GEAR:30

Luke Koppa and Jonathan Ellsworth discuss some of the new skis they’ve been testing this springRELATED LINKS:Blister Rec Shop: Powder HoundGet Yourself Covered: BLISTER+TOPICS & TIMES:Intro & Updates (2:36)Blizzard Anomaly 88 (9:50)K2 Omen Team (20:00)Blizzard Anomaly 94 (23:32)Armada Declivity X 102 & Declivity X 108 (33:58)Moment Commander 102 (40:46)Line Pandora 99 & Pandora 106 (49:14)Black Crows Corvus (57:38)Rossignol Sender Free 118 (1:03:57)Crashes & Close Calls (1:10:07)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister CinematicCRAFTEDBikes & Big IdeasBlister PodcastOff The Couch Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After years in the backcountry and a near-death experience, IFMGA Guide, Jeff Banks, wanted to build a tool that could simplify and improve the decision-making of any backcountry user. The result is Aspect Avy. Kara Williard sat down with Jeff to discuss how this app compares to and complements other backcountry tools; key features such as Adaptive Slop Shading and “No Go Zones”; how it accounts for human factors; different types of risk; the general state of tech in the backcountry; and more.RELATED LINKS:Download Aspect Avy for FREEBlister Rec Shop: Boulder OrthoticsGet Covered: BLISTER+VIDEOS: BLISTER YouTube ChannelInvest in Aspect AvyTOPICS & TIMES:Jeff’s Background: IFMGA & Nordic (3:10)Jeff’s Near-Death Experience (6:15)Intro to Aspect Avy (9:18)Adaptive Slope Shading (10:31)No-Go Zones, Coaching Tool, & Runout Zones (13:21)Human Factors (19:17)Adaptive Tools (23:20)Who’s It For? (30:32)Tech & Backcountry Skiing (46:26)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister CinematicCRAFTEDBikes & Big IdeasBlister PodcastOff The Couch Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What’s in and what’s out in ski design? And how have U.S. ski companies been doing over the past few years? At Blister Summit 2024, we discussed this and much more with Moment Skis CEO, Luke Jacobson, and Icelantic Skis founder, Ben Anderson. We cover notable trends; why skis cost what they do; the challenges of manufacturing skis in the U.S.; whether a core-shot-proof ski is possible, and more.And, if you’d like to check out the video of this conversation, then head over to the BLISTER YouTube channel to watch this, plus other panel sessions from all of our Blister Summits, plus new brand lineup videos, etc.RELATED LINKS:Blister Rec Shop: Lone Pine Gear ExchangeGet Covered: BLISTER+VIDEOS: BLISTER YouTube ChannelTOPICS & TIMES:Introductions 3:21Manufacturing Challenges 8:08Ski Costs vs. Ski Prices 14:10Exciting New Ski Materials? 26:01Audience Questions 35:50CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister CinematicCRAFTEDBikes & Big IdeasBlister PodcastOff The Couch Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Jonathan, Luke, Kara, Kristin, and JBobb were testing a bunch of skis, boots, snowboards, and apparel in Taos Ski Valley. But it was more than just a review trip, since it was also the first time back at TSV for several of us who previously spent many seasons there — which meant there were a lot of feelings.So in this conversation, we discuss a number of the carving-oriented and narrower all-mountain skis we were on this week; Luke’s food choices; the heated debate between Taos’ Chair 2 (West Basin) vs Chair 12 (Kachina Peak); and more. RELATED LINKS:Blister Recommended Shop: Powder Hound AKBLISTER+ Membership: Learn More & Sign UpVIDEOS: Blister YouTube ChannelTOPICS & TIMES:We’re Back! (5:45)The Great Debate: Taos’ Chair 2 vs. Chair 12 (11:27)Luke’s Green-Chile Cheeseburger (25:00)Morning Groomers & Carving Skis (30:53)Afternoon Steeps & All-Mountain Skis (44:31)Crashes & Close Calls: Jonathan’s Latest (1:05:54)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister CinematicCRAFTEDBikes & Big IdeasBlister PodcastOff The Couch Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Luke Koppa and Kara Williard talk with Trygve Sande, one of the founders of Vertical Playground (VPG), which is our Blister Recommended Shop in Oppdal, Norway, to get a read on the past, present, and future of backcountry gear. We discuss current trends; all-time pivotal pieces of gear; the most durable products; the easiest ones to use; gear that helps break down the barriers to entry; skiing in Norway; and last but not least, Trygve’s involvement and collaboration with Hoji and 4FRNT’s new concept ski. RELATED LINKS:Vertical Playground GEAR:30 Ep.169: Vertical Playground, Oppdal Norway Get Covered: BLISTER+VIDEOS: Blister YouTube Channel TOPICS & TIMESVPG background (2:19)Current Backcountry Trends (5:20)All-Time Pivotal Gear (11:01)Frame & Tech Bindings (13:09)Most Durable Products? (20:46)Top Products: Ease of Use (24:31)Hoji Lock (25:31)Dynafit Ridge Binding (31:11)Performance-to-Weight Ratio (28:06)Best Gear for Norway (31:26)Backcountry Accessories (33:38)Backpacks (35:20)Backcountry Gear Demos (36:54)Hoji & the Raven & 4FRNT Concept Ski (41:00)Summer at VPG (47:19)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister CinematicCRAFTEDBikes & Big IdeasBlister PodcastOff The Couch Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today we’re discussing current helmet technology, head injuries, and best practices for skiers & snowboarders with Blister reviewer (and physician assistant), Sascha Anastas; Sr. Director of R&D at Giro, Steven Kennedy; the CMO of MIPS, Frederik Kjellberg; and pro skier, Drew Petersen.RELATED LINKS:Blister Recommended Shop: Boone Mtn SportsGet Covered: BLISTER+VIDEOS: Blister YouTube ChannelTOPICS & TIMES:MIPS Backstory & Purpose (4:28)Skull Fractures & Concussions (9:10)Helmet R&D & Various Testing Standards (14:50)Athlete Perspective on Helmet Testing (19:56)Advice for Buying Helmets (25:02)Different Versions of MIPS (28:06)Drew’s Take: Choosing Helmets (30:36)Replacing Helmets: When & Why? (32:00)Audience: Mental Side of Accidents (35:02)Audience: Concussions & Long-Term Effects (42:57)Audience: Helmet Replacement Cont. (44:28)Closing Thoughts (46:20)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister CinematicCRAFTEDBikes & Big IdeasBlister PodcastOff The Couch Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jeremy Jones was in town last week, so in addition to getting out on snow together, Jonathan and he sat down in Blister HQ in Elevation Hotel to talk about gear reviews; the biggest gear mistakes riders make; full-camber vs. no-camber boards; soft vs. hard boots (including Shane McConkey’s tinkering on that front); and more.RELATED LINKS:Blister Recommended Shop: Willi’sGet Covered: BLISTER+Jeremy & Xavier Nidecker on Re-Up TechTOPICS & TIMES:Riding CBMR, CBMR Freeride Comp (3:35)Jonathan Boarding, Jeremy Getting on Skis (6:00)Gear Reviews / Gear Reviewing (11:56)Materials, Weight, & Stiffness (25:15)Full-Camber vs No-Camber Boards (33:17)Boards for Beginners (35:47)Soft vs Hard Boots (42:06)Product Design at Jones (53:34)ReUptech (55:38)Blister Cinematic (58:35)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister CinematicCRAFTEDBikes & Big IdeasBlister PodcastOff The Couch Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How should you think about ski boot flex patterns, and which one is “right” for you? For the latest installment of our “Very Deep Dive on Bootfitting” series, Kara Williard talks with bootfitter and Pulse Boot Lab’s Revelstoke store manager, Bryn Vickers, to cover the complex and often misunderstood aspects of ski boot flex. We discuss how the ankle joint and an individual’s biomechanics are the most important pieces of the puzzle; what exactly boot “flex” even means when it comes to on-snow performance; the many variables that determine what flex pattern might work best for you; and we also talk about Pulse’s latest tech, including their new foam-injected aftermarket liner.RELATED LINKS:Blister Recommended Shop: Pulse Boot LabsBLISTER+ Membership: Sign Up  A Very Deep Dive on Bootfitting Series3D Printing & Bootfitting w/ Pulse Boot Lab (Ep.234)Stance Balancing with Pulse Boot Labs (Ep.217)TOPICS & TIMESAnkle Joint = #1 Priority (3:33)How the Body Moves (6.17)Custom Insoles (12:49)What is Boot Flex? (17:50)Walk Mode Vs. Fixed Cuff (22:49)Flex Ratings (26:27)Forward Lean & Calf Size (33:39)Height, Weight, & Strength (39:17)Options for Stiffening (42:26)Options for Softening (45:59)Final Thoughts on Boot Flex (48:49)Pulse’s Foam Injected Liner & Other Tech (52:51)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister CinematicCRAFTEDBikes & Big IdeasBlister PodcastOff The Couch Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Luke Koppa sits down with Kristin Sinnott, Jonathan Ellsworth, Kara Williard, and Justin Bobb to do a bit of a recap on our 2024 Blister Summit, which took place in Mt. Crested Butte last week. We go over a few of the MANY highlights of the event, and then dive into a bunch of the standout products they were each able to try at the Summit.RELATED LINKS:Blister Recommended Shop: SturtevantsBlister Summit 2024: A Brief Recap of an Epic EventBLISTER+ Membership: Sign Up  TOPICS & TIMES:Catching Up (2:24)Blister Awards (13:58)Rossignol Revenant, Never Summer Cougar, & Weston Hatchet (15:35)Dynastar M-Pro 98 W (19:55)Rossignol Sender Soul 102 (22:42)Icelantic Maidens (27:23)Salomon S/Pro Race 110 (28:56)Bishop Telemark, Uphillers, & Raide Packs (30:38)Salomon Stance 96 (36:43)ON3P Woodsman 100 (38:30)Salomon QST X (39:28)ZAG Slap 92 & Slap 112 (42:09)CARV & Hoji (44:22)Moment Commander 92 (46:12)Blister Summit 2025 (53:49)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister CinematicCRAFTEDBikes & Big IdeasBlister PodcastOff The Couch Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Kara Williard sits down with Katy Jackson, co-founder and CEO of our Blister Recommended Shop, Lone Pine Gear Exchange, to understand the logistics of running a robust consignment program; how to shop for and sell used gear; the importance of consignment for both accessibility and sustainability in outdoor recreation; gear repair; planting trees; how living off-grid led her and her husband to where they are today; and a whole lot more. RELATED LINKS:Lone Pine Gear Exchange | 15% off your first order with code: BLISTER15 BLISTER+: Get Yourself CoveredBLISTER Recommended ShopsTOPICS & TIMESOff-Grid Living (2:30)Second Tracks (6:31)Starting Lone Pine (7:53) Consignment Program (11:32)Best Practices for Buying Used (16:32) Gear Repair Program (25:38)Sustainability & Community (35:59)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister CinematicCRAFTEDBikes & Big IdeasBlister PodcastOff The Couch Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dr. Sean Humbert is back to provide an update on our Blister Labs’ ski flex project, and to explain how and why ski boots are becoming an integral part of this project, too.RELATED LINKS:Boone Mountain SportsOpenSnowLast Chance! Blister Summit 2024BLISTER+: Get Yourself CoveredTOPICS & TIMES:Scope of the Project (6:26)Dynamic Modeling (7:05)Machine Learning (17:50)Creating a Profile? (23:28)The Holy Grail Project & Ski Boots (28:18)Blister Summit / Blister Labs (41:09)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister CinematicCRAFTEDBikes & Big IdeasBlister PodcastOff The Couch Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Luke Koppa, Dylan Wood, and Eric Freson join Kara Williard to talk about the epic storm cycle we recently had in Crested Butte, and the powder-ski testing that followed. We also discuss several of the new all-mountain skis we’ve been on lately; Dylan’s new favorite ski poles; a standout touring boot; 3D-printed custom goggles; and a bunch of Crashes & Close Calls. RELATED LINKS:Episode Sponsor: Spokane Alpine HausJoin Us at Blister Summit 2024Become a Member & Get Yourself Covered: BLISTER+TOPICS & TIMES:Pow Skis (4:19)All-Mountain Skis (20:39)Other Gear We’ve Been Testing (41:23)Crashes & Close Calls (55:37)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister CinematicCRAFTEDBikes & Big IdeasBlister PodcastOff The Couch Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Luke Koppa sits down with Kyle Siegel, the founder of Raide, which is one of the newest players in the backcountry softgoods category. They launched with a lightweight 40-liter backpack that immediately made a splash when it was released, so we sat down with Kyle to learn about how — and why — he started Raide.We cover the problems he’s looking to solve; how he went about doing so with the Raide LF 40 pack; we do a deep dive on some of the latest high-end, ultralight pack materials; the challenges and benefits of running a new, small business in the category; what we should expect from Raide in the future, and more.RELATED LINKS:Episode Sponsor: Pulse Boot Lab & Ski Co.Join Us at Blister Summit 2024Become a Member & Get Yourself Covered: BLISTER+Blister First Look: Raide LF 40L PackTOPICS & TIMES:Kyle’s Background (3:28)The Problems Raide is Attempting to Solve (6:19)Prototyping Process & Must-Have Features (12:15)Deep Dive: Materials (17:00)Raide LF 40L: Overview (28:07)Raide’s Future Products (35:57)Running Lean & Nimble as a Small Business (43:32)Raide’s Athlete Team (46:17)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister CinematicCRAFTEDBikes & Big IdeasBlister PodcastOff The Couch Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Are you an “expert” skier or rider? Advanced skier? Intermediate? What’s the difference between “advanced” and “expert”? Today, we’re following up on our GEAR:30 conversation with Luke Koppa (episode 277) to revisit these questions — having received a lot of great responses from all of you. Joining Jonathan today to rethink these things is Jordan Jones, co-founder and president of Powder7, to provide a retailer’s perspective on these things. See what you think, and let us know whether you think we ought to change or tweak our 6 ability level categories for Community Reviews.RELATED LINKS:OpenSnow.com/BlisterTaos Ski Valley Ski WeekJoin Us! Blister Summit 2024Get Yourself Covered: BLISTER+Ep. 277: Jonathan & Luke on Skier Ability LevelsTOPICS & TIMES:Meeting Up in Girdwood, AK (8:15)Technique (12:37)Is Our Bar Too High for “Expert”?