2027 Elan Ripstick 88 W

The 2027 Elan Ripstick 88 W returns structurally unchanged, although we do get a graphic update for this year. Thanks to Elan’s use of asymmetry in the construction, shape, and profile, the Ripstick series is rare and unique, capable of feeling smooth and cohesive while remaining energetic and predictable. The 88, specifically, fits a pure all-mountain skier and supplies them with versatility and great on-trail performance. By combining carbon applications and proven shaping, the Ripstick 88 W has a lot of zip to it which is accessed without a lot of demand. The simplicity of accessing the energy stands out when dealing with variable conditions and terrain.

Elan's use of sophistication in the construction is quite impressive and unique. Built asymmetrically, we get a right/left-specific ski and this frees up the designers and engineers at Elan to be very creative. Starting with a wood core consisting of poplar and paulownia, Elan uses their carbon tubes to create a lot of energy. Below the wood core, they use two strips of uni-directional carbon with one longer than the other, putting more emphasis on the inside edge of the downhill ski. In the shovel, we get a flax laminate placed to reduce vibrations and increase snow contact without adding weight or flex. Overall, these are quite flexible skis, especially in the tips. Regardless, they achieve a nice feel even though it is lighter and more bendy. Tester Ashley Maxfield notes that " These skis like to go fast. They took a minute to get used to, but once you figure it out, they were a fun ski to carve. These skis a great for intermediate to advanced riders that love to ski groomers. You don't need to be an expert to carve these skis, but they do respond better if you can get the ski over on edge."

The footprint of the ski is ideal for mixing all-mountain carving and off-trail adventure. It gets a lot of smoothness and predictability from the construction, but it also uses shaping in order to create cohesiveness. In the 168, the ski uses measurements of 125/88/104 mm to generate a 14.8-meter turn radius. This is pretty short, and it likes to be in that zone due to the flex—it's easy to find the radius of the ski and make it go shorter and more skidded. The Amphibio rocker profile kicks in here, making the ski feel hook and catch-free in any type of turn, whether you’re on groomers or in the powder. Emily Sampson states that " If Pippi Longstocking was a ski, this would be her. Cute, playful, and freckled. Not afraid to be tipped up and dance down the mountain. This seems like a solid one-ski quiver. Equally adept at groomed blues and skiing powder in the trees."

Progressing skiers will love the capabilities and the strong sense of reward with the Ripstick 88 W. This could be a great option for skiers who are just starting out in exploration and adventure skiing. It can punch above its level when used by advanced and expert skiers, but beginners and progressing skiers will also love the easy flex and mellow skiing character. At 88 mm, this is a true all-mountain ski with very few limitations. The carbon comes alive and promotes faster skiing while the flex allows for shorter turns and easy manipulation of turn style. Thanks to Elan's creativity and innovation, skiers will progress faster and have more fun on a Ripstick 88 W.