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Luke Koppa, Kristin Sinnott, and Jonathan Ellsworth discuss what they've been getting up to lately, and the gear they've been using to do so. Luke recaps his first trip to Palisades Tahoe, being there during Level 1's mind-blowing SuperUnknown event, finally experiencing the iconic Wildflour Bakery, and some of the skis that stood out throughout the week. Kristin covers her recent trip down to the tropics, and Jonathan goes over some of the touring skis, boots, and bindings he's been liking. We also dive into ski socks, the particular socks each of us used most this season, some new midlayers we've all been testing, and more.RELATED LINKS:Get Yourself Covered: BLISTER+TOPICS & TIMES:Luke's Trip Report (3:57)Kristin's Trip Report (11:22)Jonathan's Trip Report (12:58)Volkl Revolt 101 vs. Fischer Ranger 102 FR (14:52)Salomon QST Echo 106 (18:11)Salomon MTN 96 & MTN Pure Binding (23:01)ON3P Jeffrey & Mango Skis (28:49)Atomic Hawx Ultra XTD 130 BOA (33:09)Our Favorite Ski Socks This Year (36:19)Patagonia Nano-Air Ultralight & Freeride (47:28)Kristin's Promise to Jonathan (1:04:36)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister CinematicCRAFTEDBikes & Big IdeasBlister Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Mali Noyes just pulled off a mind-blowing feat in the ski world: completing the Chuting Gallery in 47 days. That's 93 chutes (she actually did more than that) around the Wasatch in 47 days, with over 200,000 feet of vert climbed, while navigating tricky conditions, complex terrain, incredible physical demands, and mental and emotional fatigue. And she pulled it all off in a time that seems almost unfathomable. So how did she do it? And what led her to take it on? Jonathan Ellsworth talks with Mali about all of it, including some of the best advice she received from Greg Hill, Cody Townsend, Janelle Smiley, and Sam Smoothy.RELATED LINKS:Episode Sponsor: Skratch LabsGet Yourself Covered: BLISTER+Mali's YouTube ChannelTOPICS & TIMES:Skratch Labs: JE's favorite product (1:14)New BLISTER+ Members (2:13)History of The Chuting Gallery (3:47)What Were Your Goals? (7:59)When Did You First Have this Idea? (9:52)When Did You Start? (11:26)Your Fitness Heading into This? (13:17)17 Chutes (actually, 18) in 1 Day (24:09)Biggest / Hardest Day? (28:44)Navigating Avalanche Risk (32:09)Earliest Wakeup? (39:52)Success of the Project (46:24)Injuries? (53:21)Your Gear (55:11)What are You Most Proud Of? (1:00:37)The Upcoming Film Series: Rapid Fire (1:02:01)Where to Find Mali's Videos (1:06:07)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister CinematicCRAFTED Bikes & Big IdeasGEAR:30 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
What new thoughts and ideas emerge when you bring together in conversation makers of hybrid ski bindings and AT bindings and snowboard bindings and splitboard bindings? Well you're about to find out, because at Blister Summit 2025, Jonathan Ellsworth led a conversation along these lines with Will Ritter of Spark R&D; Royal White, from Burton; Andy Merriman, from ATK Bindings; and Cobey Nash, from the very new company, AlpenFlow Design. Enjoy, this is a great one.RELATED LINKS:Get Yourself Covered: BLISTER+TOPICS & TIMES:Exploring the Evolution of Bindings (3:11)Customer Feedback in Product Development (5:47)Design Principles of New Companies (08:50)The Importance of User Experience (12:13)Evolution of ATK Bindings (15:00)The Future of Snowboard Bindings (18:02)Challenges in Binding Production (21:02)User Errors / Misuse of Bindings (23:58)Understanding Binding Mechanics & Maintenance (34:03)The Importance of Familiarity with Gear (37:10)The Shift towards Lightweight Ski Gear (41:18)Ethical Considerations in Product Development (46:54)Bindings Compatibility (50:00)The Cost of Backcountry Bindings Explained (54:03)The Future of Binding Standards in Skiing (57:15)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister CinematicCRAFTEDBikes & Big IdeasBlister Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Andrew Jones didn't set out to make wine. Instead, he spent decades planting vines for other people — some of the biggest names in California (e.g., Beckstoffer). But along the way, Andrew started stockpiling stories — and grapes — and what began as a side project turned into Field Recordings, a brand known for bending rules and bottling attitude.The brand has since been featured in Wine Enthusiast, on Vinepair, and in the New York Times, growing into one of the most talked-about labels in the country. In this episode, Andrew talks with Eli Brown and Jonathan Ellsworth about nursery hustle, breaking the rules, and why wine should be fun, not fussy. We also talk about boxed wine, baseball card philosophy, and Andrew fires off some of the sharpest wine one-liners we've ever heard.RELATED LINKS:Blister Craft CollectiveBecome a BLISTER+ MemberField Recordings WineryField Recordings InstagramTOPICS & TIMES:Intro to California Winemaking (2:26)From Football to Farming (4:44)Transition from Nursery to Winemaking (6:22)The Birth of Field Recordings (12:50)Terroir & Storytelling (14:12)Nurseries & Vines (22:21)Economics of Wine Pricing (26:07)Field Recordings: Quality & Accessibility (27:24)Finding Unique Properties for Winemaking (29:44)Making Wine Enjoyable for Everyone (42:12)Understanding Wine Pricing (47:31)Navigating the Wine Aisle: Tips for Beginners (48:11)Quality Control, Ingredients, & Additives (51:45)The Natural Wine Movement (58:27)Future Trends? (58:32)Andrew's Recommendations: New Varietals (1:04:35)“Topped-Up” Wines (1:14:31)SEE OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister CinematicBikes & Big IdeasGEAR:30Blister Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
