ELANACE SCX

This Elan model has been with us for several seasons, with only minor changes to its geometry and construction, so most of our testers know it very well. Opinions on the SCX remain divided: some love it, while others search for weaknesses. Comments included: “Light to steer, yet providing a secure platform through medium-radius turns. They can surprise you with a huge burst of energy out of the arc. Excellent in short turns on hard snow.” Another tester wrote: “The silky turn tracking and superb snow feel typical of Elan construction. Versatile across different arc lengths. Excellent grip on hard snow and very easy when changing rhythm. Superb!” We also heard: “Very good skis – secure on edge, supple and dynamic at the same time. You decide what radius you want, and changing it is easy. Excellent for all-day skiing and enormously enjoyable.” This was followed by: “Excellent, well-judged rebound; superb ‘Elan edges’ that inspire confidence in every arc; and attractive, aggressive graphics. Together, they create a benchmark product. One of the best in the group.” There were doubters, however: “They ought to enter the turn quickly, but I felt they needed a moment to think before the edges engaged. Competent, but emotionally flat.” And: “They invite relatively calm skiing, although they are smooth and stable. Turn initiation is fairly active and the radius easy to tighten. They could be quicker from edge to edge. Edge grip is fine. They will suit less aggressive skiers.”