If this winter you are thinking of renewing your skis or simply want to know a little more about the wide variety of companies that manufacture boards, today we are going to tell you which are the best ski brands in 2021.
Customised skis, handcrafted, industrial injected or with sandwich laminated structure, multi-purpose, piste skis or skis to put on a show in the snowpark. With rocker and camber, with double tip, with steep carving or almost straight in the purest classic style. The world of skiing is very wide and its manufacturers offer us a huge variety of different skis, incorporating new designs and technologies every winter.
To make your life easier and help you choose the type of ski that best suits the skier in you, we’ve put together a list of all the ski brands we know. Ready to discover all the possible options? Get in parallel and get ready to scroll down with your mouse or go straight to the drop-down menu – here we go!
Table of Contents
List of the best ski brands
Armada
Armada is a modern brand with a clear focus on freeskiing. Founded in 2002, the company has established itself as a market leader. One of its co-founders is skier Tanner Hall, a Winter X Games champion for several years. Among its product highlights is the Tracer 98 series, which is the best choice for those who want to push the limits. The unique personality of Armada skis and their varied camber give a special halo to this brand based in Park City (USA).
The brand has a young audience, as their skis are focused on freshness and have a modern and playful design. In addition, their products are very versatile and have a wide range of camber so you can enjoy Armada skis in any kind of situation. Their skis have both the stability to glide down the slopes like a rocket and the smoothness to move like feathers in the powder. We also recommend their popular ARV series, a favourite for those who prefer off-piste freeride skiing.
Atomic
Atomic is credited with creating the first powder skis, but today’s range includes a wide range of competition designs, piste skis, ultra-wide backcountry and freeski models. The Austrian brand is one of the most famous in the world and the favourite of great skiers such as Marcel Hirscher, Mikaela Shiffrin or Simen Krüger thanks to its pioneering products and the huge investment they make to equip the elite of competitive skiing.
The brand has managed to leave its personal mark on skis, bindings, helmets and boots, covering the entire market so that if you want to dress up from head to toe with their brand, you can do it. In general, their most outstanding products tend to be piste skis as well as skimo skis. They also have models that adapt to different terrains to give it all off-piste. Within the latter group, the Maverick skis are really fun for floating and chaining turns in powder snow.
Black Crows
Black Crows was founded in 2006. It is an independent French brand specialising in the manufacture of freeride skis. The brand was born out of a desire to combine beauty with efficiency in skis, so it has a modern philosophy that appeals to a younger audience than many other brands. Black Crows is a brand with a strong après-ski culture, so every year they organise the Chamonix Unlimited Festival which attracts thousands of people to the foot of one of the most beautiful mountains in the world.
The brand’s goal was to create a pair of skis that could handle all types of terrain while at the same time withstand high-speed turns and sudden changes of direction. As a result, one of their benchmarks was born: the Corvus. If you like their skis, don’t worry about the choice of colours, since they have a wide range with more than 80 models with more shades than Pantone.
Black Diamond
Founded by Yvon Chouinard in the late 1950s, Black Diamond is a brand with a strong background in climbing and mountaineering, but fairly new to the ski world. However, Black Diamond already has an impressive line of skis, bindings and poles, among other ski accessories. Considering the brand’s heritage, it’s no surprise that its current offering is very much geared towards skiers with a mountaineering profile. Focused mainly on ascent, Black Diamond offers highly technical and qualitative equipment ideal for touring and freeride downhill.
Although their offer and variety is quite modest in quantity, their quality is unquestionable. It is worth mentioning the Helio Carbon 88 ski, this model presents an extra light design, ideal for backcountry routes and specially oriented to athletes with a high mountain soul who love positive slope accumulations.
Blizzard
Blizzard, owned by the Tecnica group, is a benchmark in the world of snow. Its founder, Anton Arnsteiner, returned from the Second World War and decided to take up carpentry. Between saws, drills and rasps, he began to design made-to-measure furniture and tried his hand at making his first wooden skis. The trial proved to be a real success. This was only the beginning of an Austrian company – close to Kitzbuhell – which is known for its attention to detail in every single product that leaves its factory. Blizzard, which translates into English as “blizzard”, has models for racing, piste, freeride and ski touring skis. Their collection features great designs such as the Bonafide, the Brahma and the Rustler. In addition, among the competitive options for ski touring is the Zero G line, (skate 95) which has another improved version for downhill: the Zero G 105.
Blizzard also differentiates itself by its concern for sustainability and its specific designs for women. The Tecnica group has recently launched the “Recycle Your Boots“ programme, which consists of using your old boots (regardless of the brand) to make new ones. Also, in their women’s collections, Blizzard’s Black Pearl should be highlighted. These skis range from 82 to 97 millimetres in skate width and offer a wide range of turn radius.