If you think all goggles are the same, well, think again. At our Blister Summit 2025, Jonathan Ellsworth spoke with Steven Kennedy (Giro), Ted Ligety (Shred Optics), Stefan Stahl (Glade Optics), and Gabriel Lobbi (Provuu) about some different approaches — and solutions — to the problem of seeing well on snow.RELATED LINKS:Get Yourself Covered: BLISTER+TOPICS & TIMES:Introductions (4:15)Different Approaches to the Problem (7:00)Photochromic & VLT (11:34)High-Contrast Lenses (17:08)Lens Shapes (19:53)Goggles & Helmet Fit (24:11)Flat-Light Optimization (28:48)What's the Best Question I Haven't Asked? (32:05)Audience Questions (33:45)Goggle Care (40:58)Materials (42:11)Shield Helmets & Corrective Lenses (50:27)Fogging (53:23)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister CinematicCRAFTEDBikes & Big IdeasBlister Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode, Luke Koppa sits down with Kara Williard, Jonathan Ellsworth, and the strikingly handsome Justin Bobb to talk about the many skis Jonathan and I opted to take out during closing weekend at CBMR; Kara's powder-filled winter trips, and the two skis and single boot she used throughout; and Justin's latest, crazy biking / skinning / snowboarding adventure + some of the boards and boots he's been testing. Finally, we dive into some ski-touring boots discussions, and Jonathan tells us about his surprise visit from Cody Townsend.RELATED LINKS:Get Yourself Covered: BLISTER+ MembershipTOPICS & TIMES:Jonathan & Cody's Surprise Coffee Date (2:49)Colby MunicipalBoundaryLine (6:07)Kara's Trip Report (8:45)Justin's Trip Report (14:43)Salomon QST X (16:23)Luke's Closing-Day Skis (24:02)New Snowboards & Boots (26:32)Jonathan's Closing-Day Skis (35:46)Black Crows Anima Birdie (47:06)Atomic Hawx Ultra 115 XTD (49:25)La Sportiva Sender (53:26)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister CinematicCRAFTEDBikes & Big IdeasBlister Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Blister reviewers Jonathan Ellsworth, Luke Koppa, Sascha Anastas, Kristin Sinnott, and the strikingly handsome Justin Bobb discuss a bunch of new ski and snowboard gear they spent time on at last week's Blister Summit. They also talk about several prototypes they got on at the Summit, so if you want to get a little glimpse into the future, you're in luck.RELATED LINKS:Taos Ski ValleyBlister Rec Shop: Willi's Ski & Board ShopGet Covered: BLISTER+TOPICS & TIMES:Chile Rant / Taos Ski Valley (0:59)Deals from Willi's Ski Shop (1:53)Story from a BLISTER+ Member (3:11)Prototypes at the Summit (7:54)Giro Meetups (10:21) Icelantic Pioneer Prototype (10:55) J Skis Hotshot Prototype (15:45) Romp Zorro 100 Prototype (17:06)Salomon Addikt Pro 66 (18:35)Kaestle Marble 84 (21:17)Majesty HNX Ti (23:05)New Salomon QST Skis (25:55)DPS Carbon Pisteworks 79 (30:10)Mito Skis (34:59)ON3P Woodsman 100 (38:02)Liberty Radian 100 (41:09)Snowboard Gear (42:58)J Skis Escalator (46:00)Patagonia Powslayer & Nano-Air Ultralight Freeride (50:08)Apparel (54:37)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister CinematicCRAFTEDBikes & Big IdeasBlister Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
We just wrapped up another outstanding Blister Summit, so Blister Summit Director, Kristin Sinnott, and Jonathan Ellsworth caught up to share a few of their favorite moments, discuss the new things that took place this year (including the DJ set / dance party that broke out in Blister HQ); and talk about the future of the event.RELATED LINKSBLISTER+ Get Yourself Covered: TOPICS & TIMES:Freeride in Europe: Black Sheep Sports (0:59)BLISTER+ Members Update: Chairlift Edition (1:48)Our 5th Blister Summit & Thank Yous (5:46)Kristin's Highlights (6:49)Morning Uphills (12:32)Snow Conditions (14:22)The Athletes (18:20)Carving w/ Ted Ligety & Anne Wangler (21:53)A Few Panel Session Highlights (25:44)The Snowboard Side of the Summit (30:47)Other New Stuff This Year? (34:57)Summit Karaoke Party (40:12)After the Summit (45:37)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister CinematicCRAFTED Bikes & Big IdeasGEAR:30 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Jonathan Ellsworth's preferences for red wines over white wines are well established. But in this conversation and wine tasting, we're going to see if Eli can change Jonathan's mind.This past weekend, Jonathan and Eli opened four bottles of white wines and hit the record button. We tried a few different white varietals and blends that Eli believes may appeal to those staunchly in the red-wine camp to see if we can get Jonathan more interested in what certain white wines have to offer.We've also included links to the four wines we tasted if you'd like to try any of these for yourself.RELATED LINKS:Check out the Blister Craft CollectiveBecome a BLISTER+ MemberThe Wines We're Tasting:Poet's Leap RieslingK Vintners ViognierKiki and Juan Orange WineDaniel-Etienne Defaix ChablisTOPICS & TIMES:The White Wine Experience (3:36)JE''s Bottle of White He Likes? (3:36)What Reds Does JE Like? (7:07)Sweet Wines (11:35)White Burgundy Flavor (13:01)Riesling (14:27)Scotch (17:57)Red vs White: the Simple Differences (21:30)Champagne (26:10)Aeration (38:52)Wine Anchoring Memories (44:32)Wine with or w/o Food (47:48)Orange Wine (51:34)Jonathan's Final Thoughts (1:13:09)Eli's Final Thoughts (1:20:10)SEE OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister CinematicBikes & Big IdeasGEAR:30Blister Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
