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Voile Acquires Sentury Snowboards of Reno, Nevada, Hires Founder Ben Harmon

2012-01-10T20:24:00.000-08:00

Continuing a strong commitment to US based manufacturing of splitboards and skis, Voile Manufacturing acquired boutique, high quality manufacturer, Sentury Snowboards of Reno Nevada in September 2011.

Started by founder and engineer Ben Harmon in 2000, Sentury has been the recipient of the ISPO brand new award for lightweight composite snowboard design as well as X-Games medal winners and Olympians have ridden Sentury boards.

Ben joins the Voile team to head up R&D and manufacturing of Voile splitboards and snowboards.

Along with a MS in Engineering, Ben brings to Voile over ten years experience of progressive design and production of snowboards and splitboards. Ben was also instrumental in setting up design and manufacturing of the hot new brand Moment Skis in Reno, Nevada.

Voile welcomes Ben to the team as we look forward to pushing the design of Voile splitboards into a bright future.

More information/clarity regarding the acquisition of Sentury Snowboards:

While the Sentury brand name will not go forward, much of Ben's designs/products, customized manufacturing equipment, and vision will live on in a big way under the Voile brand. Ben has been a good friend to Voile since 2005 when we first met. We have shared information, encouraged and supported the production of Sentury splitboards. We have been trying to hire him ever since. We are psyched to be finally working with him under the same roof!

ULLR BALL!

2011-11-08T13:54:00.000-08:00

Save Our Canyons will host ULLR BALL on Tuesday, November 15th at Squatters in Salt Lake City. The party begins at 7pm. For more info and to buy tickets visit Save Our Canyons.

Save Our Canyons will be raffling off a Voile splitboard and pair of Voile bakcountry skis.

Tickets are only $12.00!! Use promo code: ULLR2011SOC and Buy 2 or more tickets right now and get a free DVD of Powderwhore's new backcountry film: Breaking Trail. They won't last long, so please BUY NOW!

Cowboy Splitboards Voile!

2011-10-11T10:52:00.000-07:00

In 1991 Brett "Cowboy" Kobernik met the owner of Voile, Mark "Wally" Wariakois and Cowboy and Wally started the splitboard revolution. Seen here in Powderwhore's new movie Breaking Trail, Cowboy talks about his career as a Utah Avalanche Forecaster and the early days at Voile prototyping the first Voile splitboard. Not to mention making some sweet turns on the original Voile 195 Swallowtail splitboard.

Splitboarding in new PowderWhore movie: Breaking Trail!

2011-09-06T14:02:00.000-07:00

New splitboarding segment in this season's Powderwhore movie: Breaking Trail, including a commentary on the humble beginnings of splitboarding by Brett "Cowboy" Kobernik. Cowboy is the guy who worked with Voile in the early days to develop the current Voile splitboard hardware system. Look forward to seeing the movie!

For more info check out www.powderwhore.com

New Voile Trucker Hats!

2011-07-11T11:18:00.000-07:00

Check out Voile's new trucker hats! Choose from either the Voile-USA or Voile Splitboards branded trucker hat. 3 color choices with each brand name.

Kronicle - New Splitboarding Magazine!

2011-05-18T13:34:00.001-07:00

The New Era of Snowboarding! New splitboarding mag based out of Crested Butte, Colorado and Jeffersonville, Vermont. Read all about it here.

Tech Alert - Cheat Sheets for long term storage only!

2011-04-11T12:21:00.000-07:00

Cheat Sheets for Voile Climbing Skins are for long term storage only! If used regularly, the cheat sheet will delaminate and leave small bits of plastic coating on the base of your climbing skins and could limit adhesion to your ski or board base. Long term storage only please! Voile will no longer include Cheat Sheets with our climbing skins. They have been recently discontinued.

Add nylon Taffeta Strips to your Voile Climbing Skins to make it easier to pull them apart.

Please link to the Voile Cheat Sheet and Taffeta Strip Instructions.

Voile skis - 20% off retail price.

2011-03-21T09:40:00.001-07:00

All remaining 2010-2011 inventory of Voile Drifter, Voile Charger, and Voile Vector skis are 20% off retail price.

Mt. Baker SplitFest, March 25-27

2011-03-15T13:20:00.000-07:00

Join your fellow splitboarders at Mt. Baker in Washington on Friday March 25 through Sun. March 27. Voile will be providing some great prizes including a full Mojo RX splitboard/Light Rail splitboard binding package. For more information go to www.splitboardfestival.com

Wasatch PowderKeg Backcountry Ski Race - Sat. March 12, 2011

2011-02-17T12:04:00.000-08:00

Sign up for the Wasatch PowderKeg Backcountry Ski Race. Event starts at Brighton Ski Area on Sat. March 12, 2011. For more details go to www.wasatchpowderkeg.com

Tech Alert - Voile Splitboard Dual Height Climbing Heels

2011-01-26T15:32:00.000-08:00

If you have purchased Voile Splitboard Dual Height Climbing Heels, Voile is recommending you remove the grey urethane/rubber tubing from the climbing wires.

The rubber tubing eliminates any friction against the binding baseplate and causes the wire to rock back and forth until it folds and the plastic heel pad fails.

Currently all Voile Splitboard Dual Height Climbing Heels are delivered without the grey rubber tubing installed on the climbing wires.

If you have experienced any issues with this product, please contact Voile directly. We will provide replacement parts and delivery free of charge.

Sorry for any inconvenience.

