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.
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.
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 top sheet of a ski has a pretty hard time; it needs to be resistant to repetitive shocks, impacts, huge temperature changes and UV rays. Our top sheets all confirm to the industry standard (ICP 8210) which guarantees the best quality out there. The upper layer of the top-sheet is a highly-resistant polyamide, which is made up of two thermally-bonded layers of the following thickness: 0.15mm / 0.25mm / 0.40mm and 0.50mm. The top sheets all then have an anti-UV treatment and anti-stick coating (to repel snow – particularly important in the touring range). The X-Series range will also benefit from a new technology with a dual-layer top sheet.
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.
After a number of years of outstanding service, the JAM gives way to the PLAYER this season. Sharing many of the qualities of its predecessor, the PLAYER will become one of the benchmarks in the All Mountain market. At 86mm underfoot, the PLAYER is really adaptable and a short sidecut allows it to enter the turn with ease. The construction has been re-worked and optimized to include a poplar core with tri-axial weave to give the ski outstanding acceleration and fluidity. The new rocker tip borrowed from the GAMBLER helps the ski pivot and improves off-piste performance. The reference ski in this category without a doubt.