2027 Elan Ripstick 96 Black Edition Skis

Model Year	Product Page	Ski Test Results	Chairlift Chat
2027	2027 Elan Ripstick 96 Black Edition Skis—Skis with bindings	2027 Elan Ripstick 96 Black Edition	—
2026	2026 Elan Ripstick 96 Black Edition Skis—Skis with bindings	2025 Elan Ripstick 96 Black Edition 2026 Elan Ripstick 96 Black Edition	—
2024	2024 Elan Ripstick 96 Black Edition Ski—Skis with bindings	2024 Elan Ripstick 96 Black Edition	—
2023	2023 Elan Ripstick 96 Black Edition Skis—Skis with bindings	—	2022 ELAN RIPSTICK 96 BLACK EDITION SKI REVIEW

tester:

Hans de Boer

Ability: Expert
Height: 6'1"
Weight: 210
Days / Year: 40-60...
Age: 42
Years Skiing: 25 years

Turning isn't really necessary until you get scared.

Ski:

2027 Elan Ripstick 96 Black Edition Skis

Size Tested:

182 CM

Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes

We took upper gondolier which was not groomed with ice and powder and then switched over to Perry Merrill where there was frozen granular. It was fast and fun and the skis handled the variation in condition conditions very well.

Did this length feel short, long, or just right? Would you recommend sizing up or down, or does it ski "true to size?" Would you choose this length for yourself?

The length felt really good however, I probably could’ve handled a little bit longer, but I felt very confident in the marginal conditions on this length.

Scores

Floatation:7/10

Stability:10/10

Quickness:10/10

Playfulness:9/10

Forgiveness:8/10

Edge Grip:9/10

Versatility:10/10

Overall:10/10

What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?

It’s the first ski I tested on extremely marginal conditions today and I was impressed. These skis are highly rated and they deserve those ratings. I was worried that I would be biased because of my high expectations, but they met those high expectations very versatile and I found that they would do everything. They didn’t seem to get nervous at all when I was shifting from blue ice to packed powder and back again at speed.

For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?

I think they hit the mark with the ski and it’s a real all mountain ski. I wouldn’t be afraid to take them anywhere. Hike up to the top of the chin take them on a high-speed carving day you name it. The ski will do it for you.

What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?

The rep said that this was a intermediate to expert ski because it’s a forgiving enough for an intermediate, but I felt that as you sped up, it remained completely stable and met all my expectations for confidence inspiring ski.

Anything else you want to tell us about your experience on these skis?

Like I said, I really was expecting to be overly critical because of the high marks the ski gets and I had to put my foot in my mouth and except that this was a pretty darn good skiing. If I was in the market, I would definitely consider the ski for my daily driver.

Read the Full Ski Test →

tester:

Ken Marin

Ability: Expert
Height: 6’ 1”
Weight: 200
Days / Year: 90
Age: 60
Years Skiing: 55

Controlled aggressive

Ski:

2027 Elan Ripstick 96 Black Edition Skis

Size Tested:

182 CM

Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes

Groomers. Perry Merrill and Nosedive.

Did this length feel short, long, or just right? Would you recommend sizing up or down, or does it ski "true to size?" Would you choose this length for yourself?

True to size.

Scores

Floatation:5/10

Stability:6/10

Quickness:7/10

Playfulness:7/10

Forgiveness:7/10

Edge Grip:5/10

Versatility:6/10

Overall:6/10

What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?

A bit slow to respond. Fairly playful. I don’t love the square tip shape.

For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?

All mountain.

What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?

Advanced.

Read the Full Ski Test →

tester:

Valerian Planche

Ability: Advanced
Height: 5’11”
Weight: 180
Days / Year: 40 days a season
Age: 32 years old
Years Skiing: I skied from 2 to 12 years old. Switched to snowboarding for 13 years. I’ve been back on two sticks for the last 7 years.

I tend to lean towards two different riding styles. I’m either flowing with the terrain, nice and smooth. Or curving hard and fast top to bottom when slopes are clear of crowds.

Ski:

2027 Elan Ripstick 96 Black Edition Skis

Size Tested:

182 CM

Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes

Stowe, gondola groomers, icy.

Did this length feel short, long, or just right? Would you recommend sizing up or down, or does it ski "true to size?" Would you choose this length for yourself?

This length felt just right for me considering it’s a good amount of ski, and you want all of it.

Scores

Floatation:7/10

Stability:8/10

Quickness:9/10

Playfulness:8/10

Forgiveness:8/10

Edge Grip:9/10

Versatility:8/10

Overall:9/10

What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?

First impressions… wow. Loved this ski for all the right reasons. They felt nimble considering the amount of ski they offer. You can ski them hard and fast yet, easily adjust your speed when needed. They accept indecisive behavior in the best way possible for this style of ski.

For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?

I would remind this ski for groomers, hard packed powder, and some mild off piste.

What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?

