Rossignol ski reviews 2010
Will the Rooster crow again? After a decline that some would say dates back to the beginning of the shape revolution—which Rossi denounced as a fad—dealer interest, judging by the number of test cards we received, is as high as it's been in years. With the Rossignol group now under the guidance of acknowledged master marketeer Tim Petrick, we predict a resurgence of the venerable brand. A new line of technical/all mountain skis dubbed Avengers replaces the old Zenith collection, the Phantom and Attraxion groups are expanded and updated and rockers more prominent. Rossi may well be worth a new look from old fans who have been disappointed over the past few years.
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Classic 70 TI
Effective teaching and learning ski (for cross under skills on the groomed). Definitely focused, shines at moderate to higher speeds—several test skiers commented specifically that it was relatively difficult to handle smoothly at very low speeds. That's most likely the "TI" at work.
Avenger 72
Middle-of-the-road groomer cruiser for less skilled, energetic and infrequent skiers, those we describe as "casual" skiers. Raises the rent vs. buy question, on which we suggest renting, especially for those who ski 5 or 6 times per year (including destination trips). Anyone interested in building skills can do better, for example the Avenger 70.
Attraxion XII
70 TI for women. We don't know exactly why, but, as is surprisingly common, our female testers scored the XII slightly more highly than did men the 70. Good instructor ski, good cruiser.
Avenger 82 Carbon
Ti, or not to Ti . . . That's the question and our skiers thought, for the most part and for most skiers, not to Ti. One tester of both 82's said this: "Much better ski at low speed, and loses little at high speed." According to another, "Very springy, much more fun than the Ti, much lighter." "Loved this ski! Rossi is back!" was one of the more telling comments.
Attraxion VI
The "Every woman's" Attraxion. Despite the speed rating being the same as for the 12, the 6 is definitely more versatile, in our skiers' opinions, on terms of utility and suitable skill level. If the 12, like the Classic 70, is an effective teaching/learning tool, the Attraxion VI is an excellent teaching and learning ski. And a comfortable, high performing recreational ski as well. The 6 is very well balanced, which is the essence of versatility.
S6 Caballero
Big mountain ski for big mountain skiers, best in big radius turns. Surprisingly easy to ski for an ultra-wide, but by no means intended for much duty except off-piste, the more off the better.
