On March 26, 2009, ski legend Shane McConkey died in a ski BASE jumping accident in the Italian Dolomites. In countless ways, McConkey defined skiing as a lifestyle and by pushing the boundaries of the sport.
Shane was a member of the K2 Skis team and was a creative thinker who challenged conventional wisdom in ski design. His Pontoon rockered powder ski, introduced in 2004, was one of the most profound innovations in ski design in decades. His concept was soon after adopted by the snowboard market thus making the sports more fun for millions of enthusiasts.
To celebrate Shane’s life, K2 Skis will release a limited edition Shane McConkey Ski, built on the Pontoon chassis, in winter 2009. Graphically inspired by Shane’s personality, ability, and many contributions to our sport, the ski will be available at participating authorized K2 Dealers and K2skis.com beginning in October. Approximately 500 pair of the unique, individually numbered, commemorative skis will be produced. All net proceeds generated by sales of the Shane McConkey Tribute ski, suggested retail $699, will be donated to Shane’s family.
“Shane was a part of our K2 family,” said Jeff Mechura, Global Brand Director for K2 Sports. “He was the pure embodiment of everything that K2 stands for, and we cherished the time we were able to spend with him. In many ways, Shane has changed the way we all think about life and skiing and we will miss him dearly. This ski is but one way to remember him and pay tribute to a legend of our sport.”
More Info: Visit K2Skis.com
4 Comments
That’s super great! Way to recognize the brains behind the way many of us now look at the mountain. His style and finesse will be missed! I still love the Spatula the most.
So cool of you, K2. Word.
just a short question:
are there any technical differences between the “normal pontoon” and this one, or is it just the design??
thanks for reply! 🙂
mary
I don’t believe there are any significant differences aside from the graphics. But, there are some slight differences on the specs pages for each ski… nothing major though:
McConkey Tribute Skis
http://k2skis.com/skis/backside/mcconkey-tribute
Pontoon
http://k2skis.com/skis/backside/pontoon