2024 Elan Ripstick 96 Black Edition - SkiEssentials.com Ski Test

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[@CurbClips]

I absolutely love your videos and have been watching them for close to two years now. You guys sold me on my first pair of skis (2019 QST 92). My dad is a 40 year skier and has been skiing on the heaviest damn Volks I’ve ever held. He wanted something stiff so he could continue to carve on groomers but light and playful enough for the trees and bumps. I sent him this video and he just picked up a pair + bindings from you guys. Thank you for everything you guys do, hoping to see you guys at Stowe this winter!

[@SkiEssentials]

Fantastic! It's going to be a wonderful experience! SE

[@nathanburghardt5599]

Thanks for your videos! I just ordered these from a pro deal and am super excited to get them

[@SkiEssentials]

Awesome! Let your friends and clients know that we sell skis too!

[@jackschlesinger6710]

Thanks for all the work ya'll put in to these reviews - by far the best ski reviews on youtube. Would love your thoughts on the 24 Rustler 9 vs the ripstick black? Thanks!

[@SkiEssentials]

Thanks! I think that comparison is going to come up a lot. There are many differences when it comes to shaping and construction, but at the end of the day, both of these skis will accomplish a lot of the same things. While Rustler uses metal to dampen and power the ski, Elan uses their carbon rods and laminates. This gives the Elan a bit more responsiveness and precision, especially in the mid-body and through the tail. The shovels of the Elan are still slightly on the flexible side, lining up pretty similarly with those of the Rustler. There's a lot more rocker in both tips and tails in the Rustler, giving it a far more playful and surfy feel--that's one of the big differences between last year's R9 and this year's. The Ripstick feels more directional in nature in that it isn't quite as maneuverable in softer snow or tighter spaces.

[@Davidrf59]

Fantastic reviewers. You guys are incredible and both objective and subjective. Having skied the past few seasons on Stockli Stormrider 95's, I am used to a high performance ski that can do it all, and do it with incredible composure. However, I want something now a touch lighter, and a touch more snappy, so with all I have heard and read, This Ripstick Black 96 should be the answer. Will let you know my opinion after this weekend at Tremblant, my home mountain. Having great expectations, as our runs and conditions are usually very similar to Stowe.

[@SkiEssentials]

Thanks! If you get the chance, check out the new Stormrider 95 as well!

[@JarlBerg]

Thank you for what you say about the normal 96 at the start...so correct! Most skiers will likely enjoy the regular 96 better and save some money doing it.

[@davidfishman3149]

Found the Regular Green Ripstick not as responsive on our eastern boilerplate to carve up firm snow or ice. The Black Edition feel like a titanal ski but remain soft and light in the trees and moguls. Too each their desire and taste.

[@joeblue7]

Enjoyed this review! You guys doing an amazing job describing, and the attention to detail is fantastic! On that note, I’m 5-10 200 pounds, I consider myself an intermediate skier, ski mostly on groomers, comfortable on blacks, double blacks I do very cautiously, and on rare occasions I’ll go off piste. I just came off the Volkl mantras M6 @ 177 cm and they kicked my butt. Not to mention my legs were done at the end of the day, I did enjoy them and they were great, but it was a bit too much. I prefer maneuverability and control over speed. I know many will say that the 172 CM for my stats is a short ski, I really don’t want to go up to the 180cm. Hence the reason why I would like to go with the black edition for more stability considering the two extra rods that I’ve been inserted into the ski, Will the 172 CM be able to sustain my height and weight and still be able to enjoy the mountain? I’m hesitant going with The regular Ripstick 96 as I feel that with my height and weight I may end up getting a lot of instability and chattering across the board. Most of my skiing is done out west, California, Utah. I’m not an aggressive skier, at 46 I am more cautious and alert, considering I’m coming off two rotator cuff surgeries, but I do like to come down bowls and get the occasional speed if the opportunity present itself. Thanks!

[@SkiEssentials]

I think the 172 in the Black Edition makes good sense. You're not gaining a whole lot of weight here, and the added security based on your size with the extra carbon is a good thing.

[@sabobalis]

Thanks for the awesome videos, as always. I’m trying to decide between the Ripstick 96 and the Ripstick 96 Black Editions. I’m an advanced intermediate skier, comfortable on most blacks and easier double blacks. I’m mainly on groomers but looking to ski more bumps and trees this season. I am 6’1, 220lbs, skiing in the Northeast, mainly NY and VT. I’ve heard that for my size, the blacks may be better, but I’m worried that they may be too demanding. I try to ski more aggressively, but I’m not quite there yet. Should I go for the regular Ripsticks, or would the blacks be better for me and something I can grow into? Also, what size would you recommend? Thanks!

