CELEBRATING INSPIRATIONAL WOMEN

Gisele's Story

Name: Gisele
Rider Type: Skier

1. Can you share your personal journey into free riding and what initially inspired you to explore the mountains?

Growing up big mountain skiing in Canada was my first taster. We raced gates all season, rain, hail, shine…. The only exception, snow. If it snowed, race training was off and adventure time was activated. We skied trails, trees, gulleys and chutes. We explored every corner of our big quiet mountain, spending more time on snow than at school was the formation of my love of the mountains and the feeling of being so small in such a big beautiful world. 

2. What does International Women's Day mean to you, and how does your passion for the mountains fit into that celebration?

International Women’s Day is a time to stand for our passion and our place in the mountains. Its a moment of reflection for the past and the future, knowing how far we’ve come as a society and being able to share this place with people who share the same passions as us.

3. Can you describe a memorable day or moment on the mountain that really captured the spirit of free riding for you?

A recent moment which reminded me of my love of FreeRide was a sunny powder day. We climbed up closed runs here in Les 3 Vallées with an understanding of terrain and risk all for the thrill of 3 minutes of turns in fresh powder before everyone else.

4. Have you encountered any challenges as a woman enjoying free riding, and how have you learned or grown from those experiences?

There is still a misconception of how woman exist in the mountains. Some see us as crazy, some as icons, and some as lacking knowledge. This became increasingly apparent to me just yesterday in the ski shop. Looking to replace some equipment for a hike up to a line, the 3 shop assistants shocked and not willing to help me acquire what I needed to complete my journey. It reminds me we still have a way to go but it’s also empowering knowing I am pushing against the barriers people put up themselves.

5. How has being part of the free riding community, whether locally or through FreeRide Republic, enriched your overall experience in the mountains?

FreeRide Republic has provided a place for me to share my passion and share the love of the mountains. It is a sport and a place to feel free and also ever so small in such an enormous world. The mountains engulf you but you still have a small place with other people with whom you can share that with. It’s a place to share knowledge, moments and memories and also bring along those people on your own new adventures.

6. In your view, what unique contributions do recreational free riders bring to the mountain culture, especially for women?

Women, especially educated and passionate women, bring a sense of security to the FreeRide community. We have a passion, yet a knowledge of the existing dangers. In sharing our knowledge and understanding of all of these individual elements we provide a space where we can share and explore places worth seeing and snow worth skiing safely. Hoping to help share the potential dangers and how we can manage them together.

7. What advice would you give to women who are curious about free riding but might feel hesitant to give it a try?

Find your people, and find those with knowledge. Maybe you look up to them, maybe they’re intimidating because of the wealth of knowledge they hold. Sometimes you have to jump in the deep end to learn to swim. Start talking with them, see if they will take you on mini adventures first to find your footing and the feeling and let the world slowly consume you from there. It’s a beautiful place beyond the boundaries.

8. How do you balance the thrill of free riding with the importance of staying safe on the mountain?

Knowledge and understanding of mother nature is the balance we tread between when choosing a line to ride. If the elements are against you, you risk your life. It’s not always about what you tackle, it’s how and when you do it. I find my life to be far more important than conquering a mountain on the wrong day.

9. Who or what has been a significant source of support or inspiration on your free riding journey?

My parents have always been my inspiration to escaping into the mountains. They always live for adventure, ski touring, heliskiing, learning about conditions and sharing those passions and potential of what lies beyond the piste. They always push me to see what else is out there and what lies beyond the ropes. I want to follow in those footsteps and continue to explore and learn.

10. What does your ideal day on the mountains look like, and what keeps drawing you back to this lifestyle?

My dream day in the mountain is one with very little crowds, the perfect snow pack and friends who enjoy tearing through the snow. Weather a walk, traverse or pre-assessment is involved, fresh lines are always on the menu. Some new snow or a touch of sunshine are always welcome but not essential. A home made sandwich and a biscuit are always required as well as a tea to warm up.