A New England classic, the Rustler 9 gets a cosmetic facelift for this season. The construction remains unchanged from prior seasons, sticking to the if it ain't broke don't fix it mindset. The Rustler comes in at 96 underfoot with moderate tip and tail rocker making it a lethal all mountain weapon in the mountains of the Northeast and beyond. The Trueblend wood core allows the ski to retain its stability profile, yet a softer tip and tail combined with a bit of rocker makes it easy to turn in bumps and trees. Given the shape and rocker of the ski it does feel a tad bit shorter than its stated length.

Greg's Take: The Rustler doesn't hold up the best on firm snow at high speeds, then again it is a true all mountain ski. I have found the ski prefers shorter turns on groomers which is a good way to counteract the chatter, yet it still has a lower speed limit compared to other frontside options. It's in my "want to have some fun and get off the beaten path" quiver slot. 

Choose the Rustler 9 if you're queuing up in the Wildcat lift line ready to rip Upper Wildcat or if you take to the woods at the first sight of fresh snowfall. Weighing in at 1780g/ski in the 174cm length, it is a viable option for a 50/50 resort/touring setup or for a bomber touring ski. Mount it with an ATK Hy Free for a one ski quiver that doesn't compromise on the downhills.

Dimensions:

• 162 - 14m radius, 1590g/ski
• 168 - 15m radius, 1690g/ski
• 174 - 16m radius, 1780g/ski
• 180 - 17m radius, 1880g/ski
• 186 - 18m radius, 1980g/ski