Innovation, guts, and “cool factor” are what indie brands are all about. These skis also happen to perform at the top of their class.

Six inexpensive lady-specific skis that absolutely rip.

These independent brands are small, nimble, and innovative - meaning you just might find something out of the ordinary.

Our favorite images from our annual Ski Test in Deer Valley, Utah

Is there such a thing as inexpensive sticks that rip? Yes, and these six pairs fit the bill.

Skis for the lucky ones who ski soft snow more often than not. Perfect widths for all-terrain, all-day rippers in Western locales.

Just wide enough for soft-snow fun, still narrow enough to carve almost like a race ski. Bring it all on.

The only thing better than skiing the deep stuff is slaying it on the proper skis. These fat-body boards happily embrace their girth. When the storm cycle hits, you’re good to go.