Nordica Santa Ana 98 vs Icelantic Maiden 101

[Cat Lemus]

Heyo! Anyone have any experience riding either of these?

I tried searching the forums and found like 1 post on the maiden but nothing on the santa ana 98. Would love to hear from anyone who skis these on if what you like/hate about them before I send another grand out of my bank account lol.

 

[Analisa]

Very different skis. The Maiden is more "freestyle" inspired. Poppy flex, full twin tip, more forward mount point that makes it easier to pivot and smear.

The Santa Ana 98 has an almost-complete sheet of metal, flatter and stiffer tail, and a more traditional / directional style.

The Santa Ana 98 is best matched to advanced intermediates and up, and women who either put a moderate amount of speed and power into their skiing (or aspire too). They walk a fine line when it comes to being punishing vs. forgiving. They'll be more compliant when you're in the backseat compared to the Black Pearl 97 or Secret 102, but they'll also encourage you to get forward on your skis. They'll be more stable at speed but need a little more input to bend and steer than the Maiden 101. they're also super versatile in terms of handling a variety of turn shapes (like tight trees vs open bowls and wide groomers) and snow conditions. They're one of the best selling lines and highly rated by major review outlets, and they deserve it.

The Maiden's going to be more nimble, so if you like to ski slowly with tight, cautious turns, they'll be more compliant at lower speeds. They'll also be easier to work between tight trees and moguls. They're lighter and easier to bend, so they're less fatiguing. You'll also probably get better float out of the Maiden since they're lighter and the tips are softer.

Both solid skis, but serve slightly different skier types.

 

[Cat Lemus]

I cannot tell you how appreciative I am of your response! I swear I've read every review and watched every video and this has been the most informative bit of information I could have ever hopped for! Thank you Analisa!!!