(16:46)Our “Advanced” Category (25:53)Advanced & Expert Descriptions (28:56)Assigning Ability Levels to Skis (32:04)Skier Weight vs Skier Power (39:13)Skier Personality / Style (44:29)Accounting for Different Conditions / Locations (48:10)Monoskiing (51:27)Final Thought: The Best Skiers on the Mtn (59:08)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister CinematicCRAFTEDBikes & Big IdeasBlister PodcastOff The Couch Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, we’re following up last week’s episode, where we looked back at 2023’s “Gear Of The Year,” and we’re now looking forward to 2024. Jonathan Ellsworth, Kara Williard, Justin Bobb, and Luke Koppa attempt to predict what’s “in” and what’s “out,” what trends will be revived, what categories will see the most change, and spin off into several other tangents.RELATED LINKS:Episode Sponsor: OpenSnow.com/BlisterGet Yourself Covered: BLISTER+Join Us! Blister Summit 2024Ep. 278: Gear of the Year, 2023TOPICS & TIMES:2023 Gear Trends (2:26)What’s “In” for 2024? (8:05)What’s “Out” for 2024? (15:27)What Trends are Coming Back? (25:55)Categories to See the Most Change? (31:11)Crashes & Close Calls (38:24)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister CinematicCRAFTEDBikes & Big IdeasBlister PodcastOff The Couch Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jonathan Ellsworth sits down with Luke Koppa, Kara Williard, and Justin Bobb to reflect on some of the standout products and notable trends that defined the past year in ski and snowboard gear. So, what trend does Luke think is “the gear equivalent of superhero movies?” How many BOA dials has JBobb broken in a decade as a self-described BOA convert? What’s Kara’s pick for the “Not New But Still Amazing Award?” Take a listen and find out.RELATED LINKS:Episode Sponsor: Taos Ski ValleyBlister Recommended Shop: Zimmermann’s Skis, Boards & More Become a BLISTER+ MemberTOPICS & TIMES:Biggest Developments & TrendsSki Boots (4:21)Snowboard Boots & Boards (17:56)Snowboard Bindings (22:03)Ski Bindings (26:06)Standout Products (31:54)Best Values (51:36)Not New But Still Amazing Award (1:00:33)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister CinematicCRAFTEDBikes & Big IdeasBlister PodcastOff The Couch Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We just launched our new Blister Labs project, Blister Community Reviews, so Luke Koppa and Jonathan Ellsworth discuss where it is today; how it will evolve; and some big questions like, how much info is too much or too little?; how to best define the difference between an intermediate, advanced, and expert skier; rating scale debates; and more.RELATED LINKS:Get Yourself Covered: BLISTER+Join Us! Blister Summit 2024Video: Blister Labs Summit Panel SessionGEAR:30 #257: Previous Labs Convo TOPICS & TIMES:Solstice & World Snowboard Day (1:54)Blister Community Reviews (7:47)Defining Skier Ability Levels (20:03)Rating Scales (32:31)Should Our Reviewers Contribute? (37:55)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister CinematicCRAFTEDBikes & Big IdeasBlister PodcastOff The Couch Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Shane McConkey’s college roommate is back on GEAR:30, and Jonathan talks to Greg Klein (president of Willi’s Ski & Snowboard Shops) about all the stuff in the episode title, plus the $10,000 bet made at our Blister Summit that it looks like he’s won?RELATED LINKS:Get Yourself Covered: BLISTER+Join Us! Blister Summit 2024TOPICS & TIMES:Shop Pizza (4:02)Greg @ the White House / Sustainability (8:17)Ski Boots, Walk Modes & Winning Bets (22:04)The Future: Cables, BOAs, or Buckles? (33:57)90-Flex Boots (41:46)Ski-Boot Pricing (46:32)Egg Beaters & Eyes-Closed Skiing (57:57)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister CinematicCRAFTEDBikes & Big IdeasBlister PodcastOff The Couch Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jonathan and Folsom Custom Ski’s Mike McCabe discuss the skinniest ski in the Folsom lineup, the Spar 78; Folsom’s new huge pow ski, the Rotor; and then they discuss a new custom touring-ski project for Jonathan, and dive deep into the various layup & core combinations one would use to hit certain weight targets. Our fellow gear dorks, you’re going to dig this one.RELATED LINKS:Episode Sponsor: Powder7.comJoin Us! Blister Summit 2024Get Yourself Covered: BLISTER+TOPICS & TIMES:What’s going on at Folsom? (5:30)Folsom Spar 78 (8:08)New: Folsom Rotor (11:58)Backstory: Folsom ‘Giver’ & ‘Primary’ (14:02)Bag Balm x Blister x Folsom (20:55)JE’s Custom Touring Ski Project (34:30)Which Bindings? (38:36)Which Boots? (42:21)Ski Length (52:11)Weight (54:44)The Hammer (1:08:44)Folsom’s Configurations (1:14:53)Mount Point (1:16:44)Camber Profile (1:19:03)Mike’s ‘Crashes & Close Calls’ Story (1:30:26)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister CinematicCRAFTEDBikes & Big IdeasBlister PodcastOff The Couch Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Luke Koppa, Kara Williard, and Jonathan Ellsworth discuss getting back on snow, the best holiday of the year, ski boots, frontside skis, mountain biking in Nepal, engagement taco parties, and new apparel.RELATED LINKS:Join Us! Blister Summit 2024Get Yourself Covered: BLISTER+TOPICS & TIMES:Blister Summit Update (0:00)Back on Snow (3:41)Ski Boots (12:16)Mtn Biking in Nepal (23:49)Frontside Skis (32:02)Apparel (50:01)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister CinematicCRAFTEDBikes & Big IdeasBlister PodcastOff The Couch Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What are some of the biggest mistakes skiers make when buying gear? And what do regular, recreational skiers & snowboarders need to know about ski tuning and waxing? Jonathan discusses these questions and more with Logan and Riley Boone of Boone Mountain Sports. They also talk about how they all met (it was in Austria), and Jonathan reveals the upcoming ‘Blister 90-Flex Challenge’.TOPICS & TIMES:Blister Summit Update (1:50)How / Where We All Met (8:09)Intros: Logan, Riley, & Boone Mountain Sports (13:44)Kombucha, Music Festivals, & Youth Programs (18:33)Biggest Ski Buying Mistakes? (28:42)The Blister ‘90-Flex Challenge’ (35:11)Ski Tuning (51:00)Waxing (1:08:35)Crashes & Close Calls (1:13:50)The Boone Mountain Sports Logo (1:23:30)RELATED LINKSJoin Us! Blister Summit 2024Get Yourself Covered: BLISTER+CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister CinematicBlister PodcastCRAFTEDBikes & Big IdeasOff The Couch Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jonathan talks with Ted Ligety (2x Olympic Gold Medalist & 5x World Cup champion) about his approach to gear; the specific gear he’s using today; how to best deal with flat light and low-vis conditions; his take on the current