2025 Elan Wildcat 82 CTI

The Elan Wildcat series is coming onto the scene with bang for the 2025 season, with a full revamp with the exception of the Black Edition. Blurring the lines between frontside and all-mountain, the Wildcat 82 CTI is an agile performer that carves with precision on hard pack and tackles off-piste conditions with confidence. With a livelier, more energetic personality than its metal-infused counterpart, the Wildcat 86 Ti, the 82 CTI features an exceptionally sturdy build with lighter materials and a highly versatile shape. While some may consider 82 mm too wide for a carving ski, it's perfect for a variety of conditions. Elan wanted to focus this ski’s strengths on frontside capabilities, which is evident in the build, but for those who want the option of venturing off-piste, this ski welcomes it. With a progressive flex, Amphibio profile, and technical build, the Wildcat 82 CTI allows a wide range of skiers access to its sweet spot.

When it comes to Elan, they certainly see the benefits of carbon as far as construction elements. As far as properties go, for achieving an ideal level of stiffness without the added weight, carbon is your go-to material. While you may lack some dampness, you make up for it with plentiful energy and pop. The Wildcat 82 CTI is the perfect example of that, featuring a Tubelite wood core to start things off, Elan then adds their carbon rods into the sides of the ski. This is done through a 360-degree application, ensuring the level of stiffness and energy is achieved properly and consistently. With the rods being placed in the ski under pressure, this also guarantees the highest level of energy, a promise that only Elan could make. As featured in many of their skis, the Amphibio Truline Technology is implemented here, which continues to make its mark and will certainly be seen further down the road in other skis. This application dedicates a right and left specific ski, with additional material placed on the inside edge of the ski while leaving the outside edge more flexible and maneuverable. The harmony of the carbon rods and burlier sides of the ski truly dictate the performance, delivering exceptional edge grip, control and precision.

The shaping of this ski is fantastic for its designated purpose. At 82 mm underfoot, this width is ideal for carving without feeling too narrow for versatile use. Bookended by a 129 mm shovel and 112 mm tail, it is more than capable of tackling various conditions, with ample flotation and smooth turn initiation in the forebody. The narrower tail features a squared off shape, which provides precision and control without fully locking you into your turn. When you add in the Amphibio profile, the inside edge features more camber while the outside edge features longer rocker. This not only makes for exceptional carving capabilities, but also provides an incredibly intuitive, smooth feel from edge to edge. In the 164 cm length, we’re getting a 13.1-meter turn radius, which allows for clean, crisp turns that carve with a purpose. The shape combined with the build works very well as far as achieving powerful, intentional performance without being overly demanding.

The Elan Wildcat 82 CTI is a phenomenal option for a variety of skiers who want a strong, but lightweight frame with energetic, powerful performance. Not everyone wants a serious carving ski that will make you work hard for the reward. Many of us spend the majority of our time on groomers and want to carve with technique and control without being punished and this ski is not only accessible, but highly enjoyable. Combining a strong but approachable build and versatile shape, this ski checks a lot of boxes for a daily driver.