6 Best Elan All Mountain Skis for Every Skier (2026)

Updated November 2026

Elan all mountain skis cover a lot of ground: groomers in the morning, soft snow in the afternoon, and the occasional bump run when you feel brave. Choosing the right pair comes down to a few things: your skill level, your typical snow conditions, your weight and height, and how much you want the ski to stay stable at speed versus turn easily at low speed. The picks below were selected by reviewing manufacturer specifications, brand reputation within the all-mountain category, and the kinds of feedback owners commonly share about how these models ski in real conditions. None of this is a substitute for getting on snow, but it should narrow your search considerably.

Our Top Picks

Quick Comparison

Product	Best for	Key feature
Elan Ripstick 88 Men’s All-Mountain Skis	Most intermediate to advanced all-mountain skiers	Versatile mid-width platform
2026 Elan Ripstick 88 Women’s Skis – 154 cm	Women who ski across all terrain	Women-specific flex and shape
Elan Ripstick 96 Black Edition Men’s All-Mountain Skis	Confident skiers who want more edge hold	Wider waist for stability
Elan Ripstick 96 Skis 182cm 2025	Powder days and varied snow	Float and smooth control
2026 Elan Wingman 78 Lite Skis with Bindings – 168 cm	Frontside carving and groomers	Narrow, lightweight build
Elan Ripstick 88 Black Edition Men’s All-Mountain Skis	Everyday skiers who want a mid-width all-rounder	Mid-width versatility with a bold finish

Elan Ripstick 88 Men’s All-Mountain Skis

Best for: Most intermediate to advanced all-mountain skiers who want one ski for groomers, soft snow and variable conditions.

This is the everyday all-rounder in the Ripstick line. An 88 mm waist sits in the middle of the all-mountain range, wide enough to handle softer snow but still responsive on hardpack, which suits skiers who spend most of their days on mixed terrain.

Key specs

• Waist width: approximately 88 mm (per model name)
• Category: men’s all-mountain
• Designed for all-mountain terrain across groomers and off-piste

Pros

• Balanced width handles both groomed runs and soft snow
• Forgiving enough for skiers still building consistency
• Works well as a first true all-mountain ski for many intermediates

Cons

• Less float than wider models on deep powder days
• Advanced skiers chasing high speed may want a stiffer ski

Bottom line: A strong default choice for skiers who want one pair that does most things well without specializing in any single condition.

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2026 Elan Ripstick 88 Women’s Skis – 154 cm

Best for: Women who want a versatile all-mountain ski that works on groomers and softer snow.

This is the women’s version of the Ripstick 88 platform, built with a shape and flex pattern aimed at lighter skiers and women who prefer a ski that initiates turns easily without feeling twitchy at speed.

Key specs

• Length: 154 cm (per listing name)
• Waist width: approximately 88 mm, matching the men’s Ripstick 88 platform
• Category: women’s all-mountain

Pros

• Women-specific design suits lighter skiers
• Mid-width platform handles varied snow
• Shorter length is easier to manage in tight terrain

Cons

• Shorter length may feel less stable for heavier or faster skiers
• Limited float compared with the wider Ripstick 96 models

Bottom line: A good match for women who ski across all terrain and want a manageable, confidence-building ski.

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Elan Ripstick 96 Black Edition Men’s All-Mountain Skis

Best for: Confident skiers who want more edge hold and stability at speed.

The Black Edition Ripstick 96 is the more assertive member of the family. The wider waist adds float in soft snow and a more planted feel on firm terrain, which suits skiers who push their pace and ski aggressively.

Key specs

• Waist width: approximately 96 mm (per model name)
• Category: men’s all-mountain, Black Edition finish

Pros

• Wider waist improves float in soft snow
• Stable and planted feel at higher speeds
• Good edge hold on firm, variable snow

Cons

• Heavier and less nimble for intermediate skiers
• Can feel unwieldy in tight trees or moguls

Bottom line: Best for advanced skiers who want a ski with a more aggressive personality than the 88 platform.

