Exploring the Art and Craft of Ski Design: A Conversation with Salomon Designer Victor Brousseaud

Growing up in the south of France, more on a bike than on skis, Victor Brousseaud always had a penchant for creativity. Frequently doodling in the margins of his notebooks, he found inspiration in watching his parents draw and paint, realizing early on that one could indeed "make a living" from art. Despite not attending the most prestigious schools or pursuing lengthy studies, he was fortunate to have opportunities and owes much to those who took a chance on trusting him. This passion and unique journey eventually led him to the exciting world of ski design at Salomon.

SALOMON: What initially drew you to the field of ski design?

Victor Brousseaud: I needed to work in an environment that was both enjoyable and aligned with my passions. Skiing is a product that people purchase with enthusiasm, and it incorporates a significant amount of technology. Receiving prototypes feels like Christmas to me! The allure of ski design lies in its unique blend of creativity and technicality. It's not just about making something that looks good; it's about creating a product that performs exceptionally well on the slopes. The challenge of balancing these two aspects is what makes ski design so fascinating. Every prototype is a new opportunity to innovate and push the boundaries of what skis can do, which is incredibly exciting.

SALOMON: How do you approach the balance between aesthetic appeal and functional performance when designing skis?

VB: My role is to infuse emotion into a product that already embodies a great deal of technology. It is essential to find the right balance, as not all products require the same amount. At Salomon, we strive to establish our own identity, attracting people for that reason. This does not happen overnight. We are product designers, not trend followers at all costs. However, we must remain connected to the market; it is not purely art. The aesthetic appeal of a ski is crucial because it is often the first thing that attracts a customer. However, if the ski does not perform well, that initial attraction quickly fades. Therefore, we focus on creating designs that are not only visually appealing but also enhance the skier's experience. This involves a deep understanding of materials, engineering, and the latest technological advancements in the industry. We aim to create skis that resonate emotionally with our customers while delivering top-notch performance.

SALOMON: Can you walk us through your creative process when developing new ski designs?

VB: The product manager provides us with a brief. We design the future shapes three years before they are released to the market. The graphic design process occurs two years prior. We share inspirations (art, street, fashion, music, etc.) with the team, drawing relevant elements to create precise mood boards. This helps us project our ideas. During this phase, I often listen to Asap Rocky to isolate myself and be productive. Each creation leads to another. It is important to take a step back, make a pre-selection, and present it to the project team regularly. This keeps us on track and prevents us from pursuing the wrong direction. I love this process, but it involves many doubts and a culture that must constantly renew itself. The creation is personal, but the decision is collective. The process is highly collaborative and iterative. We start with broad concepts and gradually refine them through feedback and testing. This ensures that the final product is not only innovative but also practical and aligned with our brand's vision. It's a dynamic process that requires flexibility and a willingness to adapt to new ideas and challenges.

SALOMON: What factors do you consider when selecting materials for skis, and how do these choices impact the overall design?

VB: The choice of materials depends on the target audience for the ski and the associated constraints. For example, a high-end limited series ski cannot have the same topsheet as a ski available only for rental. Material selection is critical because it affects the ski's performance, durability, and overall feel. We consider factors such as weight, flexibility, and environmental impact. For instance, lighter materials can enhance maneuverability, while more robust materials can improve durability. We also strive to incorporate sustainable materials wherever possible, balancing performance with environmental responsibility. Each material choice is a deliberate decision that impacts the ski's final design and functionality.

SALOMON: How do you stay informed about current trends in ski design within the industry?

VB: We gather inspiration from much broader fields. However, I am always very curious to know what other brands are releasing. There are many great brands, and we need to stay connected. Staying informed about current trends involves a combination of research, networking, and continuous learning. We attend industry events, follow market reports, and engage with other designers and brands. This helps us stay ahead of the curve and incorporate the latest trends and innovations into our designs. Additionally, we draw inspiration from various sources outside the ski industry, such as fashion, art, and technology, to bring fresh perspectives to our work.

SALOMON: Can you share an example of a particularly challenging project you've worked on in terms of ski design, and how you overcame it?

