For collectors and vintage ski enthusiasts, this pair of original Head YAHOO 'Freestyle' snow skis represents a significant piece of 1970s ski history. Equipped with LOOK Nevada Toe and N17 Heel bindings, these skis offer a rare combination of classic design and functional performance, reflecting Head’s innovative approach to ski construction during this era.
Brand and Model Context
HEAD, founded around 1950 by Howard Head in Baltimore, Maryland, revolutionized ski manufacturing with its metal sandwich construction, which greatly improved torsional rigidity and ski performance. The YAHOO model, produced circa 1974 to 1979, is a compact, soft-flex freestyle ski featuring the same wet-wrap foam core construction used in Head’s racing skis. According to a 1975 SKI Magazine review, the YAHOO (160-80cm) was designed as a quick slalom ski adapted for bump skiing, offering a dead-even flex balance and high torsional stiffness comparable to top slalom racing skis of the time. It was noted as the softest ski in its group, making it suitable for expert skiers seeking a compromise between a hot short ski and a racing model. The YAHOO invites aggressive skiing across various conditions, appealing to ambitious intermediates, mogul skiers, powder enthusiasts, and light racers alike.
Condition and Details
This pair of Head YAHOO 'Freestyle' skis is pre-owned and remains in very skiable condition, though use is recommended at the buyer’s own risk. The skis are fitted with original LOOK Nevada Toe and N17 Heel bindings, which are vintage components that may require expert adjustment as modern ski shops typically do not service these bindings. The bindings are known for their robust design and were popular in the 1970s for freestyle and competition skiing. Collectors and users should note that while these skis can be skied, proper fitting and binding adjustment knowledge is essential for safety. These skis exemplify the metal sandwich construction and innovative design that made HEAD a leader in ski technology and racing performance.
Browse our full HEAD collection for more vintage models and detailed brand history.
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