Contact Voile at Toll Free 800-670-8622, Phone 801-973-8622, info@voile-usa.com

Canuck Splitfest - Roger's Pass, Canada

2011-01-04T12:49:00.000-08:00

January 22-23, join in the splitboard festivities at Roger's Pass in Canada. Voile is encouraging you to attend, for we are donating some great prizes including a 161 Mojo RX/Light Rail splitboard binding package. All proceeds go direclty to the Canadian Avalanche Foundation. For more information go to http://www.splitboarders.ca/

Where's my Light Rail order?

2010-12-06T12:02:00.000-08:00

We sincerely apologize for the continued delays in delivery of the Voile Light Rail splitboard specific binding and the Voile Mojo RX/Light Rail Package.

The first orders will begin shipping on Friday Dec. 17 and remaining backorders will be shipped complete by Mon. Jan 17, 2011. We have significant orders for the Voile Light Rail binding and they will not all ship at once. We are working hard to deliver your order as fast as possible.

First of all, your order will be prioritized and delivered based on the date you placed your order(ie. Earliest orders ship first).

Currently, the Voile website lists the Light Rail delivery date as Feb. 14, 2011. Please understand this is for NEW orders only. We assure you that you have not lost your place in line.

Why the delay?

In an effort to improve the Heelcup, Ankle and Toe Straps, this has caused significant delays. While these processes were started in the summer, the component part approval can take a significant amount of time to get the components exactly to our spec.

What are the changes?

We have added more fore-aft adjustment to the Heelcup as well as made the part more precisely fit the Light Rail base plate.

The Ankle Strap has been slightly re-sized for better fit and we have added a new molded foam back.

Further we have added a protective leather sleeve(Toe) or strapping(Ankle) to protect the adjustable and ladder straps of both the Toe and Ankle Straps.

Voile will provide more detail and product photos when the Light Rail bindings begin to ship.

Please feel free to contact us with any questions. Thanks for your patience.

New Voile Splitboard Touring Riser

2010-12-01T13:07:00.000-08:00

Increase your uphill touring rotation and enhance your edging ability while side-hilling with the new Voile Splitboard Touring Riser.

This 10mm riser, especially with larger boots, increases the rotational angle of your binding and prevents the boot toe from hitting the deck of your board.

It will also give you more leverage and boot/binding angulation to enhance your edging ability on steep sidehills.

New Video - How to make a splitboard with the Voile DIY Split Kit

2010-11-26T13:31:00.000-08:00

2-part comprehensive step by step video of how to make a splitboard with the Voile Split Kit - DIY Saw Your Old Board Kit.

Presented by Voile and John Horn (jhorn929 YouTube Channel)

Voile Splitboard Crampon Updated!

2010-11-16T13:38:00.000-08:00

The fit and function of the Voile Splitboard Crampon is now compatible with the Voile Light Rail splitboard specific binding and Voile Splitboard Dual Height Climbing Heels.

The Voile Splitboard Crampon functions both fixed to the board and mobile attached to your binding. In the fixed mode, you have the advantage of full penetration into the snow, while the climbing wire is in the up position. In the mobile mode, the Voile splitboard crampon is attached to the binding and moves with the binding as you hike.

The changes to the Voile splitboard crampon include removing material to allow for clearance and fit of the Light Rail on the Voile Light Rail splitboard specific binding.

Also, clearance was added for both the standard Voile Climbing Heels and new Voile Splitboard Dual Height Climbing Heels. This fix is most evident while using the crampon in the mobile mode.

Voile Mojo RX spliboard and Voile Light Rail splitboard specific binding win Backcountry Magazine's Editor's Choice Award.

2010-09-17T10:14:00.000-07:00

Sold as a complete package, the Voile Mojo RX/Light Rail package includes Voile Mojo RX splitboard deck, Voile Light Rail splitboard specific binding, Voile splitboard hardware, and Voile splitboard climbing skins.

Voile Mojo RX splitboard and Voile Light Rail splitboard specific binding - Both a Backcountry Magazine 2011 Gear Guide Editors' Choice!

New shape, new profile, a prescription for your powder flu!

The Voile Mojo RX splitboard is an all-mountain ripper that keeps the best of the original Mojo, but adds the powder friendly benefits of a rockered nose and more tapered tail.

Camber and snappy tail are maintained to make the new Voile Mojo RX splitboard a go to deck for serious backcountry riders.

Also includes new updates to the splitboard hardware: Lighter touring brackets, durable plastic coated climbing wires, and a new binding support shim for better uphill skinning.

Voile Charger Backcountry skis win Backcountry Magazine's 2011 Editor's Choice

2010-09-10T09:24:00.001-07:00

In 2010 Voile introduced the award winning Voile Drifter ski design, providing skiers with a whole new skiing experience.

Now you can get that same experience in a slimmer, more nimble package.

Introducing Voile Charger skis, a Backcountry Magazines' 2011 Editors' Choice.

From Backcountry Magazine 2011 Gear Guide:

Sharing the same heavily rockered tip, lightweight aspen core construction, and powder surfing instincts as its big brother, the Drifter, the new Charger has a slimmer, more skintrack friendly shape. Though charged up by its agility and smearability, some testers received too much of a jolt in mixed and firm conditions. Low marks on hardpack and in chunder, however, were tempered by accolades for energy, playfulness, stability, and versatility in powder. Testers raved, saying it was "love at first smear," "totally stable in the trees" and a "powder technician."

+ "Run as fast as you want, then dump speed on a dime. FUN bc powder ski."

- "Like a butter knife, these don't cut, they prefer to smear."

= A powder-eating, super-charged touring board that's also a great value.

Voile Split Kit - DIY Saw Your Old Board Kit Improved!

2010-09-03T12:34:00.000-07:00

Voile is now shipping our nicely updated and improved do it yourself Voile Split Kit.

