Let’s get one thing straight: Glen Plake is not a mascot. He is the living, breathing, mohawk-sporting soul of skiing. While half the industry is busy chasing the latest grams-shaving trend for uphill cardio nerds, Plake has been out there actually skiing the mountain—bumps, steep lines, and everything in between. So, when I heard he was designing a kit with Kühl, I stopped scrolling.
Kühl is usually the brand you see on dads at the brewery after a light hike. But with Plake's input, they've dropped the Defiant Freeride Shell and Bib, and it looks like they're finally taking the big mountain seriously.
Why This Matters
Most "collaborations" are just a pro skier slapping their name on a jacket colorway that was decided by a marketing team in a boardroom. This is different. Plake is a gear nerd. He knows that if you can't articulate your knees in a couloir, you're going to have a bad time. He knows that pockets need to be accessible when you're wearing a harness or a pack.
This kit represents a collision of old-school durability and modern tech. It’s built for skiers who actually abuse their gear, not just pose in the lift line.
The Gear: Built for Abuse
If you're looking to upgrade your kit this season, here is what this collection brings to the table:
- The Kühl Defiant Freeride Shell: This isn't some flimsy windbreaker. It's a proper shell. That means you need to know how to layer. It’s designed to handle wind, wet snow, and the occasional tree branch whip. The fit is likely generous—Plake comes from the era of style, not spandex.
- The Kühl Defiant Bib: Bibs are non-negotiable in deep snow. If you're still skiing in pants, you're doing it wrong. A good bib keeps the powder out of your crack when you inevitably tomahawk. Expect reinforced cuffs because ski edges are sharp, and Plake knows that.
The Verdict
I haven't put this specific fabric through the wringer yet, but I know Plake. He respects the mountain, and he doesn't put his name on trash. If you are tired of the ultra-light, rip-if-you-look-at-it gear dominating the backcountry scene, this heavier-duty approach is a welcome return to form.
Just remember: Buying the gear doesn't give you the skills. You still have to point your skis downhill and commit.
Source: Powder
