Elan Ripstick 102 W Skis

Elan experimented with 55 different prototypes in the development of this new Ripstick model before settling on their final construction, which integrates the pre-existing Ripstick Amphibio profile with additional carbon reinforcements. Described by Elan as their Amphibio Carbon Line Technology this technology duo aims to enhance performance by strategically placing carbon reinforcement on the inside edges of each ski and running carbon rods tip-to-tail through the wood core, which results in increased overall power and more stability in a turn.

Discreet ‘right’ / ‘left’ labels are highlighted by a metalicized Ripstick graphic. These essential labels, in combo with the asymmetrical top sheet design, identify correct ski positioning to ensure each ski’s Amphibio geometry can be successfully activated for turning performance. 

The Ripstick’s generous tip remains at 143mm wide, so it’s able to confidently plow through snow and initiate turns. The shovel shape, however, is blunter than the previous version providing a more contemporary and direct carving shape.

The Ripstick 102’s tail remains similar in width to its predecessor but the corners are more articulated. This subtle refinement offers increased playfulness and responsiveness while the lack of any substantial tail rocker makes it easier to initiate kick turns on the up-track. 

Elan also widened the recessed tail clip notch on the Ripstick 102’s so that your skins stay centred and securely affixed to the skis.

The modest tail rocker and float-worthy tip rocker are both consistent with the previous model.

You may also feel assured to know that the moderate camber underfoot is similar to that of the previous Ripstick model, so the beloved snap and responsiveness remain.

One consequence of the less rounded tip design on the new Ripstick 102’s is that it makes them less compatible with skins that rely on a wire loop system to attach them to the ski. This incompatibility can result in the skin tips needing a refit as you climb unless you use a climbing skin with a design similar to the G3 Minimists. 

As you can see below, this was less of an issue on the previous version of the Ripstick 102’s—that is the same skin on both the previous and new models of the Ripstick 102 Skis.

• Amphibio Carbon Line Technology
• Tubelite Woodcore
• Carbon Rods
• Vapor Tip Inserts
• SST Sidewall construction

A quick read of my review of Elan’s Ripstick 102 W skis from last season would reveal that I was already won over with the Ripstick formula. The series has a well-earned reputation for being playful, adaptable, and eager to please except perhaps in crud and firm chop where their lighter weight construction is noticeable. I am a Ripstick fan and was content with the relationship as it was—a ski that could confidently rip the resort from groomers to bumps to packed or deep powder yet be agile enough to venture out-of-bounds for side and backcountry day jaunts. It’s a great option for a 50/50 one quiver ski and that is exactly how I used it last season. For long days I ski tour with lighter skis than these but on the shorter days, I would take these babies out where I really enjoyed the additional power they offered on the ski down. I could turn up the dial quite a bit as I laid out each turn and I felt confident to take more aggressive lines than I typically would ski touring on lighter touring skis. 

Since skiing the 2021 Ripstick 102 W skis I feel reassured knowing that Elan wasn’t as content as I was with the existing formula. The technology upgrades and subtle design refinements have enhanced all of the qualities that made the Ripstick 102s already a super fun ski. Now instead of skiing groomers well the 102s rail on groomers and the power offered through the geometry of their asymmetrical amphibio design is noticeably more thanks to the rigidity offered by the carbon inserts. Overall, this results in the Ripstick’s allowing for a more aggressive approach should you want to take them there. 

Due to the strength-to-weight ratio of carbon, the weight gain on this upgrade is negligible. Because every g counts on the way up I mounted them with a slightly lighter binding, the Marker M-Werks KingPin 12 Binding, which shaved off about 50g each ski. To reduce more weight you could consider the Ripstick 94 W skis which come in 200g less per ski, they would also be a more efficient width for climbing, the 143cm shovel of the Ripstick 102’s does make for more work on the up, well worth the effort on a powder day though. 

The refined shape and elegant top-sheet design speak to the enhanced precision that the 2021 upgrade offers. On a practical note, the new blunter nose design of the ski-tip was not compatible with the wire loop fixture of my existing skins which resulted in several stops to refit my skins while hiking up. I would recommend pairing the Ripstick 102s with a skin that uses clip fixtures.