[@SkiEssentials]

I think your stats put you in the Black Edition. it's not that it is more demanding, rather it has a higher ceiling. It's never a good thing to think you may have left some performance on the table. I'd go 180 in the Black Edition. Have fun!

[@carlossanga8676]

Hi! First of all thanks for your reviews, great job! I’m doubtful in between getting the green or black ripsticks. I’m 160lbs and 5’11 . Due to snow conditions in my resort I mostly ski on groomers and some off piste and powder when I have the chance. I currently own a pair of old volkl kendo’s with double metal sheet, I’m looking for something less demanding, lighter and easier to maneouver at slow speeds. I’ve also tested the new mantra m5 and I liked it, but I would rather prefer something more playful and lighter. Hope you can help me! Thanks!

[@SkiEssentials]

Thanks! If you don't want a precipitous dropoff in overall performance, go with the Black Edition. It's not overly demanding, even when compared to the Green, but it does have a ceiling more in line with the Mantra when it comes to power and performance. There's also not a big drop in weight, about 40 grams, so minimal change there.

[@DanielTobinAyaka]

Thanks guys. Great videos as usual, I pretty much watch hours of your videos around the same time each year… I’m trying to decide on 180 vs 188. I’m 6’1, 205 and have rustler 11 188 for big mountain days, but need a charger for family time that can also rip a little side country when following my kids. Would you recommend the 180 or 188. I’ll also be using the ripper gripper harness with my 3-year old at times… hope you can help? ❤

[@SkiEssentials]

I'd go 180 in that ski based on your split use. If you were only using it for yourself, I think the 188 would be fine, but after skiing with my kids/family for years, I've learned that it's okay to size down to make it a better experience for everyone. I don't think you'll miss out on a ton of performance with the 180.

[@DanielTobinAyaka]

@@SkiEssentials thank you 🙏

[@scottybeegood]

Thought seriously about mounting a tour binding on the ones i ordered but for now going with my STH2 clamps. Probably -1

[@SkiEssentials]

The less you tour the more you should lean to the STH on these skis, although there's no denying the touring capabilities of the ski.

[@makhola1362]

Hi guys, thanks a ton for another great review. I am trying to decide between this ski (172 cm) and Rustler 9 (I think 174 cm). Would you say the two skis have similar characteristics? I already have an Enforcer 88 and trying to get something more playful and less challenging, but still be able to be somewhat stable. At the same time I am upgrading to something in the mid 90s range to be a bit more powder friendly. Which of these two would you recommend? Or any other recommendations? I ski in CA and the Rockies. Greatly appreciate your insights! You're reviews and videos are the most thorough and informative reviews here.

[@SkiEssentials]

I think the Rustler offers you some more difference than the ripstick due to the shape and splay of the tips and tails. While the Ripstick is a decent floater, it's still more of a directional ski rather than a playful freeride ski like the Rustler. The bonus of the Rustler is that you can still arc a turn on it pretty easily. Very round and very engaging, the Rustler's carve is easy to obtain, but doesn't quite have the same tip to tail smoothness of the Elan. I still think the Rustler is a good choice for you because it's a slightly more different shape and style of ski for softer snow.

[@TheOlibo]

Great reviews! Thanks a lot for the amazing work! How would you compare the Ripstick vs the Hustle 10 for mostly backcountry? Especially in terms of manoeuvrability, ability to quickly change turn radius / "pivot" in tight terrain, bumps, not so great snow conditions. Many thanks!

[@SkiEssentials]

The Hustle is very quick and agile. Ripstick is the same way, but in a more directional format--it is crisper and more precise in a carved turn than the Hustle, and I think that puts more emphasis on the Hustle's backcountry impact.

[@TheOlibo]

Thanks a lot. If the Rustler 9 was also an option, would you stick to the Hustle 10 with my stats or lean more towards the Rustler. Thanks again for your valuable insights.@@SkiEssentials

[@bertford8785]

Great review Jeff. I just tried the Ripstick Black today and was impressed. Light and nimble. For tree & bump ripping would u go with the 2024 Rustler 9 over these?

[@SkiEssentials]

Oooh, that's a tough one. I do think the lightness and nimbleness of the Ripstick Black is hard to overlook, but the Rustler's rocker profile is tough to beat when it comes to trees. If you gave me the two skis and asked me to choose, I guess I'd go Rustler, but mainly due to the more twin tipped shape.

