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Bûcheron (French for “lumberjack”) in Minneapolis, Minnesota, won the James Beard Foundation award for Best New Restaurant in America in 2025. Last month, Jonathan Ellsworth had the opportunity to attend a Bûcheron dinner, and today, he talks with owners Jeanie and Adam Ritter about their unconventional backgrounds; how they and their team created a restaurant that earned one of the most prestigious awards in the culinary world; and what life has been like since.We Want to Hear from You!Have a topic, craft category, or craft company you'd like to see us cover? Email us at: info@blisterreview.com to share those or any other thoughts you have about CRAFTED.TOPICS & TIMES:What is Bucheron? (3:18)Minnesota French (5:05)Jeanie's Background (7:41)Adam's Background (14:47)Michelin & James Beard (25:10)Travel & Learning (29:24)Boucheron's Methodology (31:09)Cooking in Unfamiliar Places (36:41)Opening Bucheron (42:58)Winning the James Beard Award (46:51)Advice for Success (51:54)Minneapolis and ICE (56:19)The Bear (1:03:02)Eating at Home (1:05:07)RELATED LINKS:BucheronBlister Craft CollectiveBecome a BLISTER+ MemberENTER OUR WEEKLY GIVEAWAYS:Enter Our Free Weekly GiveawaysSEE OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister CinematicBikes & Big IdeasGEAR:30Blister Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
For some years now, we've wrestled with some big ideas about how we could change our annual Blister Winter Buyer's Guide. So today, Jonathan Ellsworth, Luke Koppa and Kristin Sinnott discuss those potential changes — as well as what definitely won't be changing. Give it a listen, then please let us know what you think.Note: We Want to Hear From You!Please share with us the questions, topics, or stories you'd like us to cover on GEAR:30. You can email us at: info@blisterreview.comRELATED LINKS:Get Covered: BLISTER+Enter Our Weekly Gear GiveawaySee Our Blister Recommended ShopsCHECK OUT OUR YOUTUBE CHANNELS:Blister Studios (our new channel)Blister Review (our original channel)TOPICS & TIMES:How We Operate / What Won't Change (3:55)Changes We're Considering (21:25)A Third Way? (34:58)SUBMIT YOUR RESPONSE TO OUR BUYER'S GUIDE POLLCHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister CinematicCRAFTEDBikes & Big IdeasBlister Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
How good is good enough? For those of us obsessed with any craft category (e.g., coffee, watches, wine, knives, audio gear, etc), we can find ourselves crossing the line of ‘diminishing returns,' where we keep chasing some notion or ideal of perfection. So why do we do this? Today, our CRAFTED co-hosts, Eli Brown, Jonathan Ellsworth, & Simon Stewart discuss.We Want to Hear from You!Have a topic, craft category, or craft company you'd like to see us cover? Email us at info@blisterreview.com to share those or any other thoughts you have about CRAFTED.TOPICS & TIMES: JE's Manifesto (1:54)Eli's Categories For Spending (11:14)MOMA NYC (16:38)Status As Return? (20:48)Rabbit Holes (26:58)Wine Price Points (30:09)Craft As Experience (35:45)Audio Space: Diminishing Returns (37:25)Headphones (41:12)Contentment and Curiosity (46:22)Hario V60 (53:16)Watches (56:12)Paying Scarcity (1:04:17) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
We just wrapped up our Blister Summit at Snowbird, then Jonathan Ellsworth, Sascha Anastas, and Eli Brown spent a pretty amazing 24 hours in Salt Lake City, where we discovered some fantastic restaurants, coffee shops, bars, and bakeries. So today, we're reporting on what we ate, drank, and saw. Give it a listen, then let us know your thoughts!We Want to Hear from You!Have a topic, craft category, or craft company you'd like to see us cover? Email us here to share those or any other thoughts you have about CRAFTED.RELATED LINKS:Blister Craft CollectiveBecome a BLISTER+ MemberEnter Our Free Weekly GiveawaysTOPICS & TIMES:Blister Summit / Snowbird:Fernet (2:41)Fry Sauce? (12:19)Realm, ‘The Bard' (2023) (17:26)Rice Krispy Treats (19:35)Tram Club Spicy Fries (25:23)Salt Lake City:Bar: Lake Effect (30:55)Bar: Post Office Place (32:36)Dinner: Junah (34:33)Bar: Water Witch (52:16)New York Sours (55:54)Underberg (1:03:36)Breakfast: Central 9th Market (1:06:16)Three Pines Coffee (1:08:08)Mono Tape Club (1:12:49)Eva's Bakery (1:19:18)SEE OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister CinematicBikes & Big IdeasGEAR:30Blister Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
On this 400th episode of the Blister Podcast, Mike Rogge and Jonathan Ellsworth discuss the recent landmark legal ruling against social media platforms; the future of technology regulation and the shift toward healthier media consumption; parenting in the digital age; and some very exciting things going on at Mountain Gazette, and the forthcoming issue of MG #205.Note: We Want to Hear From You!We'd love for you to share with us the stories or topics you'd like us to cover next month on Reviewing the News; ask your most pressing mountain town advice questions, or offer your hot takes for us to rate. You can email those to us here.RELATED LINKS: BLISTER+ Get Yourself CoveredBlister Summit 2026Enter Our Free Weekly Gear GiveawaysCHECK OUT OUR YOUTUBE CHANNELS:Blister Studios (our new channel)Blister Review (our original channel)TOPICS & TIMES:Blister Summit (1:20)New Blister+ Members (2:32)Episode #400 of the Blister Podcast (3:30)Jonathan & Mike take on the Slot Bar (9:51)Facebook & Youtube found liable (15:39)What comes first, changes to the algorithm or an age restriction? (31:36)Keeping kids away from things that aren't helpful to their development (39:47)Addictive algorithms on social media platforms (47:46)Mountain Gazette 205 (54:12)Heading to the National Library of Congress (1:05:29)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister CinematicCRAFTEDBikes & Big IdeasGEAR:30 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Americans love coffee — there are well over 40,000 coffee shops in the USA — but it's easy to argue that many other countries are doing coffee better. Why is that, and what can be done to elevate American coffee culture to the level it most definitely deserves? Floreo Coffee founder, Sebastian Skokan, has dedicated himself to this cause, and today, he's sharing his answers with Jonathan Ellsworth & Eli Brown.We Want to Hear from You!Have a topic, craft category, or craft company you'd like to see us cover? Email us here to share those or any other thoughts you have about CRAFTED. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode that we're dedicating to JBobb, Luke Koppa and Jonathan Ellsworth talk frontside carvers; metal freestyle skis; and for the first time in Blister history, we're reviewing a competition mogul ski.Note: We Want to Hear From You!Please share with us the questions, topics, or stories you'd like us to cover on GEAR:30. You can email those to us here.RELATED LINKS:Palisades TahoeGet Yourself Covered with BLISTER+Join Us! Blister Summit 2026BLISTER+ Members: Blister Summit DiscountEnter Our Weekly Gear GiveawaySee Our Blister Recommended ShopsCHECK OUT OUR YOUTUBE CHANNELS:Blister Studios (our new channel)Blister Review (our original channel)TOPICS & TIMES:Palisades Tahoe (1:35)Blister Summit (2:46)Shoutout: BLISTER+ Members (3:50)Atomic Carving Skis: (7:36)Redster Q9.8 (9:07)Redster X9S (12:37)Redster S9 & G9 (14:42)Faction Le Mogul Pro (21:42)Fischer Carving Skis: (28:23)The Curv Noize GT 85 (29:05)The Curv Noize GTX (31:30)RC4 Noize (33:14)Armada ARV 106 Ti (36:05)Faction Prodigy 3 (39:17)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister CinematicCRAFTEDBikes & Big IdeasBlister Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Jonathan started falling down the rabbit hole of hi-fi audio gear, and he says it's all Simon's fault. So in this conversation, Simon talks to Jonathan about his audio journey; why he's singled out the world of hi-fi headphones as a place to begin; why he's become a believer in “EQ”; and why it feels almost inevitable that he'll end up exploring the world of loudspeakers, too.We Want to Hear from You!Have a topic, craft category, or craft company you'd like to see us cover? Email us here to share those or any other thoughts you have about CRAFTED.RELATED LINKS:Blister Craft CollectiveBecome a BLISTER+ MemberBLISTER NEWSLETTER:Get It & Our Weekly Gear GiveawaysTOPICS & TIMES:Craft Collective (1:18)Why Headphones Make Sense (5:53)Is Beethoven the Original Heavy Metal? (12:25)Headphones vs Speakers (15:57)Jonathan's First Hi-Fi Headphones (29:19)Why You Should ‘EQ' (35:07)The Qudelix-5k DAC/AMP + Equalizer (36:20)Dedicated Headphone Amp vs Integrated Amp (40:49)The JDS Labs Headphone AMP+DAC (44:10)Active vs Passive Speakers (1:01:18)Where To Go From Here? (1:06:35)SEE OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister CinematicBikes & Big IdeasGEAR:30Blister Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Last week at Palisades Tahoe, Jonathan Ellsworth & JBobb stopped by the The Ledge Boardshop to talk about snowboard culture & the current state of snowboard gear w/ a rather legendary figure in the snowboard world, Suge (aka, Brett Scott). We talk 90's Hip-Hop; the history of snowboarding (and its influence on ski gear); and innovation in snowboard gear itself.Note: We Want to Hear From You!Please share with us the questions, topics, or stories you'd like us to cover on GEAR:30. You can email those to us here.RELATED LINKS:The Ledge BoardshopPalisades TahoeGet Yourself Covered: BLISTER+Join Us! Blister Summit 2026BLISTER+ Members: Blister Summit DiscountEnter Our Weekly Gear GiveawaySee Our Blister Recommended ShopsCHECK OUT OUR YOUTUBE CHANNELS:Blister Studios (our new channel)Blister Review (our original channel)TOPICS & TIMES:‘Know The Ledge' (3:50)Hip-Hop & Snowboarding (7:29)BOA (17:42)Customization of Snowboard Boots? (18:22)‘Convenience' Bindings (23:12)Indemnified Gear (36:04)Snowboard Design Updates (43:34)Shop Culture (48:23)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister CinematicCRAFTEDBikes & Big IdeasBlister Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
JBobb, Luke, Koppa, Kristin Sinnott and Jonathan Ellsworth just wrapped up a week at Palisades Tahoe, and today, they're sharing lots of stories and impressions, and talking about the gear they reviewed — but didn't bring with them. Thanks to everyone who made this a truly unforgettable trip.Note: We Want to Hear From You!Please share with us the questions, topics, or stories you'd like us to cover on GEAR:30. You can email those to us here.RELATED LINKS:Palisades TahoePalisades Demo CenterGet Yourself Covered with BLISTER+Join Us! Blister Summit 2026BLISTER+ Members: Blister Summit DiscountEnter Our Weekly Gear GiveawaySee Our Blister Recommended ShopsCHECK OUT OUR YOUTUBE CHANNELS:Blister Studios (our new channel)Blister Review (our original channel)TOPICS & TIMES:Getting There w/o Skis & Boards (1:34)How Jonathan Jinxed Us (6:06)What Luke's Reading (10:22)Day 1:- Demo Center & People We Met Up With (14:23)- Favorite Runs of the Day (17:31)- Skis & Boards (19:23)- Palisades Patrol Shreds Harder Than You (23:10)- Slot Bar Sneak Attack (26:33)Day 2:- Armada Declivity 102 & Antimatter 100- Day 2 Favorite Runs (37:00)- Day 2 Equipment Picks (41:12)Day 3:- Rakim & Alpine Meadows (48:55)- Connery Lundin (54:44)- Wildfour & Rocker (59:35)Day 4: (1:02:36)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister CinematicCRAFTEDBikes & Big IdeasBlister Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
