early to pursue a self taught approach, Ben returned to his parent’s house and started building skis in the garage.
The early philosophy was to create skis with that focused on speed, stability, and mobility in mid air. Andersons plan was to create skis in shorter lengths with larger surface areas than many of the long, skinny skis on the market at the time. While Icelantic has come a long way since the days of building skis in the garage their focus to create fun skis that they really stand behind remains the same. Now, every single pair of skis is hand built in Denver at the Never Summer Factory, which is located 15 minutes from the Icelantic Headquarters.
The unique artwork that is featured on the top sheets of Icelantic skis are the works of artist Travis Parr – Ben’s best friend. Most of Travis’s designs for Icelantic skis are very based in very natural themes including animals, tribal designs, and ice crystals. Several of the designs begin as three dimensional pieces of art often using natural materials which are then are translated into graphics for the ski.
Hand built skis and one of a kind designs are great, but if you want more proof that Icelantic skis are top notch check out the quivers of professional skiers Julian Carr and Kaylin Richardson, they are both Icelantic sponsored athletes. Julian Carr has been one of the best big mountain skiers in the business for years now. Kaylin spent her early days bashing gates with the US Ski team but has since followed many former racers to the backcountry. If those aren’t enough credentials to legitimize the brand for you feel free to stop into their Denver office and have them show you around – the door is always open.