The Ripstick 96 sits right in the meat of the all-mountain category, with enough width to handle softer snow when it shows up but a shape that still wants to carve when conditions firm up. It's light on the feet, lively underfoot, and built for skiers who want one ski to handle a full resort day without compromise.

Why we like it:

The Carbon Deck construction is the headline here. By layering carbon rods and UD carbon edge bands over a Tubelite woodcore, Elan gets a ski that punches well above its weight class. You feel that pop and rebound the moment you tip it on edge, and the Flax fibre layer keeps things calm when snow gets choppy.

Who it's for:

Intermediate through expert all-mountain skiers who want one ski to do it all at the resort. Great for skiers who don't necessarily want a heavy metal ski but still want grip, energy, and the ability to push the pace when conditions allow.

Highlights:

Carbon Deck Technology is Elan's flagship build for the Ripstick line, and it's a really well-considered piece of engineering. The Tubelite woodcore keeps the swing weight low and gives the ski that lively, rebounding feel that the Ripstick has always been known for, with carbon rods running through the body for added stability and torsional rigidity. The UD carbon edge bands sharpen up the edge response so the ski feels precise without ever feeling demanding, and the Flax fibre adds a layer of natural vibration damping that takes the edge off chatter at speed. Underneath, you get SST slanted sidewalls for direct edge transmission, the Amphibio profile for easy turn initiation paired with strong edge hold, and a sintered base that glides nicely on transitions and traverses. It all comes together as a ski that feels lightweight in the hand but planted on the snow, with that rare combination of pep and composure that makes a 96-underfoot ski genuinely fun in a wide range of conditions.

Things to consider:

This isn't a metal ski, so if you're a heavier or more aggressive skier looking for the ultimate in damping and high-speed stability, the Ripstick 96 Black Edition adds carbon reinforcements and gets you closer to that feel without going full titanal. The 96 is also more directional than playful, so freestyle-leaning skiers might want to look at the Playmaker line.

Fit & sizing considerations:

Skis true to size. Most skiers will land in their normal length without thinking too hard about it. If you're between sizes and want a touch more float and stability, size up; if you want it nimbler, size down.