[@bertford8785]

Thank you!

[@mjk123ptc]

Hi, thank you for the informative reviews. I ski the northeast, almost all groomers and the occasional bumps. I am focused on carving, but not aggressively all the time. The higher ceiling of the Black edition appeals to me, but I am unsure of the width. I ski on an 80mm now and never had wider skis. Is there a good reason to avoid a 96mm and go with the Ripstick 88 instead?

[@SkiEssentials]

If you're not aggressive all the time and ski the northeast groomers, I think the 88 is the way to go. It's still a very sharp and crisp performer and I've pushed it pretty darn hard--no issues with the top end of that ski. I just don't see how a 96 makes more sense for around here, especially given how well the 88 performs on groomers.

[@klank67]

Just got a pair of these. Did you mount them on the factory line? Thanks guys ... excellent work!

[@SkiEssentials]

Yup! Surprisingly haven't strayed from the factory line on these despite the multitude of available mount points.

[@reality3d758]

Hi guys great review , I am just about to pull the trigger on a set of these and trying to decide on length. I am 47 6'1 and 195lbs . Advanced skier and ski both with the wives at moderate pace and the boys and teenage kids pretty aggressively upto about 50-55mph. Currently ski brahma 82 in 180 and looking for second ski to compliment it on snowier and off piste days and wanting something a bit more fun not requiring quite as much effort. I am leaning towards the 180 for the manoeuvrability/ fun factor, but a little concerned I will over power it when pushing and not enough float off piste. Will the 180 hold up to my specs or should I be looking at 188? Thanks James

[@SkiEssentials]

If you're worried about having enough ski, I think it's okay to size up here. I'm 6/2 225 and love the 188 and have never found it to be too much ski.

[@mb88mb87]

Hey team! How do you think these compare to the Stockli Stormrider 95s? I demoed the 2021 Stocklis two seasons ago and absolutely LOVED them, but I’m thinking about picking up these because the stocklis are so expensive! I primarily ski in CO and am looking for a one ski quiver, so I like this width. I’m 6’0 215 and honestly spend the majority of my time just charging hard, carving on the frontside cause that makes my heart full, but ya know I end up on bumps and in the woods sometimes :), but not often enough to purchase something based on that. I just can’t decide for the life of me between 180 or 188! I think 180 but don’t want to hit the speed limit! Any advice? Appreciate y’all!

[@SkiEssentials]

There's a bit of a difference in terms of how quiet the Stormrider is, but the Ripstick Black is one of the best skis out there bar none. We actually have it in last year's graphic with bindings right now for a great price--maybe that'll sway your decision? www.skiessentials.com/products/2023-elan-ripstick-96-black-edition-skis-w-tyrolia-attack2-14-gw-bindings?ski%2520size=164

[@thebawse02]

Thanks for the info! - I currently ski the Volkl Blaze 94 in a 172… would like something that holds up better at high speeds and in firm conditions but still great in the bumps/trees.. is this a good add to my quiver? Or are they too similar? 172 or 180?

[@SkiEssentials]

I think they're on the similar side, although the 96 Black is a superior carver at higher speeds. If you're looking to replace, I'd say this is a great choice, but as a complement/addition, I usually recommend going more different. If you're moving wider, check out the Armada Declivity 102 or the Fischer Ranger 102--a bit more width and rocker while still having great on-trail chops. And I'd stick to the 172ish in either ski if you're happy with the Blaze in that length.

[@blaw9571]

What new ski for 2024 would you say is similar to the Ranger 94 FR? Love the feel of that ski and would like to have another set that is similar? Thanks

[@SkiEssentials]

Yeah, I miss that one too. Check out the Salomon QST 92, Blizzard Rustler 9, and on the lighter side, the Volkl Blaze 94.

[@MonicaD-nx6we]

Woman skier currently with Blizzard Samba 173s and need a new ski. The Elan's look super interesting. I'm 5'11, 200 lbs, 50 years. Primarily groomer steep blue/easy black skier, some off-piste but limited. Moguls only when forced. Looking for a ski that can power through heavy Whistler snow piles. I can ski with power but can't keep up that energy all day so looking for some forgiveness when the legs get tired. I'm looking at Elan 96 and Blizzard Sheeva 9. Thoughts?

[@SkiEssentials]

The Sheeva will offer more power and stability while the Ripstick is a bit quicker and more energetic. It does seem like the Sheeva fits what you're describing a bit better. I'd keep the sizing the same--174 would be great.

