In the world of women's skis, the Völkl Blaze 86 W Skis and the Elan Ripstick 88 W Skis are two top contenders for the 2024 season. Both skis are designed for versatility and agility, with a focus on all-mountain performance. The Völkl Blaze 86 W Skis are praised for their lightweight design and suspension tips and tails, offering composure, increased flotation, and protection off-piste. On the other hand, the Elan Ripstick 88 W Skis are lauded for their precision, stability, and smooth transitions, thanks to features like Amphibio Technology, Carbon Line Technology, and SST Sidewalls. While both skis are excellent choices, the final verdict will depend on your personal skiing style and preferences.

Völkl Blaze 86 W Skis · Women's · 2024 summary

The Völkl Blaze 86 W Skis are a fantastic choice for women who crave a versatile and agile ski that can handle demanding terrain, speed, and long curves. These skis are designed with a lightweight structure and suspension tips and tails, offering composure, increased flotation, and protection off-piste. The full tip-to-tail wood core provides ease in both ascents and descents, while the versatile technological setup gives an intuitive feel.

These skis are perfect for anyone looking for a ski that can handle a variety of terrain and provide maximum control. They feature a wood core ski with a titanal plate underfoot, creating a stable damp ride while keeping the tips and tails more forgiving. These skis are an easy skiing ski with the 3D turn radius. They like short turns as well as longer radius turns. They'll chatter a bit at higher speeds due to the metal only under foot. These are a lighter option for anyone looking for max control while skiing.

Elan Ripstick 88 W Skis · Women's · 2024 summary

The Elan Ripstick 88 W Skis are designed for intermediate and advanced women skiers who want a versatile all-mountain ski. With features like Amphibio Technology, Carbon Line Technology, and SST Sidewalls, these skis offer precision, stability, and smooth transitions. They are perfect for groomed terrain and can handle off-piste conditions as well. The 88mm width strikes a balance between on-piste performance and off-piste versatility.

These skis provide a smooth and confident ride in any conditions or terrain. They are versatile and suitable for all mountain skiing with an emphasis on groomed terrain. Packed with tech features for versatility, playfulness, response, rebound, solid edge hold, and stability at high speeds, these skis are perfect for those looking for a true all-mountain experience.

Similarities

Both the Völkl Blaze 86 W Skis and the Elan Ripstick 88 W Skis are designed with the adventurous woman skier in mind. They are both versatile, agile, and designed to handle a variety of terrains, from groomed runs to off-piste adventures. Both skis are praised for their stability and control, making them great choices for intermediate to advanced skiers. They both feature innovative technology to enhance performance and provide a smooth, confident ride.

Differences and Who They're Good For

While both skis are designed for all-mountain performance, they each have unique features that may appeal to different types of skiers. The Völkl Blaze 86 W Skis are lighter and more forgiving, making them a great choice for skiers who value control and ease of use. They are also a good fit for those who enjoy both short and long radius turns.

On the other hand, the Elan Ripstick 88 W Skis are packed with tech features that enhance versatility, playfulness, response, rebound, and stability at high speeds. They are a great fit for intermediate and advanced skiers who want to conquer the entire mountain, with an emphasis on groomed terrain.

Analysis on Who’s the Winner

When it comes to versatility, both skis perform well, but the Elan Ripstick 88 W Skis take the edge with their advanced tech features. For agility, the Völkl Blaze 86 W Skis win with their lightweight design and forgiving tips and tails. In terms of stability, both skis offer excellent control, but the Elan Ripstick 88 W Skis stand out with their SST Sidewalls and Carbon Line Technology. Finally, for overall performance, it's a close call, but the Elan Ripstick 88 W Skis slightly outshine the Völkl Blaze 86 W Skis with their balance of on-piste performance and off-piste versatility.

Conclusions

In conclusion, both the Völkl Blaze 86 W Skis and the Elan Ripstick 88 W Skis are excellent choices for women skiers looking for versatile, all-mountain performance. The Völkl Blaze 86 W Skis shine with their lightweight design and forgiving nature, making them a great choice for those who value control and ease of use. The Elan Ripstick 88 W Skis, on the other hand, impress with their advanced tech features and emphasis on groomed terrain, making them a top pick for intermediate and advanced skiers. Ultimately, the best ski for you will depend on your personal skiing style and preferences. Happy skiing!