Vintage OLIN MARK IV COMP IV Snow Skis, Old School Twin Tip, 180cm, Salomon S444

The Vintage OLIN MARK IV COMP IV Snow Skis represent a significant piece of American ski manufacturing history. Measuring 180cm, these pre-owned skis feature the classic twin-tip design that made the Mark IV series a standout in the 1970s skiing scene. Originally produced by OLIN, a brand synonymous with industrial materials science and innovation in ski technology, this model remains a sought-after collectible for enthusiasts and vintage ski collectors alike.

Brand and Model Context

OLIN, founded in 1964 in Middletown, Connecticut, USA, is best known for its Mark Series skis that shaped American skiing throughout the 1960s and 1970s. The Mark IV and Mark IV COMP IV models are among the most collectible OLIN skis, prized for their durability, consistency, and early adoption of the turned-up tail design. This design element is widely regarded as a precursor to modern freestyle and twin-tip skis, influencing mogul and freestyle skiing disciplines. While OLIN did not invent the modern twin-tip ski, the Mark IV family’s design played a crucial role in the evolution of alpine ski technology during the American ski boom.

Condition and Details

This pair of OLIN MARK IV COMP IV skis, serial number C30637, is an unmolested, pre-owned set preserved from typical repurposing such as ski chairs or coat racks. The skis retain their original orange and blue color scheme, emblematic of the era and model. The included Salomon S444 bindings are considered suboptimal and are recommended to be replaced with modern bindings such as the LOOK Pivot 15-18 for optimal performance. The edges show signs of rust and will require tuning, including knocking back the edges to restore proper function. With a fresh set of bindings and edge maintenance, these skis are ready to be ridden or displayed as vintage ski memorabilia.

These skis are currently archived as sold but remain a valuable reference for collectors and enthusiasts interested in the legacy of OLIN skis and the Mark IV series.

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