Rossignol’s Experience collection is the brand's classic All Mountain offering and the 86 Basalt sits on the wider end of the range. The Basalt name tag stands for the reinforced dampening layer through the ski that makes this version softer and more forgiving than the 86Ti model, therefore suiting more intermediate skiers looking for a solid entry level ski for a wide variety of snow conditions.
The ‘All Trail’ rocker on the tip makes turn initiation super quick and the edge grip is strong, handling hard pack snow on groomed runs with ease. It’s got a little less rebound than the Ti version, but it’s more forgiving and likes the softer snow conditions too. Bumps and moguls are easily absorbed and in these kinds of variable conditions, they feel light and playful, with a nice balance of responsiveness and flair that can be enjoyed by all levels, including expert skiers.
At 86mm under foot, they are wide enough to play in the powder when it’s around, but ideally, one of the longer length versions would make more sense in those conditions. For us a ski like this needs to be versatile and the Experience 86 is just that, it’s pretty good at doing most things pretty well. A more aggressive carver might get let down a little as the skis could wash away for them on harder snow, but at higher speeds they do remarkably well, without too much flapping around.
This is a great choice for anyone looking to purchase their first set of skis, or perhaps go from a piste to all mountain model. Reliable, solid, forgiving and fun from piste to powder and most things in between. A seasonaire that spends most of the time on the front side of the mountain and is looking to improve their technique could also get a lot out of them.