state of skiing and ski racing; and more.TOPICS & TIMES:How Do You Prepare & Train for Ski Season? (3:55)Ski Boots (11:25)CARV (18:59)Your Ski Quiver These Days? (35:07)Tuning & Waxing (37:32)Goggle Lenses for Flat Light (46:16)Current State of Skiing & Ski Racing? (57:34)Crashes & Close Calls (1:08:57)RELATED LINKSEpisode Sponsor: Boot MechanicsGet Yourself Covered: BLISTER+Blister Podcast ep. 14: Ted LigetyCHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:NEW: Blister CinematicBlister PodcastCRAFTEDBikes & Big IdeasOff The Couch Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jonathan was at the Parlor Custom Skis factory in East Boston to check out the factory and talk with Parlor owner & manager, Mark Wallace, about building custom skis in Boston; assessing skiers (and skiers assessing themselves); custom vs. semi-custom skis; and more.TOPICS & TIMES:What is Parlor? (4:46)Parlor’s Ski Building Classes (7:45)Assessing Skiers & Self Assessments (21:17)Fitting skiers into the right skis (23:27)Bringing Back Old Skis (30:15)Custom vs. Semi-Custom Skis (33:11)Ski Width Controversy (38:13)Best Question I Haven’t Asked You? (58:07)Crashes & Close Calls (1:01:12)Where to Learn More about Parlor (1:09:47)RELATED LINKS:Episode Sponsor: Skiboot RxEpisode Sponsor: Taos Ski ValleyGet Yourself Covered: BLISTER+CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Off The CouchBikes & Big IdeasBlister PodcastCRAFTEDComing soon: Blister Cinematic Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jeremy Jones is back on GEAR:30, and this time, he brought along with him Xavier Nidecker, global brand director of Jones Snowboards, to talk about Jones’ new Re-Up Tech — what it is, how it works, why it matters, and what it could mean for the greater ski & snowboard industry. We also discuss FIS, POW, and climate change, and Jonathan solicits some advice about which board Jeremy and Xavier think he ought to get on as a never-ever.TOPICS & TIMES:Update: Blister Crash Course Video (2:00)Circularity (4:26)Re-Up Tech vs. Virgin Materials (7:28)Shipping & Collecting Dead Snowboards (15:24)Which Parts of the Dead Boards Get Used? (27:56)Small Steps & Big Solutions (38:56)Jones’ Fair Trade Certified Factory (48:22)FIS, POW, & Climate Change (49:50)Which Snowboard Should JE Start On? (1:10:09)Crashes and Close Calls (1:15:10)RELATED LINKS:Episode Sponsor: OpenSnow.com/BlisterGet Yourself Covered: BLISTER+CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Off The CouchBikes & Big IdeasBlister PodcastCRAFTEDComing soon: Blister Cinematic Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A very intriguing — and extremely affordable — new piece of ski-touring gear has just been released, and you ought to know about it. So on our latest GEAR:30 episode, Jonathan talks with Giray Dadali, a pro skier, engineer, ski designer, and founder of Daymaker Touring, about their new product, TEKDAPTERS, that allow you to ski tour using a pin-tech toe on the way up, then click into your DIN-certified alpine binding of choice on the way down.Giray and I dive deep into the design, materials, weight, compatibility, and rationale for this new product, and we think you’ll agree that it represents an intriguing new offering in the world of ski-touring gear.TOPICS & TIMES:When was this idea born? (6:17)Giray’s Background (8:59)Who’s It For? (11:52)TEKDAPTERS vs Original Daymaker (17:48)“Field Goal” guide rails (26:52)Universal Compatibility (31:47)Materials & Design (35:18)User-Error-Avoidance Tips (43:48)Locked-Out Pins & Avalanche DangerUsing the Right Tool for the Job (54:42)Crashes & Close Calls (1:02:20)Where & When can you get TEKDAPTERS? (1:12:37)RELATED LINKS:Episode Sponsor: Zimmermans Ski & SnowboardVideo: Ski Binding Designs with Giray, Hoji, & Lars Chickering-AyersGet Yourself Covered: Become a BLISTER+ MemberCHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Off The CouchBikes & Big IdeasBlister PodcastCRAFTED Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jonathan Ellsworth sat down with Kara Williard, Dylan Wood, Justin Bobb, and Luke Koppa to debrief about our 2023-2024 Winter Buyer’s Guide, discuss what changed this year (and more importantly, what has *not* changed), go over some trends, and more. Along the way, we dole out our unofficial “RIP,” “Good Riddance,” and new “Best Glow-Up” awards; talk about what we’re most excited to get on this season; and Jonathan debates whether Luke isn’t even invited to his funeral, or if he’ll be managing the whole thing…TOPICS & TIMES:What’s New, What’s Different, & What’s the Same (5:34)Most Notable Trends (14:13)RIP Awards (20:21) Good Riddance Awards (30:20)Our Blister ‘Best Of’ Section (36:12)How to get the Guide (56:25)Snowboarding Talk w/ Jbobb (59:55)Crashes & Close Calls (1:18:25)RELATED LINKS:Blister Recommended shop: blacksheepsportsOrder our 23/24 Winter Buyer’s GuideBecome a BLISTER+ MemberCHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Off The CouchBikes & Big IdeasBlister PodcastCRAFTED Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Kara Williard sat down with Jake “Fasa” Nelson from the Moment Factory Store to clear up some of the most common bootfitting myths and misconceptions, including the idea that ski boots have to be cold and uncomfortable; why adding forward lean to a boot might not help someone get more forward over their skis; why *everyone* (not just experts) will benefit from a well-fit ski boot and custom insoles; how picking the “right” boot can’t fix all your problems, and more. We also discuss why these myths are so prevalent in the first place; provide tips on how to shop for a ski boot this season; realistic expectations you should have for a ski boot, and much more.TOPICS & TIMES Where do these misconceptions come from? (3:10)Myth 1 - Boots = Uncomfortable (6:16)Myth 2 - Boots = Cold (10:04)Myth 3 - Body Position & Forward Lean (15:44)Myth 4 - Boot Stiffness Debunked (28:31)Myth 5 - Skier Type (34:49)Myth 6 - Custom Insoles (41:23)Expectations vs. Reality (59:32)The Boot, Binding, & Ski equation (1:07:50)How to Shop for Boots (1:16:21)Crashes & Close Calls (1:24:27)RELATED LINKS:Ep.221: A Very Deep Dive on Bootfitting, Pt. 4: Big-Mountain Freeride Bootfitting with FasaBlister Recommended Shop: Moment Factory Store Blister Recommended Shops Become a BLISTER+ MemberBlister Summit 2024CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Off The CouchBikes & Big IdeasBlister PodcastCRAFTED Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In our latest edition of GEAR THERAPY, Luke and Jonathan talk with Blister Member, Giovanni Saccarola (an Italian living in Switzerland), about his ski quiver, ski boots, and ski boot liner options.TOPICS & TIMES:Giovanni: most interesting man in the world? (8:25)Blizzard Zero G 95 (17:03)Height / Weight (23:09)Bindings & Pairing Down His Quiver (26:09)ATK Free Raiders (28:50)Giovanni’s Current Quiver (32:27)Black Crows Atris (36:184th ski (38:10)Tecnica Cochise 130 & Liners (47:20)Crashes and Close Calls (1:00:28)RELATED LINKS:Episode Sponsor: Bag BalmEpisode Sponsor: OpenSnowBecome a BLISTER+ MemberBlister Summit 2024CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Off The CouchBikes & Big IdeasBlister PodcastCRAFTED Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Norrøna has been making gear since 1929, and this family-owned company aims to make the best outdoor recreation products on the market. But that’s easier said than done, so Jonathan Ellsworth talks with Jørgen Jørgensen — the 4th-generation owner & CEO of Norrøna — about the brand’s approach to product design & testing, and the origins, evolution, and future of the brand.TOPICS & TIMES:Origins & Evolution of Norrøna (4:32)Customer Satisfaction (31:39)Product Testing (34:03)Quality Assurance & Durability (41:14)Making the "Best Products" (47:46)Blister Labs & Current Standards (51:38)PFAS (56:20)Some of Jørgen’s Favorite Norrøna Products (1:01:35)RELATED LINKS:Episode Sponsor: OpenSnowBecome a BLISTER+ MemberBlister Summit 2024CDC Factsheet on PFASCHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Off The CouchBikes & Big IdeasBlister PodcastCRAFTED Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“PFAS” or “Per- and Polyfluorinated Substances” are a hot topic today, especially in the outdoor apparel world, where they’ve been used for decades, most notably in the “DWR” or Durable Water Repellant finishes that are applied to a lot of clothes these days. But that’s going to be coming to an end in the near future. So, to learn more about why this matters and what it means for manufacturers and consumers alike, Luke Koppa sat down with Alex Lauver, the Senior Director of Materials, Innovation, and Sustainability at Outdoor Research. They cover why PFAS have been so prevalent in technical apparel for so long; how their use in clothing is just the tip of the iceberg; their downsides and why we’re seeing this recent push to completely eliminate them; the challenges presented by coming up with PFAS-free alternatives; how this shift affects the entire apparel supply chain; how Outdoor Research has approached this transition and worked to stay ahead of the curve; and much more.TOPICS & TIMES:Alex’s background (3:41)PFAS vs PFC (8:38)How long these compounds have been in use (10:41)Prevalence in the outdoor industry (17:21)PFAS alternatives (25:28)Regulatory aspects and timeline (34:08)What’s next? (50:15)Crashes and Close Calls (55:42)RELATED LINKS:Episode Sponsor: OpenSnowBecome a BLISTER+ MemberBlister Summit 2024PFAS FAQs from Outdoor ResearchCDC Factsheet on PFASCHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Off The CouchBikes & Big IdeasBlister PodcastCRAFTEDHappy Hour (for Blister Members) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When it comes to gear, we’ve all been there: loads of questions, crippling confusion, severe analysis paralysis. Sometimes you don’t even know where to start. You need some help! In our 3rd session of GEAR THERAPY, Blister Member, Arika Poulin Weller, joins Blister reviewers Kara Williard and Kristin Sinnott. Arika is a longtime skier with roots in Nordic skiing (Fun Fact: she and Kristin raced together in college) and a mother who wants to spend more time skiing after moving back to CO, but she had no idea where to start. So in this episode, we break down some basics, define some ski-gear terms and what it all means on snow, and provide some recommendations for a 1-ski and 1-boot resort quiver.TOPICS & TIMESHow Arika & Kristin met (3:20)Arika’s background (7:26)Her Current Setup (9:25)Why Boots are #1 (16:29)Tech Terms (29:12)Ski Recommendations (42:34)Binding Recommendations (56:30)Boot Recommendations (1:00:38)Where to go from here? (1:03:20)Crashes & Close Calls (1:05:39)RELATED LINKS:Blister Summit RegistrationBecome a BLISTER+ MemberBlister Recommended Shops23/24 Blister Winter Buyer’s GuideCHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Off The CouchBikes & Big IdeasBlister PodcastCRAFTEDHappy Hour (for Blister Members) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

At Blister Summit 2023, we brought together ski boot designers, Tom Pietrowski (K2), Christoph Lentz (Fischer), Riccardo Bonaiti (Dalbello), Ross Herr (Dynafit), and pro skier / designer / obsessive tinkerer, Hoji, to discuss ski boot design in general; the hype and skepticism around BOA (are boot buckles dying??); the role that weight plays in the development of boots of all types; the balancing act of designing a walk mechanism; the challenges presented by the boot-binding interface, and more.TOPICS & TIMES Intros & Latest Products (4:07)Weight & Downhill Performance (12:38)The Rise of BOA (24:28)Walk Mechanisms (33:13)Boot-Binding Interface Challenges (44:01)Evaluating Fit (54:16)Women-Specific Boots (59:29)Crashes & Close Calls (1:06:56)RELATED LINKS:Episode Sponsor: Bag BalmBlister Summit 2024 Registration Blister YouTubeBecome a BLISTER+ Member23/24 Blister Winter Buyer’s GuideCHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Off The CouchBikes & Big IdeasBlister PodcastCRAFTEDHappy Hour (for Blister Members) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apparel testing, show pigs, & the underrated importance of ballpoint pens. Luke Koppa and Jonathan Ellsworth discuss these things with our Blister Labs colleague, Melanie Peddle, who is a faculty member in the partnership program between Western Colorado University & the University of Colorado Boulder. We also discuss some takeaways from the compression, abrasion, and UV tests we’ve been running; steps toward developing new standards; and more.TOPICS & TIMES:Mel’s Background (1:47)Apparel Testing: Quick Overview (10:55)What We’ve Been Doing & What’s Next (15:07)Notable Takeaways (24:35)Real-World Applicability (40:31)Crashes & Close Calls (43:11)RELATED LINKS:Blister Labs: Learn MoreVIDEO: Blister Labs Summit PanelBecome a BLISTER+ MemberCHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Off The CouchBikes & Big IdeasBlister PodcastCRAFTEDHappy Hour (for Blister Members) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Have you ever dreamt about skiing in New Zealand? Well, in this episode, Kara Williard talks with local Kiwi experts, John Knight and Darren Grimmett, from our Blister Recommended Shop, Outside Sports, to give us the rundown on what skiing in this Southern Hemisphere destination entails, and how to make the most of it.We discuss the best gear for the conditions and terrain in NZ; the difference between ski fields and club fields; backcountry skiing and heliskiing; plus all the other things you can enjoy while in New Zealand, including eating the best meat pies, biking, hiking, and being around some of the genuinely nicest people. TOPICS & TIMESJohn and Darren’s backgrounds (5:02)Outside Sports’ humble beginnings (11:15)Gear Trends in NZ (18:18)Skis for Variable Conditions (24:50)Getting to New Zealand & Ski Fields vs. Club Fields (27:04)Backcountry