The handmade artistry of Igneous Skis
Sleek bespoke kit from Igneous Skis
Having lived and skied in myriad cold spots, from Jackson Hole, Wyoming, to Chamonix in France, and with an engineering background, Mike Parris knows a thing or two about navigating pistes with precision and aplomb. And the master ski and snowboard craftsman’s handmade artistry has garnered him a global following.
Image: © Jack Brauer (MountainPhotography.com)
From his co-op studio in West Jackson, Parris takes delight in working with a clientele that comes from as far away as Japan, New Zealand and Norway to commission one of the 80 pairs of skis and 40 boards he crafts each year for between $1,600 and $3,500. “I begin the design process with an interview,” says Parris. “I learn about where a person rides, their preferred terrain and snow conditions, as well as their overall athletic ability, and then I tailor the shape of the board around those factors.” After the shape has been designed, then the length, width, side-cut, taper and camber profile are all taken into consideration in order to enhance performance.
The process of building a custom board generally takes four to six weeks, as each one is comprised of at least 16 layers of hardwood – typically white ash, Douglas fir and maple – that must be built up with fibreglass for torsional rigidity, then laminated and cut and shaped by hand. Bookmatched hardwood top sheets are added to enhance sensitivity, though plastic varieties can be selected to absorb vibration and ensure a smoother ride. Custom inlays, from scenic peaks to a rider’s monogram, are an option, as are intricate, handpainted graphics for a final flourish.
“We design for specific terrain and conditions, so whether you’re skiing powder in the Tetons, or prefer off-piste in the Alps, we cater to riders who want more than the mass-produced options that are currently on the market,” says Parris. “Some people are looking to us for innovation, to come up with fresh designs to progress the sport. Others just want to re-create a ride that they know and love. The beauty of a custom shape is that it will never ‘discontinued’ and you can have your favourite remade as often as you like.” With winter right around the corner, it’s time to get ready to shred…