Ski Reviews
2022 Fischer RC4 The Curv GT Ski Review
Fischer has a strong race heritage. If you watch World Cup ski races, chances are you’ll see multiple people holding Fischer skis while they climb their way to their podium spot. Brands that have a strong racing background benefit from the idea that their race development and technology ultimately trickles down into their consumer skis and mere mortals like you and I can enjoy similar performance as those World Cup superstars. That’s a good way to think about this new Fischer RC4 The Curv GT. Fischer wanted to make a “race ski for the whole day.” We get that trickle down technology from the race world, but we also get some unique design elements that give this ski its own personality. Spoiler alert: We really like that personality.
Let’s start by looking at construction. Fischer uses a classic wood core to start, then enhances it through multiple different applications of different materials. We get their Carbon Bridge technology, which essentially features horizontal or 90 degree strips of carbon fiber running laterally across the ski underfoot in the binding area. The idea is to give the ski maximum grip and power underfoot. It’s pretty rare to see a lateral application of carbon like this. Typically, carbon is used in longitudinal strips, so it’s really cool to see the opposite of that. In addition, we also get Diagocarbon. This is something we do see from other brands, and is essentially a cross-hatching grid of carbon that runs throughout the entire ski. These strips of carbon are positions more on a 45 degree axis, which is designed to provide more torsional stiffness and as Fischer calls it, a “harmonic” flex pattern.
AT A GLANCE
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2022 Fischer RC4 The Curv GT Skis |
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AVAILABLE SIZES |
TURN RADIUS |
SIDECUT |
CORE |
STRENGTHS |
|---|---|---|---|---|
161, 168, 175, 182 cm |
17 m at 182 cm |
125 / 76 / 110 mm @ 182 cm |
Wood Core, Shaped Ti, Carbon Bridge, Diagocarbon |
Stability, Responsiveness, Forgiveness |
Fischer then adds in what they call Shaped Ti. The sheet of titanal above the core is full width underfoot and in the extremities of the ski, but is brought in a little from the edge of the ski in the fore and aft sections. It’s similar to the Titanal I-Beam seen in K2 Disruption skis, although there’s more metal overall in the Fischer construction. In those fore and aft sections, the metal is still pretty wide, just pulled back about a cm or less from the edge of the ski. The idea here is the full width metal underfoot combines with that Carbon Bridge to really maximize grip and stability underfoot. The sections of the ski where the metal doesn’t extend all the way to the edge allows for a little more compliance and forgiveness, which is really nice, and something we’ll talk more about when we get to performance. The tip and tail sections ensure strong turn initiation. Not only does the metal and carbon work together, overall the construction also works hand in hand with the ski’s shape.
Fischer is using a Radical Triple Radius in the Curv GT. It’s a little different than what we’ve seen from other brands who use multiple turn radii in a single ski. It’s a tighter radius in the tips, longer underfoot, then tighter again in the tail. The tip is a shorter radius than the tail, but both are shorter than underfoot. Fischer hasn’t released detailed specs on the different radii, but the 175 cm length is listed with a 16 m turn radius, which we’d guess is somewhat of an average of the different radii. Now, if you think about it, this shape makes a lot of sense with how the ski is built. The shorter radii in the tips and tails means you can enter a turn really quickly without a ton of skier input. That also matches the construction, as when you tip it on edge, even at slower speeds, the ski isn’t fighting you as much as something with full sheets of metal would. Even though it’s close to a full width sheet of metal, just removing the little bits they have goes a long way in turn initiation and overall feel. Then, when you want to ski fast, you start to engage the underfoot section of the ski, allowing for bigger, faster turns.
Interestingly, it’s basically the opposite of what Volkl does in some of their Deacon skis and most of their all-mountain and freeride models. Those skis have longer radii in the tips and tails and shorter underfoot. That makes sense as most of those skis are designed with more all-mountain versatility in mind. The longer radii tips and tails give the ski a less catchy feel when skidding turns through different snow conditions. The RC4 Curv GT, however, is focused more on carving, and the different radii are too.