Skiing & Heliskiing (33:18)Getting Around (40:04)More than just skiing (42:51)Best Gear for NZ (47:22)Heavier BC Gear for a Reason (48:51)Ski Season Itch (54:26)Crashes & Close Calls (56:56)RELATED LINKS:Blister Recommended Shop: Outside SportsBlister Recommended ShopsBecome a BLISTER+ Member23/24 Blister Winter Buyer’s Guide Pre-OrderCHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Off The CouchBikes & Big IdeasBlister PodcastCRAFTEDHappy Hour (for Blister Members) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When it comes to gear, we’ve all been there: loads of questions, crippling confusion, severe analysis paralysis. You need some help! So in our 2nd episode of GEAR THERAPY, Blister Member & Spokane-based ski patroller, Kam Smith, poses his most-pressing gear questions to Jonathan and Luke, and gets their best recommendations (and a bit of a tongue-lashing from Jonathan). Enjoy!TOPICS & TIMES:Meet Kam, Ski Patroller (4:10)Kam’s Ski Boot Situation (9:45)Our Suggestions (15:27)Spokane Alpine Haus (21:51)Kam’s Ski Quiver (27:12)Our Recommendations (34:03)Metal vs Non-Metal Skis (40:03)Folsom (47:04)Session Wrap Up (52:27)Kam’s Crashes & Close Calls Story (56:18)RELATED LINKS:See our Blister Recommended ShopsBecome a BLISTER+ Member23/24 Blister Winter Buyer’s Guide Pre-OrderCHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Off The CouchBikes & Big IdeasBlister PodcastCRAFTEDHappy Hour (for Blister Members) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oliver Steffen founded Genuine Guide Gear (G3) many years ago because of his passion for innovation and problem-solving, and while this has largely been aimed at creating solutions related to gear and backcountry touring, most recently, he turned his focus to the environmental impacts and life cycles of G3’s skis and snowboards. This year, G3 is launching their recyclable “R3” ski and snowboard program, guaranteeing that products manufactured going forward can be broken down, reused, and recycled. So Kara Williard talked to Oliver about this process, what it entails, and how it can be more widely applied to the outdoor industry. Plus, we get the details on the 23/24 R3 ski and snowboard lineup, and more.TOPICS & TIMES:Founding G3 (3:43)Innovation over the years (7:12)“Right to Repair” and R3 Introduction (10:47)The Life Cycle Problem (27:11)Ride, Reuse, Recycle (32:51)R3 lineup (45:06)Scaling & Working Together (50:56)Crashes and Close Calls (58:13)What We’re Celebrating (1:00:20)RELATED LINKS:Exclusive Offer: Get 50% off OpenSnow w/ code blister23Become a BLISTER+ Member23/24 Blister Winter Buyer’s Guide Pre-OrderCHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Off The CouchBikes & Big IdeasBlister PodcastCRAFTEDHappy Hour (for Blister Members) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Too often, the consumer reviews you find online are incomplete and unhelpful. But through our Blister Labs partnership with Western Colorado University & the University of Colorado Boulder, we’re working to change that. With Blister Community Reviews, we are creating a better method of gathering, synthesizing, and displaying user feedback from people of all shapes, sizes, ability levels, and locations, to produce even more helpful consumer product information for outdoor enthusiasts all around the world.Luke Koppa and Jonathan Ellsworth discuss the origins of our Blister Community Reviews initiative; the takeaways from our beta testing at Blister Summit 2023; our goals for the future; and more.TOPICS & TIMES:Blister Community Reviews: Background & Origins (4:17)Takeaways from Beta Testing (16:58)Going Forward: Goals & Timeline (22:10)Crashes & Close Calls (29:34)What We’re Celebrating (40:20)RELATED LINKS:Blister Labs: Learn MoreVIDEO: Blister Labs Summit PanelBecome a Blister MemberCHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Off The CouchBikes & Big IdeasBlister PodcastCRAFTEDHappy Hour (for Blister Members) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When it comes to gear, we’ve all been there: loads of questions, crippling confusion, severe analysis paralysis. You need some help! So in this inaugural edition of GEAR THERAPY, Jason Verlinde — a self-described “average / normal / non-industry / non-pro Blister member” — poses some gear questions and conundrums to Jonathan Ellsworth & Luke Koppa, and “gets to confess my ignorance and state my real-world situation, with the experts weighing in, straightening me out, and steering me toward some products I might love.” Enjoy!TOPICS & TIMES:Gear Therapy Explained (3:36)Why It’s Hard Out There for a GearHead (10:05)Meet the Patient: Jason Verlinde (12:10)Jason’s Ski Quiver (14:33)Putting On Cold Ski Boots & Liners (20:35)The Blister Approach to Reviews (33:00)Line Blade & Steep Terrain (44:10)"Loose and Surfy"? (52:55)Crashes & Close Calls (1:00:08)What We're Celebrating (1:07:28)RELATED LINKS:Episode Sponsor: OpenSnow.comBecome a BLISTER+ Member23/24 Blister Winter Buyer’s Guide Pre-OrderCRAFTED: Jason Verlinde on Guitar MakingCHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Off The CouchBikes & Big IdeasBlister PodcastCRAFTEDHappy Hour (for Blister Members) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Two years ago, a group of pro skiers, photographers, filmmakers, and friends launched 1000 Skis. They did this because they wanted to “move the culture forward,” make skis they weren’t seeing on the market, and because they just flat-out love skiing. Magnus Graner and Pär “Peyben” Hägglund were two of those founding members, and Luke Koppa sat down with them for a wide-ranging conversation that covers everything from the origins of the brand to their prototyping process; how they’ve prioritized — and acted on — sustainability from the start; the challenges and rewards of the unique ways in which they’ve been filming The Bunch’s upcoming film; why they like what’s currently happening in freesking; what they hope to see from the industry in the future, and more. We also touch on why Peyben had to break into a French villa to record this conversation…As is illustrated by their wide-ranging personal careers in the snowsports world, Magnus and Peyben are thinking a LOT about all sorts of this world’s different elements and aspects, so it was really fun to get their thoughts on a whole bunch of them.TOPICS & TIMES:Intros & 1000 Skis Background (2:35)Design Philosophy & Brand Values (6:15)Making Skis for Yourselves & for Consumers (10:23)Prototyping Process (14:14)Life Cycle Analysis & Sustainability Efforts (22:28)Why the All-Red Graphics? (34:27)The 1000 Skis Lineup (42:23)Mount Points (47:50)The Bunch & Media Recs (53:30)Current State & Future of Freesking (1:05:26)Crashes & Close Calls (1:12:18)What We’re Celebrating (1:14:55)RELATED LINKS:Become a BLISTER+ Member23/24 Blister Winter Buyer’s Guide Pre-OrderCHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Off The CouchBikes & Big IdeasBlister PodcastCRAFTEDHappy Hour (for Blister