2023 Elan Ripstick 88 W

The Elan Ripstick 88 W gets a bit of a cosmetic change for 2023, but remains the same amazing all-mountain ski that we’ve loved for a few years now. Due to the shape, innovative construction, and amphibio rocker profile, these skis are unique and fun while retaining a high-performance ceiling without metal. At 88 mm underfoot, it’s well-rounded to serve intermediate through expert skiers well in a huge range of conditions and terrain. Built with a tubelite wood core, Elan installs two carbon rods under pressure that go along the sidewall of the ski. These give the ski its driving power and force, and create a one-of-a-kind feeling that is strictly Elan. They also put a carbon laminate on top of the core, but only mostly over the inside edges to provide responsiveness and grip. It works, and this is one of the lightest and grippiest skis in this range. In the 170, the skis tip the scales at 1445 grams per ski, which certainly brings backcountry and touring into play for the more adventurous spirits. With a 15.4-meter turn radius, these are some quick carvers, but also are able to float well through the fresh.

Alli Ruschp was on the 170, noting that while it’s true to size and she likes it, she also does just fine on the 162. She scores the ski all 5’s right across the board with the exception of a lowly 4 for flotation. These are some consistently high scores, pin-pointing the notion that Elan has built not only a high-performance ski, but also a well-rounded one. For Alli, the Ripstick 88 W “Still holds a top spot in my line up. It's the every-woman ski. Such a range of abilities will love to ski this. Once you get over the left and right ski, you'll love the control you get from your inside edge. 88 underfoot is made for the resort skier that likes to mainly stick to the trails but also venture into tighter trees or bumps. I own the 162 and love it but also have skied the 170 many times, if I were to live out west with larger trails I think I'd prefer the 170 but in the east coast where I have to wiggle on the narrow trails and tighter trees, I appreciate the smaller length in order to reduce my swing from turn to turn. Elan never disappoints with their color options for the Women's Ripstick and this year’s is no different.”

Carly Monahan was also on the 170, and she noted that it skis a bit short, and we’ve noticed through measuring, that they do end up being about 1.5 cm shorter than listed. If you’re caught in the middle, we think it’s okay to go with the longer length, especially since they’re so light and maneuverable. She notes that it’s “Not the lightest or quickest edge to edge on shorter turns, but offers reliable power and pop leaning into bigger arcs. I would recommend it for more advanced skiers, or skiers who like to be very active in driving and controlling a ski. Not an ideal ski for skiers looking for something more mellow and forgiving.” With a top score of 5 out of 5 for stability, and 4’s for flotation, playfulness, torsional stiffness, edge hold, versatility, and overall impression, it’s easy to see why this ski continues to be such a fan-favorite.

We’re stoked that Elan is keeping the Ripstick line going, and the 88 W is one of the most well-rounded of the bunch. If you spend a lot of your time on groomed terrain and like making all sorts of different turns, the Ripstick 88 W is an awesome choice. It’s got extra width for softer snow, so it ends up being a fantastic all-mountain ski, and one of the best without metal out there today.