Founded in 1962 on Vashon Island, Washington, K2 is the original American ski brand. From inventing the first fiberglass ski to pioneering women-specific designs in the ’90s, K2 has always been the “cool kid” of the industry. In 2026, the brand operates out of its ARC (Advanced Resource Collective) in Seattle—a prototype laboratory where engineers and pro athletes like Karl Fostvedt and Sean Pettit collaborate to build gear that defies convention. Whether it’s the vibration-killing “Dark Matter” technology or the push for BOA®-integrated boots, K2 remains dedicated to one goal: making sure the most innovative gear on the mountain is also the most fun to ride.
