Customizable skis?

[ski diva]

Those of you who have your ads blocked may not have seen the ad for this company, KAOrigin, a French company that offers certain manufacturers' skis with customizable graphics.

Seems like a lot of trouble and expense, but I think it's pretty cool. After all, who wouldn't want skis with their own distinct, one of a kind look?

Anyone know anyone else who does this, or have any experience with this sort of thing? And if you could take away the cost, is it something you'd want?

 

[MaineSkiLady]

Interesting, I just checked it out. Based in Grenoble.
Oh my, the only thing that initially comes to mind is the theft factor....

Snowboarders have been "customizing" forever. Cheaply. It's called "stickers," haha And take a look at how coveted stickers are on eBay - good assortments of same command rather shocking prices (especially considering they are but free advertising!!).

Frankly, I think I'd rather have my skis not stand out and look that different/cool.....Last winter, I saw a pair of Volkl Gotamas (first I'd even seen in the east in actual use) that were locked up twice, iron-clad, and had everything but an armed guard protecting them.....alas, that's reality at some resorts....

 

[MaineSkiLady]

And just after posting, the ad came up!

 

[Pequenita]

I think they're neat.

Increased probability of theft, but on the other hand, if you're the only person with that topsheet, it should be easy to prove that the ones you find on eBay for sale are yours.

 

[altagirl]

I think they're neat.

Increased probability of theft, but on the other hand, if you're the only person with that topsheet, it should be easy to prove that the ones you find on eBay for sale are yours.

Yeah, I don't think uniqueness increases the probability of theft. If I'm the only one around with skis or a bike that really stands out - like:

It's not that I don't lock it up when I'm not riding it - it could still get parted out, but even the wheels would be hard to throw on ebay and get away with it. The frame is a custom color paint from the manufacturer. It's unique enough that it would be virtually impossible to get away with stealing it and using it for your own use because it's easily recognizable, and you couldn't just re-sell it without it being obvious, so it would have to be parted out.

I know very few people who have had skis stolen around here, but the ones that do get stolen tend to be new and generic. Like Volkl Gotamas at Alta - there are a ton of them around, so it's not as obvious to be seen walking off with them and it's hard to prove they're yours without seeing serial numbers or something, making it much easier to re-sell them.

 

[vanhoskier]

Altagirl - Where did you get those rims???? That's a hot bike!

 

[vanhoskier]

Sorry about the diversion....I was wowed by Altagirl's bike!

Anyway, I looked at the site. I think it's a cool idea. I had mentioned something like this on another thread, that it would be a fun business to have, customizing people's skis and boards. I think it decreases the theft factor because as Altagirl pointed out, the new and "generic" - a.k.a. popular - stuff gets stolen most easily because it's easy to walk out with. Not many are going to risk walking away with skis or a board with wildly original graphics.

It appears that the price for the graphics is 140 Euros...which isn't THAT bad.

Still, I'd be locking them up with a very good lock!

 

[altagirl]

Altagirl - Where did you get those rims???? That's a hot bike!

Thanks!! They're a limited edition color Sun MTX rims. You can find them a few places online.

 

[vanhoskier]

Very very cool. I'd say for anybody racing against you, that's an intimidating bike! (And I'd bet the rider is intimidating, too!)

Girly pink on a bad-ass bike. I love it!

 

[num]

Without price being a factor, give me custom any day. I like to customize things as much as I can on my own, and love when it's an easy option. That goes for everything from sports equipment to clothes to food; I love create your own/you pick the ingredients sandwich/pasta/smoothie/whatever options :D

Additionally. ditto altagirl's theft sentiment. If my stuff's unique, it's more likely for someone who knows me to notice if someone else tries to walk of with it.

 

[Bravosarah]

Prior has been offering custom top sheets and bases for 18 years, I often wondered why other companies haven't followed suit. Every year they change up some of their own designs, they offer about 5 or 6 designs that come with the skis at no extra charge.

You can also order your own custom design, top sheet and/or base, whatever your little heart desires, but for a price.

I've always wanted a pair of Priors and I think this year might be the year, definately by next year. (I keep bugging the guy to come to the Toronto Ski Show - he said he might this year! YAY)

I really like the black Haida Eagle, so I prolly won't wait too long, I'd hate to miss it!