Elan Ripstick 96 Black edition Skis 2023

Stable, smooth and precise yet still playful, the Black edition is one the most impressive and versatile skis on the mountain. Using the same platform as the excellent Ripstick 96, it builds on this by increasing the amount of carbon and using QuadRod technology in the core, resulting in better precision and edge grip with no significant extra weight. On hardpack it is powerful and confident, in soft snow it floats and handle like a true freeride thoroughbred, all the time with the most effortless handling and control.Terrain Type & Ability LevelTerrain Type This a great example of a freeride ski, capable of skiing anywhere on the mountain, not just powder or mainly firm conditions, but everywhere. Taking everything that is good about the standard Ripstick and by adding extra carbon and QuadRod technology, the Black edition adds an extra level of performance with increased precision, grip and response. It's got the width and shape to work really well in soft snow, with good float and easy handling. The Amphibio asymmetric camber/rocker aids the edge hold and feeling of positivity on pistes without making the ski any harder to use. There's no metal in the ski but thanks to Amphibio Carbon Line it doesn’t need it for hard snow performance. The flex feels perfect on all terrain, even on the steepest, firmest runs the Black edition still delivers. Thanks to it being relatively lightweight, mounting it with a BC binding is an option if you want to do the occasional trip away from the lifts. Skier TypeThe Ripstick is aimed at advanced and expert skiers wanting a freeride option, maybe as a single ski quiver or maybe as a second ski to compliment a piste model. There's no metal but the use of the Amphibio Carbon Line technology means it still delivers the precision that the best skiers demand and thanks to clever design, it isn't tricky to use. OverviewShape96mm in the waist is a key part of what makes this a true freeride ski that can double as an all mountain model for those who want ultimate versatility. It's wide enough to handle powder, yet narrow enough in the waist to grip and rip on the frontside. The tip and tail taper design keeps it feeling comfortable in every turn shape, on any surface. The relatively long nose and tail provide forgiveness and stability.RockerRipsticks use Amphibio technology, a revolutionary ski design that integrates both rocker and camber profiles into dedicated left and right skis. These skis feature a cambered inside edge assuring precision, edge grip and stability, while a rockered outside edge provides forgiveness, turning ease and smooth transitions.CoreThe Tubelite Woodcore uses two super lightweight carbon tubes inserted into a lightweight laminated wood core. These tubes run the length of the ski following the arc of the sidecut. They provide torsional stability and powerful rebound while allowing for material reduction of the core. The result is incredible lightweight response and stability. expanding on this for the Black edition skis is QuadRod reinforcement, two additional carbon rods in the centre of the ski, one in the tip and one in the tail. This delivers next level smoothness and grip, with a natural flex pattern for the perfect blend of playful, yet powerful performance.ConstructionSST construction uses sidewalls ensure quick, nimble and direct power transmission from the ski to snow as well as providing exceptional torsional rigidity.Key FeaturesAmphibio Carbon Line TechnologyAmphibio Carbon Line technology is a combination of innovations that provide the best balance of lightweight construction with power and performance. Amphibio Carbon Line technology elevates the asymmetrical ski design to the next level by strategically locating carbon reinforcement over the inside edges of the skis providing more power in the turn, while carbon rods inserted into the woodcore maximize weight savings and overall stability. The end result is an extremely lightweight high-performance ski with uncompromised versatility and smooth performance.100% Recycled VaporTip ReinforcementVaporTip inserts are advanced composites integrated into the tip and tail area of the ski's core. These inserts reduce weight and vibration, dramatically improving stability and ensuring a smooth ride even in the most demanding conditions. Using 100% recycled materials in the components of their products is an approach elan take to reduce waste. Completely recycled polyethylene terephthalate (PeT), the main ingredient in plastic bottles, is processed into high-performance foam materials that are light, strong and used in the VaporTip reinforcement.Tester CommentsSteve (Buying Team) You can definitely feel the upgrade with the extra carbon fibre. There's more power, more precision, just more performance. Stronger skiers will definitely appreciate the difference.Technical SpecificationsSize (cm)Tip Width (mm)Waist Width (mm)Tail Width (mm)Radius (m)Weight (g)1721369611016.21670 +/-5018013696110181710 +/-501881369611019.51850 +/-50General InformationSkier Ability: Advanced/expertTerrain Type: FreerideRocker: Tip/Tail RockerRadius: MediumBase: SinteredBindings: Ski sold flatDIN: n/aConstruction: Full SidewallCore: Wood, CarbonDemo: NoSizing Description: Forehead to over head height. The increased length ensures better grip, stability and floatation and is essential to making the ski work to its full potential. Large rockers at the tip mean it is important not to size down.