2027 Elan Ripstick 100 W

For 2027, this ski returns structurally unchanged, but we do get a new graphic. The Elan Ripstick 100 W delivers an impressive degree of power, quicker responsiveness, and overall enhanced performance. This is great news for advanced level skiers who seek a blend of energy, stability, and precision across various terrain and conditions. The Ripstick 100 W invites more versatility, agility, and pop while fully maintaining strong on-piste capabilities. This is an easy ski to use while also maintaining a high level of performance and confidence.

Elan uses a lot of sophistication and engineering in their constructions. Boosting the high-performance characteristics that give the Ripstick its signature traits, the use of Carbon Deck Technology takes performance to an impressive level. In addition to the tubelite wood core, the carbon rods are adjusted slightly by shortening them to make room for uni-directional carbon strips that go a long way in dampening the feel from tip to tail. The signature Ripstick performance is a direct result of not only the amount of carbon, but the specific placement of it as well. With additional carbon strips running along the sides under the core, mirroring the Amphibio profile lines, longer strips on the inside edge provide extra edge grip and stability with shorter strips on the outside edge. This use of carbon goes a long way in providing the intuitive feel that allows the skier to drive the downhill ski with impeccable force while also allowing for more forgiveness in the uphill ski. Elan uses flax in the shovel as a damping agent without increasing weight. In the 168 cm length, the Ripstick 100 W sits on the scale at a stated weight of 1535 g/ski . Tester Kristi Brown Lovell notes that " I LOVED these skis, I almost didn't want to return them! They were the perfect balance of fun but aggressive; you had to put in some work, but it paid off."

Elan uses asymmetry in the footprint as well as the construction for an innovative character. As for the measurements, the 100 mm waist width is bookended by 134 mm tip and 114 mm tail in the 168 cm length. With this shape, skiers can achieve more stability and mixed-snow performance while maintaining effortless flotation. Generating a 16.8-meter turn radius allows the Ripstick 100 W to make longer arcing turns, which is ideal for a wider-bodied ski. As a soft-snow oriented ski, it’s truly impressive how versatile and quick underfoot it is. Kristi goes on to note that "The Ripstick does is all and keeps you wanting more! It skis similar to the K2 Mindbender 96 but at a level above which more power and zeal especially on hard pack!"

As a result of innovation in terms of shape, construction, and profile, the Elan Ripstick 100 W is one of the most rewarding skis out there. Between the amphibio profile, application of carbon, and sophisticated build, advanced level skiers looking for a one ski to do it all will find this ski checks all the boxes. It's easy to use for emerging intermediates but experts will love the precision and finesse that these lighter carbon-powered skis can generate.