[@danielboesch9057]

I have been watching your reviews and this Ripstick is one of my favorites, although I have never skied it. I am an advanced to expert skier, 55, 5’7”, 155 lbs, wanting to move from a pure carver (Salomon 65 under foot) to an all mountain ski. I love trees and powder but I am not an expert in those conditions. I ski mostly Colorado, Utah, 70% groomers, 30% powder and tree. I was thinking about the 2023 Ripstick 96 in 165. Am I making the right choice?

[@SkiEssentials]

Yes I think this is a great choice. As fun as it is on softer groomers, it's equally as amazing in powder and trees. While you're not ultimately getting the same torsional stiffness as the narrower Salomon you're coming out of, it's incredibly satisfying and rewarding to get this ski on a high edge angle and feel the entirety of the sidecut working in your favor. Length sounds good too! Have a blast!

[@danielboesch9057]

@@SkiEssentialsthank you. I ordered one. Now I just picked up on your language talking about ‘softer’ groomers. Does that mean it won’t perform well in hard, icy conditions? Also, can you confirm that I got the correct size at 164? Elans website recommends 172 for my height at 5’7”. I assume you confirmed my choice because of my weight which is about 155-160 lbs..and maybe because I used to ski that length for the last 20 years..

[@SkiEssentials]

@@danielboesch9057You ordered the right length. In terms of firm conditions, it's more of a sliding scale rather than a yes/no type of deal. Any ski at this width will start to lose out on torsional stiffness and edge grip the harder the snow becomes.

[@Nick2_K]

I’m an advanced to expert skier with a 70/30 East Coast to West Coast split. Looking at these Elan’s but two questions; 1. Is this ski too wide for an East coast tilted skier? 2. Will the firmness of the ski impact West coast bumps? If you have any recommendations outside of the 96 Black would take those as well!

[@SkiEssentials]

Generally I feel that the 96 is on the wide side for eastern skiing unless you know you prefer wider skis. Within Elan, definitely check out the Ripstick 88--it's got better grip due to the narrower waist and will likely be a better option for most days east or west. If you get a ton of snow, even the 96 is on the narrow side, so I think that the 88's are better from a stats and probability perspective, plus you get the increased mogul performance. If you want to meet in the middle, check out the QST 92 from Salomon--a sturdy and snappy feel with good flotation and a fun personality.

[@sstoican1]

Hi there, looking for recommendations on sizing. I’m 5’-10”, 185 lbs advanced skier on the aggressive side. I’ve got a pair of the Ripstick 88s in the 180cm and they are perfect for everyday east coast conditions but I’m wondering is the 96 black in the 180 would be too much ski, or if the 172 would be a better fit (would be using these when travelling out West in more mixed conditions and possibly some off piste and tree skiing). Thank you in advance for the feedback.

[@SkiEssentials]

I think sizing runs pretty standard and true through the Ripstick line. If you're a 180 in the 88, I'd also say you're a 180 in the 96 Black or even the 106's. Keeps it consistent, which is something I really enjoy about these skis.

[@sstoican1]

Thank you !

[@airlaurian]

Hi, I'm stuck between this and the Kore 93....please help. I'm getting dizzy going back and forth. Gearlabs hate the Ripstick and love the Kore. I started by liking the Kore, skied it and it was great. The Rip is very attractive.....so, please help.

[@SkiEssentials]

If you know you liked the Kore, then that's a good indicator that it's going to be great in the long term as well. The Ripstick is a lot of fun--more flexible in the shovel than the Kore, so if you're looking for a similar style of ski that's powered by carbon, but with a more manageable and playful overall feel, the Elan is wonderful. I'm personally a Kore 93 fan, so I'm a bit biased (unapologetically) towards that ski.

[@86keen]

How do these compare to Salomon QST 98? That is what a guy a Powder7 recommended. I live in Iowa and ski in Minnesota and Wisconsin every 5 years I get out to Colorado. Thanks.

[@SkiEssentials]

The QST is more rockered and tapered, making it a better performer in softer snow. If you're skiing midwest conditions and terrain, I'd say the Ripstick is the better option of the two. The Elan is a more competent carver on firmer snow and has a stronger tail and finish to the turn. In trees and powder, I'd rather ski the QST, but how often is that for your application?

[@86keen]

@@SkiEssentialscould the elan handle the snow in Colorado when we get out there or what would be your recommendation for a ski that would also do okay with the occasional powder. Thanks

[@Bushwacked487]

@@86keenboth with handle fine. Especially if you’re staying on trail. It really comes down to how much you use your tails. Do your carve a ski from tip to tail? Elan will give you a better more confident finish. The QST will wash out easier. That surfiness can be a liability on hard groomers when you’re trying to carve, but will make tight mobiles trees a little easier.

