Jeremy Jones, a trailblazer in big mountain snowboarding and founder of Protect Our Winters, shares gripping tales of his relentless pursuit of new lines and first descents. He reflects on the evolution of snowboarding from its 1980s roots, emphasizing mentorship and community values. Jeremy also discusses the intersection of snowboarding and environmental advocacy, inspiring listeners to engage in climate action. With personal anecdotes from harrowing Himalayan adventures to family dynamics in sports, this conversation is as enlightening as it is thrilling.
Jeremy Jones, a pioneering snowboarder, has significantly influenced the sport through his groundbreaking achievements and innovations in backcountry riding.
He emphasizes the critical connection between mental resilience and skill development, sharing insights from his book 'The Art of Shralpinism'.
Jones co-founded Protect Our Winters to mobilize the outdoor sports community around climate change awareness and sustainability initiatives.
His experiences riding in the Himalayas highlight the importance of adaptability and resilience in facing both natural challenges and beauty.
Promoting a supportive community among snowboarders, Jones fosters mentorship and collaboration to help elevate the sport and its future generations.
Deep dives
The Legacy of Jeremy Jones
Jeremy Jones, known as a pioneer in big mountain snowboarding, has made a substantial impact on the sport since its inception. With a career spanning decades, he has navigated some of the most challenging terrains in the world, pushing the limits of what is possible in snowboarding. His contributions extend beyond riding; he founded Jones Snowboards and Protect Our Winters, advocating for climate change awareness and action. His storied history includes countless video segments, intense experiences, and a commitment to the sport that inspires both current and future generations.
Early Influences and the Rise of Snowboarding
Growing up in Massachusetts, Jones was drawn to snowboarding due to its roots in skateboarding, leading him to embrace the sport as it gained popularity in the 1980s. He experienced firsthand the rapid evolution of snowboarding, witnessing milestones like the first halfpipe competitions, which showcased the sport’s growing potential. His early competitive successes paved the way for a professional career, allowing him to travel and push the boundaries of big mountain riding. With each ride on varying terrain, Jones honed his skills and solidified his place within the snowboarding community.
The Art of Shralpinism
Beyond his riding, Jones authored 'The Art of Shralpinism,' a book that encapsulates his philosophy on snowboarding and mountain culture. This book emphasizes the relationship between mindset and skills necessary for navigating the mountains, advocating for an understanding of both safety and enjoyment while pursuing adventure. It combines personal stories with broader messages about the importance of mental resilience in challenging environments. Through this work, Jones aims to provide valuable insights for both novice and seasoned riders, helping them appreciate the nuances of the sport.
Climate Advocacy and Protect Our Winters
As a passionate advocate for environmental issues, Jones co-founded Protect Our Winters to unite the outdoor sports community around climate action. His firsthand experience witnessing changes in the mountain environments deeply influenced his commitment to this cause. Jones believes that connecting the broader outdoor community to climate action is essential for creating lasting change. Through his efforts with the organization, he aims to inspire others to take climate issues seriously and make active contributions toward sustainability in their own communities.
The Journey in the Himalayas
Jones shares his experiences of riding in the Himalayas, where he faced both breathtaking beauty and harsh realities. This journey was not merely a downhill ride but a testament to the allure and danger of the mountains. He recounts the challenges of navigating unpredictable weather and changing snow conditions while seeking new lines. The expedition solidified his belief in the importance of adaptability and resilience, both on and off the mountain, continuing to shape his approach to snowboarding and life.
Freeride Philosophy and Team Dynamics
Within the realm of freeride snowboarding, Jones emphasizes the significance of camaraderie and collaboration among riders. He believes that collective efforts within the community can further enhance the sport's growth and recognition. Jones has fostered a family-like atmosphere at Jones Snowboards, where riders support one another's endeavors on and off the slopes. This dynamic facilitates a community where mentorship thrives and aspiring athletes can learn from seasoned professionals.
Shaping the Future of Snowboarding
As a pro snowboarder who has transitioned into team management and product development, Jones reflects on the importance of adapting to changing landscapes within snowboarding. He recognizes the unique challenges facing young riders today, including the need for effective self-promotion in a competitive industry. By encouraging aspiring pros to blend creativity with work ethic, he hopes to inspire the next generation of riders. Jones remains optimistic about the future of snowboarding and its ability to adapt and thrive in an evolving environment.
Support for the Snowboarding Community
Jones expresses his appreciation for the snowboard community and acknowledges the vital role it plays in his life and career. He emphasizes the importance of supporting one another, from athletes to fans, to elevate the entire sport. Remaining humble and grounded in his experiences, Jones encourages others to adopt the same spirit of gratitude and camaraderie. Acknowledging both the challenges and triumphs, he believes a collective effort and shared passion will continue to make snowboarding a cherished pursuit.
Personal Reflections and Ongoing Growth
Reflecting on his journey, Jones acknowledges the emotional and physical highs and lows that come with being a professional snowboarder. He embraces the opportunity for personal growth, using his experiences in the mountains to strengthen his character and resilience. As he continues to evolve in his riding and advocacy work, he remains excited about the potential for new adventures. Jones is dedicated to fostering growth not only within himself but also in the broader snowboarding culture.
This week’s guest is a human. And he’s on a mission to relentlessly pursue new dream lines on human powered expeditions. Jeremy Jones is a pioneer of the sport and has claimed many firsts in the backcountry world. His knowledge is deep and his experiences are uniquely his. He’s filmed an insane number of video segments and is perhaps the most notable rider of his kind. So join us, with our jaws dropped, as we listen to his countless stories detailing his greatest adventures and gnarliest lines on this week’s episode of The Bomb Hole!
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