Bomber Skis
At Bomber Skis they want their customers to have an unbeatable alpine skiing experience, that’s why they take care to detail in the handmade elaboration of their skis. These handmade skis feature truly transgressive designs, created by world-class artists. In addition, the brand seeks to inspire with radiant skis and experiences, so everything they create is based on the intersection of artistic beauty and the world of alpine skiing. They offer a wide range of ski mountaineering, freeride and powder, race and piste skis.
It is also worth mentioning its special collections, which are the result of collaborations with the most prestigious brands and skiers. In addition, it should be noted that their products are completely handcrafted. At Bomber they are committed to making their skis of unmatched performance and beauty, so they fuse modern technology with classic design to create them. A very exclusive example not suitable for all budgets? The limited series that Bomber Skis has brought out with the luxury car manufacturer Bentley. You’ll find the Bomber Bentley Black Diamond and the Centenary Gold at €2,750 and €3,750 respectively.
DPS
DPS is the premium ski brand for ski touring and freeride enthusiasts. These exclusive ski manufacturers are the creators of the world’s first and only pure pre-impregnated carbon fibre sandwich ski. Innovation is part of the brand’s DNA, with the first ski with rocker and sidecut as its bastion: the Spoon. A three-dimensional convex ski marvel with a very radical edge bevel that changes the paradigm and provides increased glide in all snow conditions for skis and snowboards.
The DPS ski brand can boast of a robust and lightweight construction, which is accompanied by simple but elegant designs. No injected, high-end materials such as carbon fibre and multi-layer constructions are used to make DPS unbeatable for those looking for the perfect combination of looks and powder performance.
The Pagoda and Pagoda Tour collections, ideal for experienced skiers looking for the “Deep Powder”, should be highlighted. These skis have unequalled refinement and quality. In addition, the brand based in Salt Lake City (Utah) is known for experimenting with avant-garde constructions and materials, bringing out more and more innovative models and taking care of its loyal customers. If you have purchased three DPS skis (or more) since 2005, you will have access to exclusive offers and ski models in their “Old Guard Membership”.
Dynafit
Dynafit’s values are speed, lightness, endurance and technology. These values are embodied in all its products, which aim to offer the highest performance to the most demanding mountaineers. In addition, its products stand out for being minimalist, simple and efficient. Dynafit is a ski brand specialising in ski touring, although they also have competition and freeski products.
Moreover, this brand is created “by athletes, for athletes”. Its team includes the 48 best mountain athletes, who influence the innovation and development of its products thanks to their professional experience. It is also worth noting that the company has sustainable values. These focus on the improvement and protection of suppliers and manufacturers in order to create products that are respectful of society, the environment and especially wildlife. Of particular note is its project to safeguard the snow leopard, which has been an endangered species since 2007.
Dynastar
For more than 60 years Dynastar has revolutionised the history of skiing from its factory in the cradle of the Alps, in the Chamonix valley. Its little “moustache” logo is part of the history of alpine skiing. The collaboration between the former Starflex skis company and Dynamic was the birth of a range of high-end skis with unbeatable on-snow performance. This ski brand has equipped World Cup champions such as Marielle Goitschel (with the MV2 model in 1966), Marc Giradelli, Jean Pierre Vidal, François Place or the spectacular Aurélien Ducroz on Dynastar “The legend pro rider” with which he won the FWT in 2009.
Dynastar uses cutting-edge technology and never ceases to surprise the general public, as it did when it launched the first range of freeride skis on the market. They offer models for freeride, skimo, piste or freestyle focused on skiers with some experience.
It is also worth mentioning that several of their models have won awards such as the “Official Selection” from the prestigious Ski Magazine. Among these models is the M-Pro 99, which features a rockered tip and flat tail that give skiers ease in and out of turns without losing focus, both on and off piste.
Elan
In 1945, Elan was born, the sports equipment production cooperative that earned its reputation for being a pioneer in the ski industry and for highlighting the role of women in the production of its skis. There is no better way to learn about the history of this Slovenian brand than to visit its castle-museum in Begunje. The skis made to help Slovenians fight the Nazis hang on one of the walls at the entrance to this Elan mausoleum. Right there, you can feast your eyes on the legendary planks that Ingmar Stenmark wore when he won one of his 86 World Cup victories. Or even Elan’s first carving skis – the Elan SCX – next to a photo of the legendary American skier Glen Plake, ESPN’s action sports pioneer and living history of skiing.
Today, the Elan ski brand is still one of the top innovators in the industry, and its products have won awards all over the world. Elan offers a wide range of all-mountain, freeride and competition skis, including the Insomia and Amphibio series. Like other prestigious brands, Elan has not hesitated to release limited editions, such as the Porsche Design.
