By Ethan Sullivan
Elan Voyager purple
Overview and intended use
The Voyager Purple solves a common travel dilemma: full‑length all‑mountain performance with easy transportability. It folds to under a metre depending on size while offering full‑size lengths from 154 to 178 cm, making it a practical option for plane and car travel. The ski targets intermediate to advanced skiers who want a single pair that handles groomers, variable conditions and light powder without the hassle of oversized luggage. Its Amphibio asymmetric profile contributes to predictable edge behaviour and helps balance power with easy turn initiation.
On-snow performance
On snow the Voyager Purple surprises with a solid, composed feel. The Amphibio layout (camber on the inside edge for grip, rocker on the outside edge for easier turn entry) translates into confident edge hold and smooth transition between turns. With a 78 mm waist the ski is clearly piste‑biased but versatile enough for variable snow; the 127 mm tip and 110 mm tail aid flotation and release. Titanium layers and a carbon‑reinforced Fusion plate add dampening and stability, though the additional reinforcements increase overall weight compared with standard non‑folding skis.
Folding mechanism and travel benefits
The folding mechanism is the Voyager’s headline feature. A central hinge and reinforced Fusion X plate with robust locking deliver surprising on‑snow rigidity once the ski is deployed. This makes airline travel and compact packing simple, but it also adds mass — a trade‑off between portability and lightness. Many retail packages pair these skis with the EMX 12.0 GW FUSION X binding; always check whether published weights include bindings when you need exact figures for travel allowances or bike storage.
Construction, specs and what they mean
Construction blends a laminated wood core with titanium reinforcement, carbon‑reinforced Fusion plate technology, and a high‑speed base. Amphibio technology combines camber on the inside edge for bite and power with rocker on the outside edge for easier turn initiation and smoother transitions. The 127‑78‑110 geometry means a pronounced tip for stable turn entry, a relatively narrow waist for precise carving on groomers, and a fuller tail to aid release and control at turn exit. A 172 cm ski is listed at about 2490 g per ski, though weights vary by source and length.
Pros, cons and who should buy
In short: the Voyager Purple is an excellent travel ski with true all‑mountain credentials. Its strengths are obvious for the frequent traveller — compact storage, dependable on‑piste performance and surprising stability — while compromises include noticeably higher weight than many dedicated non‑folding all‑mountain skis and a price premium for the folding system. If you prioritise convenience and versatile performance over minimal weight or deep‑powder specialization, this is a compelling option; otherwise, consider a lighter or wider dedicated ski for those niches.
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