The essentials: base layers, skis & snowboards RIDGE MERINO Finally - base layers that don't make you look like Where's Wally! Based in Mammoth Lakes, California, Ridge Merino makes stylish base layers from 100% Woolmark-certified Merino wool, sustainably sourced from sheep raised by certified non-mulesed woolgrowers in Australia. www.ridgemerino.com
NICHE SNOWBOARDS Co-founded by two women, designed in Salt Lake City and crafted in Austria, Niche Surfboards are determined to deliver the best performance boards while also reducing their impact on the planet. Their boards are made from sustainably harvested wood cores, recycled steel and some use hemp instead of carbon for the stringers. www.nichesurfboards.com
GROWN SKIS These beautiful skis have an environmental footprint that's up to 40% lower than conventional skis. They are the first to use 100% volcanic basalt rock fibre belts instead of glass and carbon fibres, use glues based on pine tree resin, have a recycled base and consist of more than 70% sustainably harvested wood. www.grownskis.com
PICTURE ORGANIC CLOTHING Helmets are one of those items that are only 'essential' if you're like me and risk a head injury just by looking at snow, or if you actually know what you're doing and like testing the limits of gravity. If you do need one, the 'Hubber Helmet' is made from 100% recycled and bio-sourced materials. www.picture-organic-clothing.com
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