Ready for the Kings and Queens of Corbet’s
Posted on
24/01/2025
Our ambassador Erika Vikander is a freeride snowboarder who grew up in the shadow of the Bridger Mountains, among the larger Rocky Mountains in Montana, where the seed of big mountain snowboarding was planted early. After competing across the United States, Erika achieved podium finishes at every Freeride World Qualifying event, earning the coveted spot on the Freeride World Tour in 2018.
Erika competed all around the world on the Freeride World Tour from 2018 to 2023, finishing 3rd overall in 2021 and 2nd overall in 2022.
This year, Erika embarks on another big adventure, competing in the Kings and Queens of Corbet’s Couloir.
Is this your first time competing in the Kings and Queens of Corbet’s Couloir?
I was invited to Kings and Queens in 2019, during its second year. This year feels different because I have a better idea of what to expect, and it is the only freeride event I am participating in this season. The snow level looks much higher this year compared to the previous one, which is encouraging since the event had to be canceled last year due to unsafe conditions. I’m looking forward to getting back to Jackson Hole!
What does participating in the Kings and Queens of Corbet’s Couloir mean to you as an athlete?
Being invited to this prestigious event is an incredible honor as an athlete. The structure of this contest is unlike any other I’ve been involved in; it is 100% athlete-driven from start to finish. That aspect alone is exciting because we, as athletes, are in control of all the big and small factors that go into organizing an event like this.
How does being part of this event inspire you as a freerider and athlete?
Being around so many like-minded athletes from various aspects of the sport is amazing. Everyone has a unique approach to an event like this, and it fuels the desire to perform at your best.
Do you have a favorite BUFF® product that you rely on during intense competitions like this?
I am loving the new Polar Prints Fleece Neckwarmer! The colors are so fun, it super warm, and has just the right amount of stretch
I can’t wait to see how the village of Jackson Hole looks with the recent collaboration between BUFF® and the resort!