2027 Elan Ripstick 96

The 2027 Elan Ripstick 96 retains its “green” color theme but puts it in a slightly different style for this year. Other than that, the skis return unchanged, keeping light and responsive characteristics at the forefront of the conversation. As a ski in the mid-90's, this Ripstick 96 is supremely versatile and works great in all sorts of conditions and terrain. It also has a huge audience since it’s fun, easy to use, and delivers a lot of energy to the snow due to the carbon construction. By effectively mixing on and off-trail performance, this ski works great for a huge number of skiers all over the mountain.

The Elan Ripstick 96 is built with a Tubelite wood core consisting of poplar, paulownia, and carbon tubes that run along the sides of the ski. Below the core we get two strips of uni-directional carbon that add energy without feeling pingy. On top of the core in the shovel, Elan adds a layer of flax to further reduce chatter and keep the ski on its intended course. In the 182, we get a stated weight of 1640 g/ski which is pretty darn light for the amount of performance you get. The shovels are flexible, but they’ve got some good stiffness underfoot and through the tail. Tester Marcus Shakun notes: “I feel as a more aggressive skier I would prefer the black edition. I feel it just wasn’t as stable on the harder snow trying to get the edge to bite in and stay engaged. The ski can be used in all terrain and is very versatile. It is very easy to ski and mix up the turn shape and does it without much effort. Very forgiving so you don’t feel the ski is too much in varying terrain and always in control of it. Great ski again just as a more powerful skier really appreciates the black addition a bit more.”

The shape and profile of the Ripstick 96 allow for easy turning and smooth character. The amphibio design lets the skis function as one system and makes the edge to edge carves super clean and easy while in softer snow; they are easy to drift and get them to be amenable to all sorts of turn shapes and styles. In the 182, the ski creates a 17.8-meter arc but is so easy to break free from that and make very short turns. We got some great feedback from Michael Rooney who notes that “This ski felt like it was ready to go to work right away. This ski is so responsive, and it likes all types of terrain. This ski is good for all levels and really comes alive with people that have some experience.”

Due to the lighter construction and mid width shape, these 96’s are universally accepted and well-liked when it comes to all-mountain skiing. They’re quick, agile, and easy to ski yet retain a high-performance ceiling due to the boosted carbon energy that gives them their signature feel.