In addition, Elan has introduced a remarkable innovation in the snow world: the folding ski. It seemed that making a ski that folds in half without losing its fundamental characteristics was impossible, but Elan has managed to make it happen with the Voyager.
This ski transforms simply, quickly and safely into a pack for easy transport, both by car and airport, as well as for accessing difficult and rough terrain.
Fischer
When you think that Fischer was born out of a small dream of Josef Fischer – with borrowed money – it is hard to believe that this Austrian ski brand has come so far and today, it generates 400 direct jobs. But against all odds, the brand founded in 1924 has managed to become one of the largest ski companies in the world. A family-owned company that competes in top sales with multinational companies and achieved international fame with the victory of its Austrian rider Egon Zimmermann in the downhill event at the Olympic Games in Innsbruck (1964).
From 1967, the Fischer factory increased its production capacity to 330,000 skis per season and started to develop its business with cross-country skis, winning 7 medals at the World Championships in Falun. And it’s not just his story that seems unreal: his skis, with the recognisable three triangle logo, are fantastic. Fischer has succeeded in extending its premium product range in alpine skiing to include ski boots. The breakthrough in this range came with their soma-tec technology in 2003. Today Fischer has a wide range of high-end accessories for alpine skiing (skis, bindings, helmets, gloves, thermal and streetwear clothing, …) and hockey.
The new range of Fischer skis is Curv, combining the performance of a racing ski with the versatility of an all-rounder. Undoubtedly the biggest star of the whole series is the RC4 The Curv: a high-level ski designed for very demanding skiers with experience and carbon reinforcements. As we said, the secrets of the RC4 lie in the carbon and titanal fibre in the binding area that provides a very solid edge grip that inspires confidence in every turn. The Radical Triple Radius shape allows for turns of any radius size. An original M/O Race Plate allows for optimal power transfer and acceleration so you can really push the limits.
On the other hand, many of you will know that Fischer is the market leader in Nordic skiing. And if anyone wants to know what is the first choice of Nordic champions when it comes to skis, just take a look at any World Cup podium and the answer is clear: the Speedmax 3D. It is easily recognisable by its phosphor yellow sidewall. Last but not least, we must highlight their RC series of touring skis. These models are perfect for all those who want a light pair of skis for the ascent and solid for the descent.
Forest Skis
This ski brand from Slovakia was born from the idea of two engineer brothers who wanted to develop skis with very advanced technology, and they succeeded! The materials they use are the result of an R&D process that few companies have developed. For example, they use ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMwPE) under their patented Dyneema®, which they say is the strongest olefinic polymer fibre in the world.
They also incorporate carbon fibre, Kevlar Aramid fibre, glass fibre and the best graphite for the sole. As you probably know, historically, ash and poplar wood core skis have a great reputation and reliability due to their incredible resistance, elasticity and fibre structure. And of course, the ski brand Forest Skis uses it to compose the core of their jewels on snow. That’s why their skis are dedicated to intermediate to advanced skiers with some experience on snowy slopes. They have internationally renowned ambassadors in the discipline, such as Monika Tatarková, current judge of the Freeride World Championships.
Moreover, at Forest Skis they are totally eco-responsible. Even though it is impossible to produce 100% ecological skis, at Forest Skis they do everything possible to reduce the environmental impact. For this reason, they no longer use materials from plastics or aluminium. In addition, the wood they use comes from European renewable forests and the printing of their skis is done with the original indigo dye printing technique that has a 400 year old sill. This is done on linen fibres and the technique is registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. If you look at their catalogue, you will see that it is very wide and they produce AllMountain skis, normal Freeride and BigMountain (120mm skid) and a wide variety of Touring skis to enjoy Skimo to the maximum. By the way, if you are very exquisite with your skis, you should know that this premium brand… manufacture custom skis!
Hart Skis
Hart Skis is an American manufacturer of downhill skis that was founded in 1943. Today, the company manufactures handmade skis for competitive athletes and demanding skiers. It also sponsors the US Freeride Ski Team. 8 members of this team and 6 other Olympic athletes use its skis to compete. Among them are Olympic medalist Bryon Wilson and world champion Patrick Deneen.
Hart Skis is also known for being a pioneer in freestyle skiing. Its golden age was in the 60’s, when the brand was on the podium in almost every competition. Since then, the brand has undergone several changes and was recently acquired by new investors who intend to bring back this historic ski brand. Currently they have a series called Mogul with exclusive models (Hart Fusion, Boss Mogul, F17 Classic II, …) and they have limited quantities.
Head
The popular ski brand HEAD is a bestseller among the most demanding skiers in the world. During the 50s, skis were made exclusively of wood, but it was this brand that decided to innovate and start making metal skis, which positioned it as one of the best brands in the United States. Today it maintains this popularity thanks to the performance of its skis, used by World Cup racers.