Improvements include completely new Voile Split Kit Puck with 2-hole secure t-nut mounting, lighter Voile touring brackets, more durable rear tabs on the Voile Slider Track, new binding support riser for easier uphill skinning and side-hilling, and new durable plastic coated climbing wires.

Split Kit (DIY) changes coming. August 23, 2010 (delayed to Sept. 3)

2010-07-15T15:03:00.000-07:00

Voile's Split Kit(DIY), the Do It Yourself, Cut Your Old Board Kit will be available for order on August 23, 2010 (delayed to Sept. 3 2010). We are upgrading some of the components of the kit. It'll be worth the wait for you do it yourself splitboarders!

Freeheel Life 2 presented by Telemark Skier Magazine and Voile

2010-06-08T13:49:00.000-07:00

"The Freeheel Life 2: Hippies Punx & Misfits" Official Trailer from Telemark Skier Magazine on Vimeo.

Voile is a proud partner and presenting sponsor of Telemark Skier Magazine's Freeheel Life 2. Coming October 2010.

2009-2010 Voile Asylum skis 70% off.-SOLD OUT! Discontinued.

2010-06-02T13:23:00.000-07:00

SOLD OUT! Discontinued. Voile has limited inventory of Voile Asylum skis with 2009-2010 graphic for 70% off retail price. They are A-quality for $178.50! Voile will no longer be manufacturing this ski model as we make room for the new Voile Charger hybrid rocker skis. Take advantage of a dramatically low price. We have both skis with 4-hole inserts for telemark bindings and flat deck for AT mounts.

3 new Voile splitboard products in stock and shipping now!

2010-06-02T12:01:00.000-07:00

The new Voile Light Rail and Trax splitboard bindings and the Voile splitboard dual climbing heels are in stock and shipping now!

Voile Ski Crampons 35% off.

2010-05-05T08:04:00.000-07:00

Just in time for spring ski mountaineering, Voile is closing out and discontinuing Voile ski crampon sizes 92mm and 112mm. New Voile ski crampons sizes 96mm, 115mm, and 130mm will be available next fall. The new sizes are made to match the new Voile Vector, Charger, and Drifter skis.

Very limited inventory of Light Rail splitboard binding available. Order Now!

2010-04-17T11:33:00.000-07:00

We at Voile are very sorry for the continued delays in offering and shipping the Light Rail splitboard binding. Just on Friday April 16, we have set aside a very small quantity for those of you that are very excited to get a pair. Please order now for they won't last through the weekend. Our production continues, so we can satisfy everyone's desire to have a pair. Thank you for your support.

6th Annual ScrubFest Shenanigans!

2010-04-09T22:55:00.000-07:00

Once again, ScrubFest was Wyoming's finest backcountry grassroots festival...for dirtbags that is! It was an excellent celebration with over 30 backcountry enthusiasts coming from all over the globe and ranging from Australia to Nebraska. Snow conditions, participants, and the positive vibe made this year's event one of the best yet. A HUGE shoutout and thanks goes to the VOILE-USA crew for generously backing this event for all six years!

For those who missed out on the fun this year, we have included a few photos to wet your appetites and maybe entice you to join us next year. Thank you for your support Voile!

No trees were harmed in the mandatory group summit photo:

Good decision making broke us up into small groups with this year's snow pack:

Stable"r" conditions made for steeper lines:

Final Day and the skies broke bluebird for Patrick Lawrence in Shakedown Street:

For a complete trip report and other photos click on this link: www.splitboard.com

Mount Baker Splitboard Festival 2010

2010-03-26T09:07:00.000-07:00

On March 27-28 at the Mount Baker Splitboard Festival, Voile will provide the new Voile Mojo RX hybrid rocker splitboard with the new Voile Light Rail splitboard bindings for demo. We also sent up some great raffle prizes. Enjoy the ride!

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2010 Wasatch PowderKeg Backcountry Race

2010-02-11T07:30:00.000-08:00

Saturday, March 13, 2010, Brighton, Utah

For more details and registration WasatchPowderKeg.Com

New Splitboard Division this year!

Voile at Outdoor Retailer trade show Jan. 21-24

2010-01-16T14:19:00.000-08:00

See what's new at Voile for next season 2010-2011. Look for video updates on our YouTube page: www.youtube.com/voileusa

Shovel performances span heaven and hell.

2009-12-27T10:42:00.000-08:00

Published in the February 2009 issue of the American Avalanche Association's Avalanche Review, the article named "Shovel performances span heaven and hell.", Voile shovels received top honors for performance and functionality.

Please find excerpt from article here: Shovel performances span heaven and hell.

Shovel test conducted under the patronage of the Austrian Alpine Club.

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Dawn Patrol - by Dustin Butcher

2009-12-23T09:04:00.000-08:00

With the Wasatch backcountry only 25 minutes from Salt Lake City, it's easy to get some early morning powder turns before you begin your long stare into your PC.

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New! Voile Light Rail splitboard binding.

2009-11-22T19:20:00.000-08:00

Simplify, reduce weight, and increase performance of your Voile splitboard binding system with the new Voile Light Rail splitboard binding. The Voile Light Rail integrates the Slider Track and Strap Binding into a lightweight, low profile, and stiff splitboard binding.

The binding base plate is cut away to eliminate ice build-up and reduce weight. The baseplate aluminum rails are CNC machined from solid 7075-T6 bar stock aluminum for amazing durability.

An Avalanche Rip Cord has been attached to both quick release buckles to aid when backcountry riding in avalanche prone areas.

Available January 2010.

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New! Voile Trax splitboard binding.

2009-11-22T18:59:00.000-08:00

A lightweight and inexpensive way to upgrade your current Voile splitboard binding system.

Bolt the Voile Trax splitboard binding to your existing Voile Slider Track, with included t-nuts and screws.