[@OhDearBabajan]

What’s the riders height at the end of the video and the height of the ski there? Many thanks

[@SkiEssentials]

Jeff's 5/10 and the ski is a 180.

[@alexislefebvre4151]

How would you compare them with the Atomic Maverick 95 TI?

[@SkiEssentials]

The Maverick has an interesting blend of light weight and high stiffness. This makes them very responsive. the Ripstick Black Edition, even though powered by carbon, feels more composed on firmer snow while being a bit more compliant when it comes to off-piste terrain and deeper snow. The Maverick feels more like a race ski while the Ripstick has a modern and sophisticated character.

[@user-zu7fu6ky9k]

what length would you suggest for a 5'8'' 185lb skier?

[@SkiEssentials]

I'd think the 172 is the way to go for your stats. There's some good stability here with the carbon rods!

[@scootermc777]

Can’t decide between the 180 or 188. I’ve been on Atomic Access 181 for a decade. Im 6’1 160

[@SkiEssentials]

If you're on the aggressive side of the spectrum and prefer longer and faster turns, I don't think the 188 is too long. If you like a bit more control and ski at a more moderate pace, the 180 will do the trick just fine.

[@chase.warren]

Stuck between the 2024 Elan Ripstick 96 Black and the 2024 Declivity 88C. Which carves better? Which is damper?

[@SkiEssentials]

The Ripstick is damper, but I'd say the Declivity carves better, especially in a short to mid radius pure carve. If you're letting them run, the Ripstick Black is more conducive to speed, but I really like the energy and pep and consistency of the Declivity.

[@chase.warren]

@@SkiEssentials Awesome! I think I'll go for the Declivity 88C. I'm a 5'11" 185lbs, aggressive intermediate. Considering the stiffness and camber (running length) of these skis, I would expect that they ski pretty long. Do you think I should grab the 168 or 176? I love to charge down groomed runs but I want to maintain maneuverability in tight, technical ungroomed terrain. I think This is my first pair of skis and I'm scared that the 176 would feel like a lot with that camber!

[@adambridges7143]

I seem right between sizes on the Ripstick 96 Black. I am 5' 10" and 165lbs. I am torn between the 172 and the 180 sizing. I have been skiing about 5 seasons and can comfortably ski blacks in my local resort, albeit with not always the best technique and sometimes find myself in the back seat in difficult conditions (moguls, chop, etc). I suppose that puts my skill between intermediate and advanced. My application is 80/20 resort/backcountry ski. My local resort conditions, although in Idaho, are generally 3" less of powder, if not chopped up moguls and/or ice at times. I would like to have it closer to 50% backcountry, but for now it's somewhere in between

[@SkiEssentials]

Consider this: Ripstick skis measure about 1.5 cm shorter than stated, so that 180 is more like a 178.5 while the 172 is really a 170.5. I think this puts you more in line with the 180 vs. the 172 based on your stats and application. They're pretty light and agile so you don't really have to size down to access maneuverability.

[@user-ql4ei6vc8e]

How would you compare this ski a black crows atris?

[@SkiEssentials]

The Atris is smoother and floater while the Ripstick is more precise and energetic. I feel that if you're spending most/all of your time in an on-trail format, the Elan makes a lot of sense while if you're more adventurous and in serach of softer snow and more aggressive and open lines, the Atris is a better option.

[@Mooselola]

2023 vs 2024? Is the 24 worth it? Or 23 the same?

[@SkiEssentials]

Same ski, minimally different graphic!

[@NateLeeProductions]

How comparable is it to the enforcer 94

[@SkiEssentials]

Kind of but not really. The Enforcer 94 is quite a bit sturdier, especially in the tips. The Elan is somewhat flexible in the shovel due to the vapor tips--the only real liability of that ski. Enforcer is more consistent, but it's also consistently heavy and stiff. While I easily go to the 188 in the Elan to access stability, I actually really like the 179 in the Enforcer, so it just kind of shows the differences in innate stability between the skis. Elan is more versatile in all conditions while Enforcer is a stronger carver by a decent margin.

[@davidfisher167]

Love your reviews! I currently ski the Elan Amphibio 84Ti and want to demo the 2 Ripsticks, Serpo, Ranger. Skiing in the west now, 62 yr old ex racer advanced plus skier. Mostly groomers but some trees and bumps. Is there any other skis you recommend I demo and regular or black Ripstick?? Thanks