Rossignol Black Ops 98 Review
The Rossignol Black Ops 98 skis are the do-it-all weapon of choice for Rossignol’s team riders when the powder isn’t deep and the terrain park is calling. This ski is designed to handle the entire mountain, from carving groomers to slashing through light powder and hitting jumps. With a versatile 98mm waist, a playful twin-tip shape, and a new graphic by David Habben, the Black Ops 98 is a true “multitool for the snow.” It’s a favorite among intermediate to advanced skiers who want a single ski that can handle it all, offering a blend of power and playfulness that makes every run feel like an adventure.
Tech Specs (At a Glance)
- Ability Level: Intermediate to Advanced
- Rocker Type: Rocker/Camber/Rocker
- Terrain: Park & Pipe, All-Mountain
- Core: Poplar PEFC™ Wood Core
- Waist Width: 98mm
See the Rossignol Black Ops 98 Skis
All-Mountain Versatility
The Black Ops 98 truly shines as an all-mountain ski. It’s wide enough to handle a few inches of fresh snow and cut through crud, but it’s also nimble enough to feel at home on groomed runs and in the terrain park. The combination of a titanal beam and a poplar wood core gives the ski a unique feel. The titanal provides stability and a “grounded, stiff feel” for charging hard on piste, while the poplar core keeps it responsive and playful. This balance means you can confidently rip down groomers at high speeds without sacrificing the ability to pop off side hits or smear a turn in softer snow.
Park & Pipe Performance
For a ski with such all-mountain chops, the Black Ops 98 feels surprisingly at home in the park. Its partial twin-tip tail and balanced design make it ideal for tricks and switch skiing. The ski’s responsive nature allows for easy initiation of spins and other aerial maneuvers. While one reviewer noted that the swing weight felt a little heavy for more advanced aerials, the overall consensus is that this ski is a blast for park laps and turning the entire mountain into your own personal playground.
Stable at Speed
Despite its playful nature, the Black Ops 98 is remarkably stable at high speeds. The ski holds a strong edge on groomers and feels confident when you’re really pushing it. This stability is a key feature that makes it a great one-ski quiver for skiers who like to mix hard-charging runs with more playful freestyle skiing. It’s a ski that won’t chatter or feel nervous when you’re laying down big, fast turns.
The Poplar Core
At the heart of the Black Ops 98 is its Poplar PEFC™ Wood Core. This core is not only a versatile and lively construction but is also PEFC™ certified, ensuring sustainable forest management. The core provides the ski with the “poppy” feel that many reviewers love, allowing it to spring out of turns and feel responsive underfoot. This liveliness is what gives the ski its fun, energetic character and makes it a joy to ski in a variety of conditions.
Tail Shape and Mount
The Black Ops 98 features a partial twin-tip tail, which makes it easy to ski switch and is a key feature for park-oriented skiers. The symmetric mounting also simplifies backwards skiing, which is a big plus for instructors or anyone who enjoys riding switch. It’s a thoughtful design element that further enhances the ski’s versatility and freestyle capabilities.
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Pros:
- Versatile and capable in all-mountain conditions
- Poppy and playful feel
- Stable at high speeds
- Easy to turn and responsive
- Great for park and pipe skiing
Cons:
- Swing weight may feel a little heavy for some skiers
Technical Specifications
| Size (cm) | Tip Width (mm) | Waist Width (mm) | Tail Width (mm) | Turning Radius (m) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 162 | 131 | 98 | 121 | 14 |
| 172 | 131 | 98 | 121 | 17 |
| 182 | 131 | 98 | 121 | 19 |
| 192 | 131 | 98 | 121 | 22 |
Where to Buy
The Rossignol Black Ops 98 is a popular ski, and it’s available at various reputable ski retailers. One of the best places to find them is at Evo.com. Evo offers a wide selection of ski equipment and is a trusted source for outdoor gear. Buying from Evo ensures you’re getting a quality product from a reliable company. Make sure to check their website for current stock and sizing options, as this ski tends to sell out quickly due to its popularity. It’s an investment that will pay off with endless fun on the mountain.
See the Rossignol Black Ops 98 Skis
Final Verdict
The Rossignol Black Ops 98 is a fantastic choice for the intermediate to advanced skier who wants one ski to do it all. It strikes an excellent balance between all-mountain performance and freestyle playfulness, making it a true quiver-of-one contender. It’s stable at speed, easy to maneuver, and has a poppy, energetic feel that makes it a blast to ski. Whether you’re carving up fresh corduroy, slashing through a few inches of fresh snow, or spending the day in the park, the Black Ops 98 rises to the occasion.
