2021 Rossignol Evo OT 65

Stability, strength, and supreme versatility comprise the values involved with the Rossignol Evo OT 65. These skis are quite utilitarian, and can be used by a huge variety of skiers in an almost endless amount of terrain and conditions. It’s probably the beefiest in-track ski that you can get, almost bordering on a BC ski, but the narrower shape and more positive camber keep it pretty squarely in the classic/in-track category. They’re like the Jeep of the Nordic world—capable and willing to tackle some off-track and off-trail adventures, but still just as happy to spend the whole day in-track doing some classic kicking and gliding. They’re not the lightest skis on the market, with a ¾ metal edge, and an LDC composite core, but they are some of the most fun. You likely won't’ be breaking any speed records on these things, but that doesn’t mean you won’t be having a blast. This has been one of our best-selling models over the past few years here at SkiEssentials.com, and we’ve loved the positive responses we’ve had from both dedicated as well as novice cross-country skiers.

On the XL, or 195 cm ski, Bob St.Pierre is one of those skiers who loves the all-around utility of the Evo OT 65. He actually owns a pair that he won at an auction last year, so has a more intimate and long-term experience with these skis. He scored the skis 5’s out of 5 for stability, versatility, grip, and overall impression, with lower scores of 3 for speed, glide, and weight. This is to be expected for a ski like this, and even though it’s versatile, the scores for the Evo OT 65 are likely to be more all over the board. “I’ve done a little bit of everything on these skis and I just love them. Of course, they’re not the light weight thrillers that the more race-oriented classic skis are, but for recreation, exercise, and adventure, I can’t think of too many better options out there. From skiing with my kids to cruising up the mountain on Toll Road, these skis offer a ton of confidence and stability, for everyone from first-timers to seasoned experts. I fall somewhere in the middle, so I seem to get the best of all worlds with these skis.” Bob also notes that “the next logical step for further adventure would be the BC 65, but then you miss out on some of the in-track skiing, which is where these skis are very comfortable.”

For the ladies, Peg Lackey skied the S, or the 165 cm length OT 65. Like Bob, her scores were a bit more spread out with a 5 for stability, and 4’s for maneuverability and glide. Lowly 1’s for speed and weight might seem a little harsh, but that’s kind of by design. Peg’s comments certainly back up her scores: “Heavy skis with metal serves a good purpose for beginners and those looking for stability. Very stable, but not so good at turning and slow gliding.” That said, Peg also notes that the OT 65 is “perfect for beginner skiers on New England snow conditions.” Most skis like this certainly have that purpose in mind. On the M, or 175, Carol Van Dyke gave her highest score of 5 out of 5 for stability, and this is pretty darn consistent with what we’ve seen with these skis over the years. Speed, glide, and weight all garnered the lowly score of 1, showing that more utilitarian purpose that was previously discussed. “Heavy with the metal edges, but a good choice for skiers who want solid control wedging downhill. Good ski of our wintry and icy conditions, and while a bit sluggish in today’s conditions, a good feel overall.” That weight and the metal certainly make this ski a strong contender for variable snow and terrain.

For a non-BC ski, the Rossignol Evo OT 65 has a lot of strength and stability for both new skiers as well as advanced adventure skiers looking for something to use in a variety of conditions and terrain. If you like just getting out there and skiing for recreation, exercise, and adventure, this is the setup for you. Don’t expect race-like performance, and you’ll be all set. These are some of the most versatile classic skis out there today, and they are a ton of fun, with an emphasis on “ton.”