This past summer, SCOTT athlete and pro skier Parkin Costain ventured into the breathtaking Andes of Chile to put the brand-new SEA 116 skis to the ultimate test. With a crew of adventurers, he explored the freeride terrain of Lo Barnechea, a town nestled near the famed resorts of Valle Nevado, El Colorado, and La Parva. It was a trip filled with challenges, incredible scenery, and the final test for the SCOTT SEA 116, a versatile ski that’s as playful as it is precise. 

Exploring Lo Barnechea: Freeride Paradise 

For Parkin and his team, this was their inaugural journey to South America. They chose Lo Barnechea for its proximity to three renowned ski resorts, each offering unique terrain. La Parva, the smallest of the three, stood out with its enticing freeride lines and untamed slopes. But beyond the skiing, the crew was blown away by Chile’s natural beauty. 

“I cannot stress enough how insane the sunsets were every night,” Parkin shared. The fiery hues over the Andes became a nightly ritual, punctuating long days of exploration and riding. 

Chasing Snow in Spring Conditions 

As with any ski trip, conditions were at the mercy of Mother Nature. While the team had hoped for winter powder, they arrived in Santiago to find spring temperatures and dwindling snow. Despite this, spirits remained high. 

“Missed it by that much,” Parkin joked. “A man can dream, he can even check the weather forecasts, but Mother Nature will always be fickle.” 

Thanks to their connections, the team managed to capture a few runs in colder snow at higher elevations, courtesy of a local heli-ski operation. This resilience and adaptability highlighted the SEA 116’s capability to handle varied conditions, from ice to slush and even brown snow. 

Unforgettable Moments in the Andes 

One story stands out from the trip—a testament to the camaraderie and unpredictability of freeride skiing. On their final day, Parkin and the crew aimed to capture a creative shot featuring a dramatic rock gap. With their FPV drone chasing him down the runout, everything seemed to go perfectly until a spray of snow disrupted the drone’s electronics. 

It disappeared into the abyss, carrying with it irreplaceable footage and an unreleased GoPro camera. Racing against the clock before their flight home, the crew had no time to retrieve it. Weeks later, a glimmer of hope emerged in the form of a DM from a local. The drone had been found! In exchange for the GoPro, the team secured their long-lost footage, preserving memories of the adventure forever. 

The SEA 116: Built for Every Condition 

This trip marked the final test for the SEA 116 before its release. Parkin’s hands-on feedback during its development phase was integral to its evolution. The ski performed admirably across every condition the Andes threw at it. 

“If you’re looking for a universal ski to add to the quiver, I’d highly suggest checking out the SEA 116 and SEA 108,” Parkin said. “It has just enough rigidity underfoot and is playful on the tip and tail. The team at SCOTT has put a lot of energy into making this the perfect all-around ski.” 

Whether navigating icy patches, spring slush, or the occasional powder stash, the SEA 116 showcased its adaptability and precision. 

Looking Ahead 

As Parkin reflects on his South American adventure, he’s already looking forward to returning. For him and the team, this was more than just a ski trip; it was a reminder of the joy and unpredictability of exploring new terrain. 

The SEA 116, now ready to hit the slopes this season, is poised to become a favorite for skiers seeking versatility and performance in any condition. 

Stay tuned for more adventures and keep an eye out for the SEA 116 carving up slopes near you. 

Experience the SEA Skis for Yourself! 

Discover the ski designed for every condition and terrain. Check out the SEA 116 and SEA 108 at your nearest SCOTT Sports retailer or at scott-sports.com 

Photos by Jonathan Finch