When it comes to Midwest skiing, conditions differ vastly from the deep powder of the Rockies or Sierras. Midwest skiers encounter a unique mix of icy patches, groomed slopes, and the occasional light powder day. Ridge and River, based in Toledo, Ohio, specializes in recommending skis tailored for the Midwest skier, offering durable, high-performance options that make the most of these diverse conditions.
In our latest video, Dickie from Ridge and River shares his expert recommendations for skis that thrive in the Midwest. Be sure to watch the full video to hear Dickie’s in-depth take on these skis and why they’re ideal for Midwest slopes.
1. Honey Badger – The Ideal Ski for Park Enthusiasts
The Honey Badger is a perfect choice for Midwest skiers who love the thrill of the terrain park. This ski is built like a tank, yet remains light enough to make jumps, flips, and twists easier to master. Ideal for beginners entering the park or seasoned riders who appreciate resilience, the Honey Badger is designed for durability and agility.
- Built Tough Yet Light: With its rugged build, this ski can handle rough park landings while still being light enough to allow for exploration in the terrain park.
- Great in Trees: Its light design means you can easily maneuver through trees, making it a versatile option for both park play and light off-trail exploration.
- Perfect for Beginners and Kids: If you’re just beginning your park journey or want a reliable ski for younger riders, the Honey Badger is designed to inspire confidence and encourage athletic growth.
2. Elan Wingman – The Versatile All-Around Performer
The Elan Wingman is a versatile choice for skiers looking to conquer any part of the Midwest mountains. Thoughtfully designed with a balance of precision and width, this ski provides enough float for powder days while also delivering razor-sharp edge grip for icy groomers.
- Precision Carving: Built on a detuned racing chassis, the Wingman’s design makes it easy to carve smoothly and control speed, a huge plus on mixed terrain.
- Responsive and Agile: With quick turns and rapid edge transitions, the Wingman is great for everything from front-side groomers to side-country trails.
- Ideal for Mixed Terrain: This is Ridge and River’s best-selling ski for a reason; it’s reliable on Midwest slopes with enough width for stability yet narrow enough for agility.
3. Volkl Peregrine – For High-Speed, Icy Midwest Days
The Volkl Peregrine is a powerhouse built for those who love speed and crave the control needed for icy conditions. Midwest slopes often turn slick by midday, making edge grip crucial, and the Peregrine offers tenacious traction that keeps you steady, even at high speeds.
- Outstanding Edge Grip: This ski is specifically designed to bite into icy patches, making it perfect for Midwest skiers who often encounter hard, scraped slopes.
- High-Speed Stability: This is the ski for speed lovers. Tested on slopes like those at Boyne Mountain, it accelerates effortlessly, giving riders a thrilling experience.
- Purpose-Built for Midwest Conditions: With a focus on groomed runs and icy terrain, the Peregrine is the perfect companion for skiers who prioritize fast, smooth runs without the worry of powder performance.
4. Elan Ripstick 88 – Lightweight and Fun for the Entire Mountain
For skiers who want a more versatile option with a touch of playfulness, the Elan Ripstick 88 provides an enjoyable ride across the whole mountain. With a combination of carbon fiber technology, this ski is both lightweight and durable, making it easy to maneuver in mixed terrain.
- Carbon-Fiber Build: The Ripstick’s design incorporates carbon, making it lightweight without sacrificing edge grip or responsiveness.
- Versatile for Mixed Conditions: With an 88mm width, it’s perfect for light Midwest powder days yet performs well on groomed runs and through trees.
- Ideal for Adventurous Skiers: With a soft tip and tail rocker, the Ripstick allows for quick turns, making it ideal for navigating moguls and trees.
Conclusion
Whether you’re an adventurous park skier, a speed demon on icy slopes, or someone who wants an all-rounder for varied Midwest conditions, Ridge and River has a ski to fit your needs. From the durable Honey Badger to the lightning-fast Volkl Peregrine, each of these skis offers unique advantages tailored for the Midwest.
To learn more about these skis or to explore the perfect ski for your style, feel free to reach out to us! Whatever your skiing goals, Ridge and River is here to support your passion on the slopes.
Be sure to watch our video for Dickie’s expert breakdown and insights on each model.
FAQs
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What makes Midwest skiing unique?
Midwest skiing often features icy, mixed conditions rather than deep powder. Skis need strong edge grip and versatility to handle these terrains. -
Is the Honey Badger suitable for beginners?
Yes, the Honey Badger is durable, light, and forgiving, making it ideal for beginners, especially those interested in learning park tricks. -
Why is the Elan Wingman so popular?
The Elan Wingman’s balance of carving precision and versatility for varied terrain makes it a great all-rounder for Midwest skiers. -
Which ski is best for icy Midwest days?
The Volkl Peregrine offers the best performance for icy days with its strong edge grip and stability at high speeds. -
Can the Elan Ripstick 88 handle Midwest powder?
Absolutely. Its 88mm width and lightweight carbon design make it versatile enough for light powder days and groomed runs alike.
