The spring season is drawing to a close, and at this time manufacturers are offering various opportunities to unveil their new models for the 2023-24 season, including product exhibitions and snow test rides
ELAN, which has produced the RIPSTICK, a huge hit in the freeride category, has also produced innovative products such as foldable skis. This time, we asked them about the new models and hot topics of the 2023-2024 season at a test ride event hosted by Pro Shop VAIL (held at Naeba Ski Resort on March 18-19)
The rare twin tip "PLAYMAKER" debuts!
ELAN is a prestigious ski brand from Slovenia that has led the global alpine racing scene, including the W-Cup. All products are manufactured in-house, and the brand is renowned for its asymmetrical 3D rocker structure, developed with the high technical expertise cultivated through its long history. Recently, it also produced the world's first "foldable skis," which attracted a lot of attention
In the freeski category, the RIPSTICK series has received high praise worldwide, leading to an expansion of the lineup, and in the 2022-2023 season, the RIPSTICK TOUR, which is designed for 50/50 climbing and 50/50 skiing, was released. While just as lightweight and sturdy as the tour model, this ski boasts excellent turning performance thanks to its asymmetrical design, delivering the best performance for both hiking and turning, and it is still fresh in our memory as it attracted a lot of attention
The RIPSTICK has undoubtedly become a popular series that is an essential part of the freeskiing scene. As if waiting for the right moment, ELAN will debut the new "PLAYMAKER" in the 2023-2024 season
Features of PLAY MAKER
First and foremost, the twin tip shape is noticeable. Furthermore, it is symmetrical, rather than asymmetrical, which is rare for ELAN skis. For users who have been following ELAN skis for many years, it will have a big impact, as it says, "ELAN has finally brought back the twin tip!" As the name suggests, the "PLAYMAKER" is a playful ski that loves to play! It is a ski that satisfies the desire to play freely. It could be said that the answer to this is the symmetry of the twin tip
The base inherits the excellent performance of the "RIPSTICK" series. Like the RIPSTICK, it is extremely lightweight and makes effective use of carbon tubes
The PLAYMAKER features two carbon tubes in the center, running from the toe to the heel piece of the binding. This makes the tip and tail soft and easy to handle with twin tips, while the center is strong and provides reliable grip on the snow. The result is high maneuverability and a powerful, stable ride. The waist width is available in two sizes: 91mm (gray) and 101mm (white)
Although it is similar in functionality to the RIPSTICK, the outlook and riding feel are completely different. It has received high praise from users, with comments such as "It's just so much fun!" and "It's surprisingly versatile." I'd love to try it out and experience this new sensation for myself
▼"PLAYMAKER" explanatory video (by Ito)
Official website: https://www.elanjapan.co.jp/
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