I would say this is an expert level ski. You need to ski it rather hard to get the most out of it. Plus, an expert skier can ski is rather easy for those last runs when legs are feeling less than a 100%.

Anything else you want to tell us about your experience on these skis?

Hopefully you know your lefts from your rights…

Read the Full Ski Test →

tester:

Emily Sampson

Ability: Expert
Height: 5'7"
Weight: 155
Days / Year: 8/12/2026
Age: 39
Years Skiing: 34

Ex ski racer/ski coach learning to have fun again

Ski:

2027 Elan Ripstick 96 Black Edition Skis

Size Tested:

175 CM

Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes

Pond ice and frozen granular clumps.

Did this length feel short, long, or just right? Would you recommend sizing up or down, or does it ski "true to size?" Would you choose this length for yourself?

This felt true to size and I would keep this length for myself.

Scores

Floatation:6/10

Stability:9/10

Quickness:6/10

Playfulness:6/10

Forgiveness:3/10

Edge Grip:8/10

Versatility:6/10

Overall:8/10

What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?

I went in completely blind to this ski and was delightfully impressed. The ski had great torsional stability. I skied through big clumps of frozen granular and this ski didn’t bat an eye, just bulldozed on through. It also skied a little skinner than 94. The ski transitioned smoothly from edge to edge which made it very fun. It was not super playful and when I attempted some smaller turns, it was a little more effortful. If you prefer a short turn, perhaps would size down because I felt all the centimeters. That said, this would make a great ski if you’re skiing through crud and variable snow.

For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?

All terrain, a possible one ski quiver for someone but not as playful so likely not the bumps.

What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?

Advanced/expert would be best for the ski as it requires the ability to tip it and drive the tip. At one point I got back and it was not very responsive.

Anything else you want to tell us about your experience on these skis?

A surprising ski that I really enjoyed!

Read the Full Ski Test →

tester:

Jeff Neagle

Ability: Expert
Height: 5'10"
Weight: 165
Days / Year: 120-140
Age: 40
Years Skiing: 38

Flowing and Kind of Fast with Freestyle/Freeski Influence

Ski:

2027 Elan Ripstick 96 Black Edition Skis

Size Tested:

182 CM

Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes

Stowe, mostly groomers with some ventures off-piste.

Did this length feel short, long, or just right? Would you recommend sizing up or down, or does it ski "true to size?" Would you choose this length for yourself?

All the Ripsticks ski a little bit short, but Black Editions less than normal Ripsticks.

Scores

Floatation:7/10

Stability:9/10

Quickness:8/10

Playfulness:7/10

Forgiveness:7/10

Edge Grip:9/10

Versatility:9/10

Overall:9/10

What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?

I really appreciate all the Ripstick skis. For me, the normal Ripstick 96 often feels like plenty of ski, but it's always fun to ski the Black Edition. Definitely kicks up the power to another level. The shovel is still softer than the rest of the ski, but the flex feels more uniform than the non-Black Ripsticks. Really fun to ski in a variety of terrain. Loose and agile off-piste, but grippy and really rewarding on-piste. It's quite a ski. I know bigger, heavier skiers still find somewhat of a limit to stability, but there's more than enough for me.

For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?

You can truly take it anywhere. Here in Stowe, it feels like such a versatile all-mountain ski. Good in the trees, good in the bumps, good on groomers. Not sure what else you can ask for. Doesn't love true icy conditions, but aside from that it handles everything quite well.

What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?

With the existence of the normal Ripstick 96, it does feel like the Black Edition are best for athletic advanced skiers and experts. Intermediates or those who aren't skiing fast would likely prefer the non-Black Edition skis.

Anything else you want to tell us about your experience on these skis?

You pay for the Black Edition, but it's pretty easy to feel where that extra cost is going.

Read the Full Ski Test →

tester:

Bob St.Pierre

Ability: Expert
Height: 6'2"
Weight: 225
Days / Year: 100
Age: 47
Years Skiing: 37

Smooth and silent, but stiffer as of late.

Ski:

2027 Elan Ripstick 96 Black Edition Skis

Size Tested:

189 CM

Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes

Skied at Pico on a soft groomer.

Did this length feel short, long, or just right? Would you recommend sizing up or down, or does it ski "true to size?" Would you choose this length for yourself?

I suppose this is the right length, it feels like a long ski, but it's light and flexible, so skis kinda short.

Scores

Floatation:7/10

Stability:5/10

Quickness:9/10

Playfulness:7/10

Forgiveness:9/10

Edge Grip:6/10

Versatility:7/10

Overall:6/10

What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?

This ski in the 189 feels like a smooth and capable operator. It's still not strong enough for super aggressive skiing, but works great in the mid range. As a mid-90's underfoot ski, it's very versatile and well-rounded so you can do whatever you want on these things.

For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?

This is truly an all-conditions and terrain ski. Since it's light and somewhat flexible, firm snow and ice are a bit of a challenge, but soft snow is a whole lot of fun on this ski.

What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?

