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Expert Comparison: Rossignol Experience 86 W Skis · Women's · 2022 vs Blizzard Black Pearl 88 Skis · Women's · 2024

Published on 02/13/2024 · 5 min readCompare Rossignol Experience 86 W Skis · Women's · 2022 and Blizzard Black Pearl 88 Skis · Women's · 2024. Get expert insight below!
Jacob G, Ski Expert
Jessica Whittam, Ski Expert
Hunter Williams, Ski Expert
Contributed By Ski Expert Jacob G, Jessica Whittam, Hunter Williams, Ruth R., Sara Beeken and others

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Side by side comparison

Out of stock
Rossignol Experience 86 W Skis · Women's · 2022
Out of stock
Blizzard Black Pearl 88 Skis · Women's · 2024
Price
$358.93
49% off
from:$244.99
50% off
User rating
--
5(10)
The Curated Take
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Best for intermediate to advanced women skiers who prefer groomed runs.

Ski type
All Mountain
All Mountain
Skill level
Intermediate, Advanced
Intermediate, Advanced
Rocker profile
Rocker/Camber
Rocker/Camber/Rocker

In the world of women's skis, two models stand out: the Rossignol Experience 86 W Skis and the Blizzard Black Pearl 88 Skis. Both are designed for strong skiers who want a lightweight, playful ski that can handle a variety of conditions. The Rossignol Experience 86 W Skis are phenomenal for carving and groomer-oriented skiing, with a lighter, more playful feel due to the use of Basalt in place of metal for vibration absorption. On the other hand, the Blizzard Black Pearl 88 Skis are known for their versatility and ease of use, making them a favorite among intermediate to advanced skiers. Both skis are excellent choices, but the right one for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.

The Rossignol Experience 86 W Skis are designed for strong skiers who want a lighter, more playful ski. Rossignol uses Basalt in place of metal for vibration absorption, resulting in a ski that can hold a strong edge on groomed runs and is better suited to tighter, more controlled turns. With an 86 mm waist, it can still play in the softer sides of the groomed runs. This ski is a phenomenal carving and groomer-oriented ski, perfect for those looking to ditch the weight of a metal ski. It's a nice lightweight option that offers a strong edge on groomed runs and is better suited to tighter, more controlled turns. But don't be fooled by its lightness - it can still play in the softer sides of the groomed runs, making it a versatile choice for a variety of conditions.

This would be my personal top pick for your wife, its the women's version on of the Rossi ski that I picked out for you, biggest difference is that this ski will be a softer ski compared to the men's version.

Jacob G
Ski Expert

The Blizzard Black Pearl 88 Skis are a very accessible option for women skiers looking to advance their skills. They are easy to turn, and they have a strong grip on groomers. This ski truly excels in frontside conditions. At 88mm underfoot, there is something to be desired for off-piste skiing. The Black Pearl is a great match for an intermediate to advanced woman. Experts will find this ski a bit too easy to drive, and it lacks the strong responsiveness someone of this ability level would expect. Overall, this ski is a good choice for a Midwest or East Coast skier, or for someone out West who wants to stay on blue/black groomers. The Black Pearl's performance is satisfyingly classic in personality and suits a wide range of skiers from cautious intermediates to highly technical experts.

I loved the Black Pearl 88's. They're the best women’s ski on the market for a reason, and I can absolutely see why this ski is owned and beloved by so many women. It just carved so well, and there's just so much you can do on this ski.

Jessica Whittam
Ski Expert

Similarities

Both the Rossignol Experience 86 W Skis and the Blizzard Black Pearl 88 Skis are designed for women skiers who are intermediate to advanced in skill level. They both excel in carving and groomer-oriented skiing, offering a strong edge hold on groomed runs. Both skis are lightweight and responsive, making them easy to maneuver and control. They are also both versatile, able to handle a variety of conditions and terrains. Both skis are designed with a focus on reducing weight, using innovative materials and technologies to achieve a lighter, more playful feel.

Differences and Who They're Good For

While both skis are designed for intermediate to advanced women skiers, they cater to slightly different needs and preferences. The Rossignol Experience 86 W Skis are ideal for strong skiers who want a lighter, more playful ski. They are particularly good for those who enjoy carving and groomer-oriented skiing, and who prefer tighter, more controlled turns. On the other hand, the Blizzard Black Pearl 88 Skis are a more accessible option for women skiers looking to advance their skills. They are easy to turn and have a strong grip on groomers, making them a great choice for those who primarily ski on groomed trails. They are also a good choice for Midwest or East Coast skiers, or for those out West who prefer to stay on blue/black groomers.

Analysis on Who’s the Winner

When it comes to weight and playfulness, the Rossignol Experience 86 W Skis take the lead. Their use of Basalt in place of metal results in a lighter, more playful ski that is still able to hold a strong edge on groomed runs. For versatility, the Blizzard Black Pearl 88 Skis come out on top. They are easy to turn, have a strong grip on groomers, and can handle a variety of conditions. In terms of carving and groomer-oriented skiing, both skis perform exceptionally well, offering a strong edge hold on groomed runs. However, the Rossignol Experience 86 W Skis are better suited to tighter, more controlled turns. Finally, for accessibility and ease of use, the Blizzard Black Pearl 88 Skis are the winner. They are a very accessible option for women skiers looking to advance their skills, and are easy to turn and control.

Conclusions

In conclusion, both the Rossignol Experience 86 W Skis and the Blizzard Black Pearl 88 Skis are excellent choices for intermediate to advanced women skiers. The right one for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you're a strong skier looking for a lighter, more playful ski that excels in carving and groomer-oriented skiing, the Rossignol Experience 86 W Skis are a great choice. If you're looking to advance your skills and want a versatile, easy-to-use ski that performs well on groomers, the Blizzard Black Pearl 88 Skis are the way to go. Either way, you're sure to have a blast on the slopes!

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