How We Tested the Best Gear of 2015
A behind-the-scenes look at the toughest job at Outside: taking to the slopes of Utah to try out all the latest skis. Someone's gotta do it.

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As we have in years past, we conducted two major tests in Utah to evaluate the latest skis: a four-day alpine test, in conjunction with Mountain magazine, at Snowbird Resort, and a weeklong alpine-touring and telemark test, with Backcountry magazine, at Powder Mountain. How did it all work out? Watch the behind-the-scenes-action and see how we size up the gear we write about below:
The Ski Test
Testers from Outside and Mountain magazines descend on Snowbird for the largest independent ski test in the market.
Big Mountain Skis
Outside Online gear editor Axie Navas shows off two of the best designs for aggressive skiers.
All Mountain Skis
Skis that can take on obstacle-laced terrain and groomers alike, as demonstrated by Mountain magazine editor Marc Peruzzi.Â
Powder Skis
DPS and Atomic have figured out spoon technology for skis that cut through fresh snow like butter.
The Women’s Ski Test
The latest women’s powder skis demonstrate how companies are finally designing for women without sacrificing performance.