Springtime in Mammoth is hard to beat. The blue skies and pearly white Sierra Nevada Mountains can make any crazy human sane again. The California dream shines brightly as the pink rails of Mammoth Unbound are a beacon to freeskiers everywhere. Luckily, the Variance crew was on site with a camera in hand, while cruising the masterpiece meticulously maintained by the fine folks at Mammoth Unbound. With a few days to spare before Level 1’s SuperUnkown 21, Aaron Durlester, Lucas Blanch, Luca Harrington and Campbell Burrows took to the south and main parks at Mammoth, leaving no feature unturned ..read more

Imagery: Courtesy Copper Mountain Today, May 8, Copper Mountain welcomes 11 inches of fresh powder and 14 inches collectively from the May storm. The extended season has been supreme, with bountiful snowfall and sunshine throughout the month. Who would’ve thought May could bring such a hefty dumping?? Copper extended its season for two additional weeks, with its new closing date set for Sunday, May 12, allowing more time to enjoy the near-perfect conditions. A May 12 closing ties Copper for the latest the resort has ever stayed open. The only other May 12 closure occurred 30 years ..read more

Images: Courtesy Mt. Bachelor Mt. Bachelor’s most anticipated event, RendezVan, took place May 2-5, bringing skiers and riders from near and far together to celebrate van life, spring shredding and live music. This year marked the resort’s fourth RendezVan since 2018, cementing a unique tradition centered around Mt. Bachelor’s vibrant mountain culture. Set against the backdrop of the stunning Three Sisters Wilderness, festivalgoers were treated to an array of free live performances, including headliners The Floozies, Saint Motel and a local favorite, Company Grand, with opening acts by Robert ..read more

If skiing had a list of saviors, prophets, kings or queens, Kim Boberg would rank high. While his talent on the sticks is second to none, one could argue that his beloved place in the community is not due to his skiing but to his devotion to the culture and all it encompasses. Yes, projects like “Butterfly” are famous amongst the ski world, but Kimbo Sessions is his namesake, no pun intended. Held (almost) each year in Kläppen, Sweden, Kimbo Sessions brings together a group of the finest skiers from around the globe. It’s a true coming together for some of the most impressive and dedicated in ..read more

Featured Image: Courtesy Stio “Let’s go, baby,” says Kennison in response to a question about joining the Stio family. Stio, the Jackson, Wyoming, activewear brand known for its promotion of getting outside and connecting with nature, is lucky to snag such a big name in skiing and snowboarding. Kennison’s latest film by Level 1 production company, “Full Circle,” which was recently released on Netflix, has garnered a ton of attention from folks in and out of the industry. Why? Because Kennison’s story transcends mountain sports—it’s one of overcoming hardship without losing positivity. Kenniso ..read more

The Vishnu crew has been delivering for season upon season now, putting out some of the finest edits around. While this isn’t a feature-length film, “Keeping Up” packs as much heat as anyone could ask. Following Wyatt Dorman, Raf Diaz and Milo Nicholson around Park City, Utah, we head from Woodward to the resort in Park City proper. No rail is safe. This trio makes quick work of the features presented, but don’t be fooled. That doesn’t mean it’s easy. Enjoy the spring skiing and try to keep up. Vishnu just dropped their first-ever all-mountain ski aptly dubbed ‘The Tank.’ This beast is the mos ..read more

Feature Image: Courtesy Vail Resorts While we thaw our way out of this influx of spring storms and dive headfirst into summer sports, it’s crucial to remember the importance of recycling and reusing gear within the outdoor community. Before rushing to purchase brand-new equipment straight off the shelves, why not consider the eco-friendly option of perusing your local summer gear swap for some gently used finds? Not only can you score great deals on bike gear, apparel and outdoor essentials, but you’ll join a community of like-minded enthusiasts who prioritize sustainability. By participating ..read more

Featured Image: Brandon Enouf It was the gift that kept on giving. For six whole days, we had the opportunity to witness one of the greatest events freeskiing has ever known—Level 1 SuperUnknown. The 21st edition of the storied event saw one of the most talented groups of finalists on record. Level 1 founder Josh Berman proudly proclaimed that this year, the Denver-based production company received its highest amount of finalist submissions ever for both male and female riders and that he thought these finalists were some of if not the best he’d ever seen. But no matter how good the skiing is ..read more

Featured Image: Katie Young, Courtesy Keystone Resort If you’ve locked in your 24/25 Ikon or Epic Pass, the perks are already perking up. There’s no need to wait until next winter to start using your investment. Next year’s pass holders have access to various summer happenings, like mountain bike rentals, gondola and lift access, and discounted summer lodging. It ain’t cheap, so you might as well get your money’s worth starting now! We rounded up all the deets on how you can make the most of your season pass starting this spring and summer. 24/25 IKON PASS HOLDERS Ride into summer with the ..read more

Featured Image: Chad Chomlack There’s nothing more refreshing than seeing larger-than-life athletes doing real things and being real people in front of the camera, and “Continuum” sets the stage for that narrative from the very beginning. While it was not intended to be the sole focus of the film, “Continuum” calls attention to not just the cyclical nature of the seasons but of our lives and our habits as consumers.  The featured expedition sets the stage for the relatable but hardcore nature of these female athletes. Not only that, but winter camping to go skiing in the backcountry for d ..read more