The original carve-weird, slash-happy ski, the Line Sakana returns rebuilt for freestyle abuse. A paulownia and maple core, swallowtail shape, and Carbon Flax Tape reinforcement combine for a ski that carves like a knife and slashes like a snowboard, now with the durability to handle rails, jibs, and switch landings.

Why we like it:

The new generation Sakana keeps the original's swallowtail soul but adds Thick-Cut Sidewalls, Bio-Resin, and Thin Tips for genuine freestyle durability. Same surfy carving feel; way more abuse tolerance.

Who it's for:

Advanced and expert skiers who want a unique carving experience and aren't afraid of an unusual shape. Particularly suited to skiers who like to mix carving with creative slashes and switch riding.

Highlights:

The Sakana has always been a unique ski; this generation makes it more durable without losing the personality that made the original a cult favorite. The paulownia and maple core keeps the ski light enough to be quick on edge but stiff enough to handle higher speeds. Carbon Flax Tape adds reinforcement without the harsh feel of pure carbon, which is part of what gives the Sakana its smooth on-edge character. The new generation adds Thick-Cut Sidewalls for rail durability, Bio-Resin for sustainability and bonding, and Thin Tips to lighten swing weight at the ends. The big shape feature is the swallowtail; by removing surface area in the tail, the ski releases out of carves quickly and feels shorter on firm snow than its dimensions suggest. The 10-4-0 rocker profile is unique to this ski, with significant tip rocker but no tail rocker at all, which combines with the swallowtail to deliver the carve-weird personality. With a 15-meter radius at the 174cm length and a 105mm waist, the Sakana skis like a much narrower carver while still floating well in soft snow.

Things to consider:

The swallowtail design is polarizing. Skiers who want a traditional twin tip or a standard freeride shape may find the Sakana too unusual, and the no-tail-rocker design means switch riding takes more deliberate technique than on a true twin tip.

Fit & sizing considerations:

Sizes long thanks to the swallowtail shape. The effective edge is shorter than the overall length, so most skiers will be happy on their usual size, or even drop a length for tighter terrain.