While the Soul 7 has been hogging the limelight lately, over the past several seasons the E 88 must be one of Rossi’s most popular skis. Matt from Footloose gets to the nugget of the E 88’s broad appeal: “This is still the most versatile ski the Experience family.” The E 88 isn’t obsessed with power, responding to gentle prodding at mosey-along speeds. It could serve as the archetype for the Finesse skier who turns with an upright stance at a down-low aggression level.
The E 88 shares some of the limitations of its prospective partners: it comes a little unglued at high speed and hard snow that you hear every time you turn isn’t its happy place. The E 88’s gentle disposition makes it one of the best selections for someone who hasn’t refreshed their ski supply in over a decade.