Big lines and deep snow are what the Volkl Katana V.Werks was built to attack. This freeride ski uses a hand-built, carbon-rich construction over a wide footprint, blending serious float with the kind of high-speed composure that lets confident skiers open it up when the terrain gets steep and the snow gets deep.

Why we like it:

The V.Werks construction keeps a ski this big shockingly light, so it floats and surfs without wearing you out. There's a stable, planted feel at speed that belies the low weight, a rare combination in a freeride ski.

Who it's for:

Advanced and expert skiers chasing powder, big mountain terrain, and fast descents. Ideal for strong skiers who want a wide ski that floats effortlessly but still holds together when they point it downhill.

Highlights:

Volkl's V.Werks program means a hand-built, lightweight construction, and the Katana V.Werks pairs a light wood core with carbon to keep the swing weight low across its big footprint. The wide shape and generous rocker provide the float you need on a powder day, while the carbon reinforcement adds the torsional stiffness that keeps the ski stable and trustworthy at speed. The result is a ski that surfs and smears in soft snow yet refuses to get knocked around when you charge through variable terrain. It's a powder-hungry freeride tool with a high-performance ceiling.

Things to consider:

This is a wide, soft-snow-focused ski. It can carve a groomer in a pinch, but a narrower ski will always feel more at home on hardpack. The performance ceiling also asks for a confident, capable skier to reach it.

Fit & sizing considerations:

The Katana V.Werks sizes true to length. Stick with your usual freeride length, or size up for even more float on the deepest days.