Volkl has finally given women a fat ski that is wider than 94 underfoot. I know a number of women who had the opportunity to test these skis last season, and this ski was at or near the top of the list as their favorite fat ski. By report, it skis similarly to the male Gotama (no surprise given the platform), but a whisper lighter. So, if you need more reviews the men's Gotama reviews will likely help. I am admittedly passing along 2d hand information on this particular ski - but nobody who skied it did anything but rave. I have also skied the Gotama since 03, and given the that knowledge and field reports, the Kiku gets 5 stars. I have put my money where my mouth is though - I bought my wife a pair as her new fattie. Mounted with the new Marker Baron, these will be great in resort and out.

Demoed Kikus 176, didn't want to give them back, bought a pair. These babies want to do big powerful turns, let 'em fly fast on steep groomers, float in powder with no effort, cut through crud, anything on the mountain.
Also demoed Line Pandora, KIkus felt more solid and stable. Found the skis that make me smile big!!

These skis are awesome. They are exactly what I was looking for- nice and powerful but not too difficult to maneuver at the same time. I felt great in them on ice actually too- that was a surprise. They seem like the perfect fit- I finally found them!

I demoed these fat skis (mounted tele) in 6-8" of fresh powder and they were fantastic. Effortless float yet quick turning in the trees and bumps for such a fattie. The only type of terrain I didn't get to ski was wide open bowls but I am convinced they are a sweet ride all over the mountain.

I've taken these babies everywhere this season and haven't been displeased yet. I've been surprised at how fast they rip even on the crud and groomers. And in a long open pow slope, well, just sit back and enjoy the ride. I have to beg to differ with Cece's review- I've had no trouble keeping up with the boys on the Kikus, and the crud only throws me around in user-error situations.

The skis are awesome in powder, and they carve really well. But, at top speeds they can't hold a candle to the gotama or the mantra. They are pretty soft, and are great for skiing around with the lady friends, but if you feel like taking a day to rip with the boys, better leave them out. Also, they can't really chop through the crud very well. So, if you like to ski fast, these aren't your ski, if you like to shmooze around and look for powder stashes, these might be for you!