Backcountry magazine: "Based on the new Bandit 3, the new Powder Bird has dual-density sidewalls called Shockwalls, complete with a shock-softening layer underfoot and a more rigid lower layer for edge grip. This Bird flew through turns at all speeds and radii, and was slightly better, testers thought, on soft snow and crud than on hardpack."

Couloir magazine: "Remaining true to the signature Rossignol flex, the Powder Bird was Old Faithful to our testers. There were no surprises in response and nothing tremendously superlative either, although bandying about terms like 'old reliable' made several want to add this ski to their quivers. Crud was perhaps its one weakness, with a little less stability at the upper end of speed. But relied upon for consistent, methodical turns, the Powder Bird was the ski synonymous at our test for, 'it's all good.' "

Powder magazine: "Part of Rossignol's new trio of telemark/AT skis, the Powderbird reigns as the most versatile. Similar in dimension to its alpine cousin, the Bandit B3, the Powderbird has a powder-friendly, tip-to-tail flex, combined with bump-ski reflexes. A perfect ski for quick, technical turns."

Skiing magazine:
"Rossi's do-it-all board has enough girth to float, but it's also quick in short turns, smooth in longer ones, and has a crud-busting shovel up front. Said one tester, 'This ski has the most balance in the category, hands down.' Gripes:Washes out a bit when you're redlining hardpack. Props: Forgiving enough for a learner's permit, powerful enough for the autobahn."

Off-Piste: "The Powder Bird offers a Cadillac ride in a mid fat ski. These skis like to point down the fall line and go but with a mellow predictable personality. Medium and big radius turns in soft snows. They are not the turniest ski available but they offer a confident ride. A good match for big boots in or out of bounds. If you are used to the feel of an alpine board underfoot, the Powder Bird will fit nicely into your quiver."