Even though it's a Black Edition with more carbon than the normal one, the 96 BE is still approachable for intermediate and advanced skiers. Those with good technique will like the energy out of the tail while those who are progressing will not be overpowered, nor will this ski make you pay for your mistakes like a Mantra M7 or similar.

If you could change anything about these skis, what would you change and why?

I really liked the previous 96 Black Edition, I'd change it back to that one for increased power, stability, and stiffness.

Read the Full Ski Test →

tester:

Matt McGinnis

Ability: Expert
Height: 5'9"
Weight: 180
Days / Year: 65
Age: 35
Years Skiing: 23. Also insane.

Chargey, sendy, and seeking transitions. But now that I'm 35...also calculated. I'm not saying yes to every hit anymore, but if the snow is soft and the landing is good, I'll send it.

Ski:

2027 Elan Ripstick 96 Black Edition Skis

Size Tested:

178 CM

Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes

Slushy Gondolier

Did this length feel short, long, or just right? Would you recommend sizing up or down, or does it ski "true to size?" Would you choose this length for yourself?

Just right - I’d probably size up for myself

Scores

Floatation:8/10

Stability:7/10

Quickness:9/10

Playfulness:9/10

Forgiveness:9/10

Edge Grip:7/10

Versatility:8/10

Overall:8/10

What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?

Overall I thought these skis were really fun! They were a great mix of serious but fun, in the sense that they were able to rip on edge, but also loved to catch air. The moment these skis came to life for me was when I found myself at edge coming up on a slush bump. In the moment, I decided to pop it, and ultimately went way further than expected. After that, I knew these skis were full of energy and wanted to be sent into the air. Overall, that combo makes for an extremely fun, playful ski.

For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?

I think these skis would be a blast on packed powder days in ungroomed terrain. They can handle groomers for sure, but they really come to life when the snow gets choppy and you can off any nugget you see.

What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?

Honestly this ski would be excellent for an intermediate skier wanting to develop their skills further. It’s pretty easy to ski, but is also capable of hitting some pretty top speeds. Experts would also enjoy these skis, so I would recommend, but I’d be most excited to recommend them to an excited intermediate skier.

If you could change anything about these skis, what would you change and why?

For me, a little more splay in the tail would be sweet so it can go switch. But, that’s a bit of a specific comment - for most skiers, I think they’re great as they are.

Read the Full Ski Test →

tester:

Thomas Zicarelli

Ability: Advanced
Height: 5'11"
Weight: 185
Days / Year: 50ish. :( I’m still trying
Age: 63
Years Skiing: 50-50+

idk. You judge

Ski:

2027 Elan Ripstick 96 Black Edition Skis

Size Tested:

184 CM

Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes

Stowe corn

Did this length feel short, long, or just right? Would you recommend sizing up or down, or does it ski "true to size?" Would you choose this length for yourself?

True to size

Scores

Floatation:6/10

Stability:4/10

Quickness:4/10

Playfulness:4/10

Forgiveness:5/10

Edge Grip:3/10

Versatility:4/10

Overall:4/10

What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?

Shovel chatters at less than moderate speed. Terrible edge grip.

For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?

The ski rack.

What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?

Anyone that wants to confirm they don’t like to ski.

If you could change anything about these skis, what would you change and why?

Start from scratch.

Read the Full Ski Test →

tester:

Carl Grumbine

Ability: Expert
Height: 5'11"
Weight: 185 lbs.
Days / Year: 30
Age: 23
Years Skiing: 19

Aggressive

Ski:

2027 Elan Ripstick 96 Black Edition Skis

Size Tested:

182 CM

Location, Terrain, Snow Conditions Notes

Stowe, gondola groomers. Slushy spring snow.

Did this length feel short, long, or just right? Would you recommend sizing up or down, or does it ski "true to size?" Would you choose this length for yourself?

True to size, I would ski the 182

Scores

Floatation:9/10

Stability:9/10

Quickness:9/10

Playfulness:8/10

Forgiveness:7/10

Edge Grip:9/10

Versatility:8/10

Overall:9/10

What's your first impression of this ski? How did it feel?

I was really looking forward to getting on this ski and I am unfortunately a little underwhelmed. They skied well but did not have the ability to charge that I was hoping for. When I got into some chop they chattered a bit.

For what type of terrain would you recommend this ski? Why does it perform well in that terrain?

Hard pack. The Ripsticks would be great on a firm day because they are pretty stable. And like to turn.

What's the appropriate ability level and/or style for this ski? Why is it appropriate for that type of skier?

Intermediate to advanced leaning towards advanced.

If you could change anything about these skis, what would you change and why?

Add a little more float to it.

Read the Full Ski Test →

2027 Elan Ripstick 96 Black Edition Skis

2027 Elan Ripstick 96 Black Edition Skis

GET THIS SKI WITH BINDINGS AND FREE MOUNTING:

2027 Elan Ripstick 96 Black Edition Skis with Tyrolia Attack 14 GW Bindings

$1,208.99

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