Winter 22—23 has quite a few big anniversaries coming up – tour operator Erna Low, the UK's longest established, turns 90; world-famous French ski gear manufacturer Salomon 75, and Europe's highest resort (and by some measures therefore the whole 3 Valleys – the world's biggest ski area) will celebrate 50 years.
At Val Thorens the Tourist Office has launched limited edition skis to celebrate the resort's 50th anniversary.
Just 200 pairs will be available to buy from the Tourist Office, and from many of the resort's ski shops to those who snap them up quickly enough. They will also be showcased by SETAM employees, who will be using them throughout the season.
The skis will be made in 3 lengths: 161 / 169 / 177cm and retail at €600 for the skis, €240 the bindings.
To bring the project to fruition, Salomon's technical and creative teams worked closely with Axelle Gacon from Val Thorens to come up with the special anniversary "All Mountain" ski, in line with the French outdoor sports brand's technical and graphic requirements.
"I got in touch with Quentin Boutry, Salomon's Alpine Ski Product Manager, and graphic designer, Cyril Vial, and the three of us worked out the technical requirements, understanding exactly what we were capable of creating together," said Axelle, adding, "They sent me the ski files so that I could incorporate the design directly onto them. I based myself on the Val Thorens 50th anniversary logo graphic that I had already created with the Marketing team -it encompasses an image that stands out, creates an impact, and remains understated. These are the three key elements!"
After much research and many test versions, the 50th anniversary ski were finalised just a few weeks ago in August.
Both Salomon and Val Thorens teams agreed that no two skis should be the same in this collector's edition! The left and right skis have a different top sheet; you can see the whole image when you put both skis on, side by side.
The skis highlight the fluorescent blue of the Val Thorens 50th anniversary logo, which contrasts with the snow, and the iconic lines created by the Aiguilles de Péclet.
"The skis are currently being produced, and I can't wait to see them. I take great pride in the fact that I designed them, as this was a childhood dream for me!" said Axelle.
