K2 was established on Vashon Island, Washington in 1961 by the Kirschner brothers. It should come as no surprise that the company hails from Vashon Island, an outpost of free thinking and new ideas in Puget Sound. The company gained prominence when American ski racers Phil and Steve Mahre won World Cups, World Championships, and Olympic medals on the skis.
K2 is now based in Seattle, Washington and produces some of the most popular skis in the world. The men's Apache series and corresponding women's Luv series are the brand's expert level skis and are known for performing well under a variety of conditions with a lively yet predictable feel.
A note that will help many: In the past few years K2 skis have run long compared to other brands. In 2009 K2 fixed this be adding 3cm to the stated length of most of their skis while keeping the actual length the same. So a 2008 Recon in 167cm is the same length as a 2009 Recon in 170cm.