The majority of our skis are equipped with ABS sections (a synthetic material with fiberglass particles), which act as shock-absorbers when skiing on hard snow or ice. The only skis that don’t have this reinforcement are the high-end touring skis (for the purpose of light cap weight. We developed a new 3D light cap ABS (CTS LIGHT) which permits still a lower weight but with an incredible resistance. We use this new technology for some skis in the free touring and freeride sector.
We use exclusively top quality sintered bases with high molecular density. We use 3 different P-Tex ( 2000 / 4000 / 5000 ) bases throughout the range which are carefully chosen to match the individual ski.
The new 3D light cap ABS sidewall is unique in the way that the ABS runs through to the wood core of the ski and works also as a form of reinforcement. This system also offers a weight gain over the classic CTS which why it is integrated in to the Free Touring and Freeride ranges.
We reviewed the way we use our different edges throughout the entire range, with a focus on increasing durability of the skis that get the heaviest use. We’ve done this by varying the thickness of the edge along the length of the majority of the skis. The touring and free-touring ranges now benefit from a wider edge in places to help resist impacts associated with poor snow cover. The only skis with a completely straight and thinner edge profile are the competition touring range for weight-saving reasons. The edges are in 3 distinct widths; 1.8mm, 2.0mm & 2.4mm.
The Light Rocker tip has a grading from 6 to 12 depending on the length of the tip, all of which give great absorption of uneven terrain and variable snow conditions. Entry in to the turn is super easy and progressive with these tips. The camber of the center section of the ski and the shape of the tail guarantee stability and edge grip.
All of the vulnerable areas of the ski (edges, tip & tail) are reinforced with a rubber layer that protects from shocks and seals the ski. These layers also serve to absorb vibrations and stop the infiltration of water into the ski’s core, which can cause delimitation and eventually the destruction of the ski.
The wood core of a ski is fundamentally important; not only does it give the ski its liveliness, it also pre-determines the ski’s durability and therefore differs hugely between the different ranges (piste-freeride-freestyle-touring). We continue to only use wood cores that are certified FCS and PEPS (www.fcs.org, www.pefc.org). We use the following woods in our manufacturing: Beech, Okume, Poplar, EPL poplar light, Light Karuba, Ultra light Karuba. Every core is designed to match the qualities of the relevant ski.
The ICON is an exceptional new ski! Armed with a new-school shape, the ICON is a versatile freeride ski that will be at home on even the most challenging off piste terrain. With a notable rocker tip and 95mm under foot, the ICON floats quickly in the deep stuff, whilst a light rocker tail helps the ski pivot quickly along with a short (14m) sidecut making this ski a top performer in tighter spots and through the trees despite its size. Wood core, tri-axial fiber weave and 3D light cap ABS (CTS LIGHT) ensure excellent power transmission and response. The flex pattern is progressive which increases fluidity and acceleration. An overall winner in the FREERIDE category.