S/MAX CARBON SKATE + SH-IN BD

The Salomon S/MAX Carbon Skate with Prolink Shift-In binding represents the pinnacle of performance for serious skiers and competitors looking for the speed of a World Cup ski, but with a little more stability and accessibility.

It's a ski that benefits directly from the technologies of the S/LAB range (used by the pros).

1. Construction and technologies

• Carbon Loaded frame™: This is the revolution of this model. Instead of using only flat carbon, Salomon uses a molded carbon frame that wraps around the ski. This offers exceptional torsional rigidity (the ski does not deform when pushed sideways) while remaining extremely light.

• S-Core 45: This core combines the lightness of Densolite with the responsiveness of specific recycled woods (PET). The result is a ski with "bounce" that returns energy with every stride.

• G5 outsole: Salomon's high-level universal outsole, designed to be ultra-fast in all snow conditions.

2. Shift-In system (SH-IN BD)

Unlike previous systems where you had to step out of the ski to adjust the binding, the Shift-In button is integrated directly into the ski. You can turn it without taking your shoes off:

• To the right (Forward): Increases stability and facilitates control, ideal if the piste is icy or you're tired.

• Left (Rear): Maximizes glide and acceleration. This is the position to beat your speed records on perfect snow.

• Neutral (0): The perfect balance between the two.

3. Why choose S/MAX Carbon over S/LAB?

S/MAX is often preferred by high-level skiers who are not on the professional circuit for two reasons:

1. Tolerance: It's slightly less technically demanding than the S/LAB, so you can still glide well even when your fitness level drops at the end of the session.

2. Price: You get around 95% of World Cup performance at a much lower cost.

4. Size and Stiffness Guide

The S/MAX Carbon Skate is generally available in three flexes: Blue (Soft), Yellow (Universal), and Red (Stiff). The choice depends on your weight and the hardness of the snow you most often encounter.

Summary of benefits

• Lightweight: Approx. 1.1 kg per pair, reducing muscle fatigue.

• Energy transmission: Loaded carbon transforms every gram of your thrust into pure speed.

• Adjustability: The Shift-In system lets you adapt the ski to the terrain in seconds.