Blister Gear released their 11th edition of their Winter Buyer's Guide, and four of our skis received recognition! Why is this important? Because Blister Gear is one of the only publications that reviews gear based solely on their testers' expert opinions. Just about everyone else requires you to pay real money to be included in reviews, which, by the very nature of pay-to-play, benefits larger brands and companies and disenfranchises smaller businesses like ours.
We're honored to be included, and we've captured some of the highlights of their reviews below. For the full guide, head on over to Blister's website here.
Lil'Nasty: Blister Gear Recommended 2026
The Lil' Nasty features a substantial build, making it more damp and stable than lighter alternatives. However, it's still quite playful and freestyle-friendly, thanks to deep rocker lines that make it easy to skid and slash around. Its swing weight also feels lighter than its actual weight would suggest, and while its tips and tails are easy to flex, the middle of the ski is pretty strong. Our initial take is that the Lil' Nasty offers a rare combination of playfulness and stability in the narrower all-mountain class.
Rafiki: Blister Gear Best of 2026
Few skis combine easy pivoting and deep-snow looseness with as much high-speed composure in soft chop as the Rafiki. It doesn't take much effort or perfect technique to get the Rafiki to pivot and slide underneath you, which is beneficial in deep, heavy snow and tight terrain. On the other hand, it's also one of the heaviest skis here, and that mass helps keep it from easily getting bounced around in cut-up pow. Other skis don't feel as eager to slide sideways in pow or as calm in chopped-up bowls as the Rafiki. That's what made it one of our favorite skis for storm days at the resort -- which, realistically, are just as much "chop days" as they are "powder days."
Rebel: Blister Gear Recommended 2026
With its playful feel and easygoing ride, the Rbel offers a refreshing take on the narrow all-mountain ski. Overall, it's an accessible and adaptable option for firmer conditions. It feels snappy and lively when arcing turns on groomed snow, is predictable on firm snow, and is forgiving. The Rebel is ideal for those who want to spend a fair bit of time off piste on their narrower all-mountain ski, but who don't want something very demanding. The Rebel is great for those who want a narrower ski that handles a wide range of conditions and terrain, without being overly demanding.
SOS: Blister Gear Recommended 2026
Many skis with centered mount points and more symmetrical shapes are light and loose, but the SOS bucks that trend by delivering a damp and stable ride. The SOS offers a smooth, planted ride quality, thanks to its heavier construction, so it'll feel impressively stable if you're accustomed to other, more center-mount skis. If you already ski with a more centered, neutral stance or prefer a stronger, more planted ski, the SOS should be on your list.
