski in a 166cm and 173cm. A 159cm is also made with the women’s cosmetics and men (or women, for that matter) can also choose a 180cm or 186cm. Length selection aside, it’s the same ski. This means no skimping on the two layers of Titanal or subtle detuning of its signature Powerdrive feature. Given the pliability Powerdrive provides, the Legend X design might be better suited to the fairer sex.

Powerdrive consists of a 3-piece sidewall mounted in the forebody that buffers the interior laminates from the rigid outer sidewall. This de-coupling effect liberates the wood and glass laminates so they can sheer relative to one another. Instead of a greeting an immoveable terrain feature with a stiff, coiled spring, Powerdrive reacts by flowing with it, letting the camber zone underfoot maintain the snow connection and define the turn radius. The twin Titanal layers contribute torsional rigidity, mass and vibration damping.

Our panel is divided over what sort of skier is best suited to the strengths of the Legend W 88. Sally from Powder House calls it a “stable, easy turner. Probably best for light, less aggressive skier,“ while Jolee from Footloose finds it “likes to go fast and charge the groomed runs. Handles well in choppy snow as well. Quick to maneuver and fun to be on,” she concludes. Another predicts its perfect partner is “the Mom ripper,” suggesting a slightly muted aggression level but with advanced to expert skills.

The Legend W 88 earns its highest marks for Finesse/Power Balance, suggesting that it’s a powerful ski that doesn’t require a Power skier to guide it. For its accessibility to a wide range of skiing styles, we bestow on the Legend W 88 a Silver Skier Selection.