What To Look For
Rossignol makes all types of skis--alpine, nordic and backcountry. The company's original ski was built out of wood by a carpenter in 1907. Today, Rossignol uses sophisticated camber technology to create skis that steer easily through the trees, where tight turns are required while also creating skis with slant nosed tips for quick edge to edge turns down slalom slopes. Look for high-arched narrowing at boot bindings with slight widening at the tail and tip for narrow turns. For powder skiing, look for extra-wide boards like the men's Phantom SC 97. For skiing fast down steep slopes, look at the Attraxion XII (ladies), skills required. For those just learning ski techniques, try the Avenger 82 Carbon (men's) which provide extra support to achieve good balance while perfecting skills.
Common Pitfalls
Before purchasing skis, iadequately assess your skill level and the type of skiing you enjoy. Do you like to go fast down steep inclined slopes? Or do you appreciate skiing the back bowls of a resort? Perhaps you just enjoy cruising down groomed trails. Rossignol designs many types of skis for each type of skiing: quick-edged, wide-board and cambered. Well-designed gear will help you enjoy skiing more, but you need to think about your needs before you starting looking at Rossignol's selection or you may become overwhelmed.
Where To Buy
Sporting good stores that carry a wide selection of ski gear will likely carry Rossignol skis. REI, EMS and Christy Sports all carry a good selection of Rossignol skis. You can also order Rossignol skis online from Amazon and L.L. Bean; however, the online selections are not as wide or varied. Another option is to go to tent sales at which stores are trying to get rid of previous year styles. When purchasing skis, it's important to discuss features with an experienced salesperson. You are going to have to purchase bindings, boots and poles to go with your skis so it may be best to go to a sporting store that sells all of these goods along with Rossignol skis and get good information directly from salespeople.
Cost
Rossignol skis are high-end skis similar to Dynastar or Volkl in price. As of fall 2010, a basic pair of Rossignol skis purchased at a sporting good store will likely cost about $400 and bindings, boots and poles will only add to the costs of skiing before you even get to the slopes. While costs may appear steep, you are paying for superbly designed gear for performance skiing that can last at least two seasons--maybe even more.
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