Members) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For this week’s edition of GEAR:30, Scarpa North America’s CEO, Kim Miller, is back to talk about Scarpa’s Green Manifesto and their pathway to B Corp certification. Kim and Kara Williard discuss what measuring and accounting for progress looks like; the tricky balance of sustainably innovating without compromising performance; the process of recycling products and materials; assessing the life cycle of various products; and some of the gear that best exemplifies Scarpa’s commitment to these values (starting with a tele boot back in 2009!).TOPICS & TIMESKim’s Career & Values (4:03)Scarpa’s Business Culture (12:14)Transparency & Accountability (13:18)Measurements & Metrics (16:59)Life Cycle Analysis of Gear (33:52)Service vs. Profit (38:23)Working Together as an Industry (44:21)Gear & the Green Manifesto (45:33)A Sense of Urgency (51:40)All Pillars of Sustainability (55:49)Scarpa as a B Corp (1:02:25)Leading with Passion (1:13:16)Kim’s Crashes & Close Calls Story (1:18:16)What We’re Celebrating (1:21:33)RELATED LINKS:GEAR:30 Ep.79: SCARPA CEO, Kim Miller, Part 1GEAR:30 Ep. 84: SCARPA CEO Kim Miller on the F1 LT & MoreScarpa’s Green Manifesto Become a BLISTER+ Member23/24 Blister Winter Buyer’s Guide Pre-OrderCHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Off The CouchGEAR:30Blister PodcastCRAFTEDHappy Hour (for Blister Members) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today we’re providing some updates and discussing the implications of the initial results of our Blister Labs wheelset testing with Greg Vanderbeek (assistant professor of mechanical engineering at CU Boulder & the Western Colorado University / CU Boulder partnership program here in Gunnison, CO) and Travis Hainsworth (associate director of the  Western-CU Boulder Computer Science Program).TOPICS & TIMES:Project Overview (4:19)Carbon vs Aluminum = Complicated (7:13)Preliminary Data / Fancy Squishing Machines (8:42)Lacing Patterns, Impact Loading, & Dynamic Loading (12:12)Marketing Wheelsets (14:43)Challenges (18:58)Next Steps (24:23)Variables (26:38)Learn More (38:32)RELATED LINKS:Video: Blister Labs Wheelset TestingLearn More about Blister LabsOUR OTHER PODCASTSOff The CouchBlister PodcastBikes & Big Ideas CRAFTEDHappy Hour (for Blister Members) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When it comes to gear, how do you balance the specific needs of world-class athletes with those of average skiers and riders?In this conversation from Blister Summit 2023, McKenna Petersen (K2 athlete), Drew Peterson (Salomon athlete), Tyler Curle (Moment athlete & ski builder), and Jed Yeiser (K2 engineer) discuss the product development process; the roles that athletes, designers, and product managers play; the weirdest prototypes they’ve tried; what “evolutionary” and “revolutionary” changes we should expect in the future; which discontinued products they’d like to bring back, and more.TOPICS & TIMES:Intros & Backgrounds (2:48)Balancing Needs of Pro Athletes vs the Public (7:31)Are We in an Evolutionary or Revolutionary Stage of Ski Design? (25:15)Weirdest Prototype You’ve Tried? (34:17)How Have Your Responsibilities Evolved? (42:59)Changing Popular Products (47:13)What Product Would You Bring Back? (52:46)RELATED LINKS:Become a BLISTER+ MemberBlister Summit 2024 RegistrationBlister YouTube ChannelCHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Off The CouchBikes & Big IdeasBlister PodcastCRAFTEDHappy Hour (for Blister Members) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Odds are that just about every piece of clothing you own has been applied with some sort of surface treatment, and those (typically petroleum-based) treatments contribute to a significant portion of the apparel industry’s already massive carbon footprint. With their recent collaboration, Beyond Surface Technologies and WNDR Alpine are changing that.So Luke Koppa got the whole story from BST’s CEO, Matthias Foessel, and WNDR Alpine’s Matt Sterbenz, including the details of WNDR Alpine’s Phase Series apparel collection; how BST’s “miDori bioWick” treatment actually works; how it differs from existing plant-seed-based treatments; why it’s important to take a holistic approach when developing alternative processes and treatments, and more.TOPICS & TIMES:Matthias’ Background (2:53)Fabric Surface Treatments: Background (5:31)Surface Treatments: Environmental Impact (11:15)WNDR Alpine, Beyond Surface Technologies, & Checkerspot (14:42)What does miDori bioWick do? (18:52)WNDR Alpine Phase Series (25:15)Algal Oils vs Plant Seed Oils (29:05)What’s Next? (36:12)Holistic Approach to Surface Treatments (40:59)What We’re Celebrating & Crashes & Close Calls (46:26)RELATED LINKS:Become a BLISTER+ Member23/24 Blister Winter Buyer’s Guide Pre-OrderCHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Off The CouchGEAR:30Blister PodcastCRAFTEDHappy Hour (for Blister Members) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For decades, Kästle has been making high-end skis for everything from racing to Nordic and skimo. But what sparked their recent launch into the ski boot category? It’s far from a simple process, so Kara Williard talked with Alessandro Speranzoni, Kästle’s global ski boot product engineer, and Alex Pritzlaff, their U.S. product manager, to discuss the origins of the project; the design details of their boots, including their mysterious “Secret Mix” plastic composition; the 23/24 Kästle boot lineup; some new projects they have in the works, and more.TOPICS & TIMES:Alessandro & Alex’s Background (3:22)Kästle’s heritage (6:49)The “Ski Boot Challenge” (10:02)Prototyping & Design (13:41)Key Blend / “Secret Mix” Plastics (21:04)Fit & Liners (31:44)Stance & Boot Boards (37:34)“K Release” Buckles (40:08)23/24 Lineup (41:53)Women-Specific Boot & Ski Project (52:25)Crashes & Close Calls (1:05:32)What We’re Celebrating (1:07:15)RELATED LINKS:BLISTER+ Membership23/24 Blister Winter Buyer’s GuideBlister Summit RegistrationCHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Off The CouchGEAR:30Blister PodcastCRAFTEDHappy Hour (for Blister Members) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tyrolia’s Protector bindings with “Full Heel Release” is something that every skier ought to know about. Tyrolia calls it “the safest binding we have ever made,” and exactly how it works and how it’s supposed to reduce knee injuries is the topic of this conversation with Andrew Couperthwait, VP of Winter Sports for HEAD / Tyrolia.TOPICS & TIMES:Overview of Protector Bindings (4:10)How Traditional Alpine Bindings Release (5:51)Protector Technology (8:19)Backwards Twisting Falls (10:57)Two Distinct Movements (16:12)Why 7mm? (20:22)Retention (25:24)Knee Bindings vs. Protector Bindings (32:17)ISO Norms & Boot Soles (36:07)Look Pivot vs Protector Bindings (40:44)Priorities: Release or Retention? (46:49)Development of Protector Technology (49:22)Product Evolution (52:24)Where