2026 Black Crows Atris

The 2026 Black Crows Atris returns this year unchanged in 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 in soft snow secured its status year after year. The Atris is a freeride twin tip that likes to maneuver, but its capabilities for aggressive directional skiing cannot be overlooked as it is the ski of choice for many 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. This is a very simple, yet approachable twin tip freeride ski.

There’s really not much going on here in the build. 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. Tester Jose Darias notes that the Atris is a “ Very approachable but unremarkable. I didn’t feel like the ski was giving me that much feedback in either a positive or negative way. It prefers to ski at a slower and more relaxed pace and stance but felt strong enough in the 190 length to charge a bit more.” 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. For a relatively simple build, this ski has a lot to offer.

The footprint of the Atris is where it really separates itself. 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 and through chopped snow, which translates to maneuverability. The slightly tapered tip decreases deflection and catchiness which is aligned with the ski's 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. Jeff Neagle states that “Atris is awesome it’s like the quintessential freeride ski. So well rounded. Stable and strong but also maneuverable and has a playful side. Stiffer flex hinders some playfulness but it’s a great mix.”

The mix and the blend are the best and most notable parts here. The Black Crows Atris is a versatile ski that has many freeride, directional, and playful attributes. Although it may seem like an advanced to expert ski, it does have some approachability for intermediate skiers. Its modern freeride shape and construction make it a suitable ski for those at the highest level and 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. Adventure and fun are what it’s all about.