2027 Rossignol Arcade 94

The 2027 Rossignol Arcade 94 is a carryover model featuring the same shape, graphics, and construction as last year. While this ski works great on groomers and is one of the most competent carvers of this width, it’s also a whole lot of fun in variable conditions and terrain mainly because it simply powers and motors through anything and everything. It’s got a classic shape and traditional design but a modern style for carvers and powerful skiers. Rossignol puts their mark on wide front side/all-mountain skis with the Arcade 94. Best when used by advanced and expert skiers, this thing is a total blast when you’re an active participant in the skiing process. It’s stiff but predictable, so there’s a lot of confidence in carves here.

The wood core is pretty hefty, leading to the overall power of this ski. This ski actually shares the same build as the Arcade 84. We think that if it had the sturdier 88 build then it would be too tank-like at this width. As such, we get a poplar wood core, a titanal beam underfoot, and VAS in the shovel to go along with Air Tip. This keeps everything smooth and predictable from top to bottom. In the 178, the ski hits a stated weight of 2100 grams per ski, getting pretty heavy. The thickness of the core contributes to a stiffer flex than most other skis in this range, even though the metal isn’t full length. Tester Michael Rooney notes that “The ski will take anything without any trouble. This ski is good for anyone who has a good parallel ability, and it will forgive a lot too. Typical Eastern groomers with some variation of the depth of snow on them.”

With more of a carving style, the shape doesn’t allow you to relax all that much either. The build is stiff, but the shape is directional and traditional, with a shorter turn radius. The 178 features a 16-meter arc, and it is certainly capable of longer carves, but it’s very difficult to get it to be 100% involved in the carve in a shorter radius—the skis are just too stiff to tighten the arc. There’s minimal rocker and almost zero taper in these skis, relying mostly on full camber to get the energy. Tester Matt Stromecki notes that “This ski feels powerful, stable, and composed. Strong edge hold providing confidence through the chop and chunder. I felt thoroughly planted through every turn. The Arcade 94 strikes a nice balance between carving precision and all-mountain capability. It has a distinctly directional feel and prefers to be driven. While it’s not the most playful ski in the category, it’s exceptionally reliable when skied with intention.”

Wide carving enthusiasts will rejoice, but these skis end up being a bit much for the general skiing population. Those that fare well have a good skillset and some strength, balance, and athleticism to rely on. You must be willing to drive the ski and be involved in the process. As such, it’s a better choice for advanced and expert skiers who know what it takes to make a stiff, heavy and somewhat wide ski turn with such a short sidecut. One must be an active participant in this process to get the most out of it.