That focus on carving is evident in their performance. These things are an absolute blast to ski and work so well for a wide range of skiers and a lot of different snow conditions. Take an aggressive skier on hardpack snow. The underfoot construction provides endless edge grip. Take the world’s most aggressive skier and they won’t find a limit to edge grip on The Curv GT. For skiers like that, you can achieve some big, sweeping GS turns as you’re flexing the ski to a point where you’re utilizing the underfoot section more than the tips and tails. It’s really cool. That same skier can then feather the tips and tails and give the ski a little less power and get it to make really snappy shorter turns. It’s amazing to see what a strong skier with a race background can do on these things.
Then take a less aggressive skier, even someone who falls more into the intermediate ability level, and the shorter radii in the tips and tails turns into more of a supportive feature to help improve carving. This ski isn’t too demanding, which was one of the goals of Fischer in its development. It never feels like it’s going to just beat you up, which is rare among high-level carving skis like this. Achieving a powerful, responsive feel while also being relatively forgiving and approachable is darn impressive and we can’t really think of anyone who’s done it as well as Fischer has with The Curv GT.
We brought up Volkl’s 3D.Radius skis in comparison and mentioned most of those are more all-mountain oriented. While that’s true, another thing we like about The Curv GT is how well it can perform in different snow conditions. If you have perfect hardpack corduroy, it feels like a race ski. You can push it as hard as you want. In softer snow conditions, much like how it benefits a less aggressive skier, you really can feel the shorter radius tips and tails help pull you into a turn. Some carving skis just feel like they want to wander when you don’t have firm enough snow to push against, but The Curv GT has some finesse to it that’s lost on most skis in this category. Also, at 76 mm underfoot, you’re less prone to booting out and the ski will track a little better through choppy or soft snow conditions. That’s where their idea of it being a “Race Ski For The Whole Day” really makes sense. A lot of high-end carving skis just feel like crap in the afternoon, but the Curv GT adapts to changes in snow conditions really well, which is a nice feature.
It’s a carving ski through and through, but it’s a unique carving ski in how well it handles different ability levels, different snow conditions, etc. Something that came up in our video review is the idea that it could be a really good ski for a ski instructor. If your job is demonstrating a wide range of different turns through different terrain and snow conditions, you really can’t do much better than The Curv GT.
This or Comp 76/HRC for all day skiing?
Hi Tom!
I'd take the Curv for all day skiing. It's lighter and a bit more flexible, especially in the shovel, so I do think it has a bit more approachability and versatility versus the HRC which I felt is more race-like. Have fun!
SE
I’m curious how this compares to the Fischer RC One GT 86? I know you loved that ski and so did I. Your review was spot on for it’s frontside carving prowess along with its surprising off-piste capabilities.
Hi Doug!
I found the 86 GT to be a heavier, more solid ski--mostly due to the thicker metal, while the Curv was quicker edge to edge, with a lighter feel and performance. I do like the plowing aspect of the 86 for all-mountain skiing, but the more flexible shovel and easier engagement of the Curv was a lot of fun as well. For me, owning an Enforcer 88, I'd opt to add the Curv to my quiver over the 86, but that's just me. Have fun!
SE
How would you compare this ski to the Laser AX? Especially for a Western Rockies skier looking for something for the frontside on days when it hasn't snowed in a bit.
HI JF!
The Curv draws more inspiration from a true race GS ski, while the AX has a broader range. The stiffness of the Curv stands out both underfoot and through the tail, while the AX is a bit more compliant. I think if you have more of a race background, you'll feel more at home on the Curv, but the AX is one of the smoothest, dampest, and most stable skis I've ever been on and it's really hard to argue against it in any way, shape, or form. Other than the cost. Have fun!
SE
If you could compare them directly to another ski (as similar), what would they be? I want to see about getting these verse another ski.
HI MM!
I found a lot of similarities between the Curv GT and the Volkl Deacon 76. While the Deacon is a bit stiffer and more race-like overall in terms of build, it does have a bit of tip and tail rocker to soften the blow a little bit, while the slightly more flexible Fischer is pretty much 100% camber. These kind of offset each other, bringing the overall performance just about square. I'd add the Head Supershape e.Rally, Atomic Redster X9WB, the new Blizzard Thunderbird R15 WB, and the Rossignol Hero Elite Plus Ti to the discussion as well. All great ~76mm underfoot race/carver/all-mountain skis.
