Ripstick 96

The 2027 Elan Ripstick 96 is a light all-mountain ski for someone who wants one pair to link groomer laps with trees, bumps and softer snow. Its 96 mm waist at 182 cm gives it more support off piste than a narrow carver, while the five-length range spans 161–189 cm. The 2027 model carries over the previous construction; the main change is a refreshed green graphic, according to SkiEssentials’ current-season test.

The Ripstick’s appeal comes from combining low swing weight with useful edge energy. Its Tubelite core uses two carbon tubes within a lightweight wood core, while CarbonDeck adds carbon rods and edge-running unidirectional bands; flax fibre in the shovel is intended to temper vibration. Elan’s asymmetric Amphibio profile places camber toward the inside edge for grip and rocker outside for easier steering. SkiEssentials testers describe it as quick to redirect and forgiving, though the standard model can feel less planted than the Black Edition when driven hard on firm snow.

Choose it if you value an agile, easy-to-vary turn shape more than a heavy, damp platform. It can make a versatile resort daily driver for an advanced-intermediate through expert who spends time in mixed terrain and does not need maximum flotation or race-ski bite. Stronger skiers who prioritize high-speed composure on scraped hardpack may prefer the stiffer Ripstick 96 Black Edition; deep-snow specialists will benefit from a wider ski. The flat configuration means bindings are an additional purchase.