Sweet Spot.Niche skimakers are making a run for diehard skiers

摘要

Steve kneller, an all-over-the-mountain downhill skier in Breck-enridge, Colo., takes his skiing seriously. For years, Kneller, 58, a geologist who hits the trails five times a week, burned through pair after pair of big-name skis-like Icelantics, Fischers and Volkls-because of all the sharp dodging and turning he does on Breckenridge's black-diamond slopes. So when it came time to buy a new pair this season, Kneller hung up his latest pair of made-in-China Dynastars for skis better equipped to handle some serious mileage. He shelled out $649-$300 more than he paid for his previous pair-for skis handcrafted in Denver by David Liechty, owner of Grace Skis. "It's a very clean, classic-looking ski that's good going over icy bumps and for making strong turns," says Kneller.