It’s time for the next part of this year’s Big Ski Test – the top-tier skate skis. ProXCskiing.com tested seven of the market’s leading high-performance models, aimed at those who demand nothing but the best.

The Big Ski Test 2025 is divided into five parts: double-poling skis, skin skis, skate skis in the lower price range, top-tier skate skis, and poles. In this section, the focus is on the top-tier skate skis.

The top models in this year’s test clearly show how far ski development has come. They combine low weight with high stability and impressive power transfer. The test team compared seven models from the World’s leading brands, and the overall level was extremely high – differences were minimal and often came down to personal preference.

How the test was conducted

The test took place in the Torsby Ski Tunnel in September. The tunnel provided a wind-free environment, with a temperature of around 0°C and dry, loose snow.

Both testers tried every pair of skis and poles, rating and commenting independently. The results presented here are averages based on the scores of both testers. Each ski was tested for about ten minutes on varied terrain to ensure a fair overall impression.

• Handling: Tested through turns and track changes – how easy the ski is to move sideways.
• Stability: The ski’s balance and steadiness in and outside the track.
• Glide / Feel: How easily the ski moves forward and responds to power application.

About the testers

Both testers are experienced skiers with many years of racing and training at a high level in both long-distance and traditional cross-country skiing.  Alfred Nilsson is 185 cm tall and weighs 85 kg, and Maja Eriksson is 171 cm tall and weighs about 70 kg. Their different builds and skiing styles led to slightly different impressions and ratings on some skis.

The Big Ski Test 2025 – Top-Tier Skate Skis

Atomic Redster S9 Carbon

Evaluation

Overall rating: 4.8 / 5

Stability: 5.0
Glide / Feel: 4.5
Handling: 5.0

Comment:
Test winner! A very stable, responsive, and easy-to-handle ski that goes precisely where you want.

Facts

Core: Innowave Core
Base: BI 6000
Length: 175–191 cm
Recommended price: approx. €870 (incl. binding)

About the ski:
Developed for competitive skiers seeking top performance, the Atomic Redster S9 Carbon combines Innowave Core with Race Carbon Construction for minimal weight, maximum stiffness, and excellent stability at high speed.

Fischer Speedmax 100 HE Skate

Evaluation

Overall rating: 4.5 / 5

Stability: 4.0
Glide / Feel: 4.5
Handling: 5.0

Comment:
Exceptionally light and responsive with great flow and handling.

Facts

Core: Bidirectional Air Core
Base: World Cup Plus
Length: 171–191 cm
Recommended price: approx. €1 080 (incl. binding)

About the ski:
The Fischer Speedmax 100 HE Skate is a world-class top model. Its Helium Construction keeps the weight at just 950 g (186 cm) without sacrificing stiffness. Fast, stable, and efficient – a true elite benchmark.

Rossignol X-IUM Skating Premium+ S2

Evaluation

Overall rating: 4.0 / 5

Stability: 4.5
Glide / Feel: 4.0
Handling: 3.5

Comment:
Extremely stable with strong response and plenty of power. It can feel a bit demanding to handle.

Facts

Core: 100 % Nomex / Okoume
Base: K7000 Universal Race
Length: 173–193 cm
Recommended price: approx. €780 (excl. binding)

About the ski:
The Rossignol X-IUM Premium+ S2 is built for hard, compact conditions. The Power Edge sidewall and even pressure distribution deliver efficient power transfer. Stable, fast, and designed for strong skiers.

Salomon S/Lab Skate

Evaluation

Overall rating: 3.6 / 5

Stability: 3.5
Glide / Feel: 3.75
Handling: 3.5

Comment:
Mixed impressions between testers, one found it light and reactive, the other slightly harder to control. Still, a strong and precise skating ski.

Facts

Core: Innowave Core
Base: G5%
Length: 170–192 cm (970 g / pair)
Recommended price: approx. €870 (incl. binding)

About the ski:
Light, fast, and built with Innowave Core and Thin Ply Carbon, the Salomon S/Lab Skate offers quick energy transfer and excellent stability. A high-speed ski for technically skilled skiers.

Madshus Redline Skate F2

Evaluation

Overall rating: 3.8 / 5

Stability: 3.0
Glide / Feel: 4.0
Handling: 4.5

Comment:
Light and smooth with good acceleration. Slightly softer and less stable than some competitors, but very easy to maneuver.

Facts

Core: Carbon Power Wrap
Base: World Cup Pro
Length: 172–192 cm (800 g / pair)
Recommended price: approx. €780 (excl. binding)

About the ski:
Designed for maximum speed and precision, the Madshus Redline Skate F2 offers agile steering and efficient energy return – especially well-suited for lighter skiers.

Peltonen WCR Supra X Skate

Evaluation

Overall rating: 4.0 / 5

Stability: 5.0
Glide / Feel: 3.5
Handling: 3.5

Comment:
A very stable ski that remains relatively easy to handle. Slightly heavier than others in the test.

Facts

Core: Nomex Honeycomb
Base: Nano High Speed
Length: 174–193 cm
Recommended price: approx. €700 (excl. binding)

About the ski:
The Peltonen WCR Supra X Skate is an updated top model featuring Speed Edge 2.0 technology and a fluoro-free Nano High Speed base, providing low friction and a strong glide. Ideal for hard tracks and heavier skiers.

Kästle RX10 WC Skate

Evaluation

Overall rating: 3.5 / 5

Stability: 3.5
Glide / Feel: 4.0
Handling: 3.0

Comment:
Stable with good glide but slightly heavy. Comfortable and predictable on snow.

Facts

Core: Honeycomb
Base: WC Race Plus
Length: 177–192 cm
Recommended price: approx. €730 (excl. binding)

About the ski:
The Kästle RX10 WC Skate is a lightweight, stable ski built for experienced skiers. The wood core reinforced with carbon and the high-quality base provide efficient power transfer and reliable performance in variable conditions.

Summary – Top-Tier Skate Skis 2025