2022 Atomic Cloud 9

The 2022 Atomic Cloud 9 is a great choice for intermediate and advanced skiers who are looking to step up their game and get to the next level. Built and shaped for front side cruising with a high end of poise and precision, the Cloud 9 has a whole lot going for it in a relatively simple package. With a fairly average shape and build, the Cloud 9 is looking to split a lot of characteristics right down the middle. Built with a densolite wood core, the skis have a great combination of durability, predictability, and light weight, making it easier and more effective for skiers to get the most out of their skiing experience. This ski prefers to remain on-trail and in a carved turn, but a more experienced skier will find some versatility as well. At 73-mm underfoot, these skis fare better the smoother it is, but they also have just a bit more width and a slight rocker in the tip to allow for better softer snow performance, as well as being better suited for choppy snow and crud.

The wood core is on the more synthetic side of the spectrum, but what they’re able to manufacture and put forth into the ski world makes the ski fun and energetic. It’s a bit heavier with the light wood core, and adding the titanium stabilizer to the mix goes a long way in reducing the vibrations and keeping the ski on the intended line. Servotec light is another big story here, as the skis have a channel milled out of the central part of the forebody that’s replaced with an elastomer material to keep the vibrations to a minimum. Much like the Servotec rods found on the upper-levels of skis, the light version carries the theory forward but uses less material making the ski more accessible for skiers looking to make a variety of turns in variable conditions and terrain.

At 73 mm underfoot, the Atomic Cloud 9 is narrow enough to hold tight to the firmest of snows, but has just a bit of width in it to handle softer snow and more variable conditions and terrain. 10 percent rocker in the tips gives the Cloud 9 a good deal of smoothness, allowing the skier to transition between turns with ease and grace. While the Cloud 9 will not be mistaken for a powder ski, the rocker does give it just a smidge of flotation in the fluff. This all adds up to a slightly more versatile ski, but it’s still way more comfortable on groomed terrain and smooth trails.

If you’re looking to make the leap from intermediate to advanced, especially in a carved turn, the Atomic Cloud 9 will help you get there. They’re light enough, stable enough, and stout enough to handle higher speeds and harder skiing, but the overall shape and character of the ski makes it approachable for a whole lot of skiers, especially for those looking to progress.