The 2023 Rossignol XV is a powerful big mountain snowboard for advanced to expert riders who want strength and stability while performing freeride maneuvers wherever they please. Whether its firm groomers, steep trees, or powder bowls, the XV can tackle it with style and energy. Named after the notable Xavier De Le Rue, who we might agree knows a thing or two about big mountain riding, this signature board boasts a stiff flex and ABS sidewalls to provide stability and grip upon variable conditions. The THC CBF2 core combines two different types of wood laminated with three microcell beams plus two strips of Basalt to deliver explosive yet lightweight balance and control. Where the freeride flair comes in, the Amptek Elite Rocker profile combined with camber underfoot and Roller Base Technology allows for effortless float, maneuverability and play.
PREFERRED TERRAIN
Big Mountain, Powder, All Mountain
Jarrod Ogden took a 159 in length out for a few laps and commented “yes”, which we would assume is the answer to the length he would choose for himself. Or just a resounding yes to all, we’re not sure! Either way, his scores reflect a positive outcome yet with some slight weaknesses. For playfulness, forgiveness, and versatility, he handed out the lowest of the bunch, with 3’s for each one. While this strays from the rest of the categories, it is still a middle of the road score and proves that not every board can be great at everything. He thought that “this is more mellow from last year’s version. Still very hard charging. Good carver with a new improved shape.” With 5s given for stability and torsional stiffness, it’s clear that Jarrod found this board to be a strong and powerful carver.
David Lombardi and Justin Connolly both tested the slightly longer length in the 162 and while David found it to be just right, Justin would most likely size down. With scores between 3-5 for the two of them, with consistency in playfulness, forgiveness, and overall impression, it’s always interesting to get two riders on the same size to truly get the best review. David’s takeaway was “solid full camber ride. Stable with a side of playful. Handled high speed and spring slop extremely well. For advanced to expert riders. Excels in steep terrain.” Considering the XV has a 9/10 flex and full camber, it makes sense that it would be geared towards the more advanced crowd of riders. However, based on his review and thanks to the AmpTek Elite Rocker, the softer tail allows for that side of playfulness. Justin’s opinion was quite similar, with his thought being “stiff board but still very maneuverable. Rode it on a few groomers and it absolutely ripped. Wish I had a forward-facing stance. Also felt like it would be a lot of fun in the powder with its width and length. Recommend for a more experienced rider.”
The Rossignol XV is a legendary big mountain rider’s signature board, and for good reason. For big mountain exploration with a side of freeride, riders will love the range of capabilities and lively energy that this board exhibits. Ride like the pros and chase those big mountain lines you’ve always dreamed of.