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Elan Ripstick 96 Skis 182cm 2025

Best for: Powder days, varied snow and skiers who cover a lot of mountain in a day.

The Ripstick 96 in the 182 cm length offers a longer running surface and the float that comes with a 96 mm waist. It is aimed at skiers who want to turn the whole mountain into a playground, from groomers to soft snow.

Key specs

• Length: 182 cm (per listing name)
• Waist width: approximately 96 mm
• Model year: 2025

Pros

• Longer length adds stability and float
• Versatile enough for both groomers and soft snow
• Smooth control across changing conditions

Cons

• Longer length requires more room to turn in tight terrain
• May be more ski than needed for intermediate skiers

Bottom line: A good choice for taller or heavier skiers who want stability and float across a full day of mixed snow.

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2026 Elan Wingman 78 Lite Skis with Bindings – 168 cm

Best for: Frontside carving on groomers and skiers who prioritize quick edge-to-edge movement.

The Wingman line leans toward frontside performance. The narrower 78 mm waist and lighter build make this ski quick to initiate and easy to tip onto edge, which suits skiers who spend most of their time on prepared runs.

Key specs

• Length: 168 cm (per listing name)
• Waist width: approximately 78 mm (per model name)
• Includes bindings (per listing name)

Pros

• Lightweight and quick to turn
• Good edge grip on groomed snow
• Includes bindings, which simplifies setup

Cons

• Narrower waist gives less float in powder
• Not ideal for skiers who spend significant time off-piste

Bottom line: A strong pick for groomer-focused skiers who want a lighter, carving-oriented ski.

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Elan Ripstick 88 Black Edition Men’s All-Mountain Skis

Best for: Everyday skiers who want a mid-width all-rounder with a bolder look.

This version of the 88 platform carries the Black Edition finish. The construction target is the same as the standard 88: a mid-width ski for mixed terrain that stays manageable for a wide range of abilities.

Key specs

• Waist width: approximately 88 mm (per model name)
• Category: men’s all-mountain, Black Edition finish

Pros

• Mid-width platform is versatile across snow types
• Manageable for intermediate skiers
• Distinct styling for skiers who care about the look

Cons

• Performance is close to the standard 88, so cosmetics are the main difference
• Limited float for deep powder

Bottom line: A good pick for intermediate to advanced skiers who want the 88 platform with the Black Edition look.

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Buying Guide

Waist width and terrain

Waist width is the single most useful number to check. Narrower skis (roughly 78 to 88 mm) favor groomers and quick turns. Wider skis (around 96 mm and up) add float in soft snow and stability at speed, at the cost of some nimbleness in tight terrain. If most of your skiing is on prepared runs, a narrower ski will feel more natural. If you ski soft snow regularly, go wider.

Good picks for this: Elan Wingman 78 Lite Skis, Elan Ripstick 88 Men’s All-Mountain Skis

Length and fit

Length affects stability and turn radius. Longer skis track more steadily at speed; shorter skis turn more easily. Manufacturers typically publish length recommendations based on height, weight and skill level, so check the size chart for the exact model rather than relying on a general rule.

Good picks for this: Elan Ripstick 96 Skis 182cm 2025, 2026 Elan Ripstick 88 Women’s Skis – 154 cm

Flex and skill level

Flex is how stiff the ski feels underfoot. Softer flex suits beginners and intermediates who want forgiveness; stiffer flex suits advanced skiers who want precision and stability at speed. Most all-mountain skis sit in the middle, which is why they work for a broad range of abilities.

Good picks for this: Elan Ripstick 88 Men’s All-Mountain Skis, Elan Ripstick 88 Black Edition Men’s All-Mountain Skis

Use case and terrain balance

Think about where you ski most. If you spend 80 percent of your days on groomers, a carving-oriented ski makes more sense than a wide all-mountain model. If you chase powder or ski off-piste often, prioritize float. Be honest about your typical day, not the one you hope to have.