‘Downhill' stars A-list actors and comedians (Will Ferrel, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Zach Woods); features realistic skiing; takes place entirely at a ski resort; and was released on Valentine's Day. So it must be every skier's favorite Rom-Com, right? Not exactly. Today, you'll hear Amie and Jonathan's strong reactions to one of the most puzzling ski movies we've ever seen.RELATED LINKSGet Yourself Covered: BLISTER+Join Us! Blister Summit 2025TOPICS & TIMES:Why ‘Downhill'? (2:15)The 10 Most Surprising Things (5:15)Original vs the Remake (12:39)Most Rewatchable Scenes (37:22)‘Hottest Take' Awards (46:02)Who Needed BLISTER+ The Most (48:21)Burning Questions (55:38)Who Won The Movie? (59:46)Our Final Grades (1:03:12)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister PodcastBikes & Big IdeasGEAR:30CRAFTED Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Jonathan talks with Nikolai Schirmer about snow monk warriors, obsessive weirdos, and his outstanding new movie, ‘Ski: The Greatest Ski Tour of All Time.' Plus, Cody Townsend (who is in the film) joins in to talk about the evolution of ski culture, filmmaking, and more.RELATED LINKSWatch the Trailer for ‘SKI'Get Yourself Covered: BLISTER+Join Us! Blister Summit 2025TOPICS & TIMES:BLISTER+ Member Competing @ Kings & Queens (0:44)Niko's Film Tour & Travels (3:00)Cody's Involvement (6:17)Ski Movie or Not: Obsessive Weirdos (8:59)Cody Jumps In(17:16)The Evolution of Ski Culture (20:58)Pressures of Production (27:50)Niko's Dream (42:28)Being Present While Filming (51:25)Niko on Cody (59:35)Bad Facial Hair (1:02:41)Where is ‘Ski' Being Shown? (1:03:45)Niko's Favorite Ski Movie? (1:05:10)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister PodcastBikes & Big IdeasGEAR:30CRAFTED Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In today's episode, Luke Koppa sits down with Jonathan Ellsworth and Kara Williard to discuss just a small portion of all the gear we've been testing lately. We cover Head's overhauled collection of Kore skis; Jonathan makes a confession after he took some carving skis off piste; Kara and Luke discuss a bunch of boots they've been testing; Jonathan poses an age-old question about boot flexes; Kara breaks down the setups she's bringing to Japan; and much more.RELATED LINKS:Blister Recommended Shop: SkiBootRXCarv | Use code BLISTER32 for 10% offJoin us @ Blister Summit 2025Become a BLISTER+ MemberTOPICS & TIMES:Carv (1:18)Ski Boot RX (2:10)Summit 2025 (2:58)Ski Boots (7:09)Atomic Hawx Ultra XTD Boa & Salomon Shift Alpha Boa (7:42)Head Kaliber BOA2 (11:45)Armada & Phaenom Boots (13:10)Would Your Rather: Too Soft or Too Stiff? (16:21)Tecnica Zero G Tour Pro W (22:31)4FRNT MSP CC (27:21)Dynastar M-Pro Skis (29:49)New Head Kores (33:10)Head Supershape e-Titan: Carving Ski or Mogul Ski (37:44)Nordica Enforcer 104 (44:40)Kara's Japan Ski Quiver (47:24)Summit Products We're Excited About (51:41)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister CinematicCRAFTEDBikes & Big IdeasBlister Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Jonathan and Amie Engerbretson break down Katie Burrell's ski comedy, Weak Layers. It's a hilarious, not-very-suitable-for-work movie that features many of your favorite skiers and an incredible number of great lines, but please, just remember to “Shhhhhhh!”RELATED LINKSGet Yourself Covered: BLISTER+Join Us! Blister Summit 2025Blister Summit Awards 2024TOPICS & TIMES:Why This Film? (2:43)Most Rewatchable Scenes (16:31)The Lead Actors (21:58)Best Lines (28:17)Cameos (33:20)Hottest Take Award (36:45)Who Needed BLISTER+ the Most?What's Aged The Best? (43:00)What's Aged The Worst? (46:34)‘Gimme More' Award (55:49)‘Gimme Less' AwardWho Won the Movie? (1:00:53)Our Final Grades (1:03:34)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister PodcastBikes & Big IdeasGEAR:30CRAFTED Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In the future, will we still have public lands? Will new economic policies crash the outdoor industry? Will a popular drug actually get more people outside? Will we all soon be ski touring on e-skis (just like more and more people are riding around on e-bikes)? And will the phones in our pockets eventually replace satellite phones and our avy beacons? Jonathan Ellsworth and Paul Forward discuss all of this and more.RELATED LINKS:Get Yourself Covered: BLISTER+Join Us! Blister Summit 2025TOPICS & TIMES:The New Administration & the Outdoors (2:50)Tariffs & the Outdoor Industry (9:44)Public Lands Threatened (18:08)Ozempic & Outdoor Recreation (29:58)e-Touring Skis?? (40:45)The Future of Sat Phones (51:42)The Future of Avy Beacons (55:23) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Jonathan Ellsworth talks about this very big topic with someone who is in quite a unique position to have this conversation with: Eli Brown, a 26-year-old sommelier who is also certified in mixology and distilled spirits, he has been named a Top 100 Bartender in the U.S., and he is currently working on a project involving N/A and low ABV beer and spirits and wine.Jonathan Ellsworth and Eli Brown delve into the changing landscape of alcohol consumption among younger generations; the trends — and hurdles — of non-alcoholic (NA) and low ABV cocktails; the complexities of wine and the practices of the wine industry that may be acting as a deterrence; the implications of the US Surgeon General's recommendations on alcohol consumption; and predictions for future trends in the craft beverage