How do you tell if you're working with a good bootfitter? Are all ski boots getting bigger? Where are BOA dials most effective, or, are they actually just ruining the industry? Luke Koppa and Jonathan Ellsworth dive into these topics — and present some valuable tips and tricks — with the help of our longtime friend and boofitter, Hunter Dagnon.Note: We Want to Hear From You!Please share with us the questions, topics, or stories you'd like us to cover on GEAR:30. You can email those to us here.RELATED LINKS:Palisades TahoeJoin Us! Blister Summit 2026For BLISTER+ Members: Discounted Blister Summit RegistrationGet Yourself Covered with BLISTER+Enter Our Weekly Gear GiveawaySee Our Blister Recommended ShopsCHECK OUT OUR YOUTUBE CHANNELS:Blister Studios (our new channel)Blister Review (our original channel)TOPICS & TIMES:Boot-Fitters vs Boot-Sellers (5:43)Higher-Volume Boots (8:50What is an “Average” Foot? (9:29)Bootfitting Red & Green Flags (12:25)Shell Fit (18:07)Concept of Comfort (20:45)BOA (29:41)“Pinner” Fit (36:00)Boot Geometry Changes (43:44)Volume Shifts & Performance (59:30)Plastic Types (1:06:38)JE's Case for Lower Volume (1:34:10)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister CinematicCRAFTEDBikes & Big IdeasBlister Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
When it comes to the question of ski width, there are some very strong opinions held by skiers, and lots of them aren't true. Are lots of people on skis that are too wide? Will a skinnier ski always carve better than a wider ski? What's the ideal width for mogul skiing? And is there any real difference in bottomless powder between a 120mm-wide and a 135mm-wide ski? Today, Luke Koppa and Jonathan Ellsworth walk through the entire range of skis from 65mm to 135mm wide, and hope to clear up a number of confusions and debunk some myths about ski width.Note: We Want to Hear From You!Please share with us the questions, topics, or stories you'd like us to cover on GEAR:30. You can email those to us here.RELATED LINKS:CARVPalisades TahoeEnter Our Weekly Gear GiveawaysOur Blister Recommended ShopsJoin Us! Blister Summit 2026For BLISTER+ Members: Discounted Blister Summit RegistrationGet Yourself Covered with BLISTER+CHECK OUT OUR YOUTUBE CHANNELS:Blister Studios (our new channel)Blister Review (our original channel)CHECK OUT OUR YOUTUBE CHANNELS:Blister Studios (our new channel)Blister Review (our original channel)TOPICS & TIMES:Test Our Opinions Yourself w/ Carv (1:80)Blister to Palisades Tahoe (2:34)This Week's Gear Giveaway (3:12)Blister Summit 2026 (3:45)The Question of Ski Width (4:53)Ski Width Ranges65mm - 71mm (11:49)72mm - 78mm (16:48)79mm - 85mm (27:41)86mm - 92mm (38:08)Q: Width / Getting a Ski On Edge (39:48)93mm - 99mm (45:06)100mm - 106mm (53:19)107mm - 113mm (53:34)114mm - 120mm (57:21)Coastal Snowpack (1:07:17)Significant Width Breaks (1:14:14)What's Optimal? (1:16:45)Ideal Width for Skiing Moguls? (1:20:38)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister CinematicCRAFTEDBikes & Big IdeasBlister Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Is ‘Aspen Extreme' the greatest ski movie ever? Probably. Is it also one of the best movies ever made? Yes. Or at least, that's the case Mountain Gazette owner & editor, Mike Rogge, and Jonathan Ellsworth are going to be making today, in addition to breaking some big news. As always, they discuss what's aged the best, what's aged the worst, who needed BLISTER+ the most, and more.Let Us Know Your Thoughts!Email us here or leave a comment on our site with your hot take or thoughts on the film. Or tell us which movies you'd like to see us cover on Blister Cinematic.RELATED LINKS:BLISTER+ Get Yourself CoveredTOPICS & TIMES:Why This Film? (3:50)Two Friends, One Dream, No Limits (7:31)Most Rewatchable Scenes (21:48)Best Lines (32:42)What's Aged the Best? (39:28)What's Aged the Worst? (44:21)‘Hottest Take' Award (54:10)Who Needed BLISTER+ the Most? (1:00:36)‘Gimme More' Award (1:03:01)‘Gimme Less' Award & Burning Questions / I Need Answers (1:05:16)Memorabilia You Want the Most (1:07:53)Best Life Lessons? (1:12:51)Companion Film: Sequel, Prequel, or Spinoff? (1:14:43)Who Won The Movie? (1:19:10)Our Final Grades (1:22:34)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister PodcastBikes & Big IdeasGEAR:30CRAFTED Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
As we wrap up 2025, we are once again sharing the craft categories that most captivated our Blister reviewers this past year, and we're revealing some of the categories they are most curious about heading into 2026. We kick things off with Simon Stewart, Jonathan Ellsworth, Kristin Sinnott, and Eli Brown. Please enjoy, and Happy New Year!We Want to Hear from You!Have a topic, craft category, or craft company you'd like to see us cover? Email us here to share those or any other thoughts you have about CRAFTED.RELATED LINKS:Blister Craft CollectiveBecome a BLISTER+ MemberBLISTER NEWSLETTER:Get It & Our Weekly Gear GiveawaysTOPICS & TIMES:Simon Stewart (2:14)Jonathan Ellsworth Coffee (9:55)Kristin Sinnott (31:44)Eli Brown (51:05)SEE OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister CinematicBikes & Big IdeasGEAR:30Blister Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Recently, Jonathan has been going deep down the rabbit hole of camera gear and lighting, and the strikingly handsome Justin Bobb has been his spiritual guide. So today, we're broaching these topics with all of you, and you'll get to hear JE apologize profusely to Luke Koppa for basically forcing him to drink terrible coffee over the years. (You'll see.) We Want to Hear from You!Have a topic, craft category, or craft company you'd like to see us cover? Email us here to share those or any other thoughts you have about CRAFTED.RELATED LINKS:Blister Craft CollectiveBecome a BLISTER+ MemberBLISTER NEWSLETTER:Get It & Our Weekly Gear GiveawaysTOPICS & TIMES:Why J Bobb Needs to Block JE (2:37)Origins of J Bobb's Interest in Cameras (4:22)Digital vs Analog (6:51)35mm and Beyond: Megapixels (10:00)Planned Releases (13:22)Light (15:33)Analogies: Coffee & Camera Gear? (19:33)Sony A6700 (23:42)Camera Hand Feel (29:08)Camera Brands (30:44)Ecosystems & Who's Best at What? (38:29)Which is Easier to Learn: Filming or Snowboarding? (49:42)Shiny-New-Object Syndrome (51:38)SEE OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister CinematicBikes & Big IdeasGEAR:30Blister Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Today Amie and Jonathan talk about the hit show, Emily in Paris, and specifically, the episode where Emily goes skiing (season 4, episode 6). So how is this show? And how well did they do portraying modern-day skiing? We discuss.Let Us Know Your