Built for deep days and creative lines, the Elan Playmaker 111 returns for 2027 with a fresh new look and continues its role as the widest and most playful ski in the lineup. Designed for soft snow, freestyle flair, and big-mountain creativity, it’s the go-to choice for skiers who want to float, spin, and stomp their way through powder days.

Why we like it:

It floats like a true powder ski but stays surprisingly composed when the snow gets cut up. It’s playful, but with enough muscle to handle serious terrain.

Who it's for:

Advanced and expert skiers who want a wide, surfy ski with a freestyle edge and legit all-mountain capability.

Highlights:

At 111 mm underfoot, the Playmaker 111 delivers tons of float with a loose, surfy feel, making them a go-to choice when the snow starts to stack up. Elan’s Tubelite wood core is bolstered by carbon rods that run longitudinally along the length of the ski, providing energy and pop while also giving it the stability to track through chop and crud. The asymmetrical Amphibio Twin design improves edge engagement and smooths out transitions, and an almost symmetrical rocker profile keeps the wiggle factor high.

Things to consider:

The Playmaker 111’s personality leans heavily toward freeride creativity rather than directional charging. While it has solid construction for landings and speed, it won’t provide the same top-end stability or edge hold as a metal-reinforced big-mountain ski, especially in firmer or mixed conditions. Its twin-tip shape and loose tail are great for smearing turns and skiing switch, but that also means it won’t track as predictably as a flatter-tailed freeride ski when you're trying to drive the ski hard. This is a ski that thrives when it’s being surfed, slashed, and styled—not one for skiers who want to lock in and hammer down the fall line all day. If you value creativity over precision, you’re in the right place; if you’re looking for more directional power, there are better tools for the job.

Fit & sizing considerations:

These ski true to size. Length should be chosen based on the skier’s height, weight, skiing style, and preferred terrain.