The Agent 1X is Faction's women's touring ski — the X in Faction's naming means women's-specific. At 86mm and 1,390g in the 170, it's built for earning your turns. Karuba wood core with carbon weave keeps it absurdly light without going floppy.

Faction's 'Moustache Flex' is the interesting part. Stiff in front of and behind the binding for edge hold, progressive and soft in the tips and tails for easy turn initiation. On the skin track, the directional shape and moderate rocker in the tip make kick-turns easier. On the way down, the camber underfoot gives you something to work with on firm snow.

86mm is the touring sweet spot — narrow enough for efficient skinning and solid edge hold on the bootpack, wide enough to handle a few inches of fresh on the descent. It's not a powder ski. Below treeline in anything over ankle-deep, you'll want something wider.

Three sizes only: 154, 162, 170. The limited range keeps it focused on the women's market. If you're a smaller skier who tours regularly, this is one of the lightest options that doesn't sacrifice downhill performance.