The Supershape Series line of skis, which allows skiers to reach unbelievable speeds with unprecedented stability in the steerable turn, is a real highlight. On the other hand, the Worldcup Rebels series is its current bastion and its AllMountain range stands out with its colossal V-Shape V10 All Mountain Ski.
Within their AllMountain collection, we have to mention the Kore series, which uses a polyester top sheet, resulting in a super lightweight ski while maintaining excellent torsional stiffness and stability at high speeds. The Power Joy Women Ski is ideal for toned, technically minded women who want to take on the challenge of descending the slopes. Undoubtedly an ideal ski for the female gender, given its lightness and spectacular power. Finally, in its collection of all-mountain skis, the V-Shape series stands out, providing unequalled control and versatility. Currently, the brand not only sells excellent skis and snowboards, but has diversified its activity into the world of streetwear, tennis, squash, padel and even footwear.
Icelantic skis
Travis Parr, Icelantic’s confounder and artist. He draws inspiration from nature to create colourful designs and prints that stand out from the competition. His creator, Ben Anderson, was determined to create skis with a difference that were conceived and manufactured 100% in the U.S.A. and partnered with Travis to make it happen. From special editions, to the full range of Freeride, All-Mountain, Backcountry… all their skis are designed to be pushed to the limit and not break down. That’s why Icelantic Skis is one of the few brands to offer a 3 year warranty on all their skis. In addition, their products have been awarded at least four different certifications, which means that their skis tend to sell out every year. Their logo comes from the temperature of change, One Degree Celsius.
The Natural from Icelantic is a standout among the touring skis, as it has a solid construction that stands the test of time. It is also easy to handle in tight spaces. Other collections to highlight are Pioneer and Riveter, with their unique and artistic designs that make a difference.
K2 Skis
The American ski brand K2 is as synonymous with speed and strength as it is with style and comfort. Since the 1960s, this line has been a mainstay in the ski industry, credited with creating the first skis to use fibreglass. In short, K2 is yet another brand with a strong commitment to innovation. Its team of ambassadors is made up of some of the best riders on the international scene, such as Karl Fostvedt, Sean Pettit, Lexi Dupont and Joss Christensen, among others.
Their range of skis is very wide and exclusive. If you want to wear K2 skis, it doesn’t matter what discipline you are passionate about, since they have Freeride, All-Mountain, touring, piste and even specific designs to enter the Park and the Pipe (Poacher, Sight or Midnight models) or to give it all in the Deep Powder where we can highlight the Mindbender with 116 skate -which we will talk about now- or the Reckoner 115C.
Among their products we have to highlight the Freeride Mindbender collection, and specifically the 85 millimetres model (they have them up to 115mm for deep snow). This ski is quite versatile and adapts to both beginners and advanced skiers. It has a great skid width that provides a smooth feel when changing turns on hard and compact snow.
If the piste is your thing and you don’t want to go off piste, then check out the K2 Disruption range and you’re sure to find your soul mate for extreme carving turns and kicking your feet up on packed snow. In addition to skis, K2 also has a wide range of helmets and snowboarding gear for you to enjoy your favourite sport to the fullest from one of America’s leading ski brands.
Kästle
The ski brand Kästle (Kaestle) is one of the most historic brands in the snow industry. This Austrian brand reached the top of the podium thanks to the spectacular Swiss skier Pirmin Zurbriggen. Later, the investment group led by Benetton decided to acquire Kästle but that was a disaster, causing the brand to almost disappear. Subsequently, an investor took over the brand and has managed to bring it back on the rise, introducing it to several World Cup skiers and developing its commercial strategy on several continents.
Like the DPS, Kästle skis are premium and among the most elaborate on the market. Despite a hiatus of almost 10 years, the brand returned to the ski world in 2007 to achieve one of the most spectacular designs on the market, limiting the material in the tips and making them as light as possible. However, as their designs are high-end, their prices are not suitable for all budgets.
The variety of their products in different disciplines is giving Kästle wings in all snow enthusiasts. They currently have competition skis (RX12), piste skis (Legend 1956), an AllMountain range (the MX and DX series), a Freeride range (with the spectacular ZX115) and a specific range for ski touring, with the TX103 and TX106 as flagships. They also offer a wide range of Nordic skis for classic and skater lovers.
Among the most outstanding designs of this brand is the HollowTech tip, which, as we have already mentioned, eliminates material from the front part of the ski to reduce its weight. In addition, it maximizes stability, damping and grip, providing a flex to the ski, very typical of this historic brand. This has become an emblematic piece of their line, as most of their products are equipped with it.
