Expert Comparison: Elan Ripstick 94 W Skis · Women's · 2024 vs Black Crows Captis Birdie Skis · Women's · 2023
VS
Side by side comparison | Out of stock | Out of stock |
|---|---|---|
Price | from:$419.99 40% off | $389.97 40% off |
User rating | 5(3) | 5(1) |
The Curated Take | Best for intermediate to expert skiers who want a lightweight, versatile ski that performs well on and off-piste. | -- |
Ski type | All Mountain, Freeride | All Mountain |
Skill level | Intermediate, Advanced | Intermediate, Advanced |
Rocker profile | Rocker/Camber/Rocker | Rocker/Camber/Rocker |
In the world of women's skis, the Elan Ripstick 94 W Skis and the Black Crows Captis Birdie Skis are two standout options. Both are designed for intermediate to advanced skiers and offer a blend of performance and versatility that can handle a variety of terrains. The Elan Ripstick 94 W Skis are known for their lightweight design and unique amphibio profile, which provides excellent carving and all-mountain performance. On the other hand, the Black Crows Captis Birdie Skis are praised for their forgiving flex and nimble ride, making them a great choice for those looking to blend freestyle and carving into a one-ski quiver. While both skis have their strengths, the choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference and skiing style.
The Elan Ripstick 94 W Skis are a freeride ski that's good for frontside and backside terrain, along with resort and backcountry skiing. They are built very lightweight, making them a great backcountry touring setup option. The skis have an amphibio profile, which means that there's a left ski and a right ski. This unique design helps with carving and provides a versatile performance all over the mountain.
The skis are pretty flexible, with a bit of camber underfoot, making them a good groomer ski. They also have some rocker in the tip and tail, which makes them more of a freeride ski. The skis are 94 underfoot, making them a great ski for a powder day. They hold up well in bumps and trees, although they may not be as nimble as some might expect.
The Elan Ripstick 94 W Skis are recommended for high intermediate to advanced skiers. They are more of a hard-charging ski and are not ideal for beginners or those looking for a ski to ski primarily groomers.
The Elan Ripsticks seemingly defy physics: How does such an incredibly lightweight ski turn so effectively and hold such a strong edge?? Elan lays down carbon rods through the length of the Ripstick to give it incredible torsional strength as you lay arcing turns down groomers and ice. But with a 94 mm waist, the Ripstick is just as capable of venturing off-piste through trees and surfing over soft snow. The Ripstick is incredibly light, maneuverable, and fun ski that can appeal to both upper intermediates all the way to experts. It's a ski that doesn't ask too much of you, but gives a whole lot in return!
The Elan Ripsticks seemingly defy physics: How does such an incredibly lightweight ski turn so effectively and hold such a strong edge?? Elan lays down carbon rods through the length of the Ripstick to give it incredible torsional strength as you lay arcing turns down groomers and ice. But with a 94 mm waist, the Ripstick is just as capable of venturing off-piste through trees and surfing over soft snow. The Ripstick is incredibly light, maneuverable, and fun ski that can appeal to both upper intermediates all the way to experts. It's a ski that doesn't ask too much of you, but gives a whole lot in return!
Elan Ripstick 94 W Skis · Women's · 2024
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The Black Crows Captis Birdie Skis are a versatile option for intermediate to advanced skiers. They have a short turning radius and partial twin tip, offering room to play. Despite their lack of width and powder performance, they make up for it with their flex and edge-to-edge ride.
The skis are responsive and lightweight due to their poplar core. They have a medium-soft flex, maximizing freestyle abilities, and a tight turn radius for a nimble ride. They are great for a lightweight rider looking to blend freestyle and carving into a one-ski quiver.
The Black Crows Captis Birdie Skis are recommended for advanced skiers or someone who wants a little bit wider ski underfoot and is looking for a little bit of powder. They are not ideal for beginners or fast skiers who prefer a stiffer ski.
This ski is great for a lightweight rider looking to blend freestyle and carving into a one-ski quiver. With a short turning radius and partial twin tip, this ski offers room to play. What this ski lacks in width and powder performance it truly makes up for in flex and edge-to-edge ride.
This ski is great for a lightweight rider looking to blend freestyle and carving into a one-ski quiver. With a short turning radius and partial twin tip, this ski offers room to play. What this ski lacks in width and powder performance it truly makes up for in flex and edge-to-edge ride.
Black Crows Captis Birdie Skis · Women's · 2023
- We price match
- Returnable
Similarities
Both the Elan Ripstick 94 W Skis and the Black Crows Captis Birdie Skis are designed for intermediate to advanced skiers. They are both versatile, all-mountain skis that can handle a variety of terrains and conditions. Both skis are lightweight and offer a responsive and fun ride. They both have a forgiving flex, making them easy to turn and maneuver. Both skis are also not ideal for beginners, as they are more suited for skiers who have some experience and are looking to advance their skills.
Differences and Who They're Good For
While both skis are versatile and designed for intermediate to advanced skiers, they do have some differences. The Elan Ripstick 94 W Skis are more of a hard-charging ski and are not ideal for those looking to ski primarily on groomers. They are also not the best choice for beginners or those looking for a ski that is light and nimble. These skis are better suited for skiers who are looking to venture off-piste and surf over soft snow.
On the other hand, the Black Crows Captis Birdie Skis are great for lightweight riders looking to blend freestyle and carving into a one-ski quiver. They are not ideal for those who prefer a stiffer ski or for those who are looking to ski in deeper snow. These skis are better suited for skiers who want a ski that is easy to turn and offers a nimble ride.
Analysis on Who’s the Winner
When it comes to versatility, both skis perform well, but the Elan Ripstick 94 W Skis might have a slight edge due to their amphibio profile and ability to handle a wider range of conditions.
In terms of performance on groomers, the Black Crows Captis Birdie Skis take the lead with their short turning radius and edge-to-edge ride.
For off-piste and powder performance, the Elan Ripstick 94 W Skis come out on top with their wider waist and ability to surf over soft snow.
Finally, for freestyle performance, the Black Crows Captis Birdie Skis win with their partial twin tip and medium-soft flex that maximizes freestyle abilities.
Conclusions
In conclusion, both the Elan Ripstick 94 W Skis and the Black Crows Captis Birdie Skis are excellent choices for intermediate to advanced skiers looking for a versatile, all-mountain ski. The choice between the two will largely depend on your personal skiing style and the conditions you typically ski in. If you're looking for a ski that can handle a wide range of conditions and excel off-piste, the Elan Ripstick 94 W Skis are a great choice. If you're a lightweight rider looking to blend freestyle and carving into a one-ski quiver, the Black Crows Captis Birdie Skis would be a better fit. Either way, you can't go wrong with either of these skis. Happy skiing!
