2027 Elan Ripstick 106 W

The 2027 Elan Ripstick 106 W gets a graphic update for this year but returns otherwise unchanged. As one of the top performing skis in the freeride category, the Ripstick delivers competitive edge grip, lively energy, and swift maneuverability. Given the proven success of this entire line, Elan’s goal continues to be the provision of high energy and flotation with a light weight and accessible performance. For the Ripstick 106 W, women now have a wider, soft-snow oriented Ripstick with both energy and finesse

The level of sophistication and engineering in Ripstick construction is pretty awesome. Elan continues their use of tubelite wood core consisting of poplar and paulownia, which provides a solid but lively foundation. With the use of Carbon Deck Technology, utilizing shorter rods of carbon, uni-directional carbon strips are incorporated and contribute to the ski’s noticeable smoothness from tip to tail. Where the trademark Ripstick performance comes into play is the additional carbon strips that are positioned along the sides of the ski underneath the core. Following the Amphibio lines, we get longer strips to boost edge grip and stability on the inside edge, with shorter strips along the outside edge. This specific and asymmetric approach to construction is where Elan has distinguished themselves amongst their competitors as it truly delivers an entirely unique level of performance that gives the Ripstick its signature feel. We get flax in the shovel zone to dampen vibrations but overall, the skis are quite light, sitting on the scale at 1585 g/ski in the 168 cm length.

The footprint of the ski brings asymmetry to the conversation as well. Looking at the dimensions, the 168 cm length measures 139/106/119 mm, generating a 17.8-meter turn radius. The wider platform provides a smooth and seamless turn style. As far as profile, rocker lines remain the same, with great precision underfoot and along the edges thanks to the amphibio profile, and ideal flotation and maneuverability in the extremities. Speaking of the shape’s influence on versatility and performance, tester Ashley Maxfield found these skis to shine on “all terrain/all-mountain. It's a great ski for those just getting into skiing everything on the mountain, with its softness it will be forgiving to those that need it.” By providing a more singular character, the skis feel like one cohesive unit as opposed to two separate entities.

These skis are unique in that they are light and supportive at the same time. Much of the credit goes to the engineers at Elan who are able to take the asymmetric liberties that other companies cannot. If you're looking to get your first wider directional ski and are worried about the weight, it's tough to make an argument against the Ripstick 106 W.