Salomon gave the QST 99 a double shot of damping for 2019, adding transverse filaments of carbon and flax to the longitudinal strands already in place, along with a bottom layer of basalt. The new additions increase the ski’s torsional rigidity along its full length and work with a patch of Titanal underfoot to create a rock-solid midsection. The QST99’s on-hill style is heavily influenced by its high taper angle, which means its shovel is wider than normal compared to the tail.  This creates a ski that wants to dive into a turn with the eagerness of a Jack Russell terrier, then releases it early so it can dive back in ASAP. Put another way, the QST 99 treats a turn like a catch-and-release fisherman treats a trout.

This part-carve, part-drift personality makes a lot of sense for the skier who prays for powder but often must contend with less idyllic conditions. Its lightweight design can still be deflected by chunky, sodden snow, but the new design has definitely improved its edge grip and stability at speed. For someone who has never owned a ski this wide, the QST 99 is a terrific introduction to the All-Mountain West category. It responds well at low speeds and does a good impression of a short radius turn if tipped high enough on edge. In part because it’s a little softer torsionally than the metal-laden beasts that dominate our Power rankings, the QST 99 feels like a narrower ski, which is a good thing. “Nice feel,” notes Greg McDonough of Footloose, “it’s a stiffer, damper ski than previous version but still pretty easy to ski.”