The Atomic Maverick 115 CTi has been crowned the best powder ski for the winter season of 2026, showcasing an impressive blend of performance, versatility, and approachability. Developed through collaboration with freeride legends, the ski is designed to handle extreme conditions while retaining a playful feel.
"A powder ski that Craig Murray can use to win Natural Selection that’s also approachable enough for the masses? That sums up the Atomic Maverick 115 CTi," said a representative at SKI's annual testing event. With a directional shape yet lively performance, it excels in deep snow, carving through wide-open bowls effortlessly.
Retaining an effective design from the previous season, the Maverick 115 CTi boasts a construction featuring a poplar and ash wood core paired with carbon and Titanal. The ski’s dimensions of 140.5-115-129.5 millimeters ensure excellent flotation in powder, particularly thanks to Atomic’s HRZN 3D technology. This innovative design enhances the contact area with snow, allowing for increased buoyancy and stability.
"It handled open pow, responded perfectly in steep shots, was easy to shed speed when needed, then charged through tracked-up stuff," commented a tester, emphasizing the ski’s ability to manage varying conditions with finesse. The 18-meter turn radius at the 185 cm length allows for a surprising amount of nimbleness, making it easier to maneuver even in challenging terrain.
Freeride stalwarts like Sage Cattabriga-Alosa and Craig Murray played a crucial role in developing the Maverick, ensuring it meets the demands of both high-speed descents and technical features. Murray noted, "It’s forgiving but if you want to drive it hard, it listens and responds with grace." This adaptability highlights the ski's appeal to a broad audience, balancing technical performance with an approachable ride.
Though the Maverick 115 CTi is designed for experienced skiers, it offers enough versatility for confident intermediates to thrive. However, it may pose challenges for novices. A tester pointed out, "It needs to be driven more than some of the softer skis in this category," suggesting that while capable, it requires skill to maximize its potential.
When comparing the Maverick to the popular Bent Chetler model from Atomic, the distinction becomes clear. The Bent Chetler is known for its playful nature in soft powder, whereas the Maverick prioritizes stability and precision during fast skiing. The Maverick’s firmer feel may be less forgiving than its counterpart, demonstrating its focus on being a true big-mountain tool.
Among the noteworthy contenders in the 2025 ski tests, like the Nordica Unleashed 120 and the Black Diamond Impulse Ti 112, the Maverick 115 CTi emerged as the standout choice. "The Maverick 115 CTi rose to the top because of its ability to excel in a wide range of conditions," stated an evaluator. This adaptability is crucial for skiers who want reliability across various snow types.
In conclusion, the Atomic Maverick 115 CTi brings an exemplary balance of playful yet powerful performance, allowing skiers to charge through challenging terrain without sacrificing fun. Whether pursuing untouched lines or racing through tracked-out runs, this ski proves its worth as a top choice for any powder enthusiast in the upcoming season.