Exploring the Art and Craft of Ski Boot Design: A Conversation with Color Designer Morgane Vernic

Introducing Morgane: From her mother's stained glass studio to the world of ski boot design, Morgane's journey is a fusion of artistry and passion. Surrounded by creativity from a young age, she pursued design from her teenage years, eventually earning a master's degree in Product & Color Design. Drawn to the dynamic atmosphere of the sports industry, Morgane now thrives as a Color Material Finish (CMF) Designer. Join us as we explore the story behind Morgane's creative evolution and her unique approach to ski boot aesthetics.

SALOMON: Tell us about yourself and what initially drew you to the field of ski boot design, particularly focusing on color and materials?

Morgane Vernic: My name is Morgane, and I work as a CMF (Color Material Finish) Designer. Growing up next to my mother's stained glass studio immersed me in a world of colors, pigments, and materials. I pursued my passion for design, eventually earning a master's degree in Product & Color Design. The allure of the sports industry, with its unique camaraderie and constant innovation, drew me in. I've been working on footwear since 2016, first with football boots at adidas, and since 2019, with ski boots at Salomon.

S: How do you approach the balance between aesthetic appeal and functional performance when designing ski boot colors and materials?

MV: Each winter sport has its own nuances, and skiing, being heavily influenced by culture and geography, presents a unique challenge. To strike the right balance, I immerse myself in ski culture—I attend festivals, visit local shops, and even hit the slopes myself. By understanding the skiers' needs and preferences, I can ensure that our designs resonate both visually and functionally.

S: Can you walk us through your creative process when developing new color schemes for ski boots?

MV: It all starts with a Color Camp—a collaborative effort involving graphic and product designers from the Winter Sports department. We brainstorm and identify trends relevant to each skiing discipline. With the alpine team, we create mood boards for various skiing practices, which serve as the foundation for the entire ski boot range.

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

MV: Material selection varies based on skiing disciplines and cultural preferences. For instance, touring skiers prioritize lightweight gear, leading me to explore materials like mesh. Freeride enthusiasts lean towards outdoor textiles like ripstop, while racers prefer high-performance materials akin to those used in Formula 1.

S: How do you stay informed about current trends in color and material design within the ski industry?

MV: I make annual trips to skiing hotspots in the US and Europe, attend ski tests and industry fairs, and gather feedback from athletes visiting our office in Annecy. These interactions help me stay abreast of emerging trends and ensure our designs remain relevant.

S: Can you share an example of a particularly challenging project you've worked on in terms of color and material selection, and how you overcame it?

MV: Each year presents its own set of challenges, especially when introducing bold new colors to a traditionally conservative market. However, by finding the right balance between innovation and market expectations, we've managed to introduce exciting new colors like the purple SHIFT ALPHA, the pink S/PRO SUPRA, and the gold S/PRO ALPHA.

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

MV: I collaborate closely with alpine ski designers, creating mood boards and refining designs throughout the season. My partnership with Romain Guillame, the ski boot product designer, is particularly crucial—we work hand in hand to enhance each other's work. Additionally, I maintain constant communication with the marketing and development teams, ensuring that our designs align with market needs and trends.

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

MV: Sustainability is a priority for me, both personally and professionally. While incorporating sustainable materials into our designs, we also focus on reducing the carbon footprint of our products. However, it's essential to strike a balance, as some recycled materials may have unintended environmental consequences.

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

MV: Skiers of all levels have distinct needs and preferences, and our designs aim to cater to this diversity. By understanding the psychological impact of aesthetics, we empower athletes to feel confident and powerful, regardless of their skill level.

S: Looking ahead, what innovations or trends do you anticipate shaping the future of ski boot color and materials design?

MV: While innovation in color and material application may be limited, the future of ski boot design lies in product innovation and sustainability. We anticipate a shift towards gender-neutral colors and premium rental offerings. Ultimately, our goal is to continue pushing boundaries while prioritizing sustainability in all aspects of our design process.

Through collaborative efforts and meticulous attention to detail, Morgane brings her innovative designs to life, ensuring they resonate with skiers of all levels. Looking ahead, she anticipates a future characterized by product innovation and sustainability, aiming to push boundaries while prioritizing environmental consciousness. Morgane's journey is a testament to the transformative power of creativity and dedication in the world of ski boot design.