ROSSIGNOLARCADE 88

The Arcade line enters its second season on the market. Last year we tested the version one width narrower. This pair seems purpose-built for more difficult conditions. Many testers were delighted, although critical voices remained. Comments included: “Could this be the golden mean and the ideal ski for the category? Powerful and wide, yet without requiring exceptional strength. Medium and shorter radii suit them best, but they will make long turns too. Only on extremely hard ice will they refuse to hold along the entire edge. On the other hand, they are delighted to take a short trip off piste and always ride over smaller bumps. I predict a large following.” Another tester wrote: “What a surprise! They feel heavy in the hand but ski extremely lightly. Initiation is phenomenal and they carry you into medium-radius carved turns. They track smoothly and can build real speed. Even in heavily chopped snow they remain stable. For their width, grip is good unless the surface is truly icy. Highly effective in short turns on a steep pitch. Energetic but composed – the rebound is not spectacular.” This was followed by: “Very pleasant skis. Excellent for soft conditions on piste. Secure turn tracking and an interesting release into the next arc. A welcome surprise.” The grumblers wrote: “Competent skis for taking things calmly all day. At higher speeds they become nervous and the tips begin to vibrate. In fresh snow they are acceptable, although you need to move back. Attractive design.” And: “Little rebound and weak grip. I could not get on terms with them.”