2022 Fischer RC One 74

Front side skis have come a long way in a short time, much to the delight of the majority of skiers out there on the hill today. The Fischer RC One 74 is a fantastic example of how a seemingly simple ski can offer so much precision and control. Thanks to the ski's pedigree and lineage coming from the RC One 86 GT, the 74 offers a whole lot of the same technology and advancements but in an easier-to-use package that's accessible for more skiers. The shape of the ski makes it a great option for groomers and smoother terrain, with the 74 mm waist width and the 13-meter turn radius in the 160 cm length. This is almost slalom-short, allowing skiers to really maximize the use of the edges, creating a grippy ski that loves to be in a carved turn.

Built with an all-wood core and Fischer's Turn Zone technology, the skis are easy to get up on edge, but then hold tight through the central portion of the turn where it really matters most. By placing Bafatex material in the tips and tails on the side of the ski, we're seeing a lot easier of a time to transition between turns and make some of the cleanest carves on the mountain. Bafatex is a material that's more commonly found in high-end sails, and when inlayed in the ski construction, it serves a lot like a fiberglass laminate without the weight. As a result, the skis stay light and quick in the ends, allowing for easier transitions and a fun-loving character.

Bob St.Pierre hopped on the 174 and noted that while it skied true to size, it was definitely too short for him, but that didn't stop him from having a good time on the ski. Bob scored it 4's out of 5 for quickness, maneuverability, torsional stiffness, and edge grip. This makes a lot of sense for a ski like this, and in this size, to hit those numbers on the card. "I really loved the quickness of this ski, and it makes it feel like a snappy and energetic ski for sure. There's a speed limit, to be sure, but these skis weren't built for the hard-charging and aggressive skiers of the world--that's what the 86 GT is for. I think that a whole lot of intermediate skiers who spend most of their time on the groomers will love the RC One 74, as it's got a high-end feel that will make a lot of skiers happy."

If you are in the intermediate range and are looking for something carvy and fun but not too demanding or aggressive, the Fischer RC One 74 is a fantastic option. With a great value and a high-end feel, these skis have the heritage and technology to make a whole lot of skiers satisfied with their carved turns. With some top-end features in the ski, you'll feel like you're leaving some of the cleanest and roundest turns on the mountain.