Redster Q9.8 RVSK S + X 12 GW

The Redster Q9.8 is the widest ski in Atomic's Redster Q frontside line — 84.5mm underfoot — and it's built with genuine race-department logic. Power Woodcore (poplar/ash) sits between two sheets of TI Powered Titanal, which gives the ski a planted, damp feel on hardpack without the single-minded directness of a pure SL platform. Ultrawall sidewalls transfer edge pressure cleanly, and Revoshock S — a dampening insert between the ski and binding zone — kills high-speed chatter so the ski holds its line instead of skipping over chopped-up groomer snow. The Multi Radius Sidecut blends slalom-like geometry at the tip and tail with a longer arc mid-body, so you can tighten or open your turn without fighting the ski. It handles mixed conditions at trail edges, but its home is firm groomed snow. Comes as a complete system with Atomic's X 12 GW binding (DIN 4–12, GripWalk compatible).

This is a ski for advanced to expert carvers who ski groomers hard and want edge grip and stability over comfort or forgiveness. If you're a strong recreational skier who carves deliberately and wants a ski that rewards an active, forward stance, the Q9.8 is the right tool. If you're still building technique, it's not — the stiffness will work against you rather than with you. It's also not the right call if you spend meaningful time in powder, moguls, or off-piste terrain; 84.5mm handles slush and soft edges, but this ski is built for hardpack. For a sharper, narrower pure-carving experience, the Redster S9 (68mm) is the step down. If you want the same frontside concept with a more accessible flex, the Redster Q7.8 is the better fit.