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This is our Elan Ripstick 96 Black Edition 2019 Ski Review from the SIGB Ski Test in Galtür, Austria.
The Ripstick 96 Black Edition, like many of Elan’s skis, features their innovative Amphibio profile, meaning that it has a dedicated right and left ski to enhance performance on the slopes.
At 96mm underfoot, this ski sits in the midst of the Ripstick range, between the 86 and the 106 (although the range does go up to a 116 for true freeride fans). As a result, the 96 is exceptionally versatile and gives you a ride you’ll enjoy across the mountain.
Taking things up a level from the Ripstick 86, the 96 has a Tubelite Wood Core, meaning super light carbon rods running throughout the already lightweight laminated wood core, which keeps this ski impressively light, given its size.
With Elan’s unique amphibio profile, the Ripstick 96, like all in the range, features left and right skis with a cambered profile on the inside edge and a rockered profile on the outer. This leads to enhanced stability, edge hold, and precision on the inside, with the outside edge ensuring easy turn initiation and smooth transitions.
The Elan Ripstick 96 Black Edition 2019 is a beefy ski that really packs a punch and feels quite a step up from the 86. It’s not the most gentle or easy ski underfoot, in fact it’s quite a beast to ski, but if you’re a strong, powerful skier you will be well rewarded, particularly off piste. However, the carbon ensures that it still packs a punch on piste, taking on hard pack with a confidence and stability that you are sure to enjoy.
If you’re an advanced to expert skier who enjoys exploring off the beaten track and wants a stylish, powerful ski to support you across terrains, the Elan Ripstick 96 Black Edition may be just the ski for you.