The Trax binding baseplate brings your binding closer to the board and with 4 points of contact on the outer edges of the baseplate it is as stiff as the Voile Light Rail splitboard binding.

An Avalanche Rip Cord has been attached to both quick release buckles to aid when backcountry riding in avalanche prone areas.

Available January 2010.

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New! Voile splitboard dual height climbing heels.

2009-11-22T18:41:00.000-08:00

Upgrade your splitboard with the new Voile splitboard dual height climbing heels. The back climbing wire is the standard height of 55mm and the front wire is 75mm.

Also new, a durable plastic coating is applied to the top of each wire to prevent wear on your splitboard binding base plate.

Available January 2010.

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Switchbacks - for those in the "snow".

2009-11-18T08:46:00.001-08:00

This post is from a Voile customer that last winter visited the Icefall Lodge in BC, Canada. He expressed his satisfaction in the performance of the Voile Switchback Telemark Touring binding. As you can see from the photo he attached, 7 other customers share his point of view. Those that know, know the Switchback is the lightest weight, durable, high performance and ice-free telemark touring binding on the market.

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Attention! A major Voile product announcement Monday Nov. 23.

2009-11-12T09:03:00.000-08:00

Please visit our website on Monday Nov. 23 for a major product announcement within our Voile splitboard product line.

If you really want to be the first to know, get a copy of the Dec. issue of Backcountry Magazine for there will be a product review and advertisement in the magazine. The Dec. issue of Backcountry Magazine ships on Thur. Nov. 19 to subscribers and newsstands.

See you all here Monday Nov. 23.

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Tech Update! Voile Splitboard Touring Bracket Loses Weight.

2009-11-06T11:02:00.000-08:00

Voile's backcountry product focus has driven us to obsession when it comes to light weight. Yet another example of this obsession is illustrated below.

Voile is now including a new lighter weight splitboard touring bracket with the Voile Mojo splitboard. Without any compromise in durability, we have shaved off a scant 14 grams per pair. (Smile)

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Ullr Ball 2009

2009-10-22T11:15:00.000-07:00

Thur. Nov. 12 at 8pm in Salt Lake City, the local non-profit environmental organization Save Our Canyons will host their yearly fundraiser the Ullr Ball. Please support Save Our Canyons in their effort to protect the local Wasatch backcountry from over-development.

A 2009-2010 Voile Mojo splitboard and Voile Switchback telemark touring binding will be raffled off at the event.

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Tech Update! Voile Slider Track for splitboard improved.

2009-10-16T15:30:00.000-07:00

To increase the durability of the Voile Slider Track, we have added material to the stop tab at the back of the Slider Track. This will prevent any long term wear, as it bears the full weight of the user in each step they take while skinning uphill. The stop tab also performs the function of providing a stop and precise fit of the Slider Track when sliding over the adjustable pucks for the ride mode of the splitboard.

Above shows how the Voile Slider Track stop tab fits into the Voile Heel Pad of the splitboard.
This improvement is available on all Voile Slider Tracks produced for this season.

Winter Stumbled Upon Us?

2009-10-11T20:19:00.000-07:00

It appears that winter has caught some people off guard, but like they say, the early bird gets the worm...errrr the POW. Enjoy these photos from October 11th early season powder sessions in Wyoming. Hope you have those boards dusted off and waxed up. Game ON!

Photos: Darran Well and Jeramie Prine

Riders Love the Mojo!

2009-09-16T09:10:00.000-07:00

The 2010 Backcountry Magazine Gear Guide drives home why riders love the all mountain performance of the Voile Mojo splitboard. Voile-USA is the longest running splitboard manufacturer in the market and pioneered today's reliable splitboard hardware interface.

"Sized for Men and Women, the Mojo cast a spell on testers this year. It dominated in powder, earning high marks for ease of turn initiation with the same directional shape, dimensions, and traditional camber as last year. Testers of both sexes succumbed to the Mojo's magic: "Springy, sprightly; picks its way down steep slopes, and is most responsive to short radius turns," a female tester said. "Still gets the Mojo flowin ' in wide-open pow." A male tester found: "The Mojo is light underfoot and has a smooth torsional flex" it's tough to beat for technical terrian, where quick, reliable turns are a necessity." - 2010 Backcountry Magazine Gear Guide.

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Voile Drifter backcountry skis, Backcountry Magazine Editor's Choice!

2009-08-19T11:03:00.000-07:00

Backcountry Magazine recently named the new Voile Drifter hybrid rocker skis an Editor's Choice.

Get ready for an entirely new skiing experience.

Combining the progressive powder-ski concept of rockered and tapered tips and tails with traditional side-cut and camber under foot, the Voile Drifter is stable and easy to ski in conditions ranging from the deepest powder to the most difficult wind slab. The traditional side-cut and camber under foot allows you to carve with confidence on firm snow you might find on your way back to the lift or on the exit of a difficult ski tour. Add Voile's signature lightweight ski construction and you won't be afraid to put skins on these boards.

Be assured, your skiing experience will never be the same.

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Tech Update! Voile Switchback toe-plate improved.

2009-07-13T13:46:00.000-07:00

We have improved the Voile Switchback telemark touring binding toe-plate with some minor dimensional changes and a new more durable 410 heat-treated stainless steel.

The Switchback toe-plate is so tough, we are backing it up with a new 2 year warranty.

After 2 years on our customer's feet and with many backcountry miles, the Switchback has proven to be the most reliable, lightweight, and ice-free telemark touring binding on the snow.

We invite you to compare the Voile Switchback with any of our competitor's bindings as we are confident you will see the superior design and benefits of the Switchback.

