Those who love snow know that finding the last of their shoe is difficult, very difficult. Weight, comfort and resistance are key factors that can rarely be found in balance on a pair of skis. Only some lucky ones have tasted the sweet descent on a bespoke plank. It is that moment when only the work done by hand allows reaching another level. Today we analyse the main brands of craft skis, a real delight for lovers of winter sports.
Craft skis: brands that you can not miss
Many brands of skis and snowboards offer tailor-made service, but they are not handmade. The brands that we collect here are based on a handmade project, with great care and dedication. The result is pieces of incredible beauty and unsurpassed performance.
Wagner Custom
The search for the perfect ski is the goal of Wagner Custom. To achieve this, they have developed the “DNA Skier”, a very interesting work philosophy. It is based on a combination of form, materials, flexibility and power based on the physical characteristics of each client. Thus, they make 100% custom-made skis, capable of responding in all types of snow. Counseling and dealing with the client is vital in this process. Thanks to this, they go a step further, getting a more intimate view of the requirements of the ski and how the optimal combination should be.
The average price of Wagner craft skis is 1,750€.
Maiden Skis
The history of Maiden Skis begins in the garage of a house. In that case, in Kelvin Wu’s house, an engineer and avid skier from Seattle. After several prototypes, tests and corrections, he moves to Wyoming in 2012 and founds Maiden. Here he opens his workshop, where he makes his famous skis by hand. It is an example of slow made, where each piece becomes a work of art.
Maiden is a young project, but in a short time it has become a benchmark in craft skis. The key to success is found in the high level of detail it offers us. His clients work with him in the development of the design. Although the process of realization requires more time, the result is unique. This distinctive approach is a valuable resource, especially in professional skiers where weight and forces are very different from standard skis.
In addition, this system allows the skis to be adapted to the user’s degree of mobility. In this way, versions for Paralympics, background exhibitions or other specificities are included. Therefore, in this case it is difficult to give a standard price.
Meier
For the most nonconformist, Meier is the most recommended option. This North American firm is a benchmark in graphic design and its handmade skis one of the best on the market. In fact, these are two of its main differential values. All the materials used are ecological: pine and vegetable oil recycled as resin, non-toxic thermal printing and the waste generated is composted as fertilizer. In addition, they rely on local suppliers and traditional techniques of woodworking.
For those who think that something so “ECO” be so expensive, we must tell them that nothing is further from reality. The average price of a Meier craft skis is 1000€.
Stöckli
In Europe, one of the most outstanding firms is the Swiss Stöckli. From the heart of the Alps has shown that only the best materials can overcome the challenges of winter. The craftsmanship, the meticulous work, is fundamental to get to fully release its benefits. This explains why the entire ski manufacturing process takes place exclusively within its own facilities.
This philosophy accompanies Stockli since its inception, more than 80 years ago. Olympic skiers and skiers can attest to their experience and know how.
In the case of Stockli, the average price of some craft skis is 1200€.
Coretti
If we talk about craft skis, Coretti is the king. Elegance, exclusivity and high technology come together to create the perfect ski. Perhaps you think that some skis must be made in the United States, Japan or Switzerland, but its origin is Spain. The person responsible for this project is Gurutz Coretti, a small craftsman and Tyrolean engineer based in San Sebastian. From his workshop he designs and makes skis adjusted to the needs and tastes of his clients.
After a previous approach by computer, where each case is studied individually, Coretti begins its magic. He selects, cuts and polishes strips and sheets of wood to build the ideal base. Subsequently, applies the carbon fiber cover and details in high hardness steel. The final sealing is done under vacuum, guaranteeing maximum grip and resistance. The result is a craft skis with a sublime appearance. A magnificent example that luxury is artisan.
The average price of a Coretti ski is 1,400€.
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