As HEAD celebrates 75 years of ground-breaking performance in skiing we look back at the highlights of our innovative past and how this has inspired future product development including our new RENEW ski. Combining cutting-edge technology and circular approach, the RENEW ski offers a new way to enjoy skiing while reducing environmental impact.
At HEAD, innovation is embedded in our DNA. Founded by the visionary Howard Head, a true pioneer in the world of skiing, our commitment to progress continues to define every product we create. As we celebrate our 75th anniversary, we look back on the innovations that have shaped our brand and propelled us into the future.
Throughout our history, HEAD has relentlessly pushed the boundaries of ski performance.
A Legacy of Innovation
Over the past 75 years, HEAD has revolutionized ski technology, introducing numerous advancements that have become industry standards. It all started with Howard Head himself, then he used his aeronautical engineering nous to develop the first ski with metal-composite sandwich construction. The skis were so successful, they set the standard for ski construction at the time, and defined how modern skis from all brands are made to this day.
One of the most notable innovations in recent history was the 2008 introduction of Liquidmetal technology, a unique material first successfully used in the Radical tennis racquet line. This Liquidmetal alloy, covering the entire length of the ski core, provides exceptional impact resistance and works seamlessly with HEAD's Intelligence™ Technology to deliver skis with enhanced response and power.
The 2010 season saw the integration of KERS (Kinetic Energy Recovery System) technology. By harnessing the power of piezoelectric fibers, KERS converts kinetic energy into electrical energy, which is stored and released at the end of a turn. This extra energy stiffens the tail of the ski, giving skiers a dynamic ‘pop’ as they transition into their next carving turn, enhancing both control and performance.
In 2020, we introduced EMC the world’s first electronic ski dampening system, an electronic circuit embedded into HEAD's Race and Performance skis. EMC reduces unwanted vibrations, ensuring greater stability and superior grip, especially when pushing the limits.
As well as technologies, HEAD have a reputation for being at the forefront of material innovation. Perhaps the best example of this is Graphene, first incorporated into our skis in 2014. Graphene, over 300 times stronger than steel and only one atom thick, enables us to produce skis that are lighter and stronger, never compromising on performance. By integrating Graphene in specific areas of the ski construction, we have delivered skis that deliver enhanced stability, increased power and reduced weight.
Additionally, HEAD skis also feature advanced technologies like LYT Tech, and ERA 3.0, all designed to further enhance ski performance and improve every skiers experience.
The Future of Skiing: The RENEW Ski
As we celebrate our history of performance, HEAD is also looking to the future—one that is sustainable and environmentally responsible. In response to the growing challenges facing our planet, we are excited to introduce the RENEW ski, a product born from our relentless pursuit of innovation and becoming more sustainable.
The RENEW ski represents a major leap forward in ski construction. Not only is it a high-performance ski, but it also marks a new way of thinking about the entire lifecycle of a product. Constructed from renewable and recyclable materials, the RENEW ski is designed with both performance and environmental impact in mind.
But the RENEW ski’s sustainability doesn’t end when you leave the slopes. After enjoying many days on the mountain, customers can return their skis to HEAD within five years. We will then reuse the wood core, fibreglass layer, and the ABS in the tip protector. We will separate the top sheet, ABS tail protector, steel edge and base material from the old ski and send them for recycling. As a thank you, customers will receive a €100 voucher to spend at HEAD.com1.
This circular approach ensures that the wood cores can be reused up to five times 2, reducing the CO2 emissions of each RENEW-ed Ski by up to 26%3. With this initiative, HEAD continues to blend cutting-edge performance with more sustainable practices, offering a new way for skiers to enjoy their sport while also supporting the environment.
A Commitment to Progress
As we look ahead, HEAD remains dedicated to developing technologies that not only elevate performance but also contribute to the well-being of our planet. The RENEW ski is just one example of our ongoing commitment to becoming more sustainable.
After 75 years of innovation, we are only just getting started.
Footnotes:
1 Voucher can be claimed up to five years after purchase following the communicated process. Voucher can be redeemed on head.com only for HEAD Wintersports hard goods products. Offer only valid in € countries.
2 According to internal testing.
3 According to Green Vision Solution GmbH’s product carbon footprint analysis (PCF).