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Lyngen Alps in Northern Norway

2009-06-19T10:06:00.000-07:00

Group photo on top of Rieppetind in the Lyngen Alps, from left: Odd-Arne, Johan, Stefan, Bjorn, Line and Kristine

Line and Stefan on the way down, with majestic spike peaks in the background

Bjorn letting the Voile Asylums do their stuff in the Lyngen Alps

Thanks, Bjorn for sharing your photos with us!

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Falling is not an option.

2009-04-23T13:42:00.001-07:00

Jarrett Luttrell was kind enough to forward his trip report of a hair raising steep ride down (on a Voile Mojo 66) Pyramid Peak near Aspen, Colorado. I must admit after reading his TR, I was puckering up a bit. Click on the photo for the full TR. Thanks Jarrett!

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Next season's Voile Mojo splitboard available now!

2009-04-14T09:14:00.000-07:00

Although no changes to construction or dimensions, Voile is pleased to have the sought after Mojo splitboard back in stock with fresh new graphics for the 2009-10 season. Going into its 3rd season, the Mojo has proven to be an all-mountain performance splitboard that you can rely on for all conditions from deep and soft to steep and hard.

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Voile's SX gets Turbo'd - by Craig Dostie

2009-04-09T11:08:00.000-07:00

Had a chance to check out a long desired improvement to Voile bindings yesterday. To be more specific, a more active, turbo-charged version of Voile's popular Switchback binding. Making the binding more active could be done by 1) moving the pivot point back further, and/or 2) increasing the spring rate of the cartridges used.

Voile opted to test a SX binding with the pivot moved back 3/8". I've been testing telemark bindings since 1993, and have recently been involved in comparing what's new for next season, in particular 22 Design's free pivoting HammerHead, a.k.a. Axl, and Rottefella's NTN binding with their various spring cartridges. Against these, and other more active bindings Voile's offerings seem underpowered. That would only be at a first glance, for the reality is, while some telemarkers may desire more power from their binding, most of us are quite content with what we have. Voile's bindings fall in the contented category, but having a bit more power wouldn't hurt either.

This beta version of a turbo charged SX skied beautifully. It had noticeably more power, but not so much that I felt it might compromise sensitivity in soft snow. Part of that is due to the side routing of the cables which seems to consistently deliver a very smooth engagement. Some might call it slow, and indeed it is slower to turn on the power compared to tele bindings with underfoot cable routing, but that isn't always a good thing. It is also a subtle difference that takes time to recognize.

Bottom line: This turbo SX binding skis great. On the HammerHead scale, I'd say (without a side by side comparison) the turbo SX is about HH#3.25. The normal SX/Switchback is more like HH#2.8. Can't wait for Voile to adopt it for the Switchback. If you thought it was too much power, it would be easy enough to simply back off on the pre-tension a bit so that engagement was a bit slower, but overall power remained higher.

Dostie

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Voile Asylum's on Pointe de Revedin, 2,750 m, Wallis, Switzerland

2009-04-03T16:36:00.001-07:00

Ulrich Hausmann, a Voile fan and enthusiastic skier of the Voile Asylum and Switchback, sent us these photos of a backcountry ski tour at Point de Revedin, near Wallis, Switzerland. Spectacular! Thanks Ulrich!

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Splitboard Spain!

2009-04-02T09:56:00.000-07:00

From our friends in Europe, splitboarding in Aran Valley, Spain. Enjoy!

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5th Annual ScrubFest

2009-02-26T18:12:00.000-08:00

This years gathering was fantastic thanks to good friends, great riding, perfect conditions, and wonderful rustic lodging in the heart of Wyoming! It was amazing to see splitboarders and skiers converging together comparing gear, swapping stories, and enjoying the mountains.

The crew all offered their sincere thanks and gratitude for all that Voile has done for splitboarding. Without Voile's invention of the splitboard, the sport would not be were it is today. Voile is unique in bringing backcountry snowboarders and skiers together. We all owe you a toast and thanks!

Sandbox Rocks and surfing pow:

Big climbs with the crew:

What is there not to love skiing in the mountains on bluebird days?

Thanks to Voile-USA and our sponsors for help making this event so successful. May Ullr continue to keep it white, fresh, and deep well past spring!

2009 Wasatch Powder Keg Backcountry Ski Race

2009-02-15T13:00:00.000-08:00

Greetings!

As you may have heard during this year's OR show, a few Salt Lake City locals are taking over organizing the 2009 Wasatch Powder Keg Backcountry Ski Race this year. We've all been participants in the past and it has been such a great event that we are defying all odds, taking the reigns, and keeping the race alive ... grassroots style.

If you'd be kind enough to help us get the word out through your website, it'd be greatly appreciated!

2009 Wasatch Powderkeg Backcountry Ski Race

DATE Saturday, March 14, 2009
TIME 7:30 am MDT
WHERE Alta, UT

NOTES
The 6th annual Wasatch Powderkeg Backcountry Ski Race will have both recreational and race divisions with Men's, Women's, AT, and Tele groups in each division, prizes for the winners, and a post-race raffle and BBQ. Registration forms, race details, and race contact information are available at www.wasatchpowderkeg.com

Voile avalanche shovels receive high marks in European shovel test.

2009-01-02T10:18:00.000-08:00

Under the patronage of the Austrian Alpine Club, a recent avalanche shovel test/review was published in the Austrian publication Berg & Steigen and the publication of the Canadian Avalanche Association. In this test, Voile received very favorable results measuring durability and functionality.

The Voile shovels tested were the Telepro-T6, XLM, and new model XLM Pro(Voile's Mini Telepro-T6).

Based on the test, the Telepro-T6 was the clear winner in terms of durability and actual functionality during a mock rescue situation.

This article will be published soon in the American Avalanche Association's publication, The Avalanche Review.

