With taper at the tip and some shape at the extremities, the Kore’s profile excels in three-dimensional snow and still works on the wind buff. At 105 mm, it is is not a powder ski but it's still enough in any single-digit snowstorm. It is amazing how a light ski like the Kore can be so solid and retain a warm analog feel rather than getting pingy or digital in feedback.
The Elan Ripstick is like a Australian Shepherd puppy, it needs to be doing something fun, an unusual trait for a One Oh Something. Just like you can throw a puppy tennis balls until your arm falls off, the Ripstick wants to make turns, porpoise in and out of the snow, and just play. These characteristics have a lot to do with the tip shape and Elan’s unique amphibio profile with a tad more rocker on the outer edges.
- Why choose the Kore 105? You want a bit more power and want to charge.
- Why choose the Ripstick 106? You put a premium on playfulness but want a ski with a traditional tail, not a twin.