Ellis Skis, a new ski brand rooted in the Rocky Mountains, has officially launched its inaugural product line just in time for the winter season. Committed to crafting intuitive and purpose-driven skis, the company is now offering its full range of products to passionate skiers.
Founded by industry veterans Kevin Schaefer and Sean O’Brien, Ellis Skis operates out of offices in Utah and Colorado. With over a decade of experience in design, manufacturing, and sales, Schaefer and O’Brien have refined their vision through extensive prototyping and testing. Their journey to launch has been marked by a dedication to perfecting their skis, and they are now eager to share their creations with the public.
Schaefer brings valuable experience from industry leaders such as Flylow, 4FRNT, DPS, Black Crows, and The North Face, while O’Brien has honed his skills collaborating with brands like BCA, RMU, and Stio, in addition to contributing to various ski films. The duo’s shared passion for skiing has driven their mission to develop high-performance skis that resonate with dedicated enthusiasts.
“Each ski is designed with a specific purpose and intention behind it,” Schaefer explained. “We want skiers to maximize their experiences on any terrain around the world.”
Ellis Skis’ lineup includes three distinct models: the Sabr 100, designed for versatility on groomers, corn bumps, and challenging big mountain terrain; the Meraki 112, a resort powder ski that provides exceptional grip in varied conditions; and the Yutori 122, a playful powder ski optimized for deep snow with a shorter turn radius and progressive rocker lines.
A standout feature of Ellis Skis is their innovative elliptical sidecut, which combines a shorter turn radius underfoot with a longer radius at the tip and tail. This design offers skiers enhanced dynamism and predictability in changing snow conditions.
The skis also showcase an organic topsheet design inspired by Suminagashi, a traditional Japanese art form that resembles the fluidity of marble or stone. For Ellis, each ski serves as a canvas for artistic expression, merging ancient techniques with contemporary design to foster not only performance but also a deeper connection to the art of skiing.
“Skiing is our passion, and we’re dedicated to creating purpose-driven skis that resonate with riders,” O’Brien said. “We aim to connect with avid skiers who value high performance and reliability, seeing skiing as a way of life and an opportunity for self-expression in the mountains.”
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