7 million vertical feet on the Voile Insane and Switchback

2008-12-17T10:38:00.000-08:00

Recently we received back a pair of test Voile Insane skis and Switchback telemark bindings from Rainer Hertrich. It seems Rainer skied a few vertical feet on our set-up: a mere 7 million vertical feet.

Amazingly Rainer Hertrich has followed the snow and skied EVERY day for the last 5 years=1825 consecutive days. Please link to Skinet.com article.

We looked over the Voile Insanes and Switchbacks, gave them a tune-up, and sent em back out to Rainer to see if he can get another 7 million vert.

Thanks Rainer for letting Voile be a part of your record breaking ski odyssey!

5th Annual ScrubFest, Wyoming's Finest Backcountry Festival

2008-12-11T08:42:00.000-08:00

Thanks to our sponsors: VOILE-USA, Spark R & D, splitboard.com, Leeward Cinema, backcountry.com, Blacksmith Productions

All people showing up must have transcievors, probes, shovels. This event is not a guided excursion and everyone who participates does so at their own risk! On the other hand, local knowledge/avalanche advisories will be available. All participants will be asked to sign a liability waiver prior to arrival. Fees cover lodging and entertainment expenses only, not guiding.

Voile Holy Grail Contest Winners

2008-12-02T11:35:00.000-08:00

Thanks everyone for all your great comments and support. We have chosen 2 winners, one randomly, and one based on the eloquence of their prose.

First, chosen randomly, congrats to:

Backcountry.it said...
I would like them...
October 3, 2008 10:49 AM

And great writing by:

Eric Supancic said...
An evil empire run by unscrupulous vikings, and media outlets that seem to be controlled by this evil empire, want you to believe that a "Holy Grail" of telemark bindings exists. Real Telemarkers know the truth....the "Holy Grail" is not a physical object, but the bloodline of Voile, our saviors of modern telemark. For decades, these evil Birkebeiners persecuted the Voile family for producing reliable, lightweight, simple, and inexpensive telemark bindings and equipment. The Voile family found sanctuary in the Wasatch Mountains of Utah where they developed superior equipment for the modern telemarker. Even today, Voile continues it's innovation by hand crafting superior bindings, skis, and other equipment like shovels and probes - right here in the USA. Telemarkers need not venture out on piste crusades in search of a myth propagated by the Evil Empire....they simply need to get some Voile Switchback or SX telemark bindings and ski today!
August 25, 2008 9:43 AM

Holy Grail telemark binding, will it be a reality or a myth?

2008-12-02T11:26:00.000-08:00

Win a pair of Voile Switchback or Voile SX telemark bindings.
To enter leave a comment. Winners announced above. Contest complete.

This Voile advertisement will display in the Sept. 2008 Gear Guide issue of Backcountry Magazine. Click the Blogcountry link and leave your comment related to the statement in this ad. View PDF copy of ad.

Winner of contest will be announced Dec. 1 2008. Winners announced above.

Mike Basich installing a Voile Split Kit on ESPN

2008-11-15T08:10:00.000-08:00

Mike Basich from http://www.241-usa.com/ recently did a project for ESPN where he did a Voile Split Kit installation. We appreciate Mike's self reliance, do it yourself skills, and philosophy on backcountry travel. Great job Mike! Thanks from Voile! Check out video and link to story.
http://expn.go.com/expn/story?id=3684906

A Look Back to Fall 2002.

2008-11-03T16:03:00.000-08:00

As the Bush era draws to a close and we all chose our next president today, we look back at the ad campaign we ran in the Fall of 2002. The "Duct Tape" ad was the one that stood out among all the ads in the campaign. It sparked a remarkable amount of debate with some positive editorial commentary as well as some ruthless hate mail.

It should be noted that Voile was only trying to make light of Mr. Bush's public speaking abilities. We certainly sold a lot more Voile Straps after running that ad. Thankfully, we all live in a society that you can freely express your views no matter if from the left or the right. We want to thank everyone for standing in long voting lines today. We will all be moving forward in a new positive direction no matter the result of this election. Godspeed.

Download Entire Voile 2002 Ad Campaign

Voile's new backcountry snow saw includes a shovel.

2008-10-15T12:58:00.000-07:00

If you want a backcountry saw, please consider the new Voile T6 Tech avalanche shovel. An improvement over our previous design, the T6 Tech is a more pack friendly, lightweight, and easier to use avalanche shovel and snow saw combination.

The T6 Tech conveniently stows a 14"/36cm snow saw blade and the saw is easily attached to the end of the shaft for avalanche science work and winter shelter building. The T6 Tech is also sold with your toughest professional avalanche scoop the T6.

For the price of some other brand's backcountry saw, get the professional grade Voile T6 Tech shovel/saw combination.

Check it out here!

Voile's backyard: Wasatch Snow!

2008-10-06T09:13:00.000-07:00

Well, it may not last, but enough to get the stoke going. Hiked from White Pine trailhead to Maybird drainage to get a look at the Pfeifferhorn, a majestic Wasatch peak.

Pfeifferhorn(Little Matterhorn), Lone Peak Wilderness, Wasatch Mountains, Utah.

Splitboarding Gannett Peak

2008-09-23T09:00:00.000-07:00

Story by Jeramie Prine

Photos: Steve Romeo/Jeramie Prine

With the upcoming ski season closely approaching, my thoughts flash back to stellar days spent in the backcountry with friends and family. A trip I daydream about often was a week-long journey spent in the Wind River mountain range to ski Wyoming's highest summit, Gannett Peak, this last June with skiers Steve Romeo, and brothers Chris and Tim Weydeveld.

