K2: Apache Recon Skis w/ Piston M1 12.0 Binding

K2 calls their Recon ski "the ultimate tool for any condition." We just like to add that it's one of the most powerful skis you can launch down a mountain. Aside from graphics and colors, K2 didn't mess with much on this former award-winner for the 2007-08 season. The integrated Marker M1 binding is similar to Marker's 12.0 binding series, but the binding interface is specifically customized for K2 skis. Marker imbedded titanium hubs into the binding core beneath your foot and opted for a lightweight composite construction. The result is a better balanced and centered fixture point on the ski with fewer moving parts that could potentially diminish powder transfer to the ski edges. We like how Marker made the heel and toe spacers 30% wider than other rail-mounted ski bindings to extend the binding contact points and increase the leverage along the edges (that means that you enjoy more power while turning--even if you're exerting the same effort that you would on other skis. Even after several seasons on the market, Apache Recon still remains one of the best choices for any advanced or expert skier who can only take one do-it-all ski on vacation. K2 set it up as a perfect 50% groomed/50% off-piste design with a 78-mm. waist that's highly effective in powder and crud. It features the responsive fir/aspen core wrapped in a Titan Metal (perforated titanium) laminate with a light and low swing weight. There's also a vibration dampening Mod Monic to minimize chatter and improve the Apache Recon's contact with the snow, so you're more apt to initiate turns exactly where you want to. Coupled with K2's Mod Technology, the Recon is amazingly smooth and easy to control, despite being an advanced ski. Mod Technology is a secondary elastomeric core that's independent of the wood core that dampens vibrations without taking anything away from the overall ski flex. That's why K2 compares Mod Technology to shock absorbers in an off-road car--Mod Technology keeps the Recon lively without the same unforgiving qualities that sometimes deter new expert skiers from becoming "experienced" expert skiers.

• Created for advanced and expert skiers seeking a high performance all-mountain ski
• Dimensions (tip/waist/tail): 119 /78/105 mm. in 174 cm. length
• Triaxial braided construction includes a titanium perforated laminate with a fir/aspen wood core
• Mod Monic technology
• Radius: 18 m. in 174-cm. length
• Integrated Marker M1 performance binding specifically made for K2 skis
• Marker M1 Binding DIN setting range: 3 to 12 recommended for skiers weighing 65 to 250 lbs.
• Recommended for skiers weighing between 65 and 250 lbs.