Fischer RC4 Noize ST Black – Review
Verdict
The Fischer RC4 Noize ST Black is a razor‑sharp, race‑inspired slalom carver for advanced to expert skiers who live for short, high‑energy turns on groomers. With a 66 mm waist, Shaped Titanal laminates, and a Super Flex plate, it transitions edge‑to‑edge in a heartbeat, bites on ice, and fires you out of the turn with lively rebound. Noize Control damping keeps it composed without muting the ski’s personality.
Key takeaways
- Lightning‑quick edge changes: 66 mm waist and SL sidecut deliver snap and agility.
- Energetic rebound: Super Flex plate and wood core return serious pop.
- Elite edge grip: Shaped Ti and Race Sidewalls thrive on hardpack and ice.
- Piste specialist: Brilliant on groomers; demanding and less forgiving in soft, cut‑up snow.
On‑snow performance
- Carving and grip: On firm snow the Noize ST is in its element. Tip rocker pulls you into the turn, while underfoot camber and Titanal lock you onto the edge with authority.
- Rebound and rhythm: Short‑turn cadence feels addictive; it loads and releases energy cleanly.
- Stability: For its class it’s impressively calm, with Noize Control reducing chatter. At GS speeds it stays composed, but its SL radius naturally sets the tempo.
- Forgiveness: Technique‑driven. Skidders or backseat riders will find it exacting.
- Mixed snow: Narrow waist and stout plate demand active balance in piles and afternoon chop.
Construction and tech
- Sandwich/Race Sidewall: Direct power transfer and precise edge hold.
- Solid wood core (poplar/beech): Balanced damping and snap.
- Shaped Titanal 0.8/0.5: Targeted torsional stiffness and stability without feeling dead.
- Super Flex plate: Enhances underfoot flex for stronger rebound and quicker turn initiation.
- Noize Control: Vibration‑reducing elements for a smoother, more composed ride.
- Hole Ski technology: Lowers swing weight for faster edge‑to‑edge.
Comparisons
- Atomic Redster S9 Revoshock S: The Atomic is the most damp/locked‑in on ice; the Fischer is livelier with more pop.
- Rossignol Hero Elite ST Ti: Rossi is a touch friendlier and rounder; Fischer is quicker and more incisive.
- Head Worldcup Rebels e‑SL: Head is ultra‑precise and stout; Fischer matches precision with a springier feel.
- Nordica Dobermann SLR DC: Nordica is heavier and ultra‑calm; Fischer feels lighter and more nimble edge‑to‑edge.
Who it’s for (and not)
- Ideal: Advanced/experts chasing short‑turn carving and a technical, energetic feel.
- Not ideal: Beginners, cruisers, or those skiing soft, ungroomed snow most days.
Specs explained
- Rocker profile: Tip rocker with camber underfoot – easier turn initiation plus maximum grip and rebound from the camber.
- Dimensions: tip ≈118 mm – waist 66 mm – tail ≈104 mm. Narrow waist = ultra‑quick transitions and hard‑snow focus.
- Radius: 150/11.5 m, 155/12.0 m, 160/12.5 m, 165/13.0 m, 170/13.5 m – classic SL radii for tight arcs.
- Weight: ≈2050 g per ski (165 cm) – substantial stability with quick swing thanks to the Hole Ski design.
- Plate/binding: Super Flex plate; many bundles with RC4 Z12 GW PR – progressive flex and GripWalk compatibility.
- Construction: Sandwich sidewall, wood core, Shaped Ti, sintered base – race DNA for power and speed.
Pros and cons
- Class‑leading grip and precision on hardpack
- Big energy and rebound in short turns
- Damped yet lively ride character
– Demands good technique and forward stance
– Narrow bandwidth in soft/chopped snow
– Short radius limits laid‑back long‑turn cruising
Frequently asked questions
Q: What skier level suits the Fischer RC4 Noize ST Black?
A: Advanced to expert. It rewards precise edging and an active stance, especially if you love short‑turn carving on groomers.
Q: What length should I choose?
A: Typically height minus 10–15 cm. Go shorter for maximum agility/SL feel; choose closer to −5–10 cm for a touch more stability.
Q: How does it handle ice?
A: Excellent. Shaped Titanal, Race Sidewalls, and the Super Flex plate deliver secure bite and confidence on icy mornings.
Q: How does it differ from the PRO version?
A: PRO variants can feature stiffer plates/tuning and World Cup base work. The Black prioritizes strong performance with a slightly broader on‑piste appeal.