B$Z: Volcom Partners with Alaska Snowboard Guides Using Guide Proven Technology

Volcom and Alaska Snowboard Guides (ASG) will partner for the 2015-16 winter based on a love for big mountain riding and outerwear durable enough to sustain it. Together, as the premier snowboardlifestyle brand, with the only heli-guide operation in Alaska run by and for snowboarders, Volcom will represent its highest-end product, the GORE-TEX® GPT (Guide Proven Technology) collection. 

“Snowboarders are demanding a higher standard for performance as the popularity of backcountry grows,” says Volcom team rider Bryan Iguchi, who has ridden with Alaska Snowboard Guides several times. “It’s really all about developing a very specific snowboarding fit and feel for the riders who are seeking gear made by riders, for riders.”

Operating out of Valdez, Alaska, the ASG helicopter service’s all-snowboarder guides spent last season wearing and testing the product line as they led tours and explored the most next-level peaks in the northern hemisphere. In particular, they took notice of the quality GORE-TEX® fabric and articulated fit. “Volcom’s ability to produce a superior product, and their dedication to board sports, connects for us,” says Dave Geis, owner of ASG and a former professional snowboarder. “This kind of gear, in terms of quality and durability, is something we’ve been waiting years for. When you spend a night out in the backcountry, you understand how important that is.”

“Alaska is a place where function takes precedent over fashion. The rough weather and terrain put quality to the test,” says Volcom team rider Pat Moore, who has also ridden with ASG. “The terrain in Valdez is the biggest, gnarliest terrain I've ever laid eyes on. Before, the only companies making outerwear for Alaska’s elements were ski brands, because that's who was out there. Now snowboarders are the ones in those elements, and they want that same quality.”

Taking feedback and inspiration directly from guides at Baldface Lodge who pioneered the product, the Volcom Guide GORE-TEX® jacket and pant were designed to be the perfect kit when riding serious mountain elements. Features include GORE-TEX® 3-Layer fabric touched up with flannel backing and all the necessary backcountry bells and whistles such as Fully Taped Seams, YKK® AquaGuard® Water Repellent Zippers and patented Volcom Zip-Tech Jacket-to-Pant Interface.

Volcom is looking forward to a continued collaboration with the guides of ASG and Baldface Lodge in 2015-16 and beyond. Geis says, “I’m excited about the creative influence this partnership will have over the coming years on making a super high-end product for anyone who wants to ride in powder conditions.”