The Atomic Bent Chetler skis have a rich history rooted in innovation, creativity, and collaboration. Designed by professional skier and artist Chris Benchetler, the Bent Chetler series was first introduced in 2008 and has since become iconic in the world of freeride skiing. The skis are known for their exceptional performance in powder conditions, thanks to features like the HRZN Tech that increases surface area for better float and maneuverability, and the lightweight wood core that ensures a playful yet stable ride.
The Skis
Over the years, the Bent Chetler skis have earned numerous awards and praise for their design and performance. The line has expanded over the years to the Bent 120, 110, 100, and 90 (as well as an 85 and rad kids skis) over the years, each catering to different skiing styles and conditions.
The Bent Chetler 120 is the model most celebrated for its performance in deep powder. With a 120mm waist, it’s built for aggressive freeride skiers who seek maximum floatation in soft snow. The ski’s HRZN Tech increases the surface area at the tip and tail, enhancing float and maneuverability, while its lightweight wood core, paired with carbon backbone stringers, ensures a balance of stability and playful performance. This makes the Bent 120 the go-to choice for big mountain lines and backcountry adventures.
The Bent 110 is designed to bridge the gap between the deep powder focus of the 120 and the all-mountain versatility of the narrower models. With a slightly narrower waist of 110mm, it maintains strong performance in powder but adds more versatility, making it suitable for varied conditions. This model is perfect for those who enjoy a mix of backcountry and freeride skiing, offering flexibility without sacrificing the deep snow capability.
The Bent100 stands out as the most versatile in the lineup, with a 100mm waist width that makes it an excellent all-around ski. It’s designed for skiers who want to tackle everything from groomed runs to off-piste adventures. The Bent 100’s balanced performance allows it to handle a wide range of conditions, providing a playful yet stable ride that suits a broad spectrum of skiing environments.
Lastly, the Bent 90, with its 90mm waist, is the narrowest of the series, making it highly maneuverable and quick edge-to-edge. This model is ideal for park skiing, tree runs, and moguls, often referred to as the “Swiss Army knife” of the lineup. It’s perfect for intermediate to expert skiers who want a lightweight, fun ski for a variety of inbounds terrains. The HRZN Tech in the tip and tail ensures that even at this narrower width, the Bent 90 delivers playful handling and responsiveness.
Each model in the Bent Chetler series is carefully crafted to match specific skiing styles and conditions, ensuring that skiers can find a perfect fit for their needs.
The Art
A key aspect of the Bent Chetler's success is the unique art that adorns the skis, all of which is created by Chris himself. The artwork is deeply influenced by Chris's love for nature and the outdoors, often featuring elements that reflect the rugged beauty of the mountains. His collaborations with other artists, such as Skye Walker, have also brought a fresh, improvisational style to the designs, much like the jam sessions of the Grateful Dead, a band that has inspired much of his work. This blend of art and functionality has made the Bent Chetler not just a tool for skiing but a canvas for artistic expression.
The skis' design, coupled with Benchetler's dedication to pushing the boundaries of both skiing and art, has solidified the Atomic Bent Chetler as a staple in the skiing community, beloved by both professional athletes and recreational skiers alike.
The Man
Chris is a renowned professional skier and artist, widely recognized for his significant contributions to the skiing world, particularly through his long-standing relationship with Atomic Skis. Born and raised in Mammoth Lakes, California, Benchetler developed a fluid, playful style that has made him a standout in both freestyle and freeride skiing. He excels in backcountry terrain and deep powder, known for his innovative tricks and ability to navigate challenging mountain landscapes.
Benchetler's relationship with Atomic Skis began in the mid-2000s, leading to the creation of the iconic Bent Chetler ski line, which debuted in 2008. As both the designer and namesake, Chris infused his skis with a unique blend of high-performance technology and artistic expression. The Bent Chetler skis quickly became legendary for their exceptional performance in powder and their striking, nature-inspired artwork, all of which Chris personally designs. His collaboration with Atomic has been pivotal in pushing the boundaries of ski design, making the Bent Chetler one of the most celebrated skis in the industry.
Additionally, Benchetler is an advocate for environmental conservation, aligning his passions for art, skiing, and nature in impactful ways.
