By Alice Ivey
Atomic Redster s9i
Who it’s for
For skiers who live for clean, quick arcs on groomers, the Redster S9i delivers race-bred slalom energy in a package you can ski all day. It prefers harder snow and frontside pistes, rewarding advanced to expert technique with instant edge engagement and secure bite. Compared with broader all‑mountain carvers, it is narrower, quicker, and more precise, yet not as punishing as true FIS sticks. Strong, experienced intermediates can step into it, but the ski really shines under skiers comfortable driving high edge angles and disciplined pressure management.
Carving performance
The defining feel is snap and accuracy. Turn initiation is immediate, the platform transitions edge‑to‑edge with very little input, and the tail finishes with satisfying acceleration, especially when you load it through the fall line. Carbon Boost seems to add spring without harshness, so short‑to‑medium slalom arcs link seamlessly. On refrozen cord and morning hardpack, grip is exceptional for a 68‑mm waisted ski. Compared with a Hero Elite ST TI, the S9i is slightly more electric off the tail; versus a Supershape e‑SL, it feels a touch quicker across the hill.
Stability and damping tech
Revoshock S keeps chatter at bay when the surface turns chattery or you open the throttle. Combined with TI Powered construction and Ultrawall sidewalls, the ski stays composed under pressure and tracks accurately through ruts. Active Camber (0/100/0) puts the entire edge in contact, boosting bite on boilerplate and giving a calm, connected feel at speed. It’s not as steam‑roller damp as some heavier skis, but the balance of vibration control and rebound is excellent, giving you confidence to push while preserving the lively character that makes it fun.
Versatility and drawbacks
Versatility is good for a dedicated piste carver, but there are limits. The narrow waist and full camber slice through morning groomers; in late‑day cut‑up or slushy piles, the light shovel can deflect if you get lazy. Bumps are fine when you stay stacked and centered, yet the firm, supportive tail punishes the back seat. Top‑end stability is impressive for its class, though if your days lean more toward GS‑length arcs at very high speeds, a longer‑radius carver may suit better. Compared with RC4 WC SC, the S9i feels less demanding and more playful.
Sizing and specs explained
At 165 cm the sidecut is 118‑68‑104 mm with a 12.5 m radius, which means ultra‑quick turn‑in, edge hold, and slalom‑style arcs that tighten easily. Active Camber (0/100/0) keeps the full edge engaged for maximum grip. The stated weight around 2925 g per ski (165) adds reassuring damping without feeling sluggish. Lengths run 155/160/165/170: choose shorter for lightning‑quick footwork on tighter pistes; go longer for a calmer ride and a slightly larger sweet spot. Tune and structure out of the box are race‑inspired, so maintain the edges to keep that razor‑sharp feel.
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