In this year’s big ski test, it’s time for the skin skis. ProXCskiing.com has tested seven pairs from leading brands to help you find the model that suits you best.

This year’s big ski test is divided into five parts: double-poling skis, skin skis, skate skis for recreational skiers, skate skis for elite skiers, and poles. After testing the double-poling skis, it’s now time for the skin skis. We have tested this season’s models to find out which ones offer the best balance between grip, glide, and handling.

In this year’s test, we reviewed seven current models of skin skis. Each ski was evaluated for grip, glide (release), and handling, and received an overall score (1–5) based on the testers’ experiences.

How the test was conducted

The test took place in the Torsby Ski Tunnel in September. Inside the tunnel, there is no wind, and the temperature at the time of testing was around 0 °C. The snow was dry and loose. Both testers tried each pair of skis and poles, giving separate scores and comments. The results presented here are the average of both testers’ ratings. Each ski was tested for about 10 minutes on varied terrain to provide a fair overall impression.

• Handling: Tested through turns and track changes – how easy the ski is to move sideways.
• Glide (Release): The ski’s forward drive and energy return when applying power.
• Grip: How easily the ski holds and kicks in the snow

About the testers

Both testers are experienced skiers who have competed at an elite level in both long-distance and traditional cross-country skiing. Alfred Nilsson is 185 cm tall and weighs 85 kg, while Maja Eriksson is 171 cm tall and weighs around 70 kg. Their different physiques and skiing styles resulted in slight variations in their evaluations.

Atomic Redster C8 Skintec

Evaluation

Overall rating: 4.5 / 5

Grip: 4.0
Glide: 4.5
Handling: 5.0

Testers’ comment:
The best skin ski in the test. Feels like a true classic ski – light, responsive, and perfectly balanced between glide and grip.

Facts

Skin: 100 % mohair
Length: 182–207 cm
Recommended price: approx. €550 (incl. binding)

About the ski:
Combines the convenience of skin technology with the classic Redster performance.
The Densolite Carbon construction provides low weight and strong power transfer, while the 100% mohair skin ensures a secure grip and smooth glide in varying snow conditions.

Madshus Endurace Skin

Evaluation

Overall rating: 4.3 / 5

Grip: 5.0
Glide: 4.25
Handling: 3.75

Testers’ comment:
Easy to get a grip with and provides a stable, confident feel in the tracks. Slightly soft outside the track, but a plus for the new Rottefella binding that can be adjusted without removing the skis.

Facts

Skin: Profibre – durable, reliable grip and glide, animal-free fibers
Length/Weight: 182–207 cm, 1095 g (187 cm)
Recommended price: approx. €410 (excl. binding)

About the ski:
A popular and easy-handling model that delivers a secure grip without kick wax. The lightweight AstaraLite core and Power Edge construction offer stability and balance, while the Universal Race base ensures lasting glide.

Salomon RC10 eSKIN

Evaluation

Overall rating: 3.9 / 5

Grip: 4.5
Glide: 3.5
Handling: 3.75

Testers’ comment:
Stable and comfortable in the tracks. Easy to achieve a good grip.

Facts

Skin: 100 % mohair, optional switch to eSKIN Race
Length/Weight: 178–206 cm, 1300 g / pair
Recommended price: approx. €540 (incl. binding)

About the ski:
A light and stable ski focused on consistent grip and adjustability. The new Stringer core reduces weight, while the eSKIN Grip+ insert ensures a silent and reliable grip.
Compatible with Salomon Shift bindings.

Rossignol Delta Comp R-Skin

Evaluation

Overall rating: 4.0 / 5

Grip: 4.0
Glide: 4.0
Handling: 4.0

Testers’ comment:
Very stable and easy to handle. Feels more premium than the price suggests. Best suited for more experienced skiers who can apply proper technique.

Facts

Skin: 50 % mohair / 50 % nylon
Length/Weight: 176–208 cm, 580 g (198 cm)
Recommended price: approx. €410 (excl. binding)

About the ski:
Offers a solid balance between grip and glide. The mohair-nylon blend ensures durability, while the Nomex/Poppel core maintains low weight and high stability.
A competitively priced ski with racing-inspired performance.

Peltonen Skin Pro

Evaluation

Overall rating: 3.75 / 5

Grip: 4.75
Glide: 2.5
Handling: 4.0

Testers’ comment:
Ideal for beginners. Provides a reliable grip and stable tracking, although the glide suffers slightly due to the strong grip.

Facts

Skin: 100 % mohair
Length: 174–207 cm
Recommended price: approx. €470 (excl. binding)

About the ski:
A light and stable skin ski with excellent grip. The Aircell Honeycomb core offers responsiveness and strength, while the PRG 4000 base provides dependable glide across temperatures.

Fischer Twin Skin Speedmax 70

Evaluation

Overall rating: 3.2 / 5

Grip: 3.5
Glide: 2.75
Handling: 3.25

Testers’ comment:
Tracks straight and stable, but the grip is inconsistent. The skin sits deep in the snow, slightly reducing glide.

Facts

Skin: 100 % mohair
Length: 182–207 cm
Recommended price: approx. €585 (incl. binding)

About the ski:
A newly developed model with higher camber and a repositioned skin zone. Built for speed and stability but requires precise pressure to perform optimally.

Kästle XP20

Evaluation

Overall rating: 2.9 / 5

Grip: 2.75
Glide: 3.0
Handling: 3.0

Testers’ comment:
A stable ski with a soft flex, not ideal for heavier skiers. A suitable entry-level model.

Facts

Skin: 100 % mohair
Length: 182–207 cm
Recommended price: approx. €450 (excl. binding)

About the ski:
The Kästle XP20 Classic Skin is a lightweight, stable classic ski featuring a 100 % mohair skin for consistent grip and solid glide. Its racing base and balanced camber make it easy to handle in a variety of snow conditions.

Summary – Skin Skis 2025

Are you interested in double poling skis? Below, you can find our test from leading brands to help you find the one that best suits your needs.

Read More: The Big Ski Test 2025 – Double poling skis