Atomic's new Cloud 12 ski is not far short of a full-on race model - they don't look like race skis, the smooth black top sheet, smart that it is, looks deceptively like it's made for style over substance, but it's not the case, these skis are the real deal.
Like other skis in the cloud range they have a narrow waist (70mm is the Cloud 12s case) and a slightly oversized tip and tail, creating good stability throughout the turns and excellent nice edge hold.
They never want to stop - we find they always want more and we become more and more confident on them due to their alertness and response in the turn. On the downside, if you push them really hard on icy surfaces they struggle a little with edge hold as they are softer in the tip than a race ski and this is where you notice the difference. They also become less stable at higher speeds too, so whilst they do perform at a really high level, racers still might find them slightly underpowered - on the upside of that, they are fun to ride on piste.
They also have a really good looking new top sheet that almost looks leather like, with diamonds studded into it. Perhaps a little blingy, but you'd certainly look sleek and classy on the mountain - both on the slopes and when you stick them in the rack at the mountain restaurant.
Good value for money, great fun, suit an advanced to expert female skier who wants performance but likes to enjoy the ride too.
