By Liam Anderson
Elan Lynx 82 ul
Overview
The Lynx 82 UL is an ultralight touring ski aimed at ski tourers who demand uphill efficiency without completely sacrificing downhill performance. With an 82 mm waist and Early Rise Rocker (tip and tail rocker with camber underfoot) it handles both groomers and mixed alpine terrain. Shorter lengths offer quicker turn initiation because of decreased effective edge and radius, while longer lengths add stability at speed. For ambitious day tourers and fast-packers who count grams, it strikes a convincing balance between low weight and competent descent behavior.
Construction and Technology
Construction combines an AirLite laminated woodcore with carbon reinforcement and a titanal plate under the binding. This mix delivers the necessary torsional stiffness and snap for carving while keeping overall mass down. The EST Touring sidewall provides a lightweight edge platform that still allows confident edge hold, and the sintered running base gives good glide. In practice: the core and reinforcements control stiffness and rebound, the titanal plate secures mounting and damping, and sidewalls and base determine grip and speed.
On-Piste Performance
On piste the ski is lively and responsive with good edge grip in short to medium turns. The 121 mm tip helps initiate turns and softens encounters with chopped-up snow, while the 103 mm tail helps release the turn. The 82 mm waist is a balanced choice: agile on hardpack and just wide enough to handle softer, shallow snow. Compared to other ultralight 80–85 mm touring skis it can feel a touch more nervous at very high speeds, but the titanal plate and AirLite build tame vibrations better than many super-minimalist rivals.
Touring and Uphill
Uphill performance is where the Lynx 82 UL really shines—low single-ski weights (Elan lists 940–1090 g by length, 1040–1050 g frequently referenced for 171 cm) translate to less fatigue on long tours and faster ascents. The Early Rise rocker eases kickturns and improves float in variable snow. The light sidewalls and core make the ski easy to handle when skinning; the titanal plate keeps the binding interface secure without massively penalizing weight. In short, it’s a very capable ski for long days and fast approaches.
Who Should Buy
This ski is best suited to intermediate to advanced tourers who prioritize uphill efficiency but still want a ski that can be skied confidently on the descent. Drawbacks include slightly reduced dampening at very high speeds and limited flotation in deep powder because of the 82 mm waist. If you’re piste-first or need maximum stability at full-on resort speeds, a heavier, wider carving ski will be better. For a light, responsive, and generally capable touring tool the Lynx 82 UL is an excellent choice.
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