Following in the footsteps of two already great skis in their own right, the Elan Ripstick 96 Black Edition skis blaze a new path forward, and we are totally on board. The Black Edition skis take the carbon uses that Elan is known for to the next level. With the addition of a wider and longer Carbon Line Technology, and the use of QuadRod Reinforcement, the Elan Ripstick 96 Black Edition Skis are as close to feeling like a ski with two sheets of metal without the metal. It’s an incredibly successful effort on their part, and the addition of those two additional carbon rods makes a huge difference. The best part is that it does all of this without making the ski heavy or cumbersome. The 180 cm length ski generates an 18-meter turn radius, which is right in that middle-zone for performance, which is also where the shape takes us. The 96 mm underfoot width is right in that one-ski quiver Goldilocks zone, where it does everything really well, while not standing out or completely lacking in any one category. These skis are very well rounded, and with the extra carbon versus the normal Ripstick 96, it separates itself certainly in terms of performance, precision, and responsiveness. If you’re looking for a ski that generates a ton of power but in a lighter and more playful package, the Elan Ripstick 96 Black Edition skis should certainly be at the top of your list.