This trip was a true test of the "Simple. Solid. Backcountry." motto for my gear. Over 30 miles were spent skinning with heavy packs, an unruly amount of transitioning took place on patchy snow in the Dinwoody drainage, and variable snow conditions were etched upon during the descent. All ingredients for a perfect trip.

Steve Romeo skins out of Ink Wells with Gannett Peak in view:

Being the lone splitboarder in the group, I knew that my Voile SD Mojo would have to hold up to the heavy use and abuse the Wind Rivers would throw at it. There would be no friends to bum spare parts from in a desperate situation far from civilization. I was confident never being let down in "the field" before riding different models of Voile's split-decision. Our only concerns were focused on weather, snow, and the glacier's conditions since we left our ropes at home due to a big snow year.

Tim, Jeramie, & Chris enjoying a June day in the Wind River Mountains at basecamp:After a day and a half of slogging, our basecamp was set. Thoughts of lighter packs filled our heads as we crashed in our sleeping bags early in preparation for next morning's climb. 2:45 came quick with howling winds and a clear star-filled sky. Content with lighter loads and consistent snow for skinning and booting, we quickly made our way up to Gooseneck glacier and to the base of Gooseneck Pinnacle just below the summit ridge of Gannett peak.

Tim and Jeramie climb Gooseneck glacier with Gannett Peak summit in the clouds:

The winds grew stronger and pushed a strange storm system in covering the summit of the mountain. Thoughts of retreat entered our minds. Below the Gooseneck Pinnacle with a brief discussion, we decided to push on despite lack of visibility. As we climbed further, the clouds let up slightly and we soon found ourselves on the top of Wyoming. Temperatures neared zero and we wasted little time switching over to enjoy the reward of the down.

View of the Gooseneck Pinnacle & route from the summit ridge:

A fine day of splitboarding on Wyoming's highest peak:

On a long trip and big climbs like this the Mojo is durable, yet light with new cap construction, aspen core, and carbon fiber. Light is nice on the up, but this board IS "all about the down" without any sacrifice in powder, on ice, or in between. Hoots and hollers penetrated through gusts of wind as each of us found our lines down the mountain. Now I know what it all really means to live the "Simple. Solid. Backcountry." way of life.

Jeramie enjoying his ride:

Do you know where your skis are made?

2008-07-16T14:41:00.000-07:00

Voile Insane and Asylum skis made in Salt Lake City, Utah USA

It may be 95 degrees in Salt Lake City, but Voile is very busy with the production of our skis and splitboards. Just want you to know that we are handcrafting your new Voile Insane and Voile Asylum skis and they will be ready at the end of the summer!

Made from sustainably grown aspen lumber, the Asylum wood cores in process.

All waste product from the ski wood core production is recycled into an organic mulch for landscaping materials.

Learn More...

Voile Paper Waste Reduction Act.

2008-07-02T15:18:00.000-07:00

Win $2500 in Voile gear.

When shopping at any of our fine Voile Dealers, look for this tag on all Voile products. It contains details on how (with the help of our website) to win $2500 in Voile gear.

You see we are encouraging you to use our website instead of paper catalogs. Voile is no longer printing a product catalog in order to prevent a ton of paper waste. Our market research indicates most folks are using the web to do their product research before buying and would prefer not to have a large pile of catalogs that eventually end up in the trash.

Voile avalanche shovels - Made in USA

2008-06-05T13:54:00.000-07:00

Voile avalanche shovels - Made in USA

While much of USA manufacturing has gone to Asia, Voile continues to make high quality gear for backcountry skiing and snowboarding right here in Salt Lake City, Utah USA.

Recently after manufacturing over 1 million shovels we have retired our old shovel tooling and have precisely machined all new tooling for our shovel production. Shown here are the A and B side of the tool that forms the Voile shovel scoop. It takes a 100 ton punch press to operate this tool and make a cleanly formed Voile scoop.

While these beautiful tools were precisely CNC machined from a solid block of tool steel, the original Voile shovel tool was made in 1981 in a now defunct Salt Lake foundry where molten tool steel was poured into a sand mold. Voile - Made in USA.

Video-How a splitboard works.

2008-05-29T12:26:00.000-07:00

How a Splitboard Works

Learn More...

No hidden agenda here.

2008-05-20T14:58:00.000-07:00

Inside the Voile SD Mojo splitboard

The inside of the Voile SD Mojo splitboard. Our choice of materials are of the highest quality and each Mojo deck is handcrafted in our own facility in Salt Lake City, Utah USA.

Learn More...

Our vertically laminated aspen wood cores are made by Voile here in Salt Lake City, Utah USA. We buy and use only high quality sustainably grown aspen lumber. We do not use finger joints in our core. The vertical laminates extended full length from tip to tail.

Voile’s Triaxial Carbon Fiberglass composite(fabric direction +45,-45,0,0 - carbon fiber) has 12 -6mm wide carbon fiber strips covering the entire width of each board half. This glass is used on top and bottom of each full tip to tail wood core. Our unique composite produces a lightweight, ultra durable, torsionally stable, and highly responsive splitboard. It is also important to note that our unique composite is a very expensive choice, but results in much less weight and more durability than some other composite choices.

Our finished splitboard decks are bonded and built so well, you will experience a long lasting responsive ride for years to come.

Voile splitboard deck warranty:

Beginning with our new model the SD Mojo splitboard, we are offering a 2 year warranty on the splitboard deck against defects in materials and workmanship. The Vise Clamp Bond lamination will also cover you for 2 years against de-laminations subject to review by Voile. Voile has a reputation for exceptional customer service and we invite you to contact us with any issue. We promise to exceed your expectations.

Winner of Voile $2500 product giveaway announced today!!!

2008-05-15T10:27:00.000-07:00

Winner is Nathan Post of Dillon, Colorado USA!!! Congratulations Nathan!!!

