An undeniable fixture in freeride snowboarding, Curtis Ciszek has graced the pages of magazines, put out parts in iconic snowboard films, helped usher in the next generation, and been snowboarding’s ambassador to Central Oregon for more than 15 years. 90% of the time he’s on a snowboard, Curtis is riding an Alchemist in a 164W. He worked with our team internally to dial in this model, and has continued to be an integral part in the product development and feedback process. So we leaned on the Alchemist as the model to make this happen - it was THE snowboard that Curtis wanted, and we updated only the graphic for Mr. Ciszek. Targeted to please the advanced-to-expert level snowboarder, the Alchemist is packed with functional technology. The Alchemist features two unique technologies from the K2 camp; a SpaceGlass™ tip insert and patented Spectral Braid technology. SpaceGlass™ is a pre-cured fiberglass insert that helps reduce weight, minimize chatter, and increase edge pressure. Spectral Braid allows us to adjust tip-to-tail stiffness independently from the torsional stiffness, creating a stiffer snowboard in the tip and tail to promote edge hold, while keeping it more relaxed between the feet for easy turn initiation. Recess3D technology in the nose removes excess material from the board, adds visual depth to the top sheet and reduces chatter – all without sacrificing strength. A thirty-five-year history, collaborative rider input, and premium technology culminate in delivering the most aggressive and precision-crafted snowboard we’ve ever made. The Alchemist holds its ground as the most premium offering on freeride snowboarding today. When it came to surprising Curtis with a graphic, we tapped into some of the closest people on his rolodex. Veteran pro and former K2 Team rider Bryan Fox took the reigns as the Art Director and leaned on Curtis’ family, filmmaker Jake Price (of Escramble, 9191, Mr. Plant, and more), and legendary pro-Jamie Lynn (Curtis often describes Jamie as the “CEO of Snowboarding”). Scans from years past, a nod to Curtis’ growing up on a sailboat, and some handwritten titles from the “CEO” himself - we couldn’t be more proud to have Curtis’ name written on our most premium snowboard. It's an honor to have your name on a K2 Snowboard, Curtis. Thank you for everything.