Kneissl
Exceptional downhill skis can be found at Kneissl, so it’s no wonder that the Kufstein-based brand focuses on competition skiing and the most demanding and exclusive customers. Born at the end of the 19th century, Kneissl is one of the oldest, most innovative and respected ski manufacturers in the world.
Handcrafted in Austria, their premium skis have been leading technological advances and performance in racing for over 100 years. Based on classic design and natural materials, this ski brand has pioneered the most advanced sandwich wood core technology still in use today. In addition to offering a wide range of market-leading skis, they also manufacture expertly designed and customised skis, tailor-made for the most demanding customers.
Their products are considered high-end, as their skis are equipped with some of the best technologies on the market. In addition, each of their skis is handmade in Austria and they guarantee a classic design.
It is worth mentioning the White Star ski, which has been with the brand since 1919. Fundamentally, this model offered the necessary technology to be the best option in the Giant Slalom of the last century. Furthermore, this pair of skis, with its White Star GS, RC and XC models, proves that Kneissl is a symbol of high quality, exceptional engineering and classic designs that will never go out of fashion.
Lacroix
Since former ski champion Léo Lacroix founded the brand in 1967, his values have remained the same. Lacroix is characterised by elegant, high-performance products that offer a unique experience. Lacroix does not focus on trends but prefers classic designs using high-end materials such as fine woods, carbon or titanium. This company is committed to local production and short circuits, which is why 100% of its manufacturing and design processes are carried out in France.
For years, the ski brand LaCroix has chosen to use a material that is three times lighter and more dynamic than steel, titanium. The reason is pure physics. It provides stability in the longitudinal axis of the ski, uniform torsion and exceptional power when the board flexes. In addition, it does not transmit unpleasant vibrations to the skier and provides great precision when turning.
Its products have a high technical level and a unique design, thanks to a think tank and a creative laboratory that includes ski enthusiasts. As a result, the brand has come up with excellent lines such as Ultime. These skis are totally efficient, and are designed for high-speed experiences. Clearly, if you want to glide down the slopes in the purest “Frenchy” style, this ski brand is probably the best choice.
Liberty Skis
Liberty Skis is an American ski brand with a philosophy of attention to detail. Thanks to that, the brand has achieved certifications from the most important ski magazines on the planet for the last 15 years. To differentiate themselves from the competition they decided to implement non-traditional ideas in the manufacture of their designs, so they decided to include bamboo as one of their main materials. In addition, they offer a 3-year warranty.
Their Evolv series stands out, which has won several awards and has raised the standards of mountain skiers all over the world. This collection is designed with VMT technology, which has been updated to increase the skis’ resistance. In addition, the Evolv series is totally lightweight thanks to its bamboo, carbon and light metal construction.
If you’re looking for a twin tip ski, you’ll find the right fit in the affordable Helix Series where the top of the range Helix 98 is under 500€. The Helix Series offers a super-flexible and lightweight (1850g) symmetrical construction. In addition, they are particularly resistant and all this is achieved thanks to the fact that these skis are built with carbon fibre, bamboo and poplar.
Line Skis
Line Skis is owned by K2, but this brand focuses on modern freeride and freestyle skiing. The brand’s vision is to make skiing “more fun”, so the brand decided to innovate and filed the patent for the twin tip ski in 1997. Since its creation, the brand has maintained this sporty and modern personality and has been represented by professionals such as Tom Wallisch.
One of the most interesting patents of Line Skis is its 5Cut™ Multi-Radius Sidecut. Five different radiuses intermingle in the ski’s sidecut. The result? A wide variety of turn shapes and a very intuitive downhill feel. But without a doubt, Line Skis’ DNA is their disruptive designs and patterns to differentiate their models from the rest of the competition. And they certainly succeed, you only have to take a look at the “Pescado” or “Sakana” skis to understand where the name comes from.
Among its most economical designs, the Sick Day 88, in the ski mountaineering category, is worth mentioning. In addition, this design has other versions for those who prefer jumps and acrobatics. However, Line Skis products are not for beginners, as they require a high level of experience on and off the piste.
Madshus
Attention to detail has defined Madshus since its creation over a century ago. The Madshus ski brand specialises in cross-country skiing and produces skis for the skating and Classic technique. At the beginning, their products were entirely handmade, but now they have a production line that allows them to give their skis the greatest possible homogeneity and quality. In addition, Madshus wants to create skis that can be used by both competitive athletes and sports enthusiasts.
It is worth highlighting their Red competition line, which is capable of withstanding high calibre cross-country races. These skis feature Tuned Dynamic Response technology, which improves snow feel and increases speed. The F2 and F3 models stand out in particular. The former is designed with longer pressure zones to improve stability and maximise speed, while the latter has shorter pressure zones to perform in soft snow.
