Elan ski reviews 2010
Virtually the entire line now employs Waveflex technology, essentially a top skin that increases torsional rigidity for any given flex. It has been our experience that Waveflex dampens the ski more than the old flat topskin. Skiers either love damp skis—K2 remains the best selling brand in North America—or don't. Skiers accustomed to the old lively Elan feel are advised to demo before buying. Elan offers one of the most diverse slates of race skis of any manufacturer.
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Black Magic
This woman's all mountain 1-ski-quiver continues as one of the best values in Elan's line. The ski has a slightly wider waist and significantly narrower tail than its predecessor, which has improved large radius turn suitability. It is now more versatile and balanced for females who primary ski the groomed. Comments along the lines of "More ski than the price" and "Rides like a more expensive ski" were included on several test cards.
GS Waveflex
Masters, citizen, college race nirvana. Much of the power, holding ability and stability of the GSX and much less demanding. Sheer speed merchants who ski fast on the groomed will also find this a great ski.
Speedwave 12
Speed fans should get the 14, skiers working on carving skills may prefer this easier to handle version. This ski is livelier in feel, but not as stable.
Speedwave Magic
Exceptionally versatile. Fairly easy to ski at slow speeds, but the 14 really comes into its own at "macht schnell" velocities. Great medium to long turn super fast frontside carver. "Locks into a turn and hang on! Woo Hoo!"
Puzzle
Not for backside or frontside rippers, but a good crossover park and off-piste ski that could be dubbed a "new school 1-ski-quiver." Comments included: "Loved its moderate sidecut, no chatter, smooth, quick and fun."
Pure Magic
(Formerly Pure Spice) Women's ski, companion to the 78, performance more on par with the Ti version. As is sometimes the case with "comparable" models, our female testers gave this ski slightly higher marks than did the men the 78Ti. A ski that lesson-taking sport skiers can grow into, yet that will not prove intimidating at first. Highly recommended.
