Save the Snow: Upgrade Your Kit With Sustainable Ski and Snowboard Gear

Skiing and riding season is almost here, and if you’re anything like me, you've already pulled your gear out of storage. With this early winter we're seeing in the west, who knows when the chairlifts will start turning? Now is the perfect time to check over your kit and upgrade those pieces that barely held on through last season. 

The predictions of future snowpack in a warming climate are dire. This year, look to replace that worn-out gear by supporting companies that are making a significant effort to decrease their environmental footprint. From supply chain sustainability to reducing their reliance on fossil fuels, these brands are putting their dollars to work for the environment.

We’ve put together a list of some of the ski and snowboard companies that produce top of the line gear while doing everything they can to keep the snow falling. Check out the list, pray for snow, and have an epic season!

Patagonia

Patagonia is the granddaddy of sustainable clothing manufacturing. From their commitment to auditing all the materials used in their products to building durable and easily repairable gear, environmental conservation is at the core of their business. For the ultimate in low impact, check out their Worn Wear Program. 

Picture Organic Clothing

Picture Organic makes men's and women's technical outdoor clothing with a commitment to wiping out fossil fuels. Everything from source materials to packaging and shipping is evaluated to have the least impact.

Stio

Based in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, Stio is front and center in the battle to save the snow. Check out their HyperDry water repellent down, which is certified to come from a transparent, audited supply chain. 100% of all their down products meet the Responsible Down Standard.

Mervin Manufacturing

For over 30 years, Mervin Manufacturing has focused on a hands-on approach to sustainability. They are committed to a zero hazardous waste production process right here in the United States. Check out their cutting edge, eco-conscious boards from Lib Tech and GNU.

Capita Snowboards

Hand-built in their "first in the world," 100% clean energy snowboard production facility, Capita makes snowboard with 98% locally sourced materials.

Mountainflow EcoWax

The PFC’s in ski and snowboard wax can build up on the snow and cause damage to local flora and fauna. Mountainflow EcoWax makes a line of all-natural base and skin waxes that contain 0% petroleum and no harmful chemicals. 

Salomon

Salomon’s Play Minded campaign seeks to educate outdoor athletes about the impacts of climate change while also moving the company in a sustainable direction. Under the program, they have made the environmental performance of all their products visible to the consumer.

Mons Royale

Mons Royale, makers of technical wool clothing, uses only ZQ certified wool in their products. The wool comes from farms where the sheep are allowed to be themselves in the natural environment. The resulting clothing is highly technical, and damn good looking.

As more ski and snowboard companies focus on environmental sustainability, it’s getting easier to find low impact gear. Keep the snow coming by purchasing from companies that are committed to protecting our winters.

Cover Photo by Sam Watson