The Experience W 86 Basalt is a significant jump from the Experience W 78 Carbon. Full sidewall construction instead of cap. Basalt fiber instead of carbon. Paulownia core instead of poplar. Wider waist (86 vs 78). Stiffer flex (Boost vs Assist). Every single spec change points in the same direction: more performance.

The basalt fiber is the key ingredient here. It's Rossignol's answer to vibration damping without adding the weight of titanal. The result is a ski that feels smooth and composed on firm snow without being heavy. The Drive Tip design softens the tip for easy turn initiation while the full sidewall construction gives you actual edge hold when you commit to a turn.

On groomers, this ski carves with real authority. The 86mm waist is narrow enough for quick edge-to-edge transitions but wide enough to handle some off-piste without feeling sketchy. The All Trail Sidecut gives you quick engagement and consistent arcs.

The limitation is the same as most intermediate-to-advanced women's skis: it's still not a charger. At high speeds on icy hardpack, it starts to lose composure. But for 80% of resort conditions -- groomed, packed, light chop -- it handles the job with confidence.

This is the right ski for the woman who's been skiing for a few seasons and wants something that can keep up with her improving skills. It rewards clean technique without punishing mistakes.