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Our Elan Ripstick 86 2019 Ski Review comes from Kevin Harris at the SIGB Ski Test in Galtür, Austria. Elan are a brand that are sure to be making waves in the ski market this coming season, with their unique Amphibio profile allocating a dedicated left and right ski to really enhance performance.
The Ripstick 86 is one of Elan’s most popular all mountain/freestyle offerings, boasting a great performance on piste, while also proving really enjoyable off piste. With an 86mm waist, it’s not the widest of freeride skis, but this ski makes no compromises on versatility or performance. In fact, you’d be forgiven for assuming it had a wider waist given its exceptional performance off piste and through choppier terrain.
Elan’s Amphibio profile is a revolutionary design, with dedicated left and right skis featuring cambered profiles on the inside edge and rockered profiles on the outer. This leads to enhanced stability, edge hold, and precision, as well as easy turn initiation, smooth transitions and adds a forgiving nature to the ski.
This makes for hugely enjoyable turns both on and off piste, whether you’re carving on the groomers, cruising off piste or even performing quick, lively turns through bumps or trees.
A lightweight wood core with carbon inserts ensures the ski remains stable and secure. Meanwhile, Vapor Tip inserts integrated into the core at the tip and tail reduce weight and vibration, giving a dampness and stability that keeps your ride smooth no matter the conditions.
If you’re an an intermediate to expert skier, looking for that one great ski to perform in all types of terrain next season, the Elan Ripstick 86 2019 could be the one for you.