Völkl presents the new Blaze models for versatile freeride

BLAZE 104 AND BLAZE 94: NEW RADIUS CONCEPT FOR GREATER TURN VARIABILITY AND GREEN CORE TECHNOLOGY FOR ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY CONSTRUCTION

Making turns in powder on untouched terrain, exploring untracked slopes on mixed surfaces, or powering through turns on groomed runs: the new Blaze models from Völkl contribute to the excitement of skiing on all types of terrain. For the winter season 2024/25, Völkl enhances the new Blaze 104 and Blaze 94 with its Green Core technology and introduces the 4 Radius Drive sidecut for the first time. The result is a perfect blend of agility, control, and precision in variable snow conditions, ideal for on-piste and off-piste adventures. The new models in the Blaze freeride range are the perfect choice for all-mountain skiers looking for a playful and easy-to-handle alternative to titanic skis like the Mantra or the Secret. Völkl has emphasized sustainability in both models, with increased durability, a base made from recycled materials, FSC certified wood used in the core, and the innovative Green Core technology, first used on the Blaze 114.

4 Radius Drive: Völkl ushers in a new era of turn dynamics

With the Blaze 104 and Blaze 94, Völkl introduces the 4 Radius Drive geometry for the first time - the new generation of 3D Radius Sidecut, a unique Völkl innovation on the market. The brand's engineers have set new benchmarks with this technology by strategically placing different radii along the length of the ski to revolutionize turn variability and combine easy maneuverability with rock-solid stability. The addition of a fourth radius in the tip area enhances precision and agility in firm snow and significantly increases maneuverability in short turns. All of this is particularly impressive for freeride skis of this width.

This technology is named after the four different radii along the length of the ski, which create a unique combination of tip precision, resilience, and agility:

- Tip / R1 : To achieve maximum precision and agility, a tighter radius (about 20 m) is incorporated in the tip, promoting a more immediate response to the skier's initial edge movement. - Front / R2 : The open radius (about 40 m) of the front section, located between the tip and the binding, enhances the ski's resistance to disturbances, allowing for better stability at high speeds. - Center / R3 : A tight radius (about 15 m) in the camber area provides increased agility, reacting quickly to the slightest edge movements of the skier, facilitating the accumulation of energy needed for executing short turns or deep carving. - Tail / R4 : The moderate radius (about 25 m) at the tail of the ski facilitates a controlled and situation-adapted dynamic at the end of the turn, offering optimal support for a smooth transition into the next turn.

Völkl emphasizes sustainability in ski production

Both new models join the Blaze 114 in their use of sustainable materials, including Green Core technology. The Green Core technology uses FSC certified wood with recycled plastic from PET bottles incorporated into the core. While previous models used an ISO core, this approach avoids the use of new plastic, thereby reducing fossil resource consumption while maintaining the same lightweight and flexibility properties. To further reduce the use of virgin plastics, the skis feature a recycled base. The ultra-lightweight Tip-to-Tail wood core extends the entire length of the ski, providing performance and durability benefits. The complex method of bonding different types of lightweight and stable woods allows for excellent dynamic performance at a low weight. Weighing 1,455 g (Blaze 94 @ 165 cm) and 1,800 g (Blaze 104 @ 179 cm), these skis are light enough for touring while maintaining great maneuverability.

Thanks to innovative material technologies, product developers have also improved the durability of these models. Furthermore, the entire production process operates on renewable electric energy, with the Straubing factory being fully powered by the local hydroelectric power plant on the Danube in Kagers. Since January 1, 2024, the company has also been using CO2 compensated gas to actively reduce climate-impacting emissions and strive for climate neutrality.

Blaze Your Trails: key technologies for versatile skiing enjoyment

To offer agility and reliability, the Blaze is equipped with Titanal only in the binding area, in the form of a thin 0.3 mm Titanal plate. This improves direct power transmission and allows for quick pressure buildup when engaging the edge, enabling precise response when initiating turns. The absence of Titanal in the tip and tail of the ski preserves the desired liveliness and flexibility.

For all models in the Blaze range, including the new Blaze 104 and 94, Völkl uses suspension tips and tails. This technology allows for smooth turn initiation, excellent maneuverability, and exceptional resistance to interference, even in difficult and changing snow conditions. The elastic rubber inserts on the edges of the tip and tail dampen the initial contact with the snow. Particularly on hard, wind-packed, or tracked snow, the Suspension Tips & Tails act as shock absorbers for a smoother and more harmonious ride.

Discover the new Völkl skis !