ߣÏÈÉú

Ken Nichols epiphany is coming full circle.

The third-generation race car driver — who was inspired to create a shock and dampening system for Alpine skis while watching a World Cup race several years ago — is bringing his concept to the Birds of Prey event in December.

“ShredShox all started as an idea born from a passion for downhill ski racing,” Nichols stated in a press release. “Bringing the ShredShox technology to Birds of Prey, with its advanced suspension and damping abilities inspired by motorsports and mountain biking, marks a huge milestone for us. We’re excited to share this evolution in ski performance with event attendees.”

ShredShox is a patented, fully-adjustable suspension system tailored for snow skis. Its lightweight, air-spring style uses a dual-adjustable mountain bike shock and features both compression and rebound adjustments wherein skiers can apply boot pressure to the ski from the front and back. Developed and manufactured in Indianapolis, Indiana, the ShredShox’s plate is made from 100% high-strength carbon fiber; the entire apparatus, which is compatible with nearly all skis and bindings, adds 2.4 pounds to the overall weight of the ski.

Benefits include improved cornering and stability, as added static pressure keeps the ski in constant contact with the snow. The suspension also makes for a smoother ride and softer landings.

Support Local Journalism

Donate

“The engineering and design is built on both form and function, delivering high-performance suspension and damping technology for the hardest of chargers, as well as those looking to enhance their stability and reduce fatigue throughout their body,” said Nick Foster, co-founder and head of design. “Being able to bring this technology to a world-class event is a great next step for ShredShox.”

Interested ski enthusiasts will have the chance to test the world’s only full-suspension ski platform during public demos in Beaver Creek Village Dec. 6-8. To reserve an appointment slot,

“This summer, we were excited to launch the ShredShox brand. Since then, we’ve been met with an incredible amount of interest,” stated Jarrod Krisiloff, head of brand and a part-time Vail resident.

“Given our racing lineage, there is no better place for consumers to get to know ShredShox and the exciting technology we bring to skiing,” Krisiloff continued. “I grew up skiing at Beaver Creek, and I can’t wait to see the ShredShox bombing down Gold Dust.”

Currently available for pre-order, the first 500 customers can lock in their own ShredShox with a $100 deposit today. Krisiloff said delivery is expected in time for the 2025/26 ski season. The product comes in five designs — shadow, alpenglow, bluebird, sundown and the Tahoe 60 Edition, which pays tribute to ShredShox’s origins and the home of the 1960 Winter Olympics.