Racing skis are built specifically for competitive ski racing and gate training, with ultra-stiff flex and aggressive sidecuts that deliver maximum edge hold at high speeds. They're designed to perform when pushed hard through carved turns, not for casual cruising.
That said, racing skis are unforgiving and demanding. They require significant skill and power to flex properly — if you're not generating enough force, they'll feel dead and unresponsive rather than fast. Many strong recreational skiers are actually better served by frontside/carving skis, which offer excellent edge hold and quick turn initiation without the race-day stiffness.
Racing skis make the most sense if you're actively competing, training in a race program, or are an exceptionally advanced skier who spends most of the day laying down high-speed carved turns. For everyone else, a good frontside ski will feel more fun and more manageable.