Sierra says: The Crystal is back from last year unchanged except for a new graphic. This is a nice step above an entry level ski for the woman just getting into the sport or for a more seasoned but cautious skier. When you go up the line from beginner skis, you get more edge grip, stability, and dampening. Taken in the proper doses these attributes won't hold back a novice but will also give ...

Sierra says: The Topaz returns from '07-'08 with a new graphic but is unchanged otherwise. This is another ski that bears the Salomon family characteristics. Light, nimble, and energetic are the hallmarks of the Topaz. This is a 90/10 ski with a moderate shape and enough edge grip and stability for most skiers up to the solid advanced level. The Topaz has a fairly conservative sidecut an...

Sierra says: The Tornado is back from last year with a new graphic. It is important to note that the Tornado now comes in three versions. The flat Tornado is slightly softer and easier going than the similar Protrak version and is more attractively priced. As such it is a nice transition model between intermediate skis and the most aggressive models. In addition, there is an entirely new Tornado T...

Sierra says: The Salomon X-Wing Tornado returns this year with a graphical change. Other than that, it is the same fun ski as the 07 model. If you are looking for a lively and nimble ski that is still stable in rough conditions, the Tornado is for you. It's wide enough for some fresh powder. It's steady enough in crud. It will hold an edge on the groomers when skiing at mach schnell...