How do freeride skis handle icy or firm conditions?

Honestly, not well compared to narrower, more cambered skis. The wide waist requires more effort to roll onto edge, and the rocker reduces effective edge contact. However, freeride skis with camber underfoot, stiff flex, and metal reinforcement can still hold an edge on firm snow—they just require more input from the skier. If you regularly encounter firm conditions (windblown ridges, refrozen traverses, sun crust), prioritize freeride models with more camber underfoot, stiffer flex, and metal layers. If firm snow is rare in your freeride terrain, you can prioritize rocker and width for better soft-snow performance.