The waiting game is over. The 2026 Freeride World Tour (FWT) just kicked off at Baqueira Beret, and if this first stop is any indicator, the progression curve this season is going to be vertical.
Let’s be real about the conditions. The Pyrenees looked stunning under the sun, but the venue was plagued by wind-buffed aspects and sharky, unpredictable snow. This wasn't a bottomless pow day; this was a technical exam where edge control meant the difference between the podium and a tomahawk. It takes a specific kind of mental grit to throw big tricks when the landing feels like concrete.
Snowboard: Rookies and Swiss Precision
The women’s snowboard division set the tone, and it was a rookie who schooled the field. Mia Jones didn't ride like a newcomer. While others hesitated on the variable snow, Jones kept her head level, navigating a creative line and stomping big airs with the kind of confidence usually reserved for tour veterans. Taking gold in your first FWT stop? That’s a statement.
On the men's side, Swiss rider Liam Rivera reminded everyone why he's a threat. Coming off a third-place overall finish in 2025, Rivera dissected the venue. He capped his run with a clean backflip on the final feature—a high-consequence move given the firm landings. He took the win, while US athlete Holden Samuels snagged third, proving he’s still hungry after his solid 2025 campaign.
Ski: Technical Domination
If you still think mogul skiers can’t freeride, you aren't paying attention. Justine Dufour-Lapointe (JDL) is arguably the most technical skier on the mountain. The former Olympian turned 2025 FWT Champion picked up exactly where she left off. Her run was a masterclass in fluidity, punctuated by a clean backflip in the guts of the course. She took first, leaving no doubt that she intends to defend her title. US skiers Wynter Mcbride and Molly Armanino fought hard in the difficult conditions to secure fifth and ninth, respectively.
The Men's Ski Showdown
The Ski Men category was a brawl. Toby Rafford, last year's Baqueira winner, put down a heavy run for second place, but it was Ben Richards who stole the show. Richards didn't just survive the wind-buff; he attacked it. Lacing clean turns up top, he sent a massive flip followed by an even bigger spin to claim the top spot. This is the modern standard: if you aren't spinning huge over exposure, you aren't winning.
US athlete Ross Tester grabbed fifth, staying consistent, while rookie Joey Leonardo made an exciting debut in 14th place. Welcome to the big leagues, kid.
Gear Check: Riding the Variable
Watching pros handle wind-buffed, variable terrain highlights the importance of equipment that can charge through chop without deflecting. You need dampness and stability for these conditions.
My top picks for variable freeride terrain:
- Skis: Salomon QST 106 Skis – These things eat chatter for breakfast.
- Boots: Tecnica Cochise 130 Boots – You need a stiff flex to drive the ski when the snow gets heavy.
- Protection: Sweet Protection Trooper 2Vi Helmet – Don't mess around with your brain bucket in rocky terrain.
What's Next?
The circus packs up and heads to the French Alps next week for the Val Thorens Pro. The athletes have a few days to lick their wounds and tune their edges. If you're planning to witness the madness in person this season, book your French Alps ski trip now before the best spots are gone.
The bar has been set. The conditions were tough, but the riding was tougher. See you in France.
Source: Unofficial Networks
