The 2027 Atomic Bent Chetler 120 is Chris Benchetler's signature powder ski and remains one of the most beloved freeride skis on the market. Returning largely unchanged, the Bent Chetler 120 is a dedicated powder and big-mountain tool built around float, playfulness, and a surfy, creative feel.

Why we like it:

The Chris Benchetler topsheet artwork is, year after year, some of the best in the entire ski industry. It's a small thing, but it matters. The playful, surfy feel of the ski on snow is very much a match for the art on top.

Who it's for:

Advanced and expert skiers who prioritize soft snow and creative, freestyle-influenced freeride. Ideal for powder days, backcountry missions, and anyone who likes to pivot, slash, and surf instead of carving hard.

Highlights:

The HRZN 3D Bent tip is the signature feature and it's genuinely special. Atomic borrowed the concept from surfboard design, beveling and curving the tip to add surface area and shed snow, which helps the ski plane up quickly in deep conditions and resist hooking when you're skiing loose or sideways. The big powder rocker profile pairs huge tip and tail rocker with a touch of camber underfoot, which gives this ski surprising edge hold for a dedicated powder ski while keeping it playful and pivot-happy. Underneath, the Light Woodcore keeps swing weight down without sacrificing the damping that big freeride skis need. And of course, this ski has personality above and below the snow thanks to another great topsheet design from Chris Benchetler.

Things to consider:

This is not a ski for firm snow or aggressive charging. The softer, freestyle-leaning flex makes it a playful tool, not a high-speed plow. Buy it for what it is: a dedicated powder ski.

Fit & sizing considerations:

Skis noticeably shorter than stated length thanks to the big tip and tail rocker. Don't be afraid to size up from your usual length for more flotation and stability.