By Sophia Reynolds
Nordica Santa ana 104 unlimited
First impression and intended use
The Santa Ana 104 Unlimited is a versatile freeride-touring ski aimed at riders who want efficient uphill performance without sacrificing flotation and control on the descent. With a 104 mm waist and a Powder Rocker profile, it offers enough surface for soft snow while remaining manageable on firmer groomers. It’s intended for experienced skiers who spend long days skinning and expect a playful, confidence-inspiring ride in mixed conditions. The ski walks a careful line between lightweight hiking efficiency and downhill capability for varied terrain.
On-snow behavior across conditions
On-snow the ski surprises with composed behavior and surprisingly precise edge hold for a touring-focused model. The camber underfoot provides pop and on-edge support while the rockered tip and turned-up tail help the ski float in powder and release from turns. It handles chop and tracked-out snow smoothly, and longer-radius turns feel composed. Quick, tight turns are possible but less instantaneous than a dedicated piste carving ski; the trade-off is forgiveness and versatility off-piste.
Uphill performance and weight trade-offs
For uphill performance the weight-to-stiffness balance matters, and this ski delivers thanks to its Lite Performance Wood core combined with Carbon Chassis LT. Reported weights vary by length and source, typically in the 1745–1915 g per-ski range; a common reference is roughly 1815 g at 172 cm. That makes it lighter than many resort-specific freeride planks while retaining enough mass to damp chatter on descents. Binding selection will significantly affect total setup weight and touring efficiency.
Construction, materials and spec explanations
Construction blends poplar and beech wood with full-length carbon reinforcement and a True Tip LT to reduce swing weight. ABS sidewalls provide reliable edge grip and impact resistance, and the sintered graphite base keeps speed and durability high. What these specs mean in practice: the core and carbon add torsional stiffness for stable carving, the trimmed tip lowers swing-weight for easier pivoting, and the powder-rocker/camber profile balances flotation, initiation, and edge pressure on groomers.
Comparison, strengths, and considerations
Compared to other ~104 mm freeride-touring skis, the Santa Ana 104 Unlimited sits in a sweet spot: lighter than metal-laminate resort skis but stiffer and more damp than ultra-light backcountry race boards. Strengths include versatility, edge bite for variable snow, and a playful tail for exits and tweaks. Downsides are slightly less pure high-speed stability on hardpack than heavier metal skis and some inconsistency in reported weights across sources. Overall it’s a compelling choice for riders wanting a one-ski quiver for uphill-focused days.
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