From road racing heritage to alpine performance.
When winter rolls in and the rear-wheel-drive Porsche 911s are tucked away in garages, the spirit of Stuttgart doesn’t go into hibernation. Porsche has once again teamed up with ski manufacturer Head to deliver a sleek new collaboration that takes inspiration from the 911 Targa, bringing a taste of the brand’s racing DNA to the slopes. This limited-edition collection translates Porsche’s signature performance ethos from asphalt to snow, blending automotive heritage with alpine engineering.
The Targa, one of the most distinctive models in the 911 lineup, has always been a car for drivers who wanted something different. Its signature roll bar, introduced in the 1960s, created the world’s first “safety cabriolet.” Rather than attempting to replicate the car’s mechanical DNA, Head and Porsche have drawn inspiration from its silhouette and materials. The skis feature subtle nods to the Targa bar in their shape and metallic accents positioned behind the bindings, offering a clean, understated homage rather than a literal interpretation.
The collection introduces two high-performance skis tailored to different riders and snow conditions.
The Porsche 7 Series is designed for those who live for speed on meticulously groomed runs. With a 70-millimeter center width, the skis are narrow, agile, and purpose-built for Giant Slalom-inspired carving. They promise quick edge-to-edge transitions and a sporty, precise feel that echoes Porsche’s approach to cornering on the track.
For skiers who prefer more versatility, the Porsche 8 Series broadens its footprint to 88 millimeters underfoot, offering stability across variable terrain. This model is geared toward all-mountain adventures, where conditions can shift from powder to packed snow within a single descent. The wider design lends confidence and adaptability, ensuring that performance isn’t compromised when the slopes get unpredictable.
Both models benefit from Head’s EMC (Energy Management Circuit) technology. This advanced system channels kinetic energy through a resistor and Graphene carbon layer, generating electricity that reduces negative vibrations. The result? Greater stability, smoother rides, and sharper edge control—a kind of electronic suspension system for skis, ensuring performance stays consistent no matter how demanding the descent.
Bindings, Poles, and Accessories
No Porsche collaboration would be complete without attention to detail. The collection also introduces the Protector PR 13 GW binding, featuring Full Heel Release technology. This safety-focused design provides consistent release in both forward and backward falls, reducing the risk of knee and ligament injuries—a feature that blends high performance with Porsche’s characteristic focus on driver, or in this case skier, protection.
Complementary gear extends beyond the skis themselves. The Porsche Carbon Ski Poles are engineered for lightness and speed, incorporating an aerodynamic grip and robust materials. To keep everything secure, a Porsche Ski Bag with durable construction completes the package.
Helmets and Goggles for Complete Performance
Performance on the slopes doesn’t stop with the skis. Porsche and Head have also collaborated on protective gear that merges cutting-edge safety with the brand’s design language.
The Porsche Radar 5K Photo Mips helmet stands out with its integrated photochromic visor, which automatically adapts to shifting light conditions. It’s a feature that ensures visibility whether skiing in glaring sunshine or overcast skies. Meanwhile, the Porsche Faero EXP Mips helmet employs a hybrid shell design and Mips Integra TX technology to mitigate rotational forces during falls, prioritizing both safety and comfort.
To round out the alpine experience, Porsche has introduced the Porsche Neves Sunscreen ski goggles, which also feature automatic lens tinting. Like the photochromic visor on the Radar helmet, these goggles respond in real time to changing conditions, ensuring clarity and protection across diverse environments.
A Wider Winter Lifestyle
Beyond the collaboration with Head, Porsche has extended its winter ambitions by partnering with Norwegian outdoor specialist Norrøna. Together, they’ve created a freeride-inspired apparel line, including Gore-Tex shell jackets and insulated pants. These pieces are designed for skiers who demand both technical performance and stylish presence—mirroring the dual nature of Porsche itself.
From the Road to the Mountain
Porsche’s expansion into the alpine lifestyle is more than a marketing gimmick. For the brand, it’s about capturing the essence of performance and translating it into every environment where speed and precision matter. The 911 Targa-inspired skis, with their advanced technology and refined aesthetic, embody the same philosophy that has guided Porsche cars for decades: blending innovation, safety, and design into a package that excites both the eye and the adrenaline.
