In the world of skiing, the Rossignol Blackops 98 Open Skis and the Nordica Enforcer 100 Skis are two top contenders. Both skis are designed for all-mountain performance, but each has its unique strengths and features. The Rossignol Blackops 98 is a more directional, freeride-oriented ski, perfect for off-mountain fun. It's snappy edge-to-edge and performs well in spring-like conditions. On the other hand, the Nordica Enforcer 100 is a hard-charging, stable ski that excels in variable snow conditions. It's a bit heavier but holds up well in choppy conditions. Both skis are versatile and offer a playful feel, but the Rossignol Blackops 98 is more freeride-oriented, while the Nordica Enforcer 100 is more of a stable charger. The final verdict? It depends on your skiing style and preferences. If you're looking for a fun, off-mountain ski, go for the Rossignol Blackops 98. If you prefer a stable, all-mountain ski that can handle variable snow conditions, the Nordica Enforcer 100 is your best bet.

Rossignol Blackops 98 Open Skis · 2024 summary

The Rossignol Blackops 98 Open Skis are a fantastic choice for those looking for a more directional, freeride-oriented ski. These skis are not specifically designed for park skiing, but they are more freeride-oriented, making them a great choice for off-mountain fun. They are snappy edge to edge and perform exceptionally well in spring-like conditions.

The Blackops 98 skis are responsive and ready to turn right with you, regardless of when that is. They're great at dumping speed and are happy to go straight and fast for the most part. They hold far better on ice, and the radius and precision of the turns that you can change are more precise.

These skis are fairly stiff and damp underfoot compared to the tips and tails, which are quite soft. This makes them a good option for when the powder is tracked out. They are stable underfoot and have a bit of a charger feel to them. They have a weight that's going to get you through rudded soft bumps and moguls in the spring.

However, they are not super fun on ice, and it's recommended to avoid deep powder days with these skis. They are very maneuverable skis, and you can swing them around pretty easily. They're not super heavy, but they're also not super light.

Nordica Enforcer 100 Skis · 2023 summary

The Nordica Enforcer 100 Skis are a popular choice for skiers who want a hard-charging, stable ski that can handle a variety of snow conditions. These skis are heavier than some, but they hold up well in choppy, tracked-out, post-storm runs.

The Enforcer 100 skis are designed for high speeds and are very stable. They have a high-radius turn machine, making short turns very easily. At lower speeds, you'd be totally able to perform those maneuvers. But at high speeds, you're locked into pretty wide, loose carves.

These skis are not designed for park skiing or hitting rails. However, they are a good option for hitting jumps with their stable wider platform at 98 underfoot. They are also a good ski for high speeds.

As for powder performance, these skis are not going to be awesome powder skis. They will do well and probably in up to six to eight inches of powder they'll be fine. But they're not going to be anything great or special and certainly aren’t going to excel in those conditions.

Similarities

Both the Rossignol Blackops 98 Open Skis and the Nordica Enforcer 100 Skis are designed for all-mountain performance. They are both versatile skis that can handle a variety of snow conditions. Both skis are designed to be stable and responsive, with a focus on high-speed performance. They both have a bit of a charger feel to them, making them great for skiers who like to go fast and hard.

Both skis also have a bit of a playful side. The Rossignol Blackops 98 is more freeride-oriented, while the Nordica Enforcer 100 is more of a stable charger. However, both skis are designed to be fun and enjoyable to ride, regardless of the conditions.

In terms of construction, both skis feature a wood core for a lively, responsive feel. They also both feature metal layers for added stability and dampening vibrations. This makes both skis a good choice for skiers who want a ski that can handle a variety of conditions and provide a smooth, stable ride.

Differences and Who They're Good For

While both the Rossignol Blackops 98 Open Skis and the Nordica Enforcer 100 Skis are all-mountain skis, they cater to slightly different types of skiers. The Rossignol Blackops 98 is more freeride-oriented, making it a great choice for skiers who like to explore off-mountain and enjoy spring-like conditions. It's also a good choice for skiers who prefer a more directional ski and enjoy a snappy, responsive ride.

On the other hand, the Nordica Enforcer 100 is a hard-charging, stable ski that excels in variable snow conditions. It's a bit heavier but holds up well in choppy conditions. This makes it a good choice for skiers who like to ski aggressively and want a ski that can handle a variety of conditions. It's also a good choice for skiers who prefer a more stable, all-mountain ski and want a twin tip.

In terms of construction, the Rossignol Blackops 98 features a more progressive flex, with a stiffer underfoot and softer tips and tails. The Nordica Enforcer 100, on the other hand, features two sheets of metal for added dampness and stability.

Analysis on Who’s the Winner

When it comes to versatility, both skis perform well. However, the Rossignol Blackops 98 edges out the Nordica Enforcer 100 due to its more freeride-oriented design. This makes it a more versatile ski that can handle a wider range of conditions.

In terms of stability, the Nordica Enforcer 100 takes the win. Its heavier weight and two sheets of metal provide a more stable, damp ride, especially in choppy conditions.

For responsiveness, the Rossignol Blackops 98 comes out on top. Its snappy edge-to-edge performance and responsive turn initiation make it a joy to ride.

Finally, for playfulness, it's a tie. Both skis offer a playful feel, with the Rossignol Blackops 98 being more freeride-oriented and the Nordica Enforcer 100 being more of a stable charger.

Overall, the choice between the Rossignol Blackops 98 and the Nordica Enforcer 100 comes down to personal preference and skiing style.

Conclusions

In conclusion, both the Rossignol Blackops 98 Open Skis and the Nordica Enforcer 100 Skis are excellent choices for all-mountain performance. They both offer versatility, stability, and a playful feel. However, they cater to slightly different types of skiers.

The Rossignol Blackops 98 is a more freeride-oriented ski, making it a great choice for skiers who like to explore off-mountain and enjoy spring-like conditions. It's also a good choice for skiers who prefer a more directional ski and enjoy a snappy, responsive ride.

On the other hand, the Nordica Enforcer 100 is a hard-charging, stable ski that excels in variable snow conditions. It's a bit heavier but holds up well in choppy conditions. This makes it a good choice for skiers who like to ski aggressively and want a ski that can handle a variety of conditions.

In the end, the choice between the Rossignol Blackops 98 and the Nordica Enforcer 100 comes down to personal preference and skiing style. Both are excellent skis that offer a lot of performance and fun on the mountain. So, whether you're a freeride enthusiast or a hard-charging all-mountain skier, you're sure to find a ski that suits your needs and style. Happy skiing!