Elan Ace scx fx 80 years — Review

The Ace SCX FX – 80 years (AAJMBX25) is a piste-focused ski with clear racing DNA, aimed at advanced to expert skiers seeking precision and speed on firm snow. Elan's product page lists a camber profile and shows sizes 162 and 174, though some retailer specs for the SCX Fusion X family mention a slight tip rocker on certain years. The ski ships with EMX 12.0 GW FUSION X bindings and is designed for quick short-to-medium radius carves while still handling longer turns when pushed aggressively and with proper technique.

Construction is built around an R² FRAME woodcore combined with Dual Ti titanal layers, Ace Arrow/Arrow Technology laminates and RST sidewalls, plus a Race Structured High Speed base and the Fusion X Power Rebound system. This recipe yields high torsional stiffness, direct edge response and strong edge hold at speed. The Fusion X plate with its pre-tensioned carbon element adds rebound at turn exit, making turn initiation and release feel snappier and more energetic for skiers who like a lively, race-biased platform.

On snow the ski stands out for its edge grip and stability on groomers. The narrow 67 mm waist promotes rapid edge-to-edge transitions and makes the ski very agile in short turns. Dual titanal and RST sidewalls provide confidence at higher speeds and on hardpack, while the relatively heavy mass (~2360 g per ski) contributes to high-speed composure but requires more input and leg strength to manipulate. Best results come from active skiers who commit and drive the ski through the arc.

Key specs and what they mean: the camber profile (manufacturer listed) gives strong rebound and consistent contact through the turn; tip/waist/tail widths (162 cm: 112/67/99 mm; 174 cm: 113/67/100 mm) influence flotation, turn initiation and edge bite; radius (162 cm: 15.1 m; 174 cm: 15.9 m) indicates the ski's preferred turn size; weight (~2360 g per ski, ±50 g) reflects a race-oriented build providing stability at speed but demanding effort from the skier. Included bindings are EMX 12.0 GW FUSION X.

Pros and cons, plus comparisons: strengths are precise edge hold, powerful rebound, and speed stability—qualities closer to GS or race-influenced carving skis than soft all-mountain models. Potential drawbacks are the demanding weight and limited forgiveness for less technical skiers. Compared with lighter, more playful piste skis, the Ace SCX FX is firmer and faster but less easy to flick; when matched against dedicated race-carving models it offers similar feedback with slightly more consumer-friendly binding integration and structure.