For responsive versatility and a ton of stability at a lighter weight, the Elan Ripstick 96 Black Edition Skis with bindings are a fantastic setup for advanced and expert skiers. We talk about the mid-90's skis a lot for their general well-roundedness, and these take that theory to the next level with the addition of more carbon in this second iteration of the Black Edition skis from Elan. The big change comes with the amount and application of carbon used in the ski. They’ve added two separate carbon rods in the central chord of the ski, with one placed in the forebody, and the second running through the tail. These rods provide 360-degrees of stability and stiffness, providing accurate and precise feedback on the trails. The amazing part is that Elan is able to create this performance level without adding weight. In addition, the Carbon Line Technology that started up this past year on all Ripstick skis is added and extended in the Black Edition skis, with the carbon stretching from edge to edge underfoot and longer through the shovel and tail. This, combined with the extra carbon tubes, makes for an insane about of precision and performance at a fraction of the weight of metal laminates. It’s one of the most successful uses and applications of carbon we’ve seen in a ski, and you’ll be the beneficiary of it all with the Elan Ripstick 96 Black Edition skis with bindings.