2025 Elan Ripstick 94W Black Edition Skis Review
By: evo Employees | Last Updated: May 28th, 2024
Review Summary
Avg. Tester Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
After testing the 2025 Elan Ripstick 94W Black Edition in both Utah and Washington, the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. These skis shine when pushed to high speeds, rewarding aggressive and skilled skiers with smooth, precise carves. However, they can be punishing if not driven with confidence, making them less suitable for beginners or intermediates. Sophia Browning emphasized that these skis excel on smooth groomed trails but can catch edges on rougher terrain. Dani Venus appreciated their lightweight yet stiff construction, finding them lively and capable of charging through various conditions. Overall, these skis are highly recommended for advanced to expert riders who enjoy a fast, intense carving experience.
Shop Elan SkisTechnical Details
"Powerfully elegant. Ripstick 94 W Black Edition is designed to deliver a silky smooth ride, with unparalleled power and maneuverability. An incredibly light ski for women seeking to conquer tough terrain and any conditions, in style."
| Available Sizes (cm) | 147, 154, 161, 168, 175 |
| Dimensions (Tip-Waist-Tail, mm) | 124 - 94 - 109 |
| Turning Radius (m) | 12.8, 13.8, 14.8, 15.8, 16.8 |
| Rocker/Camber Profile | Rocker/Camber |
| Construction | Carbon Deck Technology, TubeLite Woodcore, Carbon Frame Reinforcement, QuadRod, UD Carbon |
| Weight (g) | 1500g (168cm) |
Expert Testers & Methodology
Why should you trust evo's Field Tested Reviews? Great question! Over this past winter, evo employees from our various locations across Washington, Oregon, Utah, Colorado and Whistler were selected to provide long-term testing of next year's hottest new skis and snowboards. Employees were also invited to attend exclusive multi-day demo events where brands — like Elan — showcased their upcoming products for the 2024/2025 winter season. By collecting unbiased, in-depth reviews from our most experienced skiers and snowboarders, we hope to help you find the best gear to maximize your fun in the mountains!
Testing the 2025 Elan Ripstick 94W Black Edition Skis:
In assessing the 2025 Elan Ripstick 94W Black Edition, we enlisted two of our evo employees, bringing a mix of advanced to expert skiing abilities and styles that include all mountain, freeride, backcountry, and groomers/carving. These evaluations unfolded at Mission Ridge, WA, and Brighton, UT, challenging the skis across a spectrum of conditions and terrains. The testers' varied experiences ensure our review encapsulates a comprehensive and unbiased perspective, making it a reliable resource for those considering the Elan Ripstick 94W Black Edition. Read on for each tester's perspective.
Sammi Bushman
Product Content Writer
Tester Rating: ★★★★☆(4/5)
Tester Ability Level: Expert
Size Tested: 168 cm
Testing Location: Brighton, UT
Rips! You can feel the carbon.
"The updated Elan Ripstick 94 features a profile that's heavier on the carbon, making the layup a bit lighter but still powerful - as Elan does. It's fair to say the ripstick "Rips," handling groomers and hard snow with ease. While I personally felt less oomph in this iteration - which I've adored for years because you can push it almost farther than you can push your body, the new layup still has more than enough drive. If you've skied many carbon based skis, you will be able to feel it. There's a slight tip chatter and tininess that the Ripstick 94 emits. But once you push past this and settle into your ride, the Ripstick 94 is a formidable groomer zoomer for riders of all levels, from making your first turns to being the first to the chairlift."
Sophia Browning
Sales Associate - Portland Store
Tester Rating: ★★★★☆(4/5)
Tester Ability Level: Advanced
Size Tested: 168 cm
Testing Location: Mission Ridge, WA
Advanced carving skiers
"These ski best going VERY fast. Definitely need to drive these for a smooth carve. They can be a bit punishing if you don't rip, so not a great option for beginner or intermediate riders. If you are not on smooth groomed trails they catch edges you don't want to catch. One of the fastest most intense carving skis I have been on"
Dani Venus
Service Shop Technician - Salt Lake City Store
Tester Rating: ★★★★☆(4/5)
Tester Ability Level: Expert
Size Tested: 161 cm
Testing Location: Brighton, UT
A fantastic choice for intermediate to advanced riders.
"Super lightweight, just a bit stiffer than I expected. A great overall ski that is lively and still charges. Would have been a better test if it were a powder day. A winner in my book."
Pros
High-Speed Performance: These skis excel at high speeds, providing smooth and precise carving that advanced and expert skiers will appreciate.
Lightweight Yet Stiff: The skis are super lightweight while maintaining a stiff construction, making them lively and capable of charging through various conditions.
Great for Groomed Trails: Ideal for smooth groomed trails, where they can perform at their best without catching unwanted edges.
Cons
Punishing for Intermediate Riders: These skis can be unforgiving if not driven aggressively, making them less suitable for beginners or intermediate skiers.
Edge Catching on Rough Terrain: While they excel on groomed trails, these skis can catch edges on rougher terrain, which can be challenging for some riders.
Stiffness May Be Unexpected: Some riders may find them stiffer than anticipated, which could affect their overall skiing experience if not prepared.
Who Is It For?
The 2025 Elan Ripstick 94W Black Edition is best suited for advanced to expert skiers who thrive on high-speed carving and have the skills to drive their skis aggressively. These skis are ideal for those who frequent groomed trails and want a lightweight yet stiff ski that can handle various conditions with ease. However, they may not be the best choice for beginners or intermediate skiers due to their demanding nature and the potential for catching edges on rougher terrain. If you’re an experienced rider looking for an intense and rewarding carving experience, the Elan Ripstick 94W Black Edition is for you.
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