Catch a glimpse into the world of these professional mountain guides and see where our worlds overlap. Rooted in the ethos of exploration and education, Mountain Madness do more than hike, they share the joy of the outdoors. As they work to equip adventurers with the necessary skills and knowledge to safely enjoy the mountains, we are honored to equip them with the gear they need for their journeys. What they wear These guides are responsible not only for themselves, but also for the well-being of their guests and crew. The last thing they need to worry about is the clothes on their back, so we work tirelessly with them to create professional grade gear for all their expeditions. Tips from Professional Mountain Guide, Sean For a Mountain Madness guide, nothing beats being prepared. Below are some tips so you can trust in your gear, and yourself. Always carry a map, first aid kit and headlamp. Consult other hikers for up-to-date conditions. Layer up for warmth. Remove a layer if you get hot. Bring a summit treat! Tell someone your plan and when you’ll be back. When it’s raining, keep some layers dry in your pack. Bring a GPS with an SOS function. Go slow, it’s not a race. Drink ample water and have a purification system. Be willing to turn around if conditions become unsafe.

Can you tell us about your early beginnings in skiing? I started skiing in Maine when I was two years old. Growing up, I was deeply involved in ski racing until I was 18, traveling around the East Coast for competitions. After high school, I tried college, but it didn’t work out for me. I joined the army for a while, and upon returning, I realized I didn’t want to stay where I grew up like everyone else. What prompted your move to Vail, Colorado? An old race coach of mine had started a ski shop in Vail. I reached out to her, and she offered to help me find a place to live and gave me a job. I was eager to get back into skiing after taking some time off, so I left the next day. I wanted to immerse myself in skiing again; this was the perfect opportunity. How did you transition from working in a ski shop to becoming a ski patroller? I spent about three years tuning and renting skis at the shop. During that time, I met Matt “Mongo” Rieder, a ski patroller who introduced me to the idea of patrolling. I got hired that spring, returned to Maine to pack my things, and moved out here permanently. This is my tenth year as a ski patroller. What do you enjoy most about being a ski patroller? I love it. If you’re going to ski all winter and live in a place like this, you might as well get paid to do it. The camaraderie is incredible. Many of us started around the same time, becoming like a family. We know each other’s kids, hang out during the summer, and support each other whenever needed. It’s a tight-knit community that’s hard to leave. Written by: Helly Hansen Article Tags Vail ResortsSkiing Share this article Can you walk us through a typical morning before the mountain opens? Sure. Normally, we load the gondola about 45 minutes before the public. We head to our assigned outposts, set up signs, check gates, and inspect the terrain. If there’s been new snow or wind, we’ll perform avalanche control by ski cutting, stomping cornices, or setting off charges to mitigate risks. Ensuring the mountain is safe for guests when they arrive is crucial. What are your favorite aspects of the job? Avalanche control mornings are a highlight. Being out there as the sun rises, sometimes in challenging weather, and working with the team to make the mountain safe—there’s nothing like it. Another rewarding aspect is helping people with injuries. It's incredibly fulfilling when we can assist them and get them to higher medical care. How do you prepare mentally for the unexpected each day? Every day, when I put on my boots, I remind myself that anything can happen. You have to be ready to make quick decisions and stick with them. Our training is essential—it prepares us for whatever situations arise. Staying calm and confident is vital because guests depend on us. What keeps your passion for skiing alive after all these years? There’s something indescribable about carving down a mountain, whether it’s fresh powder hitting your face or gliding on smooth spring snow under blue skies. It’s a feeling of freedom and exhilaration. Sharing those experiences with friends and seeing guests enjoy the mountain makes it all the more special. Any advice for someone considering becoming a ski patroller? A: Trust your training and instincts. When you make a decision, stick with it and don’t second-guess yourself. Use your team for support—they’re there to help you. And always be willing to learn from every experience. It’s a challenging job, but the rewards and the sense of community make it incredibly worthwhile. How does it feel to see guests enjoying the mountain after you’ve prepared it? It’s an amazing feeling. On powder days, hearing the hoots and hollers of guests as they make their first tracks is rewarding. Knowing that we played a part in making their experience safe and enjoyable makes all the hard work worthwhile.

