An on-piste operator with an earned reputation of being impressively smooth and stable, the 2024 Santa Ana 88 is back with a graphics refresh and the same high level of performance that expert skiers continue to gravitate to. Crafted for women who value precision and control all over the mountain, the well-balanced construction and versatile shape deliver a smooth and powerful ride that is hard to beat. Combining a refined build, featuring a wood core reinforced with carbon and metal, plus an all-mountain shape, the result is a progressive flex that delivers maximum stability and maneuverability where needed. Nordica went above and beyond to fine-tune the Santa Ana series, catering the construction of each model to control the flex and feel depending on the size. As the second narrowest option in the lineup, the 88 leans harder into the on-piste category but certainly is not limited to groomers, proving its versatility in all terrain and conditions.

At the core of this ski, we get a full performance woodcore, establishing the foundation with stability and lightweight maneuverability. To add stiffness and powerful rebound, carbon chasiss technology integrates carbon fiber into the wood core, enhancing the overall flex and responsiveness of the ski. The construction gets even more advanced through the use of terrain specific metal, which is specifically sized to each ski to better align with the applicable terrain and use. Uniquely proportionate to each width, as the last decreases, the amount of metal increases. As a result, the narrower skis deliver better edge grip and stability underfoot for on-piste performance while the wider skis feel more forgiving and playful. To round it all out, Nordica incorporated true tip technology, which extends the lightweight wood core into the tip to further reduce weight and increase playfulness and maneuverability.

Looking at the shape of the Santa Ana 88, we get an all-mountain profile featuring 30% rocker in the tip, 20% in the tail and 50% camber underfoot. Ideal for varying terrain and conditions, this shape offers flotation and deflection in fresh or chopped up snow while maintaining consistent edge grip and stability underfoot. At 88 mm underfoot, it offers an ideal width for versatile performance, focusing more heavily on carving capabilities without losing off-piste capabilities. Generating a 15-meter turn radius in the 165 cm length allows skiers to dictate a range of turn shapes and styles, which is great for quick edge to edge in trees and bumps, as well as long, arcing turns on groomers. A truly versatile tool with an array of capabilities, it’s easy to see why this ski gets such a good reputation.

Advanced to expert level skiers will love the level of strength and power that is achievable through the Santa Ana 88. A burly but highly maneuverable build combined with an all-mountain shape leaves the skier in charge of the level of performance. For ultimate control and reliable stability, the Santa Ana 88 will deliver with ease.