The 2026 Elan Ripstick 88 is a lightweight and nimble all-mountain ski that delivers a smooth, intuitive ride with a surprising amount of edge grip. With its quick turning radius, confident carving ability, and off-piste agility, the Ripstick 88 strikes a perfect balance between frontside precision and freeride playfulness, making it ideal for skiers who want one ski to do it all.

Why we like it:

The Ripstick 88 is one of those rare skis that feels just as at home in trees and bumps as it does arcing turns on hardpack: it’s quick, energetic, and fun.

Who it's for:

This ski is ideal for intermediate to advanced skiers who want a lightweight, versatile tool for everything from firm morning groomers to soft afternoon glades. It’s particularly appealing for east coast skiers or anyone prioritizing maneuverability and edge hold.

Highlights:

Elan’s Amphibio profile pairs dedicated inside and outside edges for smoother turn initiation and better grip. Carbon rods and a Tubelite Woodcore keep the ski incredibly light without sacrificing strength or stability. The 88 mm waist width gives you fast edge-to-edge performance with just enough platform for light off-trail duty. It’s responsive, agile, and impressively smooth across a wide range of conditions.

Things to consider:

These skis are blem quality, meaning they feature minor cosmetic imperfections that don’t affect performance or warranty, which is an excellent way to get a top-shelf ski at a great price. That said, very aggressive or heavy skiers may find they overpower the ski at high speeds or in crud, especially compared to burlier options.

Fit & sizing considerations:

These skis run true to size. If agility is a priority or you're on the lighter side, sizing down can boost maneuverability. Stick with your usual length for more edge hold and high-speed composure.