Wider, floatier, and built for the days when off-trail actually means it, the Rossignol XP 105 takes the XP series deeper into the backcountry. A low-density wood core, full steel edges, and the brand's Positrack scaled base combine in a ski that climbs without prep, descends with real edge security, and floats through soft snow far better than a standard touring ski.

Why we like it:

The width and the full metal edges genuinely change what's possible on a classic Nordic setup; you can sidehill firmer snow and roll into a controlled downhill without the squirrelly feel of narrower touring skis. The aftermarket kicker skin connector built into the topsheet is also a smart system for steeper climbs that the scales alone can't manage.

Who it's for:

Intermediate and advanced backcountry classic skiers who want to explore deeper snow and steeper terrain than a typical metal-edged tourer can handle. Especially well suited for skiers who tour in mixed conditions, like rolling forest terrain that mixes packed approaches with untracked sections.

Highlights:

Construction starts with the LDC Core, a low-density wood core with air channels that keeps weight down without sacrificing the responsive feel of a wood ski. Fiberglass laminates add torsional stability, and Activ'Cap construction balances rigidity and flex from tip to tail. The full-length steel edges are the real differentiator here, giving the ski genuine downhill control when the terrain tilts or firms up. The Positrack waxless base provides reliable kick across temperature swings, and the R-Skin Free connector lets you add an aftermarket half-skin when grades exceed what the scales can handle. A binding mounting plate routes load into the ski properly under the Xplore binding, which adds noticeable lateral stability versus older systems.

Things to consider:

This is wide enough that on packed-out trails the XP 105 will feel sluggish compared to the narrower XP 85; if most of your skiing is on prepared tracks, the 85 is a better fit. For deep storm days or routes that demand maximum float, the XP 120 takes things further still.

Fit & sizing considerations:

Sizes follow Rossignol's standard backcountry length-by-weight chart. The XP 105 sizes a touch short relative to traditional Nordic skis thanks to its width and shape, so most skiers can stay with what the weight chart calls for; dropping a length adds maneuverability in trees while bumping up improves glide for long, rolling tours.