2021 Rossignol React R8 HP

For the 2020 season, Rossignol replaced its Pursuit line with the React skis and by adding a few new key technologies, they made a great set of skis for front side carving. The React R8 HP is made with a poplar wood core, Rossignol's Line Control Technology (LCT) and their flex tip and tail tech. In the 170 cm length ski, the React R8 generates a 14-meter turn radius, so these things are pretty quick turners. They prefer to be on edge, and since there's minimal tip rocker, they carve and hook up in turns easily and quickly. For front side skiers who are looking for a light, easy to turn ski that has a high gear and speed limit, the React R8 is a fantastic choice. Paired with the Rossi/Look NX 12 Konnect binding system, you'll be ready to rip when you click in. In many of Rossignol's race skis, the LCT started out as a way to keep the ski from counterflexing. The vertical strip of material runs through the center of the ski and makes for a stiffer flex without adding too much weight. This technology has since filtered down to the masses and is now employed in the more recreational skis in Rossi's line. The Flex tip is pretty interesting as well, as kind of a mix between the Air Tip found on the freeride skis and the way the high-end skis are able to direct energy from the tips to the central spine of the ski, leading to the ultimate in stability.

Rick Randall skied on the 177 and found it to be about right. His top score of 5 out of 5 for forgiveness isn't too surprising given the overall friendly nature of the skis. A 4 out of 5 for stability is pretty impressive, especially given the light weight and easy maneuverability of these skis. Rick calls it "good for softer groomers and intermediate level skiers. Predictable, they can make short to long turns." On firmer snow, Rick did experience some tip chatter, but he's a pretty powerful skier, so that's to be expected. Still in line with that intermediate labeling, Rick notes that there's "not a lot of energy when pushing the ski hard, but probably fine for that level skier." So it sounds like the ski is at home where it belongs, but isn't too comfortable outside of its zone, which is fine, just need to take note when assessing skills and need.

Phil McGrory was also on the 177, noting that it was a good length for him. Good thing, because that's as long as they come. Like Rick, the scores were a bit all over the place due to the front-sided nature of the skis. A 5 out of 5 for forgiveness was the high mark while flotation and versatility were on the lower end. This is expected, as the R8 is certainly best suited for groomers and smooth skiing. Phil notes that the skis are "quick, nimble, and predictable. They carve well and are very stable in variable terrain." In addition, Phil pegs the skis as best for skiers up to the high-intermediate range. Bob St.Pierre is a pretty big guy, so it's no surprise that he found his 177-cm tester to be on the short side. Regardless, he called it "a great little carving ski! They loved being put on edge and held the turn in a clean, round manner. Very poised for a mid-level cruiser." It's always interesting to see where the high end lies in some of these skis, and it sounds like Bob thinks the R8 has a decent top gear. He continues: "I loved the lightness to stability ratio as I'd imagine a lot of skiers will find it approachable but with a high-performance ceiling." Good to note!

The intermediate cruiser category is an important one because that's just where a lot of skiers land. It's not always about ripping high-speed turns down the steepest slopes, there's a lot to say about the huge middle ground as well. The Rossignol React R8 HP is a great example of a ski that smartly targets that large number of skiers.