Up-and-coming freeskiers and progressing all-mountain skiers finally have a ski built for them in the Nordica Unleashed 90. The narrowest model in the Unleashed line uses a full poplar wood core with vertical sidewalls and a Powder Rocker profile, putting the focus on smooth, easy turn initiation rather than the burly demands of the wider Unleashed skis. It's a friendly, playful platform for skiers who want to learn modern freeski technique on a ski that won't punish them.

Why we like it:

The 90 is honest about who it's for. Nordica didn't try to make a downsized version of the Unleashed 98 with the same demands; they made a ski that prioritizes fun and forgiveness over outright performance, with a lighter wood core and softer flex than the wider models. That makes it a great learning tool, but it also means experienced skiers can use it for low-stakes days when they don't want to think too hard.

Who it's for:

Intermediate skiers progressing into all-mountain and freeride terrain, plus advancing junior skiers who want a freestyle-leaning ski. Strong adult skiers looking for a lightweight, softer-flexing ski for days when they want to mess around on side hits and easy terrain will also be at home here.

Highlights:

Friendly is the watchword. The full poplar wood core is the lightest in the Unleashed family, and the build skips the metal and carbon found in the wider models in favor of a simpler, softer flex pattern. Vertical sidewall construction handles edge hold and stability without adding weight. The Powder Rocker profile keeps a long, gradual tip rocker and a moderate tail rocker, which makes the ski very forgiving on turn initiation; you can pivot it, slash it, and ride it switch without having to commit to a full edge engagement. Sidecut at the 168 reads 123-90-112 with a 16.6-meter turn radius, which is short and accessible. The partial twin-tip tail is freestyle-friendly without being so aggressive that it throws off the ski's directional manners. True Tip detailing in the shovel keeps the swing weight manageable, a nice touch on a ski aimed at progressing skiers.

Things to consider:

This is the entry-level ski in the Unleashed family, and it shows. Strong skiers who want top-end performance and high-speed stability will outgrow it quickly; for them, the Unleashed 98 or wider is a better fit. Also, while the 90 floats well enough for occasional soft snow, it's not really a powder ski; conditions over a few inches deep and you'll want something wider.

Fit & sizing considerations:

Standard sizing applies. Pick your usual length, or drop a size if you're newer to the sport and want easier maneuverability.