Monday, February 14, 2011

Canyons Footage on EXTRA!

Extra! TV was filming at Canyons Resort during the Sundance Film Festival a few weeks ago. I was asked to provide some B roll for the production. I also edited this highlight reel for Canyons website. This is a bit out of the ordinary for this blog, but I have to admit it is really cool to see my footage appearing on National TV, even if it is just B roll. Here is the highlight reel, my footage is the non interview stuff. Establishing/scenic/mountain/hotel/etc...

Wednesday, February 2, 2011

Spark R&D splitboard bindings

The splitboard... The hippie shred's answer to a chairlift. For most riders, the splitboard has never really been an attractive alternative to snow shoes. There have always been 2 main problems, and they are pretty big ones... the board and bindings.



The boards have come a long way. Over the last few years many companies have started making twin tip and reverse camber splits (you know, the kind of board you would actually want to ride). Every year more companies are making split boards, and it is looking like in 2011/2012 there are going to be a ton of new options. Splitboarding is coming into it's own.

The binding interface has always been a major downfall. Using the Voile system has always been the most readily available option. The first problem, weight; the second problem, with that system you have a huge gap between the board and binding. This creates flex problems, stance issues, and an overall awkward feeling while riding. It seems this has always just been "accepted" as part of splitboarding... Not anymore.

Enter Spark R and D. This small company out of Montana has changed the game. They have created a binding that solves all the classic problems. When I saw these bindings I had two reactions, first, why didn't I think of that? Second, how can I get a set? When I finally got my hands on a pair I was blown away. They were so much lighter than my old setup! I am not just talking a few grams, holding them hand in hand there was a huge difference. My first time out on them I almost forgot I was on a split. Riding down felt like... actual snowboarding! No weird flex, no huge gap, no "it's part of splitboarding" excuses.



If your into splitboarding you should get a pair of these. If you are not into splitboarding now is a good time to take a serious look at it... then again, what am I saying? There is nothing more fun than paying top dollar to sit in a lift line and fight with a bunch of tourists for a few pow turns...