Maxel
Maxel dates back to 1967, the year in which it presented a major Italian exhibition of sports equipment by the athlete Zeno Coló. Since then, the Italian manufacturer Maxel has brought important innovations to the sport, such as the first ski with an ABS core.
In particular, Maxel skis are not only for amateur skiers, as they are competition tools that have even achieved one of the first speed records in the World Cup.
Today, the brand focuses on creating exclusive tools that can guarantee unique performance to snow lovers. Its products are characterised by a unique precision of materials, absolute assembly and a handcrafted touch, making them perfect for piste, snowparks and freeride with the Hot Run Pro and Max Monkey range.
The “Tourist” range is dedicated to the production of high quality skis for advanced levels such as the Maxel Sport Production and for All-Mountain enthusiasts, the Delta Force and Alta Mount range.
Moment Skis
Casey Hakansson founded Moment in 2003, and since then the brand has continued to grow. Despite having been on the market for only a short time, Moment has managed to get athletes such as medallist Shannon Bahrke and athlete Heather McPhie to use its skis at the 2010 Winter Olympics.
Among its products we have to highlight the Deathwish series, which manages to be agile and totally stable thanks to its suspension system. The Wildcat collection also stands out for those who are looking for a pair of skis that allow them to perform all kinds of acrobatics. We have to say that although the catalogue for women is smaller, they present interesting models such as the Hot Mess, Sierra and Bella with double tail that stand out for their lightness and versatility.
If you are looking for a more unbridled design and sensations out of the ordinary, then you will have to pay special attention to the Moment Frankenski model.
It is built in bamboo, it is pure nerve, it has a triple camber and a flex out of the ordinary. Its sidewalls are made of ABS (Acrylonitrile-Butadiene-Styrene) very resistant to withstand strong impacts.
Nordica
Nordica started out making ski boots more than 80 years ago, but has since developed an impressive collection of skis. Compared to other brands, Nordica has a more modest range, although they have at least one model in each speciality: racing, piste, mountain and freeski. However, they do have an extensive collection of boots and other accessories.
Nordica’s standard bearer in piste skis is the Dobermann range (also available in boots). Its geometry and Rocker on the tip facilitate turn entry making this ski admired by mid to high level skiers.
Also the incorporation of lightweight materials, such as carbon fibre, make the dobermann ski roar down the slopes -without vibrations- like the canine it is named after. On the other hand, it is worth mentioning the Spitfire range with its multiradius system, ensuring giant and slalom sensations in the same ski.
In addition to the models designed for the piste, the Enforcer (the Santa Ana for women) stands out, which are the all-mountain ski models. The main reason they stand out is their versatility, as they offer natural and predictable performance in a wide variety of terrain. However, their skis are aimed at intermediate and expert skiers.
Ogso
Osgo is known for having created an extraordinarily versatile collection of skis. Their models are designed to be versatile, so they perform in all snow conditions: powder, mud, crust, crust, slush, chop and ice. In addition, their skis work on steep terrain regardless of speed, and are even capable of handling flat or bumpy terrain.
They have four different lines of skis, the Super Rocker Carbon Ultra Light, the Super Rocker Fiberglass Medium Light, the Neoteric Carbon Ultra Light and the Neoteric Fibergrass Medium Light. All of them have been created to reduce the effort when skiing, so they allow all the enthusiasts of the sport to spend long days on any type of snow.
Original+
Original+ is a brand that offers a totally personalised service. They make all their skis tailor-made for each customer. The company is very new, as it was created in 2016. However, their original idea has turned them into a renowned Austrian brand that now operates globally.
They currently offer customised skis for piste or mountain, and are developing new freeride skis. Once the customer decides what they want, they choose the ideal length and width for that person. A gallery of prototypes can be found on their website so that new customers know what to expect from these custom skis.
Peltonen
Peltonen is a brand specialising in ski racing. The Finnish brand originated in 1945 at the hands of Toivo Peltonen, Finland’s first Olympic medallist to win on his own skis. And, although initially a local brand, it now distributes its products internationally.
Its products are handmade, and feature unsurpassed technique and innovation. In addition, Peltonen is the first Nordic ski brand to use CNT nano-carbon technology. This technology serves to make the skis lighter, so they are able to withstand descents at the highest speeds.
Praxis Skis
Praxis is another brand that differentiates itself by making customisable skis. However, they also have some pre-designed models for ski mountaineering and powder skiing. In addition, their products are manufactured from start to finish by themselves in their factory in Tahoe. They use Computer Numerical Cutting technology, which allows them to manufacture custom-made skis with unbeatable precision.
