This is a World Cup level, FIS approved DH race ski from the 2015 ski season. Luckily FIS standards haven’t really changed for DH, so these skis still actually fall under FIS regulations for the 2018 ski season as long as you’re on the 218 cm length. The 216 cm length does not currently meet FIS regulations for men, but it’s still a great training ski for FIS skiers and a competition ski for anyone in non-FIS sanctioned speed events. This particular model is designed with a base structure for the hardest, firmest snow conditions. When you’re skiing at a high level you need to shave milliseconds wherever you can and these skis will help you go as fast as possible when the snow is firm. DH race skis are pretty much good at doing one thing: skiing fast through a set DH race course. If you’re not racing DH these skis likely are not for you, unless you’re among the rare skiers out there who want a DH ski in their quiver just for fun! While these skis are a few seasons old, they still use most of the same exact technology that’s found in Rossignol’s current race skis, so you’re not losing out on any new performance.