industry.RELATED LINKS:Blister Craft CollectiveTOPICS & TIMES:Eli's Background & Credentials (1:34)The Current State of Alcohol (10:10)US Surgeon General's Warning (40:16)Blister Craft collective (53:49)White Wines (1:01:55)Predictions: Which Spirits Will Rise & Fall? (1:04:48) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Happy New Year! Today, we are sharing the craft categories that most captivated some of our Blister reviewers in 2024, and revealing some of the categories they are most curious about heading into 2025.And over on our Blister Podcast, you'll also get to hear our team talk about the highs, the lows, and the lessons learned in 2024, plus their resolutions for 2025.RELATED LINKSCheck out the Blister Craft CollectiveBecome a BLISTER+ MemberTOPICS & TIMES:Luke Koppa (1:21)Kristin Sinnott (16:08)Simon Stewart (24:57)Kara Husted (39:29)Zach Henderson (49:28)Justin Bobb & Jonathan Ellsworth (58:26)SEE OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister CinematicBikes & Big IdeasGEAR:30Blister Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Mike and Jonathan talk about the state of snowsports films today, and make the case for 5 new films from 2024 that deserve your attention. So check out these films, let us know what you think of them, and let us know what else you think were some of the standout films of 2024.RELATED LINKSGet Yourself Covered: BLISTER+Join Us! Blister Summit 2025Blister Summit Awards 2024TOPICS & TIMES:Jonathan is Skiing, Mike's Watching Ducks (2:29)Circle of Madness, Markus Eder & Viktor de Le Rue (9:41)Grown, Sammy Carlson (22:50)White Gold, Bobby Brown (30:47)How Long Should Ski Movies Be? (33:47)Blue Hour, Amie Engerbretson (39:11)Variable, Jamie & Doug Kennard (44:16)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister CinematicBikes & Big IdeasGEAR:30Blister Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
For our final Blister Podcast of 2024, we are once again sharing with you some of the highs, the lows, and the lessons learned by our team this past year, and talking about some of our reviewers' plans and resolutions for 2025. Then this Wednesday, over on our CRAFTED podcast, you'll also get to hear some of our reviewers reveal the projects and pursuits they took up in 2024, or are looking to explore in 2025.RELATED LINKS:Episode Sponsor: OpenSnow/BuyJoin Us! Blister Summit 2025Get Yourself Covered: BLISTER+TOPICS & TIMES:Luke Koppa (5:05)Kristin Sinnott (13:04)Simon Stewart (22:55)Kara Williard (38:30)Dylan Wood (46:50)Justin Bobb (1:04:52)Zack Henderson (1:16:55)David Golay (1:26:39)Sascha Anastas & Jonathan Ellsworth (1:36:19)Paul Forward (1:57:43)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister CinematicCRAFTED Bikes & Big IdeasGEAR:30 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Luke and Jonathan discuss some of the frontside skis they've recently been on; why choosing the right frontside ski requires as much consideration as any other type of ski; and they give an update on how they've been using the CARV system (so far) to enhance their ski reviews.RELATED LINKS:1: Blister Rec Shop: Alpenglow Sports2: Taos Ski Valley3: Blister Summit 2025: Learn More4: Get Yourself Covered: BLISTER+TOPICS & TIMES:Alpenglow Sports (1:12)Taos (2:26)Blister Summit 2025 (3:10)Frontside Skis (8:20)- Stockli Montero AR- Volkl Peregrine 80 & 82- Nordica Steadfast 85CARV & Our Ski Reviews (21:44)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister CinematicCRAFTEDBikes & Big IdeasBlister Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Jonathan Ellsworth was just in France and Switzerland, so he discusses the trip, losing his passport (and advice on how to get a new passport ASAP), visiting Salomon headquarters in France, skiing in Switzerland, updates for THE HUNDRED, pizza reviews, and more. Check it out, and let us know: have you ever lost your passport?RELATED LINKSBlister Rec. Shop: Valhalla Pure OutfittersBlister Summit 2025Get Yourself Covered: BLISTER+Let Us Know What You Think re: PassportsTOPICS & TIMES:Valhalla Pure Outfitters (1:04)Blister Summit 2025 (1:55)Unexpected Invite to St. Moritz (6:44)Losing My Passport (9:51)Coffee Connections (11:37)New Global Mission: Modernizing the Passport System (13:50)Skiing in Switzerland (17:48)Update for THE HUNDRED (19:54)The Joys of Not Being Able to Watch Football (21:40)Lost Passport Advice & Silver Linings (22:48)Blister Pizza Review: Swiss Pizza (26:09)Normalizing Street Wine (27:16)My New Passport & Return Trip Home (29:30)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister PodcastBikes & Big IdeasGEAR:30CRAFTED Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Amie Engerbretson and Jonathan discuss this Lyndsay Lohan Rom-Com / Christmas / Ski movie, and have a very festive time debating whether it's a Christmas delight or a modern-day dumpster fire. All that, plus you have an opportunity to win a brand new pair of Atomic skis. Check it out!RELATED LINKSGet Yourself Covered: BLISTER+Blister Summit 2025Watch: Falling for ChristmasWatch: Blue HourTOPICS & TIMES:Amie Goes All In On Christmas (3:38)Amies' New Film, Blue Hour (5:20)Ugly Christmas Sweater Contest (9:35)Why This Film?? (13:58)Lindsay Lohan (14:58)Christmas Rom-Com's (20:08)Deciphering the Genre (26:13)Most Rewatchable Scenes (28:21)Todd's Family Christmas (33:14)Best Lines (35:34)What's Aged the Best? (39:21)What's Aged the Worst? (40:38)Hottest Takes (42:10)Who Needed BLISTER+ the Most? (50:43)‘Gimme More' Award (52:10)‘Gimme Less' (54:14)‘Burning Questions' (56:32)Recasting Couch (1:02:10)Interlude: JE's Wine Spill (1:02:51)Remake? (1:05:44)Who Won The Movie? (1:08:10)Final Grades (1:09:14)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister PodcastBikes & Big IdeasGEAR:30CRAFTED Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Today on THE ROCK FIGHT (an outdoor podcast that aims for the head) Colin is joined by the founder and editor in chief of Blister, Jonathan Ellsworth, to talk about making the backcountry a safer and more affordable place for outdoor enthusiasts.Outdoor enthusiasts face significant risks when engaging in their favorite activities, and having the right insurance coverage can be a game changer; which is exactly what Blister+ is looking to be.Blister+, the gear review site's membership program, includes an innovative outdoor injury insurance policy designed to protect adventurers from the financial burden of accidents. The conversation delves into Ellsworth's personal experiences with serious injuries and the hefty medical bills that often accompany them, highlighting the importance of accessible coverage for high-risk sports. As the outdoor recreation community continues to grow, the need for affordable and effective insurance solutions becomes increasingly critical. Hurricane Helene Relief Links:Support and Shop Western North Carolina BrandsFuel GoodsOutdoor Business Alliance Hurricane Relief FundGoFundMe for Bubba O'LearysWestern North Carolina Hurriance Helene Resource GuideEast Tennessee Foundation Relief FundHead to www.rockfight.co and sign up for News From the Front, Rock Fight's weekly newsletter!Please follow and subscribe to THE ROCK FIGHT and give us a 5 star rating and written review wherever you get your podcasts.Check out our other podcast on the Rock Fight Podcast Network: Gear & Beer! It's a relationship and advice show for those obsessed with the outdoorsy lifestyle.Have a question or comment for a future mailbag episode? Send it to myrockfight@gmail.com or send a message on Instagram or Threads.Thanks for listening! THE ROCK FIGHT is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.
In honor of its 30th anniversary, we're discussing one of Cody's all-time favorite movies; you'll learn why it's such an important movie to him; and you'll hear Cody make the case for Dumb & Dumber being the greatest ski movie ever?? Check it out, and let us know if you agree.RELATED LINKSGet Yourself Covered: BLISTER+TOPICS & TIMES:Very Dumb Bets (3:00)Greatest Ski Movie Ever?? (6:08)Fun Facts & Film Factoids (12:41)Most Rewatchable Scenes (29:44)Best Lines (35:44)What's Aged The Best? (43:57)The Soundtrack (45:37)What's Aged The Worst? (50:33)Hottest Take Award (54:08)Gimme More Award (58:06)Memorabilia You'd Most Want? (1:07:56)Who Won The Movie? (1:11:50) Our Final Grades (1:16:40)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister PodcastBikes & Big IdeasGEAR:30CRAFTED Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
James Bond films have probably put skiing and snowboarding in front of more people than any other film series. So Jonathan and James-Bond-aficionado, Simon Stewart, discuss this fact, then, in honor of the 25th anniversary of ‘The World is Not Enough,' they break down that film — and its absolutely-all-time ski scene.RELATED LINKSGet Yourself Covered: BLISTER+Get Our Winter Buyer's GuideWatch: The Ski SceneTOPICS & TIMES:Why James Bond? (2:22)The World Is Not Enough (8:04)Film Factoids (9:56)Pierce? (13:06)Most Rewatchable Scenes (24:14)Ski Scene (27:20)The Gear (35:31)Airbag Packs History (40:35)Best Lines (44:14)What's Aged The Best? (49:32)What's Aged The Worst? (50:47)Not all gorgeous Women Are Crazy? (1:00:55)Who Needed Blister Plus Most? (1:02:13)Who Would Be The Cast and Next Bond? (1:07:08)Memorabilia (1:09:43)Who Won The Movie? (1:19:00)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister PodcastBikes & Big IdeasGEAR:30CRAFTED Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Jonathan talks about skiing with an Olympic gold medalist on his first day back on snow; Mikaela Shiffrin vs. Santa Claus; the outdoor sports equivalent of Mike Tyson vs. Jake Paul; and more. Give it a listen, then let us know your thoughts and ideas.RELATED LINKS:BLISTER+ Get Yourself CoveredBlister Summit 2025Get Our Winter Buyer's GuideTOPICS & TIMES:More BLISTER+ Power Couples (2:06)Blister Summit Update (5:38)THE TEN:1: 1st Day On Snow, Skiing w/ Olympic Gold Medalist (7:09)2: Powder Skis Update (14:44)3: Lyndsey Vonn is Officially Back (16:00)4: Airport Sprinting (17:06)5: Thoughts on the Mike Tyson / Jake Paul Event (20:56)6: Smart People Don't Go to Football Games, Part 1 (22:5)7: Mikaela Shiffrin vs. Santa Claus 23:55)8: Smart People Don't Go to Football Games, Part 2 (26:08)9: Blister Pizza Reviews? (27:10)10: Full Circle Moment: Viking Ski Shop (29:29)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTSBlister CinematicCRAFTEDBikes & Big IdeasGEAR:30 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The snow's been falling here in Crested Butte, and we're already fantasizing about those really deep days. So today, Jonathan Ellsworth and Paul Forward are discussing pow skis. They start by making the case for wide pow skis, then, they talk about a bunch of current pow skis, old pow skis, and some design specifics that they think are good ideas when you're building a wide ski that's designed to float for days.RELATED LINKSGet Yourself Covered: BLISTER+Get Our Winter Buyer's GuideTOPICS & TIMES:The Case for Wide Pow Skis (7:45)1st Gen DPS Lotus 138 (27:56)Line Pescado (21:09)Heritage Labs 132 (34:18)K2 Powabunga (43:33)Volkl BMT 122 (54:32)DPS Lotus 124 Tour (57:06)K2 Hellbent (59:49)Praxis Protest (128) (1:01:17)Praxis Powderboards (1:04:07)Folsom Rapture (1:06:38)4FRNT Renegade (1:09:51)Faction La Machine 5 (1:10:35)Blizzard Spur (1:14:22)Salomon Rocker2 122 (1:22:53)Volkl Shiro (1:27:53)K2 Reckoner 124 (1:32:30)Paul's Injury & Recovery (1:35:38)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister CinematicBlister PodcastBikes & Big IdeasCRAFTED Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
