2027 Atomic Cloud Q11

The 2027 Atomic Cloud Q11 gets a slight graphic update but returns otherwise unchanged. Loaded with high-performance features and advanced technology, predictability and versatility are the Atomic Cloud Q11’s specialties. Skis that are built with higher-end performance in mind don’t always have to be geared solely towards expert level skiers. This ski is the perfect example of one that is built with race-inspired attributes and high-quality construction but in an accessible, friendly design. This combination appeals to up-and-coming skiers who want a reliable ride with confidence-building features. With great energy and grip, the Q11 is a highly satisfying and rewarding carver.

Atomic uses their race pedigree to maintain power and precision in these skis. Keeping things light and agile, Atomic uses a Flite wood core as the foundation for the Cloud Q11. This blend of wood combines a supple, bendable feel that allows for great maneuverability on and off the trail. To step up the flex and level of stiffness, a titanal layer is incorporated, stabilizing and dampening the overall feel. Despite the use of metal here, the overall weight is kept down quite significantly, with the 155 cm length weighing in at 2245 grams. This is a great weight for a versatile frontside ski, not too heavy but not too light. Round it out with dura cap sidewalls and this ski gets added durability, as well as an impressive edge grip. An approachable build with competitive carving performance and off-piste maneuverability is a tough to top combination and makes sense for a lot of skiers on a given day. Tester Mar Kuhnel notes: “Another fun ski from Atomic! The Q11 is very responsive and quick feeling, interestingly this ski doesn’t have the Revoshock and I did notice a bit more chatter and feedback in chunky ice compared to the C9 I just skied…so, Revoshock works! Anyway, this was a very balanced ski with medium energy that tackled the variable conditions with confidence.” There's always a balance, so if you miss out on a bit of stability, you're gaining back with energy.

Atomic's footprint with the Q11 is definitely angular and sharp. Looking at the shape, though its intended use is technically frontside, there are some attributes here that give it less limitations. The 78.5 mm waist width in the 155 cm length leans this ski further towards all-mountain while keeping it narrow enough to dominate on-piste. Add in the multi-radius sidecut and this ski can make a variety of different turn shapes, from short, quick turns to longer arcing turns. Given the 100% camber profile and long effective edge, it can certainly engage and make slalom-style turns but is not limited. With a slightly wider waist in the shovel, 123 mm in the 155, this shape invites soft snow performance while the tail stays flat and directional. A truly versatile combination, it transitions well from on-piste terrain to off-piste terrain. Tester Bryce Zicarelli calls it a “Really nice front side carving ski, get the whole trail to yourself, open it up and lay it over.” That open groomer is certainly the key terrain here, as it allows for awesome carving creativity.

We think this Q11 has a good range, capable of satisfying intermediate and advanced skiers. For the most part, most skiers spend most of their time on groomers. So why not have a strong carving, reliably stable ski that is approachable and confidence building? Not everyone is out there to leave the deepest trenches on the trail and for those looking to enhance technique and have an enjoyable time on the mountain, a wider front side ski is a great solution. If you are looking for energy and confidence in a carved turn, it's tough to go wrong with an Atomic Cloud Q11.