2026 Elan Wingman 86 Black Edition

For 2026, we get a re-vamped lineup of Wingman skis, with the 86 Black Edition leading the charge. This ski is built and shaped as a wide-bodied carver that can handle some softer snow and off-piste conditions and terrain. By blending a Primetime-inspired tip with a Ripstick-oriented tail, the footprint of the ski lends to versatility in the all-mountain world. The initiation and first phase of the turn is crisp and fun while the tail allows for easier release from turns and increased soft snow playfulness. At the same time, the new construction keeps the ski stiff, responsive, and precise. Advanced and expert skiers will love the blend of power and comfort that this ski provides.

We get a change in build for 2026, making the new 86 Black Edition a strong and sturdy companion. Starting with a tubelite wood core, we get two carbon rods along the edges and one strip of titanal through the center of the ski. These are still built asymmetrically, so their uni-directional carbon strip and mono ti layer are found on the inside of the downhill ski allowing for increased precision and energy while leaving the outer portion of the ski more flexible. You can get this ski flat or with a Fusion X system binding, depending on your intended purpose. Tester Bob St.Pierre states that “this is as close as they’ve come so far to a Ripstick 88 Black Edition. When flat, it’s only 2 mm narrower, and has the strong on-piste performance that I’ve always been looking for in these hypothetical skis. This 86 Black Edition is super-smooth and ready to rip. Total balance and confidence, even in chunky snow at higher speeds.”

Not only are these skis asymmetrically built, but they’re also shaped individually as right/left specific skis in terms of rocker. The measurements of 132/86/112 are quite pin tailed, allowing for the ease of exit and variation of turn shape. The 182 generates a 17-meter turn radius and it’s pretty fun to try and achieve that arc given the stiffer flex of the ski. Erik Timmerman notes that it’s a “solid feeling wider ski. Nice snow feel even on cruddy snow. Made for longer cruising turns. Really puts the ‘all’ in ‘all-mountain.’ I’d ski this anywhere in Stowe on just about any day.”

It’s safe to say we’re pretty darn stoked on this new Black Edition 86 from Elan. It does fit into more of an advanced and expert realm, even though it’s fairly easy to steer for its flex and sophistication. Great in bumps and packed trees, it has enough versatility while the strong suit is certainly found in on-piste mid-radius carved turns in which it most definitely excels.