Thoughts!Email us here or leave a comment on our site with your hot take or thoughts on the film. Or tell us which movies you'd like to see us cover on Blister Cinematic.RELATED LINKS:BLISTER+ Get Yourself CoveredGet Our Newsletter & Weekly Gear GiveawaysCHECK OUT OUR YOUTUBE CHANNELSBlister Studios (our new channel)Blister Review (our original channel)TOPICS & TIMES:Amie's Grand Entrance (1:00)Who is Emily in Paris? (8:34)Hot take from Amie (13:11)Amie's Bachelorette Party (14:44)Most Rewatchable Scenes (17:49)Burning Questions (23:27)Who Needed BLISTER+ the Most? (24:21)Italian Ski Instructor & Balaclavas (25:43)Who Won the Show? (34:05)Other Show Highlights (38:28)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister PodcastBikes & Big IdeasGEAR:30CRAFTED Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Chris Rubens is a professional skier and a professional farmer. His film, ‘Farming Turns' (available on YouTube 11.19.25), explores both, as well as friendship, family, and how to create life that better aligns with your values. Plus, there's a great cameo from Chris' longtime friend, Hoji.Let Us Know Your Thoughts!Email us here or leave a comment on our site with your hot take or thoughts on the film. Or tell us which movies you'd like to see us cover on Blister Cinematic.RELATED LINKS:BLISTER+ Get Yourself CoveredGet Our Newsletter & Weekly Gear GiveawaysCHECK OUT OUR YOUTUBE CHANNELSBlister Studios (our new channel)Blister Review (our original channel)TOPICS & TIMES:Chris on ‘Farming Turns' (3:20)Friendship (7:01)Hoji (11:42)Farming (12:37)Growth of First Light Farm (18:50)Refrigerators & Good People (20:29)Individual Behavior & Systemic Change (24:02)Filming in National Parks (40:55)Risk & Failure (50:03)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister PodcastBikes & Big IdeasGEAR:30CRAFTED Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
What are the Top 10 skis of the century? Top 3? #1 Ski? Today, Blister reviewers Dylan Wood, Luke Koppa, and Jonathan Ellsworth reveal their selections, and we also share some of the picks and insights from a number of pro skiers and ski industry professionals.Note: We Want to Hear From You!Please let us know if there's a topic you'd like us to cover or a guest you'd like us to have on GEAR:30. Or if you'd like to nominate yourself for a ‘Gear Therapy' episode, let us know that, too! You can email us at info@blisterreview.comRELATED LINKS:BLISTER+ Get Yourself CoveredCHECK OUT OUR YOUTUBE CHANNELSBlister Studios (our new channel)Blister Review (our original channel)TOPICS & TIMES:Setting the Stage for Best Skis of the Century (3:15)Luke & Dylan's Top 10 (7:24)Top 3 (34:40)Luke's #1 (46:44)Dylan's #1 (50:03)Honorable Mentions (53:02)Jonathan Joins (56:52)Jonathan's Top 10 (1:02:01)Most Influential? (1:06:54)Jonathan's Top 3 (1:09:27)Jonathan's #1 (1:15:14)More Takes from listeners and Industry (1:24:15) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In honor of Halloween, we are talking about Shredder. And this is one of the most important conversations we've ever had here at Blister, because we aren't sure that anybody's actually seen this film, and we are on a mission to change that. So please enjoy our conversation about this amazing ski / snowboard / comedy / horror / slasher film, Shredder.Let Us Know Your Thoughts!Email us here or leave a comment on our site with your hot take or thoughts on the film. Or tell us which movies you'd like to see us cover on Blister Cinematic.RELATED LINKS:Watch ShredderBLISTER+ Get Yourself CoveredGet Our Newsletter & Weekly Gear GiveawaysCHECK OUT OUR YOUTUBE CHANNELSBlister Studios (our new channel)Blister Review (our original channel)TOPICS & TIMES:Why This Film? (6:47)Most Rewatchable Scenes (24:23)Best Lines (30:03)What's Aged the Best & Worst? (39:02)‘Hottest Take' Award (48:49)Who Needed BLISTER+ the Most? (51:35)‘Gimme More' & ‘Gimme Less' Award (52:48)Burning Questions / I Need Answers (53:56)Companion Film: Sequel, Prequel, or Spinoff? (1:02:40)Memorabilia You Want the Most (1:04:08)Best Life Lessons? (1:08:48)Who Won The Movie? (1:14:56)Our Final Grades (1:17:04)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister PodcastBikes & Big IdeasGEAR:30CRAFTED Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
LISTERS: A Glimpse Into Extreme Birdwatching is the hilarious — and surprisingly heartfelt — documentary you didn't know you needed in your life. But you do. And today, Luke, Eli, and Jonathan make an impassioned case for why you do.Let Us Know Your Thoughts!Email us here or leave a comment on our site with your hot take or thoughts on the film. Or tell us which movies you'd like to see us cover on Blister Cinematic.RELATED LINKS:BLISTER+ Get Yourself CoveredBlister Studios: Our New YouTube ChannelWatch LISTERS on YouTubeTOPICS & TIMES:Why This Film? (3:35)Best Lines (23:28)Hot Takes (41:04)Our Favorite & Least Favorite Birds (1:07:03)Best Things / Worst Things (1:12:58)Who Won The Movie? (1:18:02)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister PodcastBikes & Big IdeasGEAR:30CRAFTED Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
On our last two ‘Reviewing the News' episodes, Cody and Jonathan talked about Lincoln Knowles, a young climber, free soloist, and content creator who has been making waves in the climbing world. Today, Lincoln joins them to hash things out and discuss some big topics that have implications for the entire outdoor industry.Note: We Want to Hear From You!We'd love for you to share with us the stories or topics you'd like us to cover next month on Reviewing the News; ask your most pressing mountain town advice questions, or offer your hot takes for us to rate. You can email those to us here.RELATED LINKS: BLISTER+ Get Yourself CoveredGet Our 25/26 Winter Buyer's GuideDiscounted Summit Registration for BLISTER+ MembersNon-Member Registration: Blister Summit 2026Get Our Newsletter & Weekly Gear GiveawaysLincoln's YouTube: Knowles and CompanyLincoln's ‘Cody is Talking Sh*t about Me' VideoTOPICS & TIMES:New BLISTER+ Members (3:45)Lincoln in Yosemite (7:23)Talk