The2024 Black Crows Atris returns this year unchanged from the 2023 construction and shape with the only change made being a new graphic. It retains the designation of a benchmark ski in the vast playful big-mountain category. Its uncompromising performance through variable snow at high speeds and incredible playfulness ins oft snow secured its status year after year. The Atris is most definitely a freeride twin tip that likes to maneuver, but it’s capabilities for aggressive directional skiing cannot be overlooked as it is the ski of choice for a wide variety of professional skiers. You can see them being used by ski mountaineers ,heli skiers, as well as park skiers. So, if that doesn’t showcase the versatility of the Atris, we don’t know what would. There is quite a magical interaction here between a relatively simplistic construction and refined shape where both aspects complement one another in a symbiotic fashion. The construction materials serve the shape just as well as the shape serves the construction, and this balance can absolutely be felt when taken to the snow.

For such a sturdy and complex performance, the Atris has a relatively simple construction. A poplar wood core which is reinforced with fiberglass laminates. The poplar wood core gives the ski a dense but energetic feel while the fiberglass provides dampness and torsional rigidity. That combination of materials gives the ski a lot of stability at high speeds on both groomers as well as through variable snow conditions. But at the same time, there is enough suppleness for a playful and maneuverable side. The Atris is not the lightest ski out there coming in at 1975 grams for the 184.5cm length, but it is certainly light enough for spins and tricks. Overall, the construction of these skis strikes an incredible balance between these attributes which is why it has earned its benchmark status for mid 100mm waist freeride skis.

We have established that the Atris’ construction and shape complement each other. So with that being said, lets talk about shape. Starting with the profile, we get a classic rocker/camber/rocker profile. There is going to be some more tip rocker than tail rocker which is indicative of its directional qualities. Camber underfoot paired with the poplar wood core produces energy and liveliness. While the fiberglass laminates and camber shape provide torsional stiffness, combining for edge grip. Again, striking a controlled playfulness that is needed for the Atris’ intended application. In terms of sidecut, the Atris has a maximum forebody width of 138mm, 105mm underfoot, and 122mm trail width. 138mm in the tips provide floatation in soft snow as well as through chopped up snow which translates to maneuverability. The slightly tapered tip decreases deflection and catchiness which is aligned with the skis philosophy. With a bit less early rocker in the tails, the Atris does extremely well on groomers as it has a smooth finish to the turn but enough release capabilities to change direction quickly. Finally, overall taper from tip to tail assists with sleek turn initiation especially at higher speeds.

The Black Crows Atris is an extremely versatile ski that has a multitude of freeride, directional, and playful attributes. Although it may seem like an advances to expert ski, it does have some approachability for intermediate skiers. Its modern freeride shape and construction makes it a suitable ski for those that are both at the highest level as well as those looking to progress in this genre of skiing. The Atris is very balanced across the board making it intuitive, predictable, and capable which is why it is a no-brainer for many skiers looking for adventure.