Thanks to the use of perfect shapes and mouldings for mountain adventures, Praxis Skis has managed to get riders like Kevin O’Meara or Drew Tabke to wear their skis in freeride competitions. They are constantly improving their skis so that they are perfect in any condition, whether it is off-piste, powder snow or variable terrain with the aim of achieving the perfect turn.
Prior
Prior is a Canadian brand founded in 1989. Their main product is customisable skis for freeride, ski touring or powder with which they aim to achieve premium quality. Thanks to this they have gained ambassadors such as Olympian Julia Murray or Freeride World Tour debutant Olivia McNeil.
They also have some skis in stock, but if you want to get fully customised skis we recommend that you plan ahead, as they take between 6 and 8 weeks to manufacture. However, if you have already ordered them and you are afraid that they won’t arrive by a specific date you can contact them and they will adapt to your needs.
RMU – Rocky Mountain Underground
Rocky Mountain Underground started in an unusual way, but they’ve come a long way since then. Like any snow lover, RMU first got the idea to make their own skis and before they knew it, they were selling their first pair for 30 cans of beer and the cost of materials. Now RMU has 5 different ski collections, including a limited edition collection, and is a great option for those who prefer backcountry skiing.
And since 2015, the company has been owned by each and every one of its 60 employees. And that’s not all, they also have a philosophy of protecting the environment, so they have developed the “Carbon Neutral 2025” plan in order to be a company that offsets its entire carbon footprint by 2025.
Rønning Ski
Rønning Treski is the only Norwegian company still manufacturing wooden skis. The company is family-owned, and today it is the third generation that continues the legacy. They mainly manufacture laminated wood skis, which are quiet and stable on uneven slopes and at high speeds. The wood used is usually birch and ash.
In addition, their wooden skis are suitable for both experts and beginners. In fact, their models for children stand out, as they have enough grip for these little skiers to find them easy to handle on the slopes. And another advantage is that they make great decorations, so when they’re no longer useful you can hang them on the wall as a souvenir!
Rossignol
Rossignol has more than 100 years of experience in the sector, so their skis are a legend among snow lovers. That’s why at Rossignol you can find any type of ski, and they even have their own online outlet in case you want to find some discounted skis. Plus, at many ski resorts they have their products available for rent, so chances are you’ve already used them!
Years ago their 7 series ski mountaineering skis stood out, but now they have been replaced and improved by the Black Ops series. This line has a wide variety of models that are suitable for beginners, like the Smasher, or even powder models, like the Sender. All in all, if you are looking for new skis you can’t forget Rossignol.
Salomon
Salomon is considered the best ski brand by many athletes. They have a wide range of skis and accessories to meet the needs of all types of skiers. From novice to advanced skiers, from those who prefer to enjoy high speeds on the descent to those who prefer to explore the surroundings, Salomon has everyone in mind.
The company also covers a wide range of outdoor sports, including hiking gear. They also sponsor athletes like Killian Jornet. The QST series for freeride and all-mountain is an ideal choice for those looking for a versatile pair of skis. We also have to mention the S/Force for hard terrain, as they maintain impressive stability at high speeds. Finally, we have to highlight the MNT collection for those looking for a ski that focuses on both uphill and downhill.
Stöckli
The Stökcli ski brand was founded in 1935 in a small workshop in the Swiss Alps. Today the company sells internationally and is the brand of choice for champions such as Viktoria Rebensburg, Ilka Stuhec and Marco Odermatt. This brand has models for ski touring, on-piste, freeride or competition, so you are sure to find a pair that suits your needs.
We have to highlight the Laser SC model, as it is so versatile that it works at any speed and is able to make long or short turns, although we don’t recommend using it off-piste. However, if you are looking for an alternative for off-piste skiing, we recommend their Stormrider 88 model, which can handle maximum speeds.
The Faction Collective
The Faction Collective is a group of skiers, artists, filmmakers, engineers and dreamers united by their love for the mountains. That’s why they are dedicated to making high quality skis, although they also have interesting projects such as the recording of films related to skiing. Mainly, this brand focuses on freeride, although they also have freestyle and all-mountain models.
Its innovation with lightweight hybrid cores made from recycled materials has taken it to the elite of ski manufacturers. The Faction Collective is concerned about sustainability, so they make quality skis that last over time by using recycled materials and improving production processes to reduce unnecessary waste.
Volant
Volant is a brand of high-end skis handmade in Austria. This brand was responsible for creating the first stainless steel ski in 1989. The stainless steel is characterised by being easier to turn and more stable in extreme conditions than other materials such as aluminium or fibreglass. This company is characterised by offering a reduced range of skis, although they are of excellent quality.
Their skis, mainly piste and mountain skis, are handmade with the best materials. Their designs have a totally luxurious look, and you can even find champagne-coloured skis. In addition, the biggest differentiation with the competitors is the possibility of engraving a personalised message on your skis so that no other pair is the same.