about the Responses to Your Videos (8:14)Lincoln's Background (10:06)Climbing Culture (16:20)Do You Consider Yourself an Influencer or Athlete First? (23:20)“Climbing Harder Routes Until I Fall” (29:13)Risk (36:53)What Would a Successful Career Look Like to You? (37:27)The ‘Athlete Economy' (41:14)Initial Impressions of Yosemite? (51:45)Climbing the Nose (54:39)Sponsorships (57:38)Influence & Responsibility (1:05:37)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister CinematicCRAFTEDBikes & Big IdeasGEAR:30 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In Part 2 of our series on the Best Skis of the Century, Luke Koppa and Sascha Anastas join Jonathan Ellsworth to dive into the best skis from 23 more brands, and we also discuss some of the best and most notable women-specific skis of the past 25 years.Note: We Want to Hear From You!Please let us know if there's a topic you'd like us to cover or a guest you'd like us to have on GEAR:30. Or if you'd like to nominate yourself for a ‘Gear Therapy' episode, let us know that, too! You can email us at info@blisterreview.comRELATED LINKS:Our Digital Buyer's Guide: Read NowBLISTER+ Get Yourself CoveredDiscounted Summit Registration for BLISTER+ MembersNon-Member Registration: Blister Summit 2026Order Our 25/26 Winter Buyer's GuideGet Our Newsletter & Weekly Gear GiveawaysTOPICS & TIMES:New BLISTER+ Members (2:37)Sascha on Women's Skis from Part 1 (3:58)SCOTT (16:38)Armada (18:23)4FRNT (24:40)Zag (28:12)Moment (29:49)Liberty (33:26)Prior (37:30)DPS (38:54)Icelantic (45:33)Black Crows (47:58)Faction (49:25)Wagner (51:46)Majesty (55:31)ON3P (56:37)Folsom (1:04:38)RMU (1:07:14)Shaggy's (1:09:00)Meier (1:10:15)Whitedot (1:11:18)J Skis (1:12:20)Parlor (1:15:17)Coalition Snow (1:16:13)Renoun (1:18:39)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister CinematicCRAFTEDBikes & Big IdeasBlister Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Today, we are kicking off a new series, where we will debate and try to identify the best skis of the 21st Century from over 30 ski brands. So over the next couple of weeks, you're going to be hearing our choices, but we are also going to be sending out a survey to our BLISTER+ members, Digital Access Pass members, and a number of pro athletes and product designers around the ski industry. Then, in a few weeks, we'll discuss how our selections match up with all of your answers. And finally, for the grand finale of this series, we're going to offer our choices for the Very Best Skis of the Century — can we whittle things down to a top 10? A top 3? To a single ski? We're going to find out, and it's certainly going to be fun trying.Today, Jonathan Ellsworth, Luke Koppa, Paul Forward, and our great friend, Rob Dickinson, get the conversation going.Note: We Want to Hear From You!Please let us know if there's a topic you'd like us to cover or a guest you'd like us to have on GEAR:30. Or if you'd like to nominate yourself for a ‘Gear Therapy' episode, let us know that, too! You can email us at info@blisterreview.comRELATED LINKS:Our Digital Buyer's Guide: Read NowBLISTER+ Get Yourself CoveredDiscounted Summit Registration for BLISTER+ MembersNon-Member Registration: Blister Summit 2026Order Our 25/26 Winter Buyer's GuideGet Our Newsletter & Weekly Gear GiveawaysTOPICS & TIMES:New BLISTER+ Members (2:44)Rossignol (7:58)Aznes (17:33)Volkl (20:47)Kastle (30:22)Fischer (33:30)Stochli (39:53)Elan (43:02)Head (46:51)Blizzard (53:46)Atomic (59:59)Nordica (1:05:38)K2 (1:10:45)Dynastar (1:17:01)Salomon (1:20:16)Line (1:23:55)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister CinematicCRAFTEDBikes & Big IdeasBlister Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Luke Koppa and Jonathan Ellsworth talk about our big new book, the Blister 25/26 Winter Buyer's Guide, including the big takeaways, trends, and controversies. (Plus, stick around to hear Luke's insane bear story at the end.)Note: We Want to Hear From You!Please let us know if there's a topic you'd like us to cover or a guest you'd like us to have on GEAR:30. Or if you'd like to nominate yourself for a ‘Gear Therapy' episode, let us know that, too! You can email us at info@blisterreview.comRELATED LINKS:Our Digital Buyer's Guide: Read NowBLISTER+ Get Yourself CoveredDiscounted Summit Registration for BLISTER+ MembersNon-Member Registration: Blister Summit 2026Order Our 25/26 Winter Buyer's GuideGet Our Newsletter & Weekly Gear GiveawaysTOPICS & TIMES:Luke's Facial Hair Situation (5:17)How to Get the Guide (10:19)How Our Guide Works (14:07)Trends for 25/26: Boots (22:43)Trends for 25/26: Skis (22:43)Trend / Not a Trend: Weight (37:20)Luke's Least Favorite Thing (42:36)Apparel, Goggles, & Helmets (44:55)Biggest Controversy (50:09)More on our ‘Best Of' (58:08)Luke's Insane Bear Story (1:10:00)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister CinematicCRAFTEDBikes & Big IdeasBlister Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Amie & Jonathan talk with @Emily Harrington about her fantastic new film, and go behind the scenes of her project to free-climb the Golden Gate route on Yosemite's El Capitan in under 24 hours. This is a must-see movie, and this conversation makes it clear why.Let Us Know Your Thoughts!Email us here or leave a comment on our site with your hot take or thoughts on the film. Or tell us which movies you'd like to see us cover on Blister Cinematic.RELATED LINKS:BLISTER+ Get Yourself Covered@Emily Harrington / ‘Girl Climber' Updates TOPICS & TIMES:Emily's Golden Gate Project & Alex Honnold (5:20)Vulnerability & Fear (13:32)"Exposure" Therapy (17:14)Girl Climber: Healthier Version of Free Solo (20:01)Celebrating Hilaree Nelson (29:34)Process of Making This Film (35:30)Mental Challenge vs Physical Challenge (44:19)Helmets: When / When Not to Wear One? (48:04)Importance of Support Roles as partners (53:18)From the Crux to the Finish (57:19)Nail Polish! (1:02:42)Where to Watch the Film (1:05:04)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister PodcastBikes & Big IdeasGEAR:30CRAFTED Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Amie & Jonathan discuss Wild, Cheryl Strayed's best-selling book that was turned into a hit movie starring Reese Witherspoon and Laura Dern — both of whom were nominated for Oscars for their stellar performances. So what's aged the best? What's aged the worst? And how many arguments will Amie and Jonathan get into this episode?Let Us Know Your Thoughts!Email us here or leave a comment on our site with your hot take or thoughts on the film. Or tell us which movies you'd like to see us cover on Blister Cinematic.RELATED LINKS:BLISTER+ Get Yourself CoveredTOPICS & TIMES:Why This Film? (3:02)Most Rewatchable Scenes (22:26)Best Lines (28:49)What's Aged the Best and Worst? (30:57)‘Hottest Take' Award (38:04)Who Needed BLISTER+ the Most? (43:15)‘Gimme More' / ‘Gimme Less' Award (44:47)tBurning Questions / I Need Answers (46:04)Attention Span Award (50:10)Companion Film: Sequel, Prequel, or Spinoff? (50:57)Memorabilia You Want the Most (52:01)Best Life Lessons? (54:11)Who Won The Movie? (56:13)Our Final Grades (1:01:36)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister PodcastBikes & Big IdeasGEAR:30CRAFTED Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
For today's Gear Therapy episode, the team gets together to try to solve Jonathan's pedal dilemma. Like many riders out there, Jonathan is questioning his current pedal choice, and not surprisingly, he's considering ditching his clipless pedals and replacing them with flats. Sascha and Zack bring a valuable mountain bike coaching perspective to the conversation, and together with Simon's years of experience in the industry and bike shops, they look at the advantages and disadvantages of both styles of pedals and do our best to guide Jonathan's decision. They know he's not alone, and anyone in a similar pedal conundrum will benefit from tuning in.RELATED LINKS:Blister Mountain Bike Buyer's GuideGet Our Free Newsletter & Gear GiveawaysBLISTER+ Get Yourself CoveredTOPICS & TIMES:Pedal Horror Stories (1:24)Why the Hell are They Called “Clipless”? (13:29)Jonathan's Pedal Issues (18:49)Clips are Jonathan's Security Blankie (24:39)Pros & cons of flats (27:25)Clipless Pedals Promoting & Masking Bad Habits (35:50)Cornering Technique & Flat Pedals (36:40)Sascha Calls Simon Out (40:15)New Flat Pedal and Shoe Design (42:18)Jonathan's Pedal Prescription (47:21)Uphill Technical & Pedal Strikes (1:02:36)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister CinematicCRAFTEDGEAR:30Blister Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
What happens when an obsessive gear reviewer dives headfirst into the expansive world of espresso? It's now been over a year since our last update on Jonathan Ellsworth's coffee journey, so Eli and he talk about what's new in his setup; what he's learned (or rejected) from the depths of coffee videos and online forums; and whether this whole thing has been a brilliant pursuit of flavor, or just an expensive rabbit hole.We Want to Hear from You!Have a topic, craft category, or craft company you'd like to see us cover? Email us here to share those or any other thoughts you have about CRAFTED.RELATED LINKS:Blister Craft CollectiveBecome a BLISTER+ MemberIn Search of the ‘Best' Coffee Gear, Pt 1 (Ep.19)In Search of the 'Best' Coffee Gear (& Ski Boots), Pt. 2 (Ep.20)Drinking Gold: Coffee Gear, Pt. 3, with ON3P Skis' founder, Scott Andrus (Ep.25)Coffee Gear, Pt. 4: “Hero Espresso” & Jonathan's Current Setup (Ep.43)TOPICS & TIMES:The Significance of Coffee Gear (1:14)Espresso Techniques and Preferences (4:19)Exploring Coffee Beans and Roasts (8:33)Adjusting Techniques for Optimal Flavor (17:23)Consistency in Coffee Preparation (21:40)Decaf Discoveries and Coffee Preferences (30:28)Espresso Pressure: The Great Debate (30:28)Personal Taste vs. Internet Trends (33:00)Reflections on Coffee Gear Purchases (38:59)The Importance of Quality in Coffee Gear (47:02)The Importance of Precision in Espresso Making (51:32)The Role of Milk in Coffee Drinks (56:30)Exploring New Coffee Techniques and Equipment (59:43)Finding Happiness in Coffee Rituals (1:02:00)Return on Investment in Coffee Equipment (1:04:02)The Impact of Coffee Chains on Quality (1:08:33)SEE OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister CinematicBikes & Big IdeasGEAR:30Blister PodcastBLISTER NEWSLETTER:Get It & Our Weekly Gear Giveaways Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Is it possible that a Disney kids movie from 1999 is the single best movie ever made about the age-old clash between skiers & snowboarders? It is, and ‘Johnny Tsunami' is also a contender for our highest award, the ‘Single Best Film in its Class.' You gotta tune in for this one.Let Us Know Your Thoughts!Email us here or leave a comment on our site with your hot take or thoughts on the film. Or tell us which movies you'd like to see us cover on Blister Cinematic.RELATED LINKS:BLISTER+ Get Yourself CoveredTOPICS & TIMES:Why This Film? (5:45)Most Rewatchable Scenes (14:44)What's Aged the Best? (18:48)What's Aged the Worst? (33:26)‘Hottest Take' Award (41:02)Who Needed BLISTER+ the Most? (49:30)‘Gimme More' Award (49:57)Burning Questions / I Need Answers (51:00)Companion Film: Sequel, Prequel, or Spinoff? (53:37)Memorabilia You Want the Most (58:49)Best Life Lessons? (59:58)Who Won The Movie? (1:00:46)Our Final Grades (1:02:50)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister PodcastBikes & Big IdeasGEAR:30CRAFTED Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Today we've got a blockbuster conversation about a blockbuster film. Professional skier, Ian McIntosh, was Leonardo DiCaprio's stunt double for the ski scenes in ‘Inception', and he's got a bunch of fantastic behind-the-scenes stories to share. And the idea for this conversation came from professional skier, Todd Ligare, who brings his own great questions for Ian and provides excellent answers for our film awards for this movie.Let Us Know Your Thoughts!Email us here or leave a comment below with your hot take or thoughts on the film. Or tell us which movies you'd like to see us cover on Blister Cinematic.RELATED LINKS:BLISTER+ Get Yourself CoveredTOPICS & TIMES:Why This Film? (2:08)Most Rewatchable Scenes (26:14)Best Lines (41:36)What's Aged the Best? (45:31)What's Aged the Worst? (47:59)‘Hottest Take' Award (1:02:32)Who Needed BLISTER+ the Most? (1:10:47)Burning Questions / I Need Answers (1:13:45)Memorabilia You Want the Most (1:20:36)Best Life Lesson? (1:23:01)Who Won The Movie? (1:24:37)Our Final Grades (1:27:40)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister PodcastBikes & Big IdeasGEAR:30CRAFTED Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
