The attributes of All-Mountain West skis can be plotted along two axes: the Power/Finesse spectrum and the On-trail/Off-trail scale. The Dynastar Legend X 96 lives in the Finesse/Off-trail quadrant. Why consign the Legend X 96 to the Finesse fold when its Power score is higher? Because regardless of what this year’s data says, last year the Legend X 96 had the highest Finesse score in the category, a more compelling indication of its compliant nature.

If the Legend X 96 feels relatively easy to roll into the turn – despite a 5-point sidecut that pulls the front contact point back – it’s due to its signature feature, Powerdrive. Powerdrive works differently from most shock-damping methods, by loosening the link between the outer sidewall and the central laminates. Powerdrive breaks the sidewall into three parts, which allows the main structural layers to sheer more easily, absorbing rough terrain the ski would otherwise bounce off.

Because it makes the forebody more supple, Powerdrive helps the Legend X 96 flow over uneven terrain and slither through moguls. “It has a better, more consistent flex tip to tail,” admires one tester. “Skis with ease in transition from edge to edge,” says another. “A very quick and damp ski that rips,” concurs a third, who accorded the Legend X 96 the accolade of “one-ski quiver, and a new contender in the category. This ski kicks butt,” he concludes.

Because it manages to be damp without resorting to two sheets of Titanal, the Legend X 96 keeps the weight off and the stability up. The skier doesn’t have to work as hard to maintain control in gnarly conditions. In recognition of its effectiveness as an energy saver, particularly in rugged off-trail environments that can drain the tank quickly, we award the Legend X 96 a Silver Skier Selection.