Völkl
The German brand Völkl is a benchmark in the ski industry. It was founded in 1920 and is currently the largest ski manufacturer in Germany. It belongs to MDV Sports, a group that manages three major ski sports brands: Marker, Dalbello and Völkl.
Völkl’s commitment to technology is evident in its materials, details and finishes. In the last decades, Völkl has produced very solid skis with a lot of nerve and power, for example the historic Völkl Supersport 5 Star or the AC30.
The Power Switch system and the UVO.3D (first vibration damper) helped the brand to reach the top of the podium in terms of sales volume, as well as in World Championships and Olympic Games.
In recent years it has incorporated an innovative manufacturing process in its skis: the Tailored Carbon. In this process, strips of carbon fibres are incorporated along the tension lines of the tip of the skis. This detail adds lightness, stiffness and torsion to the ski.
The Bavarian brand’s DNA is undoubtedly the use of innovative materials such as Titanal. This is an isotropic aluminium alloy that provides fluidity, great damping, high power transmission and stability without vibrations. The result of the use of this type of material has an impact on the skier’s power and stability when descending the slopes.
In addition, the new “Tailored Titanal Frame” technology means that the width of the titanal frame is adapted exactly to the specific length of each ski. Longer Völkl skis have a higher titanal content for more stiffness, more direct power transmission and more damping. The shorter the length, the lower the titanal content, which makes their skis more agile.
The German manufacturer’s notoriety crosses continents and has historically been accompanied by some of the world’s best athletes on snow. Currently, its team of riders includes big names of the international scene such as Markus Eder (yes, the one who has won everything in Freeride and recorded The Ultimate Run), Paddy Graham, Angel Collison, Ian Mcintosh, Sebastian Foss Solevag, Kevin Rolland, Alice Robinson or Nadine Wallner.
As you can imagine, Völkl is a brand that has a lot of experience in alpine skiing, and without a doubt we have to highlight the Racetiger range, which is the most popular and alpine range (GS, SL, RC, SC and Junior).
In addition, they have a wide range of multi-purpose skis in their All Mountain range (Deacon), specific for powder and off-piste with their Freeride skis (Blaze, Katana, M6 Mantra, Kendo, Secret, …). Not forgetting the Völkl skis for park in the Freestyle range (Revolt and Bash). The Revolt 121 is the result of the “Built together” project where the best riders have contributed their experience and “savoir faire” to create an explosive ski that also has the design and master touch of the New Zealand artist Ken Griffen.
And if you’re a skimo enthusiast, you’ll love the wide range Völkl has to offer with their BMT and Rise touring skis as their flagship skis.
As a general rule, their different models require a good physical condition and experience to control them, so if you are a beginner it is better to choose a low range and light skis until you get a good feeling on the snow and can make the leap to the premium range. So if you want to fly on the slopes, think Völkl.
Wagner Skis
Wagner Skis is undoubtedly the best brand of customisable skis on the market. This brand goes above and beyond, because if you decide to buy skis you will be involved in the whole design process. To start with, you will talk directly to a designer to tell him exactly what you need, and from there they will design your perfect pair. You’ll also have to personally approve the design before they start making them, so you’ll be sure to receive exactly the skis you’re looking for.
However, for those who have less time, there are also some pre-designed prototypes. The bad news is that as customisable skis, they are a bit more expensive than usual. But both their customers and companies like The New York Times or Forbes assure that you won’t be able to find anything better.
Wed’ze
Wed’ze, created in 2006, is Decathlon’s ski, snowboard and sled brand. Wed’ze’s philosophy is to make skiing accessible to everyone, regardless of level and style. You won’t find cheaper skis than Wed’ze skis. In addition, they have a wide range of skis for all levels, although they offer more options for skiers who are looking to perfect their technique.
The Wedze FR 100 Rookie 90 freeride ski model stands out in particular. It has been designed as if it were a 4×4, so it is comfortable on unprepared terrain and ideal for intermediate skiers. Besides, with these skis you will also be able to have a good hold in powder snow. This model has been certified by Freeskier Editor’s Pick.
4frnt
At 4frnt they love the mountains, and especially skiing. That’s why their philosophy is to create skis “For skiers, by skiers”. Their team consists of skiers like the actor Eric Hjorleifson who seek to innovate and experiment in order to achieve revolutionary shapes and constructions in skis. In addition, 4frnt is based on the progress of skiing, so they listen to the opinions of athletes and customers who use their products to know what to improve.
In 2010 they created the “White Room”, the place where they innovate and develop their products. It started as a garage in Salt Lake City, but over time it has expanded and now they have a full team of skiers and engineers to create their products. They use the passion, knowledge and experience of their team to keep experimenting and continue the quest for the best skis.
