ISPO Award Winner 2025: Elan Ace GSX FX

The vision behind the Ace GSX FX was to combine GS-inspired stability with an intuitive feel that helps experienced skiers refine their technique without added physical demand. Engineers focused on one core challenge: how to keep the ski connected to the snow at speed without compromising agility or feedback.

As the development team explains, the idea was straightforward: integrate race-level suspension directly into the ski structure so each reinforcement layer works in sync with the skier’s pressure. Active Suspension Drive places shock-absorbing elastomer between overlapping reinforcements, allowing the ski to engage in precise sectors. This keeps vibration low, edge grip high and rebound consistent through long turns, variable surfaces and aggressive transitions.

Wie das Entwicklungsteam erklärt, war der Ansatz klar: Rennsport-Dämpfung direkt in die Skistruktur integrieren, sodass jede Verstärkungsschicht im Einklang mit dem Druck des Fahrers arbeitet. Active Suspension Drive platziert vibrationsabsorbierende Elastomere zwischen überlappenden Verstärkungen, sodass der Ski präzise arbeitet. Das reduziert Vibrationen, erhöht den Kantengriff und sorgt für einen konstanten Rebound – durch lange Schwünge, wechselnde Schneetexturen und dynamische Übergänge.

Elan designed the Ace GSX FX with a calm, intentional graphic language. Instead of busy visual elements, the ski uses clean lines and subtle detailing. The goal: communicate honesty and performance rather than decoration. The graphics hint at speed and directional motion, reinforcing the ski’s identity as a precise, energetic long-turn tool. Every detail is there for a reason—supporting the technology, not distracting from it.

The ski’s construction builds on proven elements from Elan’s race lineage. Titanal reinforcement ensures stability and clean power transfer in long, fast turns. A Race Frame woodcore brings control and predictability, while RST sidewalls enable precise edge engagement. A sintered racing base ensures glide and durability across a range of piste conditions.

Together, these components create a ski that feels secure at speed yet reactive enough to reward technical input—a combination aimed squarely at expert skiers who thrive on big arcs.

Elan validated the Ace GSX FX using CARV data analysis, generating a measurable performance story. One highlight came from skier Vid Baruca, who achieved a Ski IQ of 168 on the new Ace line: evidence of how the ski supports clean technique, edge angle, pressure control and turn quality. This data-driven approach helped refine how the suspension system works under real, high-level skiing forces.

The Ace GSX FX is aimed at strong on-piste skiers who want GS-style speed and stability without stepping onto a full-blown race ski. It targets riders who enjoy long-radius carving, powerful transitions and a stable, predictable platform for pushing technique. For this group, the ski offers more performance without demanding more strength—an efficient equation for fast, committed piste days.

• Active Suspension Drive ensures continuous snow contact and smooth, powerful rebound

• Race-inspired construction offers stability and precision at speed

• Refined, confident design that highlights the ski’s technological core

• Measurable performance improvements supported by CARV Ski IQ data

• Strong balance of power, control and efficiency for expert long-turn skiers