Shredshox introduces full-suspension skiing

Photo: Shredshox

Shredshox, a new brand founded by race car drivers Ken Nichols and Nick Foster, is set to revolutionize the ski industry with their innovative ski system equipped with shock absorbers. The idea, conceived over a decade ago, aims to integrate car suspension technology into skiing.

Nichols and Foster’s long-time friendship and shared passion for innovation have brought this unique product to life. Nichols, inspired by his observations of downhill ski racing, believed that the same suspension and dampening technology used in race cars could improve ski performance.

“Ken said, ‘I see all the ski chatters and thought, what if they had the same kind of technology that we use to make race cars go around corners faster, and that suspension and dampening,’ And so he threw the idea to Nick and said, ‘I think you could do this. You know, you could build this,’” Krisiloff explained. “The funny part is that Nick’s never skied a day in his life.”

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Foster, drawing from his experience building and engineering racecars, designed the first prototype using heavy metals and remote control shock. Today, the bindings have evolved into their sixth generation, featuring lightweight materials such as titanium, carbon fiber, and air shocks similar to those found in mountain bikes.

“The idea that something like this could elevate skiing and use some of the things that I’ve been passionate about my whole life; it’s an interesting opportunity to try to make work,” said Jarrod Krisiloff, the Head of Brand in the company.

Shredshox has shown promise for both older skiers and aggressive athletes. A 65-year-old tester with knee replacements reported feeling less impact on moguls, while other skiers noted benefits like improved landings and stability at high speeds. The system is designed to absorb terrain variations, allowing for smoother skiing through variable conditions, and help the front of the skis bite into turns for enhanced cornering.

Skiers will have the opportunity to check out the new prototype at ski shows in Salt Lake City’s State Fair as well as an on mountain demo at Brighton in late January of 2025. The goal is to have the system available for sale by the end of the 24-25 ski season, with deliveries planned before the 25-26 season.

For more information on Shredshox, to demo a pair, or become a tester, visit the Shredshox website.