Thanks to all who registered online for our $2500 product giveaway!

When you purchase a Voile product at your local retailer, you will find the information below attached to all Voile products.

Thank you for using Voile-USA.com and preventing a ton of paper from going to the landfill!

When you shop your local retailer, look for this information on Voile products and enter next year's Voile $2500 product giveaway!

Voile-USA.Com and the Voile Paper Waste Reduction Act

In a strong effort to significantly reduce the potential paper waste that Voile-USA creates, we are encouraging you our valued customer to visit our website for the most current and up-to-date product information.

Along with overall efforts of our company to reduce paper waste, we have chosen not to print an end-customer product catalog and again encourage you to visit our website.

Voile-USA.Com is updated almost daily, so you will find it a most valuable resource when doing backcountry product research.

For your effort, you will have the opportunity to win $2500 in high quality Voile-USA backcountry gear.

At Voile we are committed........

2008-05-07T15:06:00.000-07:00

...to handcrafted, USA-made, backcountry skis, that allow you to maximize performance and enjoyment on both the uphill and the downhill.

The 2008-2009 Voile Insane Asylum backcountry ski line.

Learn More...

While everyone is out searching for the Holy Grail, we are making better telemark bindings. Introducing the New Voile SX telemark binding.

2008-02-29T09:34:00.000-08:00

Based on the successful Switchback platform, the SX telemark binding simplifies the binding platform in order to address durability, weight and performance issues seen with many general-use telemark bindings in the market.

A full-wrap stainless steel toe-plate is permanently riveted to the riser platform, increasing durability and eliminating screws, anti-ice plates, and weight. The combination of the SX full-wrap stainless steel toe-plate and Voile’s time-tested Hardwire heel assembly provides a much needed performance upgrade compared some general-use telemark bindings on the market.

3 sizes available, 2 sizes for men and 1 women’s size. Weight 2 lbs,10oz/1.2kg/pr.

MSRP $159.00

Available Sept. 2008

Learn More...

Split Your Old Board By Mail Order!

2007-12-17T15:56:00.000-08:00

Mountain and Terrain Technologies is offering a mail order service to split your old board and install the Voile Split Kit.

The cost of the service is $130.00 including the shipping back to you. You only need to cover the cost of shipping to Eagle Mountain, Utah.

This service does NOT include the cost of the Voile Split Kit-$160.00, Skins-$150.00, or Crampons-$85.00, but they have these items available for sale at normal retail prices.

Check it out if you have an old board you want to Split!

The owner of Mountain and Terrian Technologies, Dean Whitehead also adds: I use a custom made jig to cut the boards on a table saw.

I also install additional upgrades to splitboard hardware not provided by Voile.

For an additional fee I offer the rotating puck system for your splitboard! We install rotating pucks and the hardware needed so you can ride goofy or regular and also adjust your stance angles just like the factory splits.

Also if they buy the split kit and skins from me, the split service is only $100.

Check out the latest news and reviews for information on M n T Technologies.

Glen Plake a Parrothead?

2007-12-11T13:17:00.000-08:00

He does have the biggest hair in the ski world, but we think he just has an appreciation for a fine performance backcountry ski. Photo by Jarl Berg of Berg's Ski Shop in Eugene, Oregon. Jarl is saving the other custom "Buffett" graphic Voile Insane ski for Mr. Jimmy Buffet's autograph.

Deepest Day, High Avy Danger, All Before Work?

2007-12-03T19:30:00.000-08:00

Last year was a pretty thin year, by Wasatch backcountry skier/rider standards.(Yeah, we're spoiled.) But we got some big storms end of February and beginning of March 2007. Of course the avy danger was consistently high, but the great thing about the Wasatch, there are so many amazing and safe places to backcountry ski/ride on those high danger days. On top of that, if the canyon is open, you can get to these trailheads in 30-40 minutes.(Yeah, we are really spoiled!)

And all this can happen before you have to show up at your day job at 9am. A Dawn Patrol.

With a 5am start on Friday March 2, 2007, my good friend CJ Whittaker, a free lance photographer, and I headed for destination Circle-All Peak in Big Cottonwood Canyon via the Bulter Fork trailhead. We were surprised to see some cars already at the trailhead and even more surprised and.... frankly thankful to see a fresh trail break through 30-40 inches of fresh Wasatch powder. When we caught up to the trail breakers, we were sure to bow to them and thank them for their hard work. Good uphill etiquette.

With a somewhat low slope angle and reasonably spaced aspen trees, Circle-All Peak can be a great place to ski or ride on high avy days. After some snow stability tests, we made a few epic and bottomless runs and were back to work by 9am with fresh attitudes and huge smiles on our faces.

-Dustin Butcher, Voile-USA customer service manager

-See attached images from Google Earth of Circle-All Peak in the Wasatch Mountains outside of Salt Lake City, Utah. In the background, you can see Mount Raymond and Gobblers Knob.

-Thanks to Voile for their contribution to the day, with Insane skis and Switchback tele tour bindings.

-Photo by CJ Whittaker.

Please recycle your old telemark bindings.

2007-11-06T11:49:00.000-08:00

Recycle Your Old Telemark Bindings.
Get 30% Off New Voile Telemark Bindings

We are offering a program where you can send in your old voile or our competiors telemark bindings and and get a 30% off coupon to order a new model binding at our online store.

We have been making telemark bindings for now almost 30 years and we get a lot of calls for spare parts for many out-dated models. While want help our customers, in most cases it is better to get you upgraded to the most current model telemark binding.

We already recycle scrap steel, aluminum and plastic from our current manufacturing, so it is easy for us to include all the old tele bindings sent in.

Learn More...