The Fischer RCS skate ski has been a staple in their lineup for years and years now, and continues to offer high-end performance, but these days, at a more reasonable price than ever before. Although there are now skis that sit above it in Fischer’s collection of race skis, the RCS is still really good, and these days offers exceptional value among their race-level skis. Fischer uses their Air Core Carbon construction, which results in a very lightweight feel while retaining really good energy and responsiveness for each stride. They come with a World Cup base, so your glide will be just as good as their most expensive models. You also get all the other important technologies Fischer includes in their high-end skis like their Cold Base Bonding, Hole Ski Tip design, more.
Jeff Neagle skied the 186 cm length and described it as “solid as a rock. The RCS is a staple in the XC skate world in my opinion. Plenty fast and responsive, but some forgiveness too. They did great in today’s conditions: some soft snow on top of firm, frozen stuff. I feel like these are ideal for a high school racer.” Those skiers don’t really need the extra performance of the Speedmax skis, in fact it might have a negative effect on developing skiers performance if they opt for the Speedmax. This RCS provides plenty of performance and will allow a skier to continue to progress on a slightly more forgiving ski. All 4 out of 5 scores from Jeff, a sure sign of a solid, well-rounded ski. Marcus Shakun thought it would be a “great skate ski for intermediates all the way up to advanced skiers. Gives great rebound and energy. Good for an active skier who likes to keep the pace.” Even if you’re not racing, you should be a pretty accomplished skier that likes speed in order to get the most out of the RCS.
CONSTRUCTION
Cold Base Bonding
PREFERRED TERRAIN
Carol Van Dyke loved the feel of the RCS. All 5 out of 5 scores from Carol, which is darn impressive considering there are still skis above this in Fischer’s line. “This is the ‘lowest’ of their race line, but feels like a million bucks. Full disclosure: my current race skate ski is a Fischer Carbonlite.” The Carbonlite is a step above the RCS in Fischer’s line, and it’s really interesting that it seems Carol didn’t find a significant amount of extra performance between the two. Shelby Parentea has far less experience on skate skis than Jeff, Marcus, or Carol, but she still enjoyed the RCS, which is a testament to its approachability. “This is a ski I thought would be out of my league. I was wrong. As a beginner skate skier, I still felt comfortable on the RCS. I’d say it’s a confidence inspiring ski for an aspiring skate skier.”
What was once billed as the top-of-the-line, race-only ski in Fischer’s line now feels more approachable and more well-rounded for a bigger range of skiers. It’ll still perform admirably on race day, but you certainly don’t need to be racing to enjoy its performance. Anyone that values precision, responsiveness, and wants a skate ski that feels fast and efficient will really enjoy the Fischer RCS.
