Elan Wildcat 83 Black Edition Review

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Elan Wildcat 83 ski tip close-up with Women’s Ski Tested badge

A light, quick, women’s all-mountain ski that shines brightest on groomers.

Elan Wildcat 83 women's ski shown vertically with bindings
LENGTHS:
144, 152, 160, 168
DIMENSIONS:
130-82-110 @ 168
RADIUS:
14M @ 168
OTHER MODELS:
Wildcat 86 TI, 83 TI, 83 C, 80 TI, 78 C
BEST FOR:
An eastern skier who mostly sticks to the groomers
ABILITY:
Advanced to expert
COMPARE WITH:
Stöckli Montero AW, Rossignol Arcade 84 W, Head Total Joy

 Think of the Wildcat as an SUV. Sure it has all-wheel drive, but it’s really designed for paved roads. Likewise, the Wildcat could pad its way into a back bowl or pounce into a mogul field, but it would much rather strut down groomed runs. “Shined on the frontside,” said Kate Storing. “Lightweight and easy to turn.” The build is a mix of Titanal, carbon rods and a lightweight wood core, with the mass of the asymmetric ski concentrated over the inside edge. This lightweight but focused mass mixes easy edge hold and an ability to go fast with a playful streak. It was snappy on smooth snow and turned cruddy conditions buttery, but was a little tougher to train in powder or bumps. 



Ryan Stuart
Ryan Stuart has a ski for every possible condition and a jacket to match. Well maybe not quite, but the magazine’s Technical Editor has more than enough of both and can’t wait to test out whatever is coming next. When he’s not testing skis or writing the buyer’s guides, you can’t find him exploring his bumpy backyard on Vancouver Island. @ryan_adventures
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