What do you enjoy most about skiing at resorts? I love skiing at the resort because it’s where I connect with my friends and the larger ski community. It’s where I get most of my socialization during the week. Being with a big group, hooting and hollering down the slopes, is incredible. Skiing together is almost like a conversation—someone leads, tries a new trick, or takes a new line, and the rest of us are inspired to follow or put our spin on it. Its self-expression combined with camaraderie makes it so unique for me. Do you prefer skiing alone or with others? I ski almost always with others. I don’t really like to ski alone, maybe once or twice a year at most. Being around other skiers, especially those who are better than me, energizes and inspires me. Watching them move and trying to replicate their lines or tricks helps me improve my own skills. For me, skiing is all about sharing the experience with people. How do you balance resort skiing with backcountry adventures? I probably spend about 60 days a year at resorts and around 50 days in the backcountry. While most of my filmed content is in the backcountry, I still get more days at the resort. Places like Jackson Hole offer the best of both worlds—you can take a tram up and then head out of bounds, accessing side-country terrain that feels remote but is still lift-accessed. It’s different from being deep in the backcountry because you’re not as isolated and can still run into people. How do you approach safety in both environments? In resorts, especially in North America, I consider the environment to be more controlled, so I don’t think about safety as much. Of course, I ski responsibly and with people who can handle themselves. But in the backcountry, safety is a constant concern. Avalanches are a significant risk; you must be prepared with the right gear and knowledge. The unpredictability of the mountain requires you to be constantly aware. Written by: Helly Hansen Article Tags Vail ResortsSkiing Share this article What are your thoughts on the differences between North American and European ski resorts? In North America, resorts are highly controlled, with clear markings and patrols managing avalanche risks. Terrain changes are well-marked, and you can generally count on consistent conditions. In Europe, the boundaries between controlled and uncontrolled areas aren’t always as clear, so you ski with more self-responsibility. It’s a different mindset. You must be more prepared and can’t rely as much on the resort to manage hazards. How do you view ski patrols in your skiing experience? I greatly respect ski patrollers; they are crucial in keeping the mountain safe. However, there’s still a part of me from when I was younger that gets a bit anxious when I see a patroller, wondering if I’ve made a mistake or done something wrong. But overall, I appreciate their work and rely on them to be there in case of an accident. How important is high-quality gear in your skiing? High-quality gear becomes essential when tackling challenging terrain or venturing into remote areas. In easy conditions, you might get away with basic gear, but when you’re in the backcountry or pushing your limits, you rely on your equipment not just for performance but for safety. The further you are from help, the more you need gear that won’t let you down.  Technologies like lightweight, breathable, and waterproof materials make a significant difference. They allow me to carry essential items without adding too much weight, which is crucial for long days in the backcountry. Have you contributed to gear development or provided feedback on equipment? Yes, I provide input on gear, especially after spending extended periods using it in various conditions. When you rely on gear in extreme situations, you develop strong opinions about what works and what doesn’t. Sharing that feedback helps manufacturers improve their products, benefiting everyone who uses them. How has your skiing evolved over the years? I ski more now than I did when I was a racer. Back then, skiing was more structured with specific training and racing schedules. Now, as a professional skier, there’s so much more to explore and master. The possibilities are endless—whether it’s venturing into new terrain, learning different techniques, or traveling to ski in other parts of the world. That constant evolution keeps me passionate about the sport. What role does technology like breathable waterproof membranes play in your skiing? Technologies like breathable waterproof membranes are game-changers. They keep you dry while allowing sweat to escape, which is essential when you’re exerting yourself in the backcountry. Good gear lets you stay out longer and remain comfortable, allowing you to focus on the experience rather than worrying about the elements. It’s essential because if the gear is too heavy or doesn’t perform well, I might choose not to bring it, which could compromise safety.

