Snowboarding
In two years, Gigi rode 20 different prototype stages and logged 200 days of on-snow testing.
During our chat with Travis Rice, we found out that the superhuman spent an entire week in Colico, Italy, at the Union Bindings' headquarters working on his 2014/15 signature model. Travis told us how much it is important to a rider to follow all the construction process step by step: from his pro-model's early designs to the final tests.
In July 2010 the engineers at Union and Gigi Ruf set out to redefine the process of snowboard binding development and performance. The idea was to use strength and structure only where necessary: reduced weight, enhanced board feel and comfort throughout the base by creating a multi-layered, multi-density EVA "running shoe sole" concept.
During the two years that followed, Gigi rode 20 different prototype stages, and logged 200 days of on-snow testing. From frigid Austrian hardpack to fluffy Japanese powder, from summer camp's slushy halfpipes to sketchy lines in Alaska, the all-new Contact Pro has paid its dues.
Check out this clip about Gigi's testing stages and the Union mini-website about his Contact Pro model.