to Find Protector Bindings (58:56)Crashes & Close Calls (1:00:59)What We're Celebrating (1:12:37)RELATED LINKS:BLISTER+ Membership23/24 Blister Winter Buyer’s GuideBlister Summit RegistrationVideo: Blister Summit Bindings Panel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ferreol is a relatively new company that designs and builds skis in Quebec, and they are working hard to push beyond conventional ski materials and construction. They created their own “Innovation Lab” to not only test skis but also develop new materials — and they’re not keeping it to themselves. Instead, they’re collaborating with other brands in order to move things forward at a greater scale.So Luke Koppa sat down with Ferreol co-founder, Jonathan Audet, to discuss all of that, including the development of their own alternative to titanal alloy; fully replacing fiberglass with natural flax fibers; their 23/24 ski lineup, and more.TOPICS & TIMES:Origins of Ferreol (3:38)Blindspots in the Market (7:00)Replacing Fiberglass w/ Flax (8:45)Life Cycle Analysis (11:24)Ferreol’s 23/24 Lineup: (19:18)Surfer 112 (19:18)Pioneer 104 (23:19)Explo 96 (28:26)ZigZag 92 (30:43)Ferreol Innovation Lab: Background (34:01)Developing an Alternative to Titanal (36:49)Ski Design App (50:13)Ferreol Skis: Who Should Get Them? (51:45)What We’re Celebrating / Crashes & Close Calls (59:37)RELATED LINKS:BLISTER+ Membership23/24 Blister Winter Buyer’s GuideBlister Summit Registration Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ok, you know the drill. Which ski company is most similar to which bike company? What’s the latest incendiary thing that will come out of Dylan Wood’s mouth? This final installment of our 4th edition of Bikes vs Skis is definitely another fun one.TOPICS & TIMES:Yeti (5:53)Black Crows vs Revel (9:36)Line Skis (12:10)Propain Bikes vs. Line Skis (18:54)Season Skis & Snowboards (20:08)DPS (22:11)Ibis (28:07)Commencal (35:22)Kids Gear (40:11)Elan (41:51)Icelantic (43:50)Evil (49:45)4FRNT (52:03)RMU (54:00)Rocky Mountain Bikes (59:10)Norco (1:01:20)Scott (1:04:49)Orbea (1:06:51)Heritage Lab Skis (1:07:33)Crashes & Close Calls (1:15:15)What We're Celebrating (1:19:41)RELATED LINKS:Blister Summit RegistrationBLISTER+ MembershipThis Week’s Gear GiveawayBikes vs Skis, 4th Edition (2023): Part 1Bikes vs Skis, 4th Edition (2023): Part 2Bikes vs Skis, 3rd Edition (2021): Part 1Bikes vs Skis, 3rd Edition (2021): Part 2Bikes vs Skis, 2nd Edition (2020): Part 1Bikes vs Skis, 2nd Edition (2020): Part 2Bikes vs Skis, 1st Edition (2018): Part 1Bikes vs Skis, 1st Edition (2018): Part 2OUR OTHER PODCASTSOff The CouchGEAR:30Blister PodcastCRAFTEDHappy Hour (for Blister Members) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

At Blister Summit 2023, we brought together Hoji (Dynafit), Lars Chickering-Ayers (CAST Touring), and Giray Dadali (Daymaker Touring) for an extremely interesting and important discussion on the past, present, and future of ski bindings. We get their thoughts on “acceptable use” for certain bindings; the “Age of Confusion” surrounding different binding designs; being “handcuffed by standards” and thinking about the binding / boot / ski interface as a whole; what we should (or should hope to) expect from bindings in the future, and much, much more.TOPICS & TIMES:Intros & Backgrounds (5:56)“Acceptable Use” for Certain Bindings (12:49)“Age of Confusion” re: Designs & Standards (21:58)Boot / Binding Interface Challenges & Future (34:22)Release & Retention: Alpine vs. Touring Bindings (43:40)“Ideal Systems” for Bindings, Boots, & Skis? (1:00:25)Advice re: Wear, Tear, & Icing (1:09:07)What We’re Celebrating (1:17:22)RELATED LINKS Episode Sponsors:Compeed New Image BrewingTown of Mount Crested ButteCrested Butte Mountain Resort Our Blister Recommended ShopsBlister Summit 2024 RegistrationBLISTER+ MembershipBLISTER+ Real World TestimonialsVIDEOS: Blister Summit Panel Sessions & Brand LineupsCHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:CRAFTEDBlister PodcastBikes & Big IdeasOff the CouchHappy Hour Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Which bike company and which ski company is currently holding the ‘Cool Kids Belt’? Which brand do other companies secretly wish they could trade places with? We debate these questions and more in our latest edition of Bikes vs. Skis. Check it out, and let us know your current answers to these questions.TOPICS & TIMES:Best Bang for The Buck: Bike (7:22)Best Bang for The Buck: Skis (10:39)Most Dialed & Complete Lineup? (14:51)Who Holds the ‘Cool Kids’ Belt? (22:52)Specific Bike the Cool Kids are On? (28:35)Most Coveted Bikes & Skis (31:11)Flying Under The Radar? (41:32)Brand that Other Co’s Would Switch Places With (47:51)Most Overhyped? (55:40)Who Has the Most Brand Loyalty? (1:01:04)Who Would You Buy Stock in Today? (1:05:04)Crashes and Close Calls (1:19:15)What We’re Celebrating (1:22:31)RELATED LINKS Episode Sponsor: Gear WestBlister Summit 2024 RegistrationBLISTER+ MembershipBLISTER+ Real World TestimonialsVIDEOS: Blister Summit Panel Sessions & Brand LineupsSee all of our Blister Recommended ShopsBikes vs Skis, 3rd Edition (2021): Part 1Bikes vs Skis, 3rd Edition (2021): Part 2Bikes vs Skis, 2nd Edition (2020): Part 1Bikes vs Skis, 2nd Edition (2020): Part 2Bikes vs Skis, 1st Edition (2018): Part 1Bikes vs Skis, 1st Edition (2018): Part 2CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:CRAFTEDBlister PodcastBikes & Big IdeasOff the CouchHappy Hour Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you spend any time — inbounds or in the backcountry — skiing or riding in avalanche terrain or near tree wells, then you need to listen to this episode. Because we’re talking about a new system designed to increase your chances of survival if buried in an avalanche or tree well: the Safeback SBX. Our guest is Tor Berge, the CEO of the Norwegian company, Safeback, and Tor and I have a wide ranging conversation about avy gear in general, while also diving deep into the development process of their SBX system and exactly how it works. There’s lots of good food for thought in this one.TOPICS & TIMES:What sparked the idea? (2:49)Buying More Time while Buried (6:40)Defining the Problem: Trauma & Asphyxia (9:52)Activating the System (15:41)Integration: Backpacks, Vests, & Airbags (17:33)Difficulty of Development (28:55)Which snow type is best for O2 Circulation? (34:45)JE’s Experience in Argentina (38:17)Surprising Findings in Development? (41:31)Certification Process (43:38)Tree Wells (49:19)Price (55:16)Crashes & Close Calls (57:19)What We’re Celebrating (1:02:54)RELATED LINKS Episode. Sponsor: Gear WestBlister Summit 2024 RegistrationBLISTER+ MembershipBLISTER+ Real World TestimonialsVIDEOS: Blister Summit Panel Sessions & Brand LineupsSee all of our Blister Recommended ShopsCHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:CRAFTEDBlister PodcastBikes & Big IdeasOff the CouchHappy Hour Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.