The Elan Ripstick 86 (2018) is a nimble all‑mountain ski built for skiers who want confident carving on groomers and playful control in variable snow. With an 86 mm waist and directional shaping, the Ripstick 86 balances edge hold and agility — narrow enough to slice clean turns on packed snow, yet wide enough to provide buoyancy when conditions soften. Lightweight construction with targeted carbon reinforcement gives the ski lively responsiveness without sacrificing stability at speed, so you get crisp turn initiation and reliable power through the radius of every carve. Designed around modern rocker/camber geometry, the Ripstick 86 blends rockered tips for easier turn initiation and smoother handling in chop with camber underfoot for consistent edge contact and grip. That combination makes these skis particularly well suited for intermediate to advanced skiers who want a single pair to handle daily mountain variety: frontside groomers, choppy interludes, and occasional firm spring runs. The ski’s torsional stiffness is tuned to deliver solid edge bite while still allowing playful release when you want to drift or slash off piste. Available in 168, 176 and 184 cm lengths, the Ripstick 86 lets riders choose the right balance of stability and maneuverability for their height, weight and preferred terrain. The 168 excels for quick, short-radius turns and nimble handling; the 176 provides an all‑round sweet spot for mixed conditions; and the 184 adds high-speed stability for longer turns and more aggressive skiers. The 2018 Ripstick also benefits from responsive tip design and dampening that reduce chatter for a smoother feel on higher-speed runs. If you’re shopping for reliable all‑mountain carving skis that deliver lightness, precision and playful versatility, the Elan Ripstick 86 is a compelling choice. It’s an excellent daily driver for riders who value carving performance, quick edge-to-edge response, and a ski that adapts across groomers, crud and light powder. Pair with a suitable DIN‑rated binding and you’ve got a versatile setup that performs across the season.