Ski Press World Inc. - Index

Ski Press World Inc. - SIA Day 2 - Index

trend +/smart skis
ADAPTING THE FLEX
Proving that smart-ski technology can be part of the
construction and material of the ski itself, ELAN’S WaveFlex
creates separation and independent optimization of longitudinal
and torsional fl ex properties in the ski. Its Fusion binding
system is also integrated into the ski itself — independently
gliding plates in the toe and heel to create optimization of
the fl ex properties to provide amazing edge control. Elan’s
Magfi re 78 TI Fusion (123-78-105) features both WaveFlex
and Fusion in a sexy all-mountain, wood-core ski.
Likewise, NORDICA’S XBi CT (X Balance Integrated Central
Turntable), which builds upon its XBi system, allows
the skier to adjust two parts of the system to work through
each other and redistribute pressure along the length of the
ski by turning a simple, central turning mechanism. This
adjustability allows the skier to literally dial in better edge
control. Nordica’s Hot Rod Helldiver XBi CT (132-90-118)
puts that stability and control in a wood-core ski that’s fat
underfoot for the deep stuff but provides the sidecut for
powerful turns when it gets packed down.
ADAPTING TURN RADIUS
The most intriguing innovation comes from Atomic, which
is introducing a ski that can actually adapt its turning radius
on the fl y. Called Doubledeck technology, the ski, which is
cut in half from tip to binding and binding to tail, is built
on two decks. The adaptor deck provides glide. The control
deck transfers energy to the gliding deck, but both sections
work independently, so that movement in the control deck
spreads the adaptor deck, changing the turn radius between
12 and 18 meters. The more pressure the skier exerts on the
deck the more it bends and the quicker it turns.
“It’s like power steering for a ski,” said Helge Guetzlaff,
alpine product director at Atomic USA.
BACK TO SCHOOL
Not all skis need to be futuristic to create a buzz, however.
Rossignol went backwards with its new all-mountain Classic
CX 70 (124-70-112) and CX 80 (124-80-112). The skis rely
on classic sidewall constructions. But the skis also have New-
School wide waists and deep sidecut — what Rossignol calls
Oversize Technology. They offer carving edge control and
fat-ski stability. K2 increases expansions in the hard-won pro
ski category with boards for big-mountain stars such as Pep
Fujas and Seth Morrison. Salomon, which is making a major
introduction in its freeride line, brushes up its All Mountain X
Wing Range of skis with some new models and some steppedup
performance in key models. The fl agships are the new
Tornado Ti, upgraded with metal reinforcement, and the X
Wing Fury, available with an all-new Z14 binding. And Dynastar’s
Pro Rider models get new shape, construction and sizing
with vertical side walls, wood core and two metal layers.
Still, whether they are electronic or a factor of new thoughts
on how to separate movement within ski construction
itself, adaptable skis should become the norm, especially
as brands continue to develop technology that is affordable
Rossignol Classic CX 70
Rossignol Classic CX 80
and integrates fairly seamlessly into the ski itself. Throughout
the history of the sport, there have certainly been gimmicks
to make better skis and skiers. But these new changes
in smart-ski technology go beyond marketing. They work.
And just like power steering, the day will come when smart
skis are just everyday skis. — DOUG SCHNITZSPAHN
Nordica Hot Rod Helldiver
Elan Magfi re 78 TI lime Fusion