SE
You guys rock! Bought my last pair based on your reviews [and a subsequent demo]. Rock on!
I have the Deacon 76 and it is very stiff, unforgiving and not especially easy to turn, even with the rocker.
That Volkl is stiffer than my Rossignol and Augment GS race skis! I bet I wouldn't feel that way about the Curve!
Hey guys,
Lovely review, thank you!
I'm a high intermediate doing 95% on piste, 184 cm, 95 kgs. Do you think that 175 is "my size"?
I'm looking for a carver that holds speed well but will be comfortable when skiing with my kids too. Any other recommandations?
(Currently my daily drivers are Volkl Code S and Head iMagnum, and for snowier days a Kastle MX88).
HI Philip!
I think it's a better choice than the longer. It's a really fun ski that not only carves but also can be manipulated to shorter turns, and since it's not that heavy, you can ski it all day. Have fun!
SE
Thanks a lot!
Do you think it would better suite my needs than a Volkl Deacon 76?
Philip,
That was the ski, when I skied the Curv, that I thought of almost instantly. The biggest difference is the slight tip and tail rocker in the Deacon, which kind of counter-balances the more race-like Deacon build. If I were using the skis as more all-mountain carving, I still think I like the flex and weight of the Fischer, as I did find the Deacon to lack just a bit of pop. Not much, just a bit.
SE
Hi!
How would you compare this ski to the Rossi Hero Elite MT TI?
And the Nordica Spitfire Dobermann 76 RB?
SM
HI Stig!
Both Dobermann and Rossi have more of a race-like feel to them while the Curv is more like a high-end all-mountain carver. If I were going to spend all day on one of those skis, I'd choose the Curv. Entering a Nastar/Beer League race? I'd go Nordica. Rossi is somewhere in the middle. Have fun!
SE
Just wondering who and why would you ski the Curv M/O Plate (70mm) vs the Curv GT (76mm). I guess i am asking what is the advantage on the 70mm other than it behaves more like a race ski?
Hi Richard!
Not much other advantage. You're getting more power and precision, but less versatility. If you are looking for the utmost in on-trail performance, the narrower ski will be more precise on the firmer snow. Have fun!
SE
Just wanted to comment here in case it helps anyone else considering this ski. I purchased my last pair of skis from you guys (Salomon Blanks - so fun), and while I didn't get my Curv GTs from Ski Essentials (does anyone even have them in stock in America?), you helped push me towards the chase/ decision to do so. Found a mint pair of 2020 demo's in Salt Lake for a steal, so went for it. Today was my first day out on them - Deer Valley early groomers - firm and fast conditions. WOW! So. Much. Fun. Virtually any turn shape I wanted, plenty of energy and pop if pushed, but could just as comfortably open up into Super G turns without even a hint of fear. Incredible edge hold no matter what snow I encountered. Absolutely confidence-inspiring. I'm 6'2" 180lbs, advanced skier who always chases storms and off-piste, but now that I have this ski, I suspect I'll be skiing a lot more groomers early in the morning before the crowds hit so I can safely reach the speeds intended for these skis! I purchased the 182cm, and it doesn't feel like too much ski at all. I'm on the 2020 version, so 80mm underfoot and slightly different construction if not mistaken. Anyway, thanks again for such thorough reviews, and for giving me the push needed to add such an incredible tool to my quiver! Cheers
Awesome to hear. Have a great winter!
SE
How would this compare to the Blizzard Firebird WRC?
Hi Chris!
It's a closer matchup to the HRC due to the width. The WRC has the race cut to it so it really prefers to be on edge all of the time and on firm/hard snow. The Curv GT has the wider waist to make the balance point a bit more accessible, like in the HRC, while still keeping the build super-burly and strong. Have fun!
