Episode 314 is the first in our series of Chamonix Stories, today featuring Zag Skis.

Iain spoke with head of marketing Alan Lemasson and head of R&D Bastien Saillard from the Chamonix-based freeride ski brand at their Argentiere 'Zag Lab' - where they make and test prototypes. 

We discuss the origins of Zag, the process of creating and testing new lines, sustainability and plans for the future. 

Zag has always been one of the most innovative ski brands, full of ideas and enthusiasm and I think that comes across in this interview.

SHOW NOTES

Alan Lemasson and Bastien Saillard from Zag Skis joined Iain for this interview (1:30)
Why Zag test at the 'Zag Lab' in Chamonix (2:00)
“Every ZAG model is smashed, thrashed, and put through the wringer” (3:00)
The lead time for new models (6:00)
Origins of the brand (7:00)
Were Zag the first skis with rockers? (8:00)
Winning the ISPO award (8:15)
Julien Lopez won the Freeride World Tour on Zag Skis in 2009 (8:45)
Topsheet designs (9:30)             
Planned growth markets (10:30)
‘ZAGreen’ sustainable construction (11:00)
AROC is a the ‘brother of the Mata’ (13:00)

FEEDBACK

If you enjoyed this episode, or if you have any comments, please let me know. You can do that by leaving a comment on Spotify, Instagram or Facebook – or drop me an email to [email protected]. We’re also on WhatsApp. 

Mandy Gourley: "Really interesting and packed with information! I definitely need to return to Chamonix as I’ve never seen the mural!"

David Spendlove: "Great episode. Very informative."

Millsy1976: “Loved the interviews with Tony McWilliam and Victoria Jamieson in Episode 309”

EmmaintheGlens: “I just spent 6.5 hours binging old episodes of the podcast on my way from Perthshire down to the Manchester Snow Centre. The Erna Low and Bladon Lines episodes were fascinating.”

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