2026 Elan Wingman 86 Black Edition Skis with Salomon Strive 14 GW Bindings
The 2026 Elan Wingman 86 Black Edition with Salomon Strive 14 GW Bindings blurs the line between frontside precision and all-mountain versatility, creating one of the most enjoyable skis in the category. Updated for 2026 with a refined shape and new construction, the Wingman 86 Black Edition maintains the confidence and stability of past models while adding a more intuitive, playful character that makes it adaptable for everything from groomer arcs to bump runs. We paired the Wingman 86 Black Edition with the Strive 14 because of this binding’s well known reputation for safety, reliability, and ease of use. Featuring an LDN toe piece that optimizes contact and response, these bindings integrate seamlessly with boots and skis, allowing for a natural flex and balanced stance, making them the perfect choice to pair with this ski.
Why we like it:
This ski is pure fun. Whether you’re making short turns, carving long arcs, bouncing through moguls, or charging steeper groomers, the Wingman 86 Black Edition has a lively and energetic feel that makes every lap a blast.
Who it's for:
Best suited for advanced to expert skiers who like to ski at a faster pace and demand both precision and versatility. If you enjoy railing hardpack but also want something that feels smooth and energetic in variable terrain, this ski is for you.
Highlights:
The Wingman 86 Black Edition shares its platform with the Wingman 86 Ti but adds two full-length carbon rods, boosting energy, smoothness, and power. A poplar and paulownia wood core is reinforced with asymmetrically laid titanal and carbon laminates, which increase grip and edge control on firm snow. The updated shape provides intuitive turn initiation while maintaining stability and a touch of playfulness, rounding out its all-mountain appeal. The Strive 14 GW, with its lightweight build and low-profile chassis, delivers a smooth and responsive ride all day long. It remains nimble in deep snow and light on your feet as the day progresses. The LDN Toe Pieces offer a low stand height, optimizing power transfer and improving the connection to your skis. The Automatic Toe Adaption feature effortlessly adjusts to GripWalk boots without the need for manual adjustments. Additionally, the Snow Scrapers on the toe pieces effectively remove snow and ice, ensuring a secure fit that enhances both safety and performance for direct power transmission
Things to consider:
For skiers who prefer a more moderate pace, the Wingman 86 Ti may be a better fit as it lacks the added stiffness from the carbon rods. And while the 86 Black Edition excels on groomers and firm conditions, those seeking more soft-snow versatility may want to look to wider all-mountain options. One final note: these skis are left and right specific.
Fit & sizing considerations:
These skis run true to size. Choose your standard length based on height, weight, and preferred skiing style for the best balance of stability and agility.
The 2026 Elan Wingman 86 Black Edition with Salomon Strive 14 GW Bindings blurs the line between frontside precision and all-mountain versatility, creating one of the most enjoyable skis in the category. Updated for 2026 with a refined shape and new construction, the Wingman 86 Black Edition maintains the confidence and stability of past models while adding a more intuitive, playful character that makes it adaptable for everything from groomer arcs to bump runs. We paired the Wingman 86 Black Edition with the Strive 14 because of this binding’s well known reputation for safety, reliability, and ease of use. Featuring an LDN toe piece that optimizes contact and response, these bindings integrate seamlessly with boots and skis, allowing for a natural flex and balanced stance, making them the perfect choice to pair with this ski.
Why we like it:
This ski is pure fun. Whether you’re making short turns, carving long arcs, bouncing through moguls, or charging steeper groomers, the Wingman 86 Black Edition has a lively and energetic feel that makes every lap a blast.
Who it's for:
Best suited for advanced to expert skiers who like to ski at a faster pace and demand both precision and versatility. If you enjoy railing hardpack but also want something that feels smooth and energetic in variable terrain, this ski is for you.
Highlights:
The Wingman 86 Black Edition shares its platform with the Wingman 86 Ti but adds two full-length carbon rods, boosting energy, smoothness, and power. A poplar and paulownia wood core is reinforced with asymmetrically laid titanal and carbon laminates, which increase grip and edge control on firm snow. The updated shape provides intuitive turn initiation while maintaining stability and a touch of playfulness, rounding out its all-mountain appeal. The Strive 14 GW, with its lightweight build and low-profile chassis, delivers a smooth and responsive ride all day long. It remains nimble in deep snow and light on your feet as the day progresses. The LDN Toe Pieces offer a low stand height, optimizing power transfer and improving the connection to your skis. The Automatic Toe Adaption feature effortlessly adjusts to GripWalk boots without the need for manual adjustments. Additionally, the Snow Scrapers on the toe pieces effectively remove snow and ice, ensuring a secure fit that enhances both safety and performance for direct power transmission
Things to consider:
For skiers who prefer a more moderate pace, the Wingman 86 Ti may be a better fit as it lacks the added stiffness from the carbon rods. And while the 86 Black Edition excels on groomers and firm conditions, those seeking more soft-snow versatility may want to look to wider all-mountain options. One final note: these skis are left and right specific.
Fit & sizing considerations:
These skis run true to size. Choose your standard length based on height, weight, and preferred skiing style for the best balance of stability and agility.
Description
The 2026 Elan Wingman 86 Black Edition with Salomon Strive 14 GW Bindings blurs the line between frontside precision and all-mountain versatility, creating one of the most enjoyable skis in the category. Updated for 2026 with a refined shape and new construction, the Wingman 86 Black Edition maintains the confidence and stability of past models while adding a more intuitive, playful character that makes it adaptable for everything from groomer arcs to bump runs. We paired the Wingman 86 Black Edition with the Strive 14 because of this binding’s well known reputation for safety, reliability, and ease of use. Featuring an LDN toe piece that optimizes contact and response, these bindings integrate seamlessly with boots and skis, allowing for a natural flex and balanced stance, making them the perfect choice to pair with this ski.
Why we like it:
This ski is pure fun. Whether you’re making short turns, carving long arcs, bouncing through moguls, or charging steeper groomers, the Wingman 86 Black Edition has a lively and energetic feel that makes every lap a blast.
Who it's for:
Best suited for advanced to expert skiers who like to ski at a faster pace and demand both precision and versatility. If you enjoy railing hardpack but also want something that feels smooth and energetic in variable terrain, this ski is for you.
Highlights:
The Wingman 86 Black Edition shares its platform with the Wingman 86 Ti but adds two full-length carbon rods, boosting energy, smoothness, and power. A poplar and paulownia wood core is reinforced with asymmetrically laid titanal and carbon laminates, which increase grip and edge control on firm snow. The updated shape provides intuitive turn initiation while maintaining stability and a touch of playfulness, rounding out its all-mountain appeal. The Strive 14 GW, with its lightweight build and low-profile chassis, delivers a smooth and responsive ride all day long. It remains nimble in deep snow and light on your feet as the day progresses. The LDN Toe Pieces offer a low stand height, optimizing power transfer and improving the connection to your skis. The Automatic Toe Adaption feature effortlessly adjusts to GripWalk boots without the need for manual adjustments. Additionally, the Snow Scrapers on the toe pieces effectively remove snow and ice, ensuring a secure fit that enhances both safety and performance for direct power transmission
Things to consider:
For skiers who prefer a more moderate pace, the Wingman 86 Ti may be a better fit as it lacks the added stiffness from the carbon rods. And while the 86 Black Edition excels on groomers and firm conditions, those seeking more soft-snow versatility may want to look to wider all-mountain options. One final note: these skis are left and right specific.
Fit & sizing considerations:
These skis run true to size. Choose your standard length based on height, weight, and preferred skiing style for the best balance of stability and agility.
