MOUNTAIN LIFE - Blue Mountains | Winter 2020

MAPLE SYRUP AND RAMEN Our family mostly skis in Ontario. We might head to Quebec for a snowy long weekend. And if we’re lucky, our hunt for powder might take us to British Colum- bia or even Japan. If you are like us, you know that there’s nothing better than a sport that can take you on adventures around the world. But you might not know how to setup the perfect quiver. At the shop we’re often asked, “What kind of ski can I use in Ontario that can also travel to bigger moun- tains?” Our usual response is, “Two is better than one.” If you are investing in the best experience, you need two pairs of skis -- no compromises. For any side of the hill on any continent, we always recommend Volkl. Built in Germany, this brand sets the bar when it comes to performance and durability. For carving in Ontario, the Volkl Deacon 84 or Flair 79 are your best bets. These skis are specifically designed for changing snow conditions. Their 3 radius concept allows you to make shorter, slower turns at Caledon, medium turns up in Collingwood and longer turns in Quebec and British Columbia. And the torsional stiffness, derived from 3D.Glass, gives you power, stability, and the best sensation for groomers and mixed conditions. Now say you’re venturing into Japow (impossibly light, deep snow) territory. Here, the best complement to your Deacon or Flair would be the Volkl Katana V-Werks. This ski is extremely light, torsionally stiff and floats like no other. In profile, the ski has zero camber underfoot with rocker tip and tail, which adds a playful dimension. It is ideal for ski touring up Mt Yotei -- an inactive volcano -- where the snow will go over your head. Need a guide to skiing Japow? Just ask for Kenji. Now, if you want a ski that will rule any mountain, the Volkl Mantra M5 has snapped up just about every award this season -- and for good reason. Its wide platform (96 mm) allows for floatation from BC to Ja- pan and its titanium top sheet offers a stable, powerful experience on any local hill. The update from the past season’s Mantra reintroduces camber under foot and reduces the amount of titinal in the tip and tail. So, if you are looking for the ultimate ski setup that can take you anywhere - trust in Volkl. skiisandbiikes.com 455 First St. Collingwood. 1945 Dundas St E. Mississauga 2063 Yonge St. Toronto How to build a quiver to ski in Ontario and Japan. Deacon 84 $1,299.98 Volkl Flair 79 $899.98 Katana $1,199.99 Marker Kingpin $764.99 Mantra M5 $849.99