How did your background lead you to become a ski patroller? I grew up here in Vail, Colorado, and skiing has been a part of my life since I could walk. My parents were ski patrollers, so I saw them in action from a young age and thought it was the coolest thing imaginable. I started with ski racing, then moved into freestyle and big mountain skiing. I knew you had to be 21 to join the patrol, so I went to college in Oregon for a year and then finished up in Fort Collins, Colorado. But I always knew I wanted to return here and join the patrol. That was ten years ago, and time has flown by. Did your family’s involvement in ski patrol influence your decision? Absolutely. My parents started us skiing as soon as we could walk. There are old pictures of us as kids up on the mountain, even riding in backpacks on their backs. Our lives revolved around skiing. While my siblings went in different directions—my oldest brother is a welder in Texas, and my sister had knee issues that keep her from skiing much—I always knew this was where I wanted to be. What’s the sense of community among the ski patrollers at Vail? It’s like a big family. We have patrollers of all ages, and many have been here for years. We look forward to winter all year long and are always happy to be back together. We’ve been through challenging situations that bond us closely, and we have each other’s backs no matter what. We also have end-of-season parties where we let loose, have fun, and give awards like Rookie of the Year or Patroller of the Year. It’s a tight-knit community that’s hard to find elsewhere. Written by: Helly Hansen Article Tags Vail ResortsSkiing Share this article Can you walk us through a typical morning before the resort opens? It depends on whether it’s an avalanche control morning or a regular day. On a typical day, we head to our assigned outposts after our morning meeting at 7:45 am. We check and prepare toboggans, perform trail checks for any hazards like rocks or logs, and ensure everything is safe for guests. We also get ready for medical calls since we’re a busy mountain. On avalanche control mornings, we start an hour earlier. We have specific routes where we do control work, including ski cutting or setting off charges to trigger small slides before the public arrives. How crucial is that first hour for the rest of the day? It’s super important. Getting everything done before guests arrive is crucial because anything can happen once they’re on the mountain. If we miss something—like failing to check a run that’s supposed to be groomed—we’ll hear about it quickly. It’s our responsibility to ensure the mountain is safe, and that sets the tone for the entire day. What do you enjoy most about your job? I love taking a few runs in the quiet of the morning before the public arrives. Skiing wide-open runs with no one else around is a peaceful way to start the day. It gives me a sense of freedom and reminds me why I love this job. On powder days, getting those first tracks is a special perk. Being first on the mountain, watching the sunrise—it’s an incredible feeling that never gets old. How do you mentally prepare for each day? I like to wake up early, have coffee, and mentally prepare by reminding myself that anything can happen, but I’m trained and ready for it. We have a patrol gym next to our locker room where many of us will work out or listen to music to get in the right headspace. Being physically and mentally ready is important because the job can be demanding. What’s the most challenging part of being a ski patroller? The physical aspect can be challenging, especially during the middle of winter when we’re busy with early mornings and avalanche control work. It can wear on you physically and mentally. But it’s important to hang in there and remember how fantastic this job is. Taking care of yourself is crucial—eating well, staying fit, and getting rest when you can. Any advice for someone starting out as a ski patroller? Be open to new experiences, work hard, and don’t hesitate to take advice from more experienced patrollers. Keep a positive attitude, and remember that what you’re doing helps others. It’s rewarding to impact people’s lives, whether it’s a small gesture or assisting someone on their worst day. Also, communication is critical; we’re a team and rely on each other. How does it feel to see guests enjoying the mountain after you’ve prepared it? It’s gratifying. Sometimes, I forget how special this place is because I’ve grown up here. Seeing guests from all over the world light up when they experience the mountain reminds me of how lucky I am to call this home and to work here. It reinforces why we work hard to make the mountain safe and enjoyable for everyone.