Good picks for this: Elan Ripstick 96 Black Edition Men’s All-Mountain Skis, 2026 Elan Wingman 78 Lite Skis with Bindings

Weight and handling

Lighter skis are easier to swing and less tiring over a full day, but they can feel less stable at high speed. Heavier skis tend to dampen vibration and track more steadily, which many advanced skiers prefer. Consider your own strength and how long your ski days typically run.

Good picks for this: 2026 Elan Wingman 78 Lite Skis with Bindings, Elan Ripstick 96 Skis 182cm 2025

Durability and construction

Look for construction details the manufacturer describes, such as core materials, edge build and base type. Edges that hold their sharpness and bases that resist damage will extend the life of the ski. Ask a qualified shop technician about maintenance if you are unsure what to check.

Good picks for this: Elan Ripstick 96 Black Edition Men’s All-Mountain Skis, Elan Ripstick 88 Men’s All-Mountain Skis

Care and maintenance

Regular tuning matters more than most buyers expect. Keep edges sharp, store skis in a dry place, and apply wax at the frequency recommended for your conditions. A well-tuned ski performs noticeably better in any category above. For bindings and boot fit, consult a certified ski technician.

Good picks for this: Elan Ripstick 88 Black Edition Men’s All-Mountain Skis, 2026 Elan Ripstick 88 Women’s Skis – 154 cm

FAQ

What does “all mountain” mean for Elan skis?

All mountain describes skis designed to handle groomers, soft snow and mixed terrain rather than specializing in one condition. Elan’s all-mountain lineup covers a range of widths so skiers can match the ski to their terrain and ability.

Which Elan all mountain ski is best for beginners or intermediates?

The Elan Ripstick 88 Men’s All-Mountain Skis and the women’s Ripstick 88 are mid-width, versatile options that many intermediate skiers find manageable. Confirm the right length with the manufacturer’s size chart for your height and weight.

Are Elan Ripstick 96 skis good for powder?

The 96 mm waist offers more float than the 88 platform, which helps in soft snow. They are still versatile on groomers, but a dedicated powder ski would offer more float if you ski deep snow most days.

What length should I choose?

Length depends on height, weight, skill level and ski style. Check the manufacturer’s size chart for the specific model. Shorter lengths are easier to turn; longer lengths add stability at speed.

Do these skis come with bindings?

The 2026 Elan Wingman 78 Lite listing includes bindings according to its name. Most other listings here are sold as skis only, so check the listing details before purchasing.

How often should I tune my all mountain skis?

Many skiers sharpen edges and check the base every few days of skiing and perform a full tune at least once a season. Adjust based on snow conditions and how often you ski. A ski technician can advise on your specific schedule.

Should I consult a professional before choosing skis?

Yes. A certified ski shop technician can measure your boots, check binding settings and recommend a length based on your body and skiing style. This is especially important for binding release settings, which affect safety.

Conclusion

For most skiers, the Elan Ripstick 88 Men’s All-Mountain Skis is the most balanced starting point, and the women’s Ripstick 88 serves the same role for women who want versatility. If you ski deep snow often or ride at high speed, the Ripstick 96 Skis 182cm or the Black Edition 96 add float and stability. Groomer-focused skiers who want quick, light turns should look at the Wingman 78 Lite. Choose the pick that matches where you actually ski, not where you wish you skied, and confirm length against the manufacturer’s size chart.

Sources

• Safety guidance on ski equipment, bindings and recreational safety practices (cpsc.gov)
• Industry information on skier safety, equipment fit and responsible use on snow

Related reading

• Women's All Mountain Skis: 5 Best Picks Compared in 2026
• Wide All Mountain Skis: How to Choose the Right Width (2026)
• What Is the Difference Between Race Skis and All Mountain Skis?

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