Gordini, the manufacturer of cold-weather gear for more than 65 years, expanded its athlete team with skier and speed flyer Michael “Bird” Shaffer. He joins Julian Carr, Gaby Palko, Rafael Pease, and Robin Van Gyn.
Raised off-the-grid in the Pacific Northwest, Shaffer divides his time between the North Cascades of Washington State and Chamonix, France. Having spent the past 25-plus years exploring and skiing some of the most technical terrain in the Pacific Northwest and the Alps, Shaffer has been tapped for features in Warren Miller Entertainment films, among others, and holds first descents on Mount Rainier, and in the North Cascades.
“Bird is a living legend. He is recognized for pushing the sport of freeride and speed flying to new heights and spreading a magnetic and misfit culture throughout the industry. Yet, it is his unbridled joy, infectious spirit and unconventional authenticity that makes him a great addition to the Gordini team,” said Brett Wagenheim, Gordini marketing director. “‘Bird lives by the motto of “full wingspan” and brings originality, endless positive energy and lighthearted humor to all his crafts. Our athletes embody our values and serve as thought leaders and change-makers in their communities. We value their commitments, expertise and deep love for snow and sport.”
Gordini continues to build on its history of collaboration with its passionate and talented athlete team. The brand’s Cirque and Front Line products were designed through athlete partnerships with Julian Carr and Rafa Pease Carr, a pro skier and founder of the Cirque Mountain Running series, championing trail access and fostering community engagement. Pease is a backcountry splitboarder, social and environmental actist and filmmaker. His work reflects and instills deep respect and responsibility for wild landscapes and vulnerable populations. Skier, sailor, artist, former Alaska public radio host and current environmentalist Palko calls Valdez, Alaska, home and advises on sustainable practices within the outdoor industry. Professional snowboarder and mountain guide, Robin Van Gyn recently directed the docu-series “Fabric,” celebrating women’s contributions to surf, skate and snow sports.
