When the Völkl company launched its widest ski to date for the 1993/1994 season, it was not only so wide that it was practically exclusively intended for heliskiing in North America, it could not even be pressed in pairs as is usually the case with skis, the existing presses were simply too narrow.
At a time when skis were still long, narrow and straight, the extra-wide Explosivs were by no means intended for powder-addicted experts. No, they were skis for "beginners" in the heliskiing sector, who wanted to be supported with wider models.
Traditionally, heliski companies, above all the Canadians from CMH, were the main customers for the Völkl Explosiv. This remained the case for the entire decade in which Völkl officially produced the ski. Even after the official production stop, CMH special models continued to be produced for some time.
However, while the skis became wider and wider over the years and the freeride trend became more and more widespread, the Explosivs also became increasingly popular outside the heliskiing sector. This was not only due to the still relatively wide shape, but also to the exceptional stability and reliability of the skis. In the small scene of steep face skiers, the large radius, which in combination with the hard flex offers a lot of grip in steep terrain on hard snow, is still appreciated today.
Of course, in times of rocker and other innovations in the ski sector, the Explosivs are no longer exactly up to date. There is a noticeable lack of float in powder and the Explosivs are unwantedly heavy for touring - and the ski is not necessarily easy to control either. Nevertheless, many people still like to use them. Mine have never let me down, and they have survived well over 200 days of skiing, two pairs of bindings, over 10 flights and a fall from the 3rd floor (er, yes) and have been used from Tierra del Fuego to Morocco and Albania, not to mention the Alps. Although they are now only used mainly in the pre-season, I assume that they will be with me for a long time to come. After all, a little nostalgia is justifiable from time to time!
