Matt Gerdes

American born rider and base-jumper, Matt Gerdes, is a one of our favourite people; not only does he spend his time jumping off mountains in a wingsuit, he is also an exceedingly nice chap who is pretty mean on a pair of skis. Matt claims to be World Champion at having fun in the Powder every year since 1980 hence why we think he deserves his place on the Whitedot Pro Team. Based out of the French Alps with Chamonix and Les Arcs as his base for the winter, we caught up with Matt as he launched his new book ‘The Great Book of Base’…

Tell us why you have decided to ski on Whitedot skis this season?
The WDF philosophy is parallel with my own – strive to attain a high level of performance without a bunch of bullshit, while maintaining a high level of humility.

What elements of the Whitedot skis makes them a great ski for you?
Balanced design – the Redeemer is highly versatile and a dependable friend in big mountains. The top surface design is simple and classy and as a result, it stands out.

How did you get into Freeride skiing?
Something about Scott Schmidt’s yellow one piece really turned me on when I was a kid, and Plake was obviously getting so much pussy… essentially I wanted to be just like them and the only way to do that was to move to the mountains and ski every day. Once that began, I just became (like all of us) totally addicted to the sensations of “glisse”.

What you up to when not on the piste?
I don’t spend much time on the piste. But I think I know what you mean, so the answer is: Probably wingsuit BASE jumping

You're a freeskier, what does that mean to YOU?
It means that for much of the year, my life revolves around mountains and weather.

Who or what are your biggest skiing influences?
There are so many amazing skiers… Shane was amazing because he made himself so accessible and didn’t take himself as seriously as most, which I respect a great deal – I wish more skiers would take heed. We’re in this because it’s fun, and our attitudes and interactions with each other should reflect that.

Words: Whitedot Skis
Pictures: Adam Gorrill, www.fronthq.com / Mike Steen, www.paragliders.com