This year Rossignol gave its large family of all-mountain skis a massive makeover, transforming what had been essentially an on-trail collection into a clan with a bias for off-trail conditions. The elongated taper of the new Air Tip VAS is a tip-off to its off-piste orientation. Another signature feature of the new Experience series is Line Control Technology, a vertical central rib – made from ABS in the 84 AI – that’s designed to inhibit counterflex so the ski retains better snow contact.

While the 2019 Experience 84 AI is a completely new ski, it still occupies the same place in the Experience family as a step-up ski for intermediates looking to improve. It’s especially adept at short turns, moving confidently from edge to edge with more energy than its predecessor.  Its short-turn proficiency makes the Experience 84 AI remarkably at home in tight trees.   Skiers whose plan is to avoid trees at all costs can still benefit from the maneuverability that comes from a shorter ski; note that the 84 AI is available in size 152cm. A soft-snow aficionado, the Experience 84 AI has a lower performance ceiling than the new 88 Ti, which is a better choice for anyone intending to ski more than 20 days a season.