55 years ago today, the movie ‘Downhill Racer' came out, and it starred two legendary actors, Robert Redford and Gene Hackman. The film critic Roger Ebert calls this “the greatest sports movie ever made,” and today, Jonathan discusses ‘Downhill Racer' with one of the greatest American downhillers of all time, Daron Rahlves.Now normally, our advice is that you should watch the film before listening to our conversation about it, but in the case of ‘Downhill Racer,' we think that listening to our conversation first might help you appreciate the film even more, and see why Daron Rahlves & Roger Ebert both love it so much.RELATED LINKSGet Yourself Covered: BLISTER+Get Our Winter Buyer's GuideTOPICS & TIMES:Film Overview (5:32)Robert Redford (11:30)How Race Courses & Ski Racing Have Changed (16:28)Memorabilia, Romance, & Heartbreak (31:25)Gene Hackman (38:02)Most Rewatchable Scenes (44:04)Hahnenkamm Downhill (49:08)Last Scene (57:07)Best Lines (1:03:05)Hottest Take Award (1:13:28)Should the Film Be Remade? (1:16:26)Who Won the Movie? (1:24:40)Our Final Grades (1:28:01)Meeting Up at WC Races in Sun Valley (1:32:10)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister PodcastBikes & Big IdeasGEAR:30CRAFTED Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Jonathan talks with our great friend and longtime Blister reviewer, Paul Forward, about a beautiful new series of three short films about Paul, called The Hard Way. It is presented by Sitka Films, and it delves into Paul's lifelong passion for traditional bow hunting, and the ethics that guide Paul's practice.Paul and Jonathan have talked about some of these topics on various Blister podcasts, and we'll include a link to those conversations in the show notes of this episode. But today, Paul and Jonathan go behind the scenes of the making of these films, and we flesh out some of the topics related to The Hard Way.RELATED LINKS:Get Yourself Covered: BLISTER+ Ep. 1: ‘The Hard Way' (3 minutes)Ep. 2: ‘The Hard Way' (4 minutes)Ep. 3: ‘The Hard Way' (23 minutes)CRAFTED: Paul Forward on ArrowsCRAFTED: Paul on Traditional BowsBlister Podcast: Paul on Cooperation Across the Outdoor IndustryGEAR:30: Paul & Jonathan on Pow Skis in AKTOPICS & TIMES:How did this film come to be? (3:17)Solo vs Solo for Filming (10:06)The Depths of Experience and Hunting Philosophy (24:59)Risk and O2 Demand (29:40)Relative Risk vs Absolute Risk (42:13)Luke Koppa, Mentorship, and Modern Tech (51:07)Listener Question from Luke: The Hardway? (55:54)Successfully Unsuccessful (1:12:01)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister PodcastBikes & Big IdeasGEAR:30CRAFTED Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Jeremy Jones & Jonathan Ellsworth revisit the 2010 film, Deeper, that Jeremy calls the most important movie of his snowboarding career — which is saying something, coming from a guy who was named snowboarder of the year 10 times, and a guy who's starred in over 100 films. But there is no question that DEEPER represents a watershed moment in snowsports films, when riders like Jeremy, Travis Rice, and Xavier De Le Rue are here pushing the limits of what is possible on the steepest slopes. In our conversation, Jeremy lays out what he was trying to do, where he was trying to push skiing and snowboarding, he shares the backstories behind the steepest lines he's ever ridden, lots of the lessons he learned, and more.RELATED LINKS: BLISTER+ Get Yourself CoveredRead Now: Our 24/25 Digital Winter Buyer's GuideOrder Now: Our 24/25 Winter Buyer's GuideTOPICS & TIMES:The Inspiration For Deeper (3:04)When Big Alaska Turned Small (6:46)The Station Wagon Scene?? (8:55)Jeremy's Goal with Deeper (11:50)Travis Rice (14:51)Tents & Steep Lines (19:54)Chamonix (20:56)Toe Edge Turns (25:01)Risk Assessment & Rule #1 (26:21)Antarctica (31:36)Riding Steeps (36:10)Fairweather, Alaska (38:38)Bivy Sack and Black Bomber and Frozen Joints (44:32)Fear (53:29)Production Challenges & Picking Lines (55:14)Wall of Walls (57:28)Spine Riding (59:40)Soundtrack & Rewatching the Film (1:03:02)Impact of Deeper (1:06:40)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister PodcastBikes & Big IdeasGEAR:30CRAFTEDOff The Couch Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Brendan and Jonathan discuss the 1976 movie, Rocky, because Brendan has made the bold claim that Rocky is the greatest running movie of all-time. See if you agree, but even if you don't, this is a fantastic movie and we think you'll enjoy this conversation.RELATED LINKS: BLISTER+ Get Yourself CoveredCHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister PodcastBikes & Big IdeasGEAR:30CRAFTEDOff The CouchTOPICS & TIMES:Brendan's Upcoming 50k (3:12)Background on ‘Rocky' (5:09)Brendan's Hot Take (14:23)Most Rewatchable Scenes (28:47)Best Quotes (36:55)What's Aged the Best? (45:16)Athletes / Actors in the Film (53:27)Who Needed BLISTER+ the Most? (55:39)Whats Aged the Worst? (56:28)Burning Questions (59:25)Sequel, Prequel, Remake? (1:07:00)Memorabilia You'd Most Want? (1:07:30)Who Won the Movie? (1:08:39)Our Final Grades (1:11:36) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Kevin