Stockli laser ax vs ar

“In keeping with its race-room roots, this ski will not disappoint,” reassured Little Cottonwood Canyon, Utah, skier Brady Newton. There aren't many skis out there that feel as limitless and smooth as the Montero AR. 

The Montero AR has an on-piste focus, so crud and hard bumps can be more challenging to navigate, though they’re not completely out of the ski’s wheelhouse. The Montero AR costs north of $1,300, which is the average price of a plane ticket to Switzerland these days. It's a bit more precise and powerful in a turn, has a touch more energy, while also being a hair easier in the turn initiation department.

The result of the race/all-mountain marriage and DNA file-share is a smooth ride that excels at groomers. Easier turn initiation just widens the range of skiers who can ski the Montero effectively -- again, a good thing. At 84mm wide it handles chopped-up crud, or heavy wet snow well, but these skis are built to crush hard-pack and groomers. “The extra-smooth feel, superb edge, and carving acumen are all wrapped into a polished, beautiful ski.”

See how the Stöckli Montero AR compares to our other favorite frontside skis of the year.

Jake Stern, a bootfitter from Mammoth Lakes, California, called the Montero AR “a ski instructor’s dream.” When pros log more than 100 days on snow for work, they want a tool for the job that allows them to make high-performance turns without the fatigue of a World Cup construction.

Skiers who spend almost every ski day hunting for fresh corduroy. Skiers that want to carve perfect turns who need a stable and powerful platform.