What do you love most about skiing at resorts? One thing I love about resort skiing is the sheer number of laps you can get in. You can cover around 30,000 vertical feet of downhill skiing in a day, which is fantastic for improving your technique and tactics. That volume and repetition help you progress as a skier. Plus, riding lifts allows you to access a variety of terrain and really test yourself. But perhaps the most fun part is shredding with friends—the community feel of lapping runs together, watching each other ski, and having continuous fun. Do you prefer skiing with friends over skiing alone? Absolutely. There’s nothing like skiing with a group of good friends at the resort. We hype each other up and cheer each other on, putting you in a different mindset that makes skiing even more enjoyable. I definitely love skiing with friends more than skiing alone. How do you balance resort skiing with backcountry adventures? It depends on the time of the season. Early on, I focus more on backcountry skiing—about 70% backcountry to 30% resort—to build uphill strength and endurance. It shifts to around 60% backcountry and 40% resort as the season progresses. I don’t like being put in a box; I enjoy experiencing the mountains in all their forms. While I’m passionate about freeride mountaineering and pushing myself in the backcountry, there’s nothing quite like the mileage and skill development you get from resort skiing. Written by: Helly Hansen Article Tags Vail ResortsSkiing Share this article What types of terrain do you enjoy most at the resort? It depends on the conditions. I love shredding bumps with friends—it’s so fun and brings a big grin to my face. A perfectly groomed run can also be incredibly joyful, allowing you to link turns and go fast.  How do you approach safety while skiing in resorts? Wearing a helmet and being mindful of others on the slopes is crucial since resorts can get crowded. It’s important to ski within your ability level, but sometimes pushing yourself helps you learn how to recover from tricky situations. I didn’t mind crashing when I was younger—I would send it off huge cliffs without much concern. Now, I’m more strategic about when I go big because I want to avoid injuries. I’ve had concussions in the past, so I plan my moves more carefully. Do you carry avalanche safety gear while skiing in resorts? Generally, in the U.S., resort boundaries are well-marked, and in-bounds areas are avalanche-controlled by ski patrol. If I plan to go into side-country or backcountry terrain accessible from the resort, I carry all the necessary equipment—beacon, probe, shovel—and stay informed about avalanche conditions. But I typically don’t carry that gear if I stay in bounds. What are your thoughts on ski patrol and their role in resorts? We really appreciate our ski patrollers. They do so much work to get the mountain open, often starting early to perform avalanche control and ensure safety across the terrain. They manage hazards we might not even be aware of, allowing us to enjoy as much of the mountain as possible. Their job is hard but essential, and once you’ve been helped by ski patrol, you gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of what they do behind the scenes. How important is quality gear for you, and do you have any favorites? Quality gear is crucial because you’re exposed to all sorts of weather and conditions throughout the winter. Having warm, weatherproof, and windproof equipment keeps you safe and comfortable in the elements. I love Merino wool base layers—they’re warm and have been a consistent favorite over the years. In the backcountry, a good puffy jacket is essential. For in-bounds skiing, I’m enjoying gear with functional features like big thigh pockets. The Odin pants are great because they have a beacon pocket higher up on the bib, which is convenient. How many days a year do you spend skiing? It’s a lot! We ski in the summer, heading to places like South America or New Zealand, and extend the season into the spring. Some days involve intense efforts, like climbing over 10,000 vertical feet, so rest days are important. Since skiing is my job and passion, I’m out there for most of the season, but I’ve never counted the total days.

Their mission took them to the most pristine part of this iconic mountain, in an area where skiing is not just a winter sport but represents a lifestyle that is all about adventure and risk management.  An unknown adventure in a historic valley Paul de Groot, known for his passion for pushing boundaries in the backcountry, shares his fascination with the Pigne d'Arolla in his new movie. This imposing mountain has a north-facing slope with hanging glaciers that rarely offers the opportunity for skiing, making the experience all the more special. The combination of complex terrain, snow conditions, and the peaceful nature of the valley makes this area one of the Alps' best-kept secrets.  “What attracts me to the Pigne d'Arolla is not only the beauty of the mountain but the rarity with which it is possible to ski this face. The flanks of the mountainside are not passable, but the middle occasionally turns white, which makes this descent unique,” Paul says.  Written by: Helly Hansen Article Tags Skiing Share this article Challenge and preparation: the key to success Together with Loïc, Paul had to plan carefully to make this mission a success. Instead of opting for a crowded mountain hut, they chose a tent to spend the freezing night, waiting for the perfect conditions to climb the summit. Proper preparation, including knowledge of avalanche danger and weather reports, was essential for their safety.  Paul stresses the importance of reliable equipment: “In such conditions, my life depends on having the right clothing and equipment. With Helly Hansen, I know I'm in the right place – the clothing not only keeps me warm when needed but is also breathable, lightweight, and durable. Exactly the functionalities I need.’  The difference between staying alive and feeling alive For Paul de Groot, exploring these unexplored areas is not just about technical achievement but also about feeling free and overcoming mental challenges. “During the climb up, in the dark under the stars with a heavy backpack, I wondered what I was doing there, but at the same time, I enjoyed the thrill of the adventure. The moments of doubt, followed by pure ecstasy during the descent; there is little more that makes you feel in every fiber of your body that you are alive,” says Paul.  This project highlights not only Paul and Loïc's technical prowess but also their passion for adventure and the beauty and unpredictability of the mountains.