Costner, bike racer? Yep. American Flyers was released 39 years ago this week, and Costner would go on to make some of the best sports films of all time, including Bull Durham, Field of Dreams, and Tin Cup. So how well does this bike film hold up? How does it compare to the other bike film written by Steve Tesich, Breaking Away? Jonathan and Simon discuss — and also come up with might be their best idea ever for a prequel.RELATED LINKS: BLISTER+ Get Yourself CoveredCHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister PodcastBikes & Big IdeasGEAR:30CRAFTEDOff The CouchTOPICS & TIMES:Another Bike Film (4:19)The Actors, Players, & Ferris' Sister (9:11)Most Rewatchable Scenes (12:11)What's Aged the Best? (20:29)What's Aged the Best/Worst? (30:50)Best Lines (38:26)Worst Line (44:59)Hottest Take (47:28)Who Needed BLISTER+ the Most? (1:00:45)Gimme More, Gimme Less? (1:03:16Burning Questions (1:07:11)Attention Span Award (1:11:28)Prequel, Sequel, or Spinoff? (1:12:39)Memorabilia You'd Most Want from the Film (1:16:15)Who Won the Movie? (1:20:44)Our Final Grades (1:24:00) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Whether he's gutting out an ultramarathon, getting himself focused to ski a very techy line, or whether he's starting conversations about topics that we often avoid, Drew Petersen has gotten very good at going deep. And in his latest film, Feel It All, Drew proves this once again.I sat down with Drew last week to have a very real, very raw conversation about some of the topics raised in ‘Feel It All': why each of us ought to evaluate our relationships to running and skiing and other outdoor sports; why we need to consider where we derive our self worth from; and why we all would do well to grow the number of tools in our tool box when it comes to taking care of our own mental health, and better understanding the mental health issues of our friends and family and the people in our communities.RELATED LINKS: BLISTER+ Get Yourself CoveredEvent Schedule for ‘Feel It All'CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister PodcastBikes & Big IdeasGEAR:30CRAFTEDOff The CouchTOPICS & TIMES:The Making of ‘Feel It All' (4:37)The Paradise Paradox (12:47)Coping Mechanisms (19:26)4th Grade (24:08)Running & Skiing (31:35)Scars (39:32)“Can You Go 20 More Minutes?” (43:24)Release Date & Events for ‘Feel It All' (49:12) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Breaking Away features one of the biggest and coolest bike races out there (the Little 500, which is still held every year at Indiana University) while also doubling as a fantastic coming-of-age film. So in honor of the 45th anniversary of its release, Jonathan & Simon, debate what's aged the best; discuss the most rewatchable scenes; and Simon drops the hottest of Hot Takes. Enjoy!RELATED LINKS: BLISTER+ Get Yourself CoveredCHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister PodcastBikes & Big IdeasGEAR:30CRAFTEDOff The CouchTOPICS & TIMES:Awards & Background (2:40)The Actors (13:07)Film Factoids (20:12)Bikes, Playmates, & Marriages (22:46)Most Rewatchable Scenes (27:36)Hottest Take Award (42:12)Best Quotes (48:45)What's Aged the Best? (58:28)What's Aged the Worst? (1:08:54)BLISTER+ Award (1:20:43)Should it Be Remade? (1:22:42)Memorabilia You Want Most (1:26:42)Who Won the Movie? (1:29:03)Our Final Grades (1:31:06) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
What outdoor sports film has the most star-studded cast of all time? Probably the 2017 mockumentary, ‘Tour de Pharmacy.' And with the Tour de France starting this Saturday, we thought it was the perfect time to watch and discuss this hilarious, kinda disturbing, completely ludicrous, and very NSFW film.RELATED LINKS: BLISTER+ Get Yourself CoveredCHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister PodcastBikes & Big IdeasGEAR:30CRAFTEDOff The CouchTOPICS & TIMES:This Film: WTF?? (0:00)Hollywood Stars Galore! (6:44)How / Why Did This Get Made? (9:35)Could This Film Get Made Today? (15:49)Most Rewatchable Scenes (18:10)Best Lines (24:07)What's Aged the Best? (28:22)Whats Aged the worst? (33:34)Lance Armtrong (35:38)BLISTER+ Award (44:17)Gimme More Award (44:53)Gimme Less Award (46:57)Burning Question (47:23)Attention Span Award (48:41)Memorabilia You Want from the Film? (49:41)Who Won the Movie? (51:14)Impact on the Tour de France? (52:35) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Our guest today is David Mesfin, the writer, director, and producer of "Wade in the Water: A Journey into Black Surfing and Aquatic Culture." The film delves into the 1000-year-old tradition of Black surfing, tracing its roots from Africa to the Americas, and highlights some of the incredible black surfers and impressive surfing organizations that are writing the next chapters of this tradition.RELATED LINKS: wadeinthewaterproject.comBLISTER+ Get Yourself CoveredCHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister PodcastBikes & Big IdeasGEAR:30CRAFTEDOff The CouchTOPICS & TIMES:Why This Film? (2:31)David's Background (12:52)The Story Behind the Title (24:38)Oppressive Tactics & Eminent Domain (35:00)Surf Clubs & Young Black Surfers (46:12)Selema Masekela (52:22)Where to Watch (56:05) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Jonathan Ellsworth was recently at JING Tea headquarters in London for another CRAFTED conversation with JING founder, Ed Eisler. After a proper tea tasting, they sat down to discuss all things tea (and skis); agriculture as art; and the qualities of a great tea.RELATED LINKSCRAFTED ep. 23 w/ JING's Ed EislerCheck out the Blister Craft CollectiveBecome a BLISTER+ MemberTOPICS & TIMES:Coffee, Tea, & Skis (5:12)Curiosity (12:41)Standards (21:47)Buying Local (25:49)Principles & Sourcing Tea (30:26)Going Forward (32:13)SEE OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister CinematicBikes & Big IdeasGEAR:30Blister PodcastOff The Couch Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
