Happy 2025, boarders! Most people take the start of the new year as a reset, an opportunity to reflect, set goals, and look forward to a new year. What’s the easiest way to do this? Journal, duh! Between traveling and filming, we sent Jake and Emma some journal prompts to learn more about joining the Mountain Hardwear Team. New year, new you. It's a new year, and Jake and Emma have a new outerwear team.
What does a ‘fresh start‘ or ‘joining a new team’ with a sponsor mean to you?
JAKE: Mountain Hardwear has made such incredible products for so long now. To be a part of that, and maybe even influence where things can go moving forward, is really exciting. Snowboarding has always been more than just riding and filming tricks. I’m interested in every part of the creative process. Usually, working with a new brand can open creative opportunities you haven’t had a chance to explore in the past. So I’m looking forward to what’s up next here.
EMMA: It’s an opportunity to join a historical brand and shape the future :). I’m excited to meet and work with new people, gain new experiences, and grow with a brand.
What made you most excited when you were considering riding for Mountain Hardwear?
J: I mean, the logo is sick as hell. I’ve always admired it. Wearing the nut feels cool.
I’ve noticed those who grew up using the gear have such a strong infinity for the brand and have held onto their pieces for a long time. It’s a NorCal household staple. So you see the vintage stuff popping up a lot online these days. People are all over it. That type of excitement feels genuine. It comes from a long history of making good products.
E: The opportunity to collaborate and work on new gear! It is a chance to be heard and see unique products and projects come to fruition. Their drive to have us all feel inspired was a fantastic feeling. And hearing Jake was on board… duh ;)
Reflect on past success/experiences with boarding this past year. How did it fuel you to team with MHW?
J: I’ve been really drawn to the product design process for the last few years. Athlete experience offers a unique opportunity for that process. You use the products daily, pushing yourself and the gear to its limits. There’s so much to gain from it. I’m excited to work closely with everyone at the brand who already does such incredible work. We just started, and it’s already looking good.
E: Something that has always been inspiring to me is snowboarding on anything. I love snowboarding on rails, side hits, jumps, or anything that might present itself. It has been cool adapting that into my snowboarding. I am lucky that last year I was able to film a street part and compete in Natural Selection. I think it's been cool that Mountain Hardwear could recognize that versatility in me and find a fit :)
What are some goals and values you and MHW both share?
J: Make quality products to enjoy in the outdoors while doing what we love. Welcome in and offer outdoor access for those who otherwise might not feel comfortable or included.
E: Diversity, inclusion, look out for each other, use gear hard and well :)
3 goals for this year:
J: (1) Get a bunch of photos in print (2) Design and test some really nice new things to snowboard in. (3) Ride more powder
E: (1) Go on a bikepacking trip (2) Do a backside 720 (3) Join a community garden
How can you show kindness to yourself on difficult days?
J: Eat a really dope cookie.
E: I go for a walk and listen to music. I connect with friends, and try to be present and put my phone away :)
WATCH WELCOME TO THE TEAM VIDEOS: