When we think of winter, we often envision the snow-covered peaks of the Alps or the Rockies, but for the last two years now, our winter heart has pulsed in the Andes, where Ski Portillo and Obermeyer have found common ground in their shared passion for the mountains. This burgeoning partnership, rooted in a deep respect for the heritage and history of both families behind the iconic brands, has evolved through rigorous product testing in the unforgiving terrain of the Chilean Andes, during the southern hemisphere's winter.
The Legacy of Ski Portillo
Nestled high in the Andes, Ski Portillo is not just a ski resort; it is a living piece of history. Founded in 1949, Ski Portillo is South America’s oldest ski destination, a place where the mountains have seen generations of skiers carve their way through its legendary powder. The resort’s story is one of resilience, beginning with its establishment on the shores of the emerald-colored Inca Lake, a place that had long been revered for its beauty and mystique. Over the decades, Ski Portillo has become a symbol of world-class skiing, attracting skiers from across the globe, including Olympians and world champions who have tested their mettle on its slopes.
The family behind Ski Portillo, the Purcells, have been the guardians of this storied place, preserving its unique character while ensuring it remains at the forefront of the skiing world. Their commitment to maintaining the soul of Portillo—a place where families come together, where tradition and modernity blend seamlessly—has been unwavering. Ski Portillo is more than just a resort; it is a place where memories are made