‘Bicycle Thieves' is widely regarded as one of the greatest movies ever made, so we thought it would be a fitting way to introduce our first bike film on Blister Cinematic. Jonathan is joined by BLISTER senior bike editor, Simon Stewart, to talk about the film, why it still matters, and why they believe that everyone who loves bikes ought to watch it.RELATED LINKS: Bag Balm: 20% Off w/ Code: BLISTERA.O. Scott on ‘Bicycle Thieves'Get Yourself Covered: BLISTER+CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister PodcastBikes & Big IdeasGEAR:30CRAFTEDOff The CouchTOPICS & TIMES:Why This Film? (1:30)Why It Still Matters (7:46)Pacing (10:48)Most Rewatchable Scenes? (17:08)What's Aged the Best & Worst (40:35)BLISTER+ Award (45:33)‘Gimme More' award (47:10)‘Burning Questions' Award (51:50)Should it Get Remade Today? (54:59)Memorabilia You Want Most (1:04:48)‘Best Life Lesson' Award (1:07:54)Who Won the Movie? (1:10:38)Our Final Grades (1:13:59) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Pro skier, Amie Engerbretson, joins us to coin new terms (“RomMan Com”? “Ski Porn Porn”?); discuss ‘Hot Dog' vs. ‘Better Off Dead'; offer scalding-hot takes; debate whether ‘Better Off Dead' is responsible for rockered skis; and she definitely WANTS HER TWO DOLLARS!RELATED LINKS: Bag Balm: 20% Off w/ Code: BLISTERGet Yourself Covered: BLISTER+CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister PodcastBikes & Big IdeasGEAR:30CRAFTEDOff The CouchTOPICS & TIMES:Moguls (2:16)Is ‘Hot Dog' a Rom Com? (4:51)Most Rewatchable Scenes (23:33)Best Lines (26:40)What's Aged the Best? (29:55)Lane / John Cusack (31:57)What's Aged the Worst? (38:27)Hottest Take Award (44:34)Gimme More & Gimme Less Awards (48:19)Who Needed BLISTER+ the Most? (52:21)Should this Film Get Remade? (57:50)Memorabilia You Want Most? (58:30)Attention Span Award (1:00:01)Our Final Grades (1:05:41) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Blister Cinematic is back, and we're coming in hot — hot as in, Hot Dog…The Movie. Joining Jonathan to talk about this 40-year-old cult favorite is Mountain Gazette owner, Mike Rogge, and they dive in to discuss how well this ski comedy holds up; its impact on ski films; what's aged the best; what's aged the worst; and more. (Also definitely worth checking out: Blister member Pete Brantley's incredible Hot Dog PowerPoint Presentation)RELATED LINKS: Bag Balm: 20% Off w/ Code: BLISTERBoone Mountain SportsGet Yourself Covered: BLISTER+TOPICS & TIMES:Hot Dog in 1984 (5:48)Hot Dog & G.N.A.R. (15:07)"Glare & Stare” (18:39)JE's Plot Synopsis (23:17)Sonny and Harkin (25:25)Most Rewatchable Scenes (27:18)Kendo (31:05)Squirrel (32:30)Chinese Downhill (35:48)Best Lines (39:20)Blister member Pete's Powerpoint (43:44)Softcore? (46:19)Heart-Shaped Water Beds (49:31)Who Needed BLISTER+ the Most? (54:22)What's Aged the Best & Worst (56:04)Gimme More Award (57:41)Trying Too Hard Award (1:02:28)Hottest Take Award (1:06:41)How Well Does it Hold Up? (1:13:04)Should this Film Get Remade Today? (1:16:55)Who Won the Movie? (1:23:18)Our Final Grades (1:24:45) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
So who was really behind the creation of BLISTER, how did the whole thing get started, and was it actually due to a misunderstanding over a couple of beers on the weekend of Independence Day, 2010? Today, Jonathan Ellsworth and Michael Clarke discuss all of the above, as well as giant tortoises, some keys to long-lasting friendships, and more. RELATED LINKS:Get Yourself Covered: BLISTER+TOPICS & TIMES:Michael's Role In Blister's Existence (and Tortoises) (3:18)White Room Skis (7:00)Michael's Skiing Background (10:08)Jonathan's Intro to Skiing (15:06)Forming Opinions on Skis (20:44)How Blister Started Reviewing Gear (25:46)Outsider's Perspective on the Ski Industry (31:29)What's Changed Since Blister Started? (38:12)What Would You Do Differently? (45:35)Longevity & Assessing Risk (52:48)Maintaining Long-Term Friendships (1:04:44)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister CinematicCRAFTED GEAR:30Bikes & Big IdeasOff The Couch Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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.
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.
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.
Once again, we are sharing some of our team's highlights and new year's resolutions. This is a fun one, and it certainly fills out the picture of the people behind all of our reviews, videos, articles, and Blister Summit events. And then tomorrow on our CRAFTED podcast, you'll get to hear our reviewers talk about the hobbies and crafts they adopted in 2023. (I guarantee that some of the answers will surprise you — perhaps especially, Dylan Wood's.)RELATED LINKS:Episode Sponsor: SkibootRXJoin Us! Blister Summit 2024Get Yourself Covered: BLISTER+TOPICS & TIMES:Luke Koppa (5:51)Dylan Wood (13:33)Simon Stewart (22:18)Kara Williard & Jonathan Ellsworth (32:55)Eric Freson (46:48)Sascha Anastas (1:02:52)Kristin Sinnott (1:15:43)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister CinematicCRAFTED GEAR:30Bikes & Big IdeasOff 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.