Elan Ripstick 96

Elan's Amphibio technology is a unique ski profile that features an entirely different shape on the left and right skis. One ski has a rockered outside edge and a cambered inside edge, while the other ski reverses that exact configuration. This asymmetrical design makes the skis incredibly easy to initiate into turns while maintaining solid edge grip on hard snow.

While the Elan Ripstick 96 features a Tubelite Woodcore and Amphibio rocker profile that handles soft snow well for its size, 96mm underfoot is better suited as an all-mountain ski for firm conditions. Elan makes a wider version, the Ripstick 106, which is explicitly designed to be a dedicated powder ski. The 96 is best for East Coast hardpack or mixed conditions out West.

The Elan Ripstick 96 is designed for intermediate to advanced all-mountain skiers who want a single, do-it-all ski for resort conditions. Its Carbon Amphibio profile keeps the ski extremely lightweight and lively, making it very forgiving for long days on the slopes. It is a favorite of the Slovenian brand Elan for skiers who spend 80% of their time on piste but occasionally dip into the trees.

No, the Elan Ripstick 96 does not use traditional Titanal metal layers in its construction, which is why it feels so light and nimble. Instead, Elan incorporates carbon fibers and their proprietary VaporTip inserts to reduce vibrations and add stiffness without the weight. This allows the ski to absorb chatter at high speeds while remaining incredibly maneuverable.