The No. 1 Women’s Powder Ski of 2022: Fischer Ranger 115 FR

The Fischer Ranger 115 FR was tested in the men’s and women’s Powder category in 2022. The scores above are from the women’s Powder category at the 2022 SKI Test at Utah’s Solitude Mountain Resort. Scroll down to read both the women’s and men’s take on these powder planks.

2022 Fischer Ranger 115 FR – Women’s SKI Test Review

This season the top spot in the women’s powder category goes to the unisex Fischer Ranger 115 FR. It didn’t take home top scores in Flotation, but it did outperform the other skis in this category in versatility, stability at speed, forgiveness, and crud performance, and that’s why testers named it the best resort powder ski—the Fischer Ranger 115 FR won’t let you down when the steeps and back bowls get tracked out by noon.

See how it stacks up: The best powder skis of the year

With its 115mm waist and Twintip profile, the Ranger 115 FR is an incredible choice for expert ladies who choose their ski days wisely. Realistically, that fat of a waist might be a little much for most skiers on most resort days, but when the snow really stacks up—and then gets skied out—advanced skiers couldn’t ask for a better powder playmate.

“It plows over everything—chunder, pow, groomers, ice, etc.—without skipping a beat,” comments tester Courtney Harkins. “It’s super responsive to steering and likes all speeds. It could use a little more pop/play at the end of turns, but overall, this is a really solid ski.”

While most testers commented that the Fischer Ranger 115 FR is responsive, don’t think that this is a nimble, zippy little ski. Our testers are ex-racers and know how to bend a stiff ski; they can get this ski to respond beautifully to their movements because they know how to drive. Testers caution that all but advanced and expert skiers may find this ski to be a little cumbersome in tight spots or unforgiving when conditions are less than ideal.

Says tester Tracy Gibbons: “I took this ski into some very tight spots and it took a little drive to make it cooperate. For the second run, I tested it in a more open area and really enjoyed it. Just loose enough in the tail to push as needed but still there when you need it.”

The Fischer Ranger 115’s one miss: The shortest available length is 172cm, and even that takes muscle to maneuver. But if you’re an advanced skier and do have the strength and skill for these skis, they won’t disappoint you in powder or anywhere else.
Says tester Erika Northrop: “Jumping on this ski is like getting your car back from a speciality mechanic who gave it lots of upgrades. Make sure you’re ready to drive.”

• Strengths: Stability at Speed (1st in category), Crud Performance (1st)
• Weaknesses: Flotation (6th), Quickness (6th)

2022 Fischer Ranger 115 FR – Men’s SKI Test Review

While the Fischer Ranger 115 didn’t top the charts in any scoring categories, it also didn’t rank lower than fifth in any category. This scoring spread indicates that there is nothing these fat skis can’t do, making them a particularly viable option for resort skiers who want a powder ski that is fun every day of the season. “Buttery smooth and multi-talented,” comments tester Bob Gleason. “It came alive in powder but had tricks up its sleeve in piste. A stand out ski.”

See how it stacks up: The best men’s powder skis of the year

Following in Fischer’s gender-free ski plan, the Fischer Ranger 115 FR really stood out with the ladies, where it took Best in Test for the women’s Deep Snow category. Part of the high marks there—as well as on the men’s side—came from the ski’s carbon shovel, which provides a snappy feel while reducing weight. The weight reduction adds a floaty feeling in powder, soft crud, and everywhere you want it. “The low profile and the lightweight of the Ranger 115 made me wary, but skiing day-old powder and crud in the trees with such a light and maneuverable ski, I recognize the benefit,” notes tester Jon Sexauer.

With a Titanal mounting plate and a wood core, the Fischer Ranger 115 is by no means a beginner ski. But the weight reduction from the carbon and extended effective edge mean that these skis are a solid choice for advanced skiers ready to take it to the next level. Plus, with a top 3 ranking in Forgiveness, they are not nearly as demanding as the ski ranked higher in this category. “A great ski in every aspect of the category,” says tester Mike Rogan. “And the color means you can see it without having to look down, which is comforting in tight places. A great ski.”

• Overall Rank: #3
• Strengths: Flotation (2nd in category), Forgiveness (3rd)
• Weaknesses: Playfulness (5th), Crud Performance (4th)

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