What film has had the greatest impact on Blister's managing editor, Luke Koppa? The one we're talking about today. ‘180° South' details the adventures, friendship, and philosophies of Yvon Chouinard and Doug Tomkins; it documents Jeff Johnson's attempt to retrace their 1968 trip to Patagonia; it features an all-time soundtrack and the animation & artwork of Geoff McFetridge; and the film is just as relevant today as it was when it came out 15 years ago.Let Us Know Your Thoughts!Email us here or leave a comment below with your hot take or thoughts on the film. Or tell us which movies you'd like to see us cover on Blister Cinematic.RELATED LINKS:BLISTER+ Get Yourself CoveredTOPICS & TIMES:Why This Film? (2:03)Most Rewatchable Scenes (11:05)Best Lines (18:14)What's Aged the Best? (23:46)What's Aged the Worst? (25:52)‘Hottest Take' Award (26:33)Who Needed BLISTER+ the Most? (27:24)‘Gimme More' Award (28:27)‘Gimme Less' Award (31:00)Burning Questions / I Need Answers (33:26)Memorabilia You Want the Most (36:09)Best Life Lesson? (38:08)Who Won The Movie? (41:00)Our Final Grades (43:50)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister PodcastBikes & Big IdeasGEAR:30CRAFTED Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Luke Koppa and Jonathan Ellsworth discuss the latest with respect to public lands and the revisions to the reconciliation bill; share more news about Peak Skis; and preview some new gear they're going to be talking about and testing in the very near future.RELATED LINKS:BLISTER+ Get Yourself CoveredGet Our Free Newsletter & Gear GiveawaysLuke Koppa on Public Lands SaleGEAR:30 ep. 353: Our Thoughts on Peak SkisJason Blevins' article on Peak SkisTOPICS & TIMES:Skratch Labs (1:30)New BLISTER+ Program (2:04)Public Lands Status & the Revised Bill (8:14)More Peak Skis News (14:29)New Gear We're Reviewing (23:04)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister CinematicCRAFTEDBikes & Big IdeasBlister Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Many of us love (and love talking about) coffee, wine, or beer, but few of us go around professing our love of fermentation. But after this conversation, you'll see why maybe we should.Because fermentation isn't merely a chemical process, it's the key to many of those things we love. And for Nile Zacherle, the founder of Mad Fritz, it's the common thread to everything he makes: barrel-aged beer, Napa Valley wine, and meticulously roasted coffee. And today, Nile is back on CRAFTED to talk about it all with Eli Brown & Jonathan Ellsworth.We Want to Hear from You!Have a topic, craft category, or craft company you'd like to see us cover? Email us here to share those or any other thoughts you have about CRAFTED.RELATED LINKS:Blister Craft CollectiveBecome a BLISTER+ MemberMad FritzMad Fritz CoffeeDavid Arthur VineyardsWinemakers ReviewTOPICS & TIMES:What's in Nile's Glass? (2:32)Nile's Winemaking Background (5:04)Why Study Fermentation? (11:20)What is Fermentation? (16:49)How Theory Impacts Reality (31:34)Reevaluation of All Values (36:50)Aging (46:41)Aging Coffee (56:38)SEE OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister CinematicBikes & Big IdeasGEAR:30Blister Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Today we're talking about a film that just celebrated its 60th anniversary. 'Ski Party' came out on June 30, 1965; it stars a couple major actors and singers; and when we recently learned of its existence, we immediately knew who we needed to recruit to watch and discuss this movie: Amie Engerbretson.Is ‘Ski Party' a great movie? In some ways, Yes. Is it also a terrible movie? Maybe. But should you watch it? Definitely! And today you're going to hear Amie and Jonathan talk about it all, including several things from the film that we need to inject into today's ski culture. Let Us Know Your Thoughts!Email us here or leave a comment on our site with your hot take or thoughts on the film. Or tell us which movies you'd like to see us cover on Blister Cinematic.RELATED LINKS:BLISTER+ Get Yourself CoveredTOPICS & TIMES:Why This Film? (1:59)Most Rewatchable Scenes (19:30)Best Lines (36:02)What's Aged the Best? (40:48)What's Aged the Worst? (48:29)‘Hottest Take' Award (50:49)Who Needed BLISTER+ the Most? (56:44)Gimme More (58:11)Gimme Less (1:00:22)Burning Questions (1:02:45)Companion Film: Sequel, Prequel, or Spinoff? (1:12:06)Memorabilia You Want the Most (1:16:27)Best Life Lesson (1:18:15)Who Won The Movie? (1:22:12)Our Final Grades (1:22:30)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister PodcastBikes & Big IdeasGEAR:30CRAFTED Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Craft N/A Cocktails are on the rise, but there is still much that needs to change in this space — fundamental things like what we should and shouldn't be calling this whole category, and why that matters. Today, Jonathan Ellsworth discusses these things with our CRAFTED co-host and professional mixologist Eli Brown, who sees the real-world importance of these things every day. You'll hear about the project Eli's working on to create change, and you'll learn why one of the fastest-growing whiskey companies in the world, Uncle Nearest, is so interested in the N/A space.RELATED LINKS:Blister Craft CollectiveBecome a BLISTER+ MemberRaise the Bar programCRAFTED ep 66: Eli w/ Bar 5TOPICS & TIMES:Eli's ‘Raise The Bar' Project (1:46)Zebra Striping & Other Consumer Behavior (7:51)Current Stats in N/A (12:09)Defining a Category By What it Isn't (16:24)Ice Cream Analogy (21:05)Inclusivity (36:37)More on Conventions & Terminology (40:03)Cocktail Creation (45:42)Uncle Nearest & Historical N/A Ties (49:51) SEE OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister CinematicBikes & Big IdeasGEAR:30Blister Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Last week we discussed Forrest Gump, a film that Brendan Leonard believes introduced millions of people to ultrarunning. Today, Cody and Jonathan discuss what many regard as the greatest ultra film of all time, ‘Unbreakable: The Western States 100.' It documents the 2010 running of Western States, and the 2025 race happens this Saturday, June 28. As always, Cody and I discuss what's aged the best, what's aged the worst, who needed BLISTER+ the most, and more.Let Us Know Your Thoughts!Email us here or leave a comment on our site with your hot take or thoughts on the film. Or tell us which movies you'd like to see us cover on Blister Cinematic.RELATED LINKS:BLISTER+ Get Yourself CoveredTOPICS & TIMES:Why This Film? (2:03)Most Rewatchable Scenes (13:26)Best Lines (28:04)What's Aged the Best? (32:23)What's Aged the Worst? (35:53)‘Hottest Take' Award (39:09)Who Needed BLISTER+ the Most? (40:47)Gimme More (41:44)Gimme Less (43:40)Burning Questions (46:38)Companion Film: Sequel, Prequel, or Spinoff? (47:28)Memorabilia You Want the Most (52:35)Best Life Lesson (55:31)Who Won The Movie? (56:56)Our Final Grades (58:02)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister PodcastBikes & Big IdeasGEAR:30CRAFTED Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Forrest Gump premiered on June 23, 1994, then went on to get nominated for 13 Oscar awards, and Tom Hanks won for Best Actor. But according to Brendan Leonard (semi-rad.com), the real story is that this blockbuster film introduced millions of people to the sport of ultrarunning. So Brendan and Jonathan discuss that, plus what's aged the best, what's aged the worst, who needed BLISTER+ the most, and more.RELATED LINKS:BLISTER+ Get Yourself CoveredTOPICS & TIMES:Why This Film?(1:18)Impressions First Time Seeing It? (7:28)Forrest Gump as a Running Movie (11:04)Most Rewatchable Scenes (24:26)Best Lines (29:29)What's Aged the Best? (40:10)What's Aged the Worst? (46:24)‘Hottest Take' Award (54:31)Who Needed BLISTER+ the Most? (58:47)Burning Questions (1:01:01)Sequel, Prequel, or Spinoff? (1:06:58)Memorabilia You Want the Most (1:09:06)Who Won the Movie? (1:15:29)Our Final Grades (1:17:29)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister PodcastBikes & Big IdeasGEAR:30CRAFTED Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In past years, we've done a series called ‘Bikes vs Skis' where we've posed the question: Which bike company is most like which ski company? But this year, we're zooming out a bit, and instead are putting up the whole ski industry vs the bike industry. In part 2 of this conversation, we take a look at the state of ski shops vs bike shops; what each industry is doing to grow participation and engagement in their sport; gear trend wins and fails; and we weigh in on which industry has the brighter future. You'll hear from Blister reviewers Luke Koppa, Jonathan Ellsworth, David Golay, Simon Stewart, Kara Williard, and Xan Marshland.RELATED LINKS:BLISTER+ Get Yourself CoveredSki vs Bike Industry, Part 1Our ‘Bikes vs Skis' Series:Bikes vs Skis, 4th Edition (2023): Part 1Bikes vs Skis, 4th Edition (2023): Part 2Bikes vs Skis, 4th Edition (2023): Part 3Bikes 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 2TOPICS & TIMES:Ski Shops vs Bike Shops (3:13)Growing Participation: Ski vs Bike Industry (12:52)Lift Tickets (25:01)BMX Bikes (26:30)Gear Wins & Fails (29:43)Brighter Future? Ski or Bike Industry? (38:41)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister CinematicCRAFTEDBikes & Big IdeasBlister Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In past years, we've done a series called ‘Bikes vs Skis' where we've posed the question: Which bike company is most like which ski company? But this year, we're zooming out a bit, and instead are putting up the whole ski industry vs the bike industry, to identify the significant similarities or differences; assess the relative health of each; and see how the trends in one might align with trends in the other. Today, you'll hear from Blister reviewers Jonathan Ellsworth, Luke Koppa, David Golay, Simon Stewart, Kara Williard, and Xan Marshland.RELATED LINKS:BLISTER+ Get Yourself CoveredOur ‘Bikes vs Skis' Series:Bikes vs Skis, 4th Edition (2023): Part 1Bikes vs Skis, 4th Edition (2023): Part 2Bikes vs Skis, 4th Edition (2023): Part 3Bikes 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 2TOPICS & TIMES:Health of the Bike Industry (4:52)Volatility in the Ski Industry (12:11)Supply Chain Complexity (16:35)Which Categories are Growing or Shrinking? (18:45)Enduro vs DH Bikes (33:44)Pow Skis & DH Bikes (36:40)Small Brands & Niche Products (39:02)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister CinematicCRAFTEDBikes & Big IdeasBlister Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Today, you — our prestigious GEAR:30 listeners — provided the questions, and Jonathan Ellsworth and Luke Koppa are offering their answers.Topics include our go-to backpacks for ski-touring; how a given brand's size, location, and ethos factor into our own purchasing decisions; what skis to get if you're spending a lot of time cruising slow-speed groomers; when and how to replace ski boot liners when they wear out; and we answer one of the most frequent questions we get: what were our favorite skis this season?RELATED LINKS:Skratch Labs: Fuel Up, Hydrate, & Recover Get Yourself Covered: BLISTER+TOPICS & TIMES:Go-To Ski Touring Backpacks (7:32)Supporting Indie Brands vs. Big Brands (21:07)Ideal Skis for Slower Groomer Laps? (30:56)Ski Boot Liner Longevity: When / How to Replace? (39:11)ON3P Woodsman vs. Moment Countach (49:16)Scarpa 4-Quattro Pro (53:48)Quiver Overlap (101:54)Our Favorite Skis This Season (1:09:58)CHECK OUT OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister CinematicCRAFTEDBikes & Big IdeasBlister Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.