VB: These challenges are often technical in nature and may not be very interesting. A ski is somewhat like a culinary recipe; many unforeseen issues can arise when trying new things. One particularly challenging project involved developing a new ski model that required a unique combination of materials to achieve the desired performance characteristics. We faced numerous technical hurdles, from material compatibility issues to manufacturing constraints. Overcoming these challenges required extensive testing, collaboration with material scientists, and iterative design adjustments. It was a complex process, but ultimately, we were able to create a ski that met our performance goals and received positive feedback from both testers and customers.

SALOMON: How do you collaborate with other members of the design team, as well as with manufacturers, to bring your ideas to life?

VB: I am fortunate to work with experts who have been making skis for decades. Our factory in Austria is at the forefront of the industry. I visit as often as possible to expedite projects or resolve issues, as we do not always choose the easiest path. The beautiful mountains nearby also make it an enjoyable experience. Collaboration is key to successful ski design. We work closely with engineers, material scientists, and manufacturers to ensure that our designs are feasible and can be produced to the highest standards. Regular communication and site visits help us address any issues promptly and keep the project on track. This collaborative approach ensures that our skis are not only innovative but also practical and manufacturable.

SALOMON: What role do considerations such as durability, weight, and environmental sustainability play in your ski design process?

VB: To be honest, the ski manufacturing process is far from clean. It is very complex, and no one has yet provided "real" solutions. We have implemented a system to remake sidewalls using waste from other recycled sidewalls, creating a distinctive "plastic chips" effect. However, we aim to go further. Reducing air travel for skiing would have the most significant impact on the environment. Durability, weight, and sustainability are critical considerations in our design process. We strive to create skis that are durable and can withstand the rigors of use while being as lightweight as possible to enhance performance. Sustainability is an ongoing challenge, but we are committed to finding innovative solutions to reduce our environmental impact. This includes using recycled materials, improving manufacturing processes, and encouraging sustainable practices within the industry.

SALOMON: How do you ensure that your ski designs resonate with a diverse range of skiers, from beginners to advanced athletes?

VB: We test our designs with skiers at their practice locations whenever possible. This allows us to gather their feedback and understand the "vibe" in which they ski. Ensuring our designs resonate with a diverse range of skiers involves extensive user testing and feedback. We work with skiers of all levels, from beginners to advanced athletes, to understand their needs and preferences. This feedback is invaluable in refining our designs and ensuring that they meet the expectations of different user groups. We also consider factors such as skill level, skiing style, and terrain preferences to create skis that cater to a wide audience.

SALOMON: What has been your favorite project at Salomon and why?

VB: The next QST range, although I cannot discuss it in detail (haha). The QST X is a ski designed for the ideal conditions we all dream of, without compromise. When we release a project like this, our message is "Salomon still makes skis out of passion, do not forget that." It is a gift from the product manager and the team. We decided to accompany this message with a strong and psychedelic theme. We incorporated everything we know: a shape with our identity but more extreme, high-end construction, recycled sidewalls, and a design that highlights all these elements. Our athletes need to shine with it. I want the sight of their tips to inspire them to push their limits. The QST X project has been particularly rewarding because it embodies our passion for skiing and our commitment to innovation. It represents the culmination of our efforts to create a ski that performs exceptionally well in ideal conditions while also making a bold statement with its design. Working on this project has been a collaborative and creative journey, and I am excited to see how it will be received by skiers.

SALOMON: Looking ahead, what innovations or trends do you anticipate shaping the future of ski design?

VB: Looking ahead, I anticipate that ski design will continue to evolve towards greater inclusivity and emotional resonance. As skiing becomes more inclusive, it is essential to create products that enhance the magical experience of skiing. This means focusing on designs that are not only functional but also evoke strong emotional connections with users. Additionally, I expect to see more advancements in sustainable materials and manufacturing processes, as well as increased integration of technology to enhance performance and user experience.

Victor Brousseaud’s journey from doodling in the margins of his notebooks to becoming a key designer at Salomon is a proof to his passion and dedication to the craft of ski design. His ability to blend aesthetic appeal with functional performance, while staying attuned to market trends and environmental sustainability, highlights his innovative approach. As he looks to the future, Victor remains committed to creating inclusive and emotionally resonant ski designs that enhance the magical experience of skiing for all. His work continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in ski design, promising exciting advancements and inspiring skiers around the world.