Rossignol Hero Elite ST Ti R22 review 2019
PROSKILAB™ reviewers' comments
The Rossignol Hero Elite ST Ti is regularly selected for review by PROSKILAB and frequently wins an award.
Last year, unfortunately, it came with the "Konect" plate, which was geared more towards a recreational skier. It offered a good compromise between performance, accessibility, and fun but disappointed testers looking for exceptional performance.
This year, it’s back, but it is a more technical version and comes with the Rossignol R22 race plate. We have discussed the impact of plates on ski performance many times in the past, especially on race models. The Hero Elite ST Ti is no different, and this change has given it an extra boost of energy that is especially appreciated in a slalom ski. Forget about the somewhat lackluster and forgiving model we reviewed last year. The new Hero Elite ST Ti with its race plate is now a weapon of war, designed for a very athletic skier.
Performance is exceptional, and the reviewers were full of praise: "Extremely precise turn initiation," "outstanding edge grip," "phenomenal exit from the turn.” The ski is awesome in every area, including in long-radius turns.
Although this ski requires focus and technical skill, it is not reserved exclusively for racers. You can ski at more moderate speeds, and or just go for a cruise on the groomers. It is highly performance-oriented, but very solid and won't trip you up.
The Rossignol Hero Elite ST Ti, with the R22 plate, is a “punchy” ski that will appeal to strong intermediate and advanced athletic skiers, experts, and racers who want to tear up the groomers. Skiers looking for a more accessible and forgiving ski will probably prefer the SLX Fusion from Elan.
Review: Pros
- Outstanding performance
- Excellent edge hold whatever the turn radius
- Very precise turns
- A very dynamic ski with powerful rebound
- Relatively accessible given its excellent performance
Review: Cons
- You need to drive the ski and be well-centered/forward
- Requires good technical skills to get the most out of it
The ski review scores
Turn initiation | ☆☆☆☆☆ | 19.0 |
Stability | ☆☆☆☆☆ | 19.4 |
Stability/turning performance | ☆☆☆☆☆ | 19.0 |
Grip | ☆☆☆☆☆ | 19.0 |
Short turn performance | ☆☆☆☆☆ | 20.0 |
Long turn performance | ☆☆☆☆☆ | 17.0 |
Skid turn performance | ☆☆☆☆☆ | 16.0 |
Handleability | ☆☆☆☆☆ | 16.0 |
Comfort | ☆☆☆☆☆ | 16.0 |
Snow contact | ☆☆☆☆☆ | 17.0 |
Soft snow fluidity | ☆☆☆☆☆ | 17.5 |
Who's it for?
Manufacturer's remarks
Racing has been a state of mind for Rossignol since 1907. More than a century of innovation and emblematic history. More than a century of victories, medals, and glory. Today, Rossignol's investment in and passion for racing is clearer than ever. Whether for world champions or recreational racers, the latest HERO collection embodies this famous competitive spirit, the excitement of being in the start gate, the need for speed, and the sweet smell of victory… With its cutting-edge technology, its athlete-approved innovations, and its race results, HERO invites every skier to experience the adrenaline rush of crossing the finishing line and stepping onto the podium, arms raised high in triumph…to enjoy Another Best Day.
Features of the Hero Elite ST Ti R22
Brand : | Rossignol |
Model : | Hero Elite ST Ti R22 |
Year : | 2019 |
Family : | Slalom |
Size tested : | 167 cm |
Tip size : | 122 mm |
Waist size : | 68 mm |
Tail size : | 104 mm |
Radius for the size reviewed : | 13 m |
Your review
Reviewed by PROSKILAB™
in La Clusaz, France, March 2018