Returning for 2027, the Nordica Santa Ana 82 brings the beloved stability and smoothness of the Santa Ana line to the narrowest footprint yet. With an 82 mm waist and a construction identical to its wider siblings, this ski is purpose-built for carving precision, quick transitions, and confident control on firm snow, maintaining the composed, quiet ride that defines the series.

Why we like it:

It’s a performance-oriented frontside ski with real backbone and none of the chatter, and is a perfect blend of stability and agility for confident on-trail skiing.

Who it's for:

Intermediate to advanced women skiers who spend most of their time on groomers but want a lively, high-quality ski with room to explore bumps or the occasional side stash.

Highlights:

Like the rest of the Santa Ana lineup, the 82 uses a full wood core, Terrain-Specific Titanal, and Nordica’s Pulse Core, an elastomer insert that helps absorb vibration and smooth out the ride. The result is a narrow ski that feels planted and quiet on edge, with enough pop and rebound to make carving feel rewarding and athletic. A touch of rocker in the tip and tail adds forgiveness and helps with turn initiation and release, giving the ski a bit more versatility for performance beyond perfect corduroy.

Things to consider:

While the Santa Ana 82 is quicker and more nimble than its wider counterparts, its narrow waist means it isn’t suited for soft snow or off-piste conditions. Skiers who like to explore deeper snow or want a looser, surfier feel should look to the Santa Ana 93 or 97. This model is also best appreciated by skiers with solid technique; beginners or those seeking a super light and forgiving feel might prefer something a little softer or less demanding.

Fit & sizing considerations:

These skis run true to size. Stick with your standard length for stability and edge grip, or size down slightly if you prioritize agility and maneuverability.