SE
Hi, I'm looking at Fischer RC4 The Curv Ti model, this is a "lower" model as the GT? Do you believe for 185cm and 93kg the 178cm long skis are too long? I'm an intermediate skier looking to improve carving, but still want to be able to enjoy a day on the snow with kids casually. Thanks!
Hi Luka!
I'd say the 178 is good and not too long. The nice thing about the Curv is that it's lighter than a lot of higher-performance race skis, but still is super strong and stable. You should be able to control them well. Have fun!
SE
Heya!
I'm an advanced intermediate skier, currently skiing the dynastar speedzone 14 pro (with raceplate) in quite a short version (1m74) for my length (1m91... 6ft3?). Looking at a longer on piste carver (live in the dolomites so it basically is a lot of on piste) and read your review.
How would you compare the Fischer vs my dynastar or vs for example the atomic redster X9s (which I've tested and linked a lot as well as carver)?
HI Wannes!
The Curv GT is more similar to the Redster X9 than the Dynastar, so you can use that for a frame of reference. I found the Curv to feel a bit more flexible in the shovel, making it easy to initiate turns, while the waist and tail have phenomenal edge grip and energy for amazing and pure carved turns. The Curv GT in the 182 would be great. Have fun!
SE
Hi,
which one do you recommend for a lightweight 65kg / 178cm
- Fischer Curv GT
- Blizzard HRC
- Rossignol Hero Elite Plus
I think for my weight I need a more flexible one...
HI Ulrich!
Probably Curv GT. The others are a bit more race-oriented while the Curv feels a bit more accessible. Have fun!
SE
Hi
How does the Curv GT compare to the Stöckli Laser SC?
HI Thomas!
The Fischer has more of a carbon feel to it, that is, it's light and snappy while the Laser is a bit more supple of a feel due to the construction and precision of the ski. If you're looking for a quiet, smooth, and upscale ride, I'd go Stockli, but for a bit more grip and snap, the Curv is a great choice. Have fun!
SE
Hi,
I am an East Cost skier, 200 lb, 5'9, pretty advanced, enjoy my RC4 SC in 165, RC1 86 GT in 173cm (sometimes fees a bit too tiff).
Would Curve GT is 175cm be the right ski for me?
Thanks,
Mike
HI Michael!
I think so. The shovel isn't quite as stiff as the older RC4, so that'll likely solve that issue. Here's another great choice if you're okay with leaving Fischer: https://www.skiessentials.com/2022-rossignol-hero-elite-mt-ti-skis-w-konect-spx-12-gw-bindings.html
SE
Hi, thank you for this great review. I'm seeing difference sizes for this specific ski. For example, the Fischer website includes: 164, 171, 178. Other sites including this one says: 161cm
168, 175, 182. I also see two different binding options: RC4 Z13 GW FREEFLEX and RX 13 GW. Can someone explain the differences in sizing and binding options? Did they update the sizing? Skiessential planning to get these in stock any time soon? Thank you!
HI Stephen!
There's the Curv, and then there's Curv GT. The GT is 76 mm underfoot and more user-friendly, coming in those 168, 175, and 182 sizes. The Curv is narrower and more race-oriented and that has the beefier race binding as well. We unfortunately do not see any Curv GT's on our order for this year. Have fun!
SE
Hello Great review! Please Help me to decide - deacon 84 or the Curv gt?
Thanks
Tom
Hi Tom!
We've had very positive experiences on both, but the versatility and all-mountain potential of the Deacon 84 really stands out. It still carves amazingly well, and also has that well-roundedness built in not only through the shape, but also in the profile. I'd lean to the Deacon unless you're totally front side focused. Have fun!
SE
Hey Guys,
really a great review, thanks for that.
I am a little late to the party on this ski, yet I have may have the chance on a Curv or Curv GT (maybe the supply in Germany is a little better :)). I know about the differences of both skies, yet I am very undecided about the lenght and hope for your help.
I am 183cm and 71kg, so tall but very light, which is a slight problem for someone going for fast and long carving turns.
With the Curv GT, I would probably opt for 175cm, but I am undecided about the Curv's 171 or 178.
Do you have a recommendation for someone like me?
Thanks a lot.
Tim