As suggested by some users in another post here a few pics of the skis I make.
I use the LR4 for:
cutting the core
cutting the base with a drag knife
cutting the tip and base inserts from a cork sheet with a drag knife
cutting the drawings of the top sheet with a laser module
I also use(d) the LR4 to build the adaptable mold for rocker/camber that I use with a vacuum press.
I use FreeCAD for drawings and as CAM excepted for the laser cutting for which I use Inkscape with a specific plugin to generate GCode.
Aria 189 cm 141/114/130, the specific model below is made with a beech/poplar core and oak sidewalls. Topsheet ash/oak. I also make it full ash core and in 175 cm.
I believe they should be compared to top-end mass produced skis. Performance wise I would say very similar (keep in mind that each ski is different and you should find the one that fits you best). In terms of price probably very similar or a bit higher. I sell mines 2’000 CHF with bindings. This is an indicative price as I have different tiers (existing model with existing topsheet design, existing model with custom topsheet design, full custom).
The key differentiators are:
local (Swiss) wood
use green materials as much as possible
I do wooden sidewalls instead of ABS
I use a Flax composite from a Swiss company called Bcomp (material is amplitex and is plant based)
I use cork for tip/tail fillers instead of ABS
I use a green epoxy
wooden topsheet
Each ski is made for the client I have no stock
I use as much as possible FOSS and open source hardware
LR4
FreeCAD
Inkscape
I am finalizing the website that will be up and running soon: Barbagiazz
Awesome. Custom one off skis, sustainably and locally made - that’s bound to be a compelling proposition. You might not be able to keep up with demand!
If anything maybe the risk is not being expensive and therefore exclusive enough
The Aria are the first model and are freeride skis. The next model will be called Fuoco and they will be all-mountain. The third model will be a touring ski. At some point I would like to propose workshops of 2-3 days where clients can build their skis.
The name of the brand “Barbagiazz” is related to a myth of the Swiss and French alps called Barbegazi.
According to Swiss folklore, Barbegazi are known for their love of winter sports and can often be seen skiing barefoot or using their massive feet as snowshoes. They are said to be swift diggers and can burrow through snow with ease. Despite their reputation as mischievous creatures, Barbegazi are generally considered to be friendly and helpful to humans who are lost or in need of assistance in the mountains.
The logo is based on the letter B and is supposed to represent the profile of the face of the Barbegazi riding down the slopes with his fur and beard flying in the wind.
Great to see another homemade ski builder here on the forum! It was one of the projects that brought us to our LR2/3 back in the day. We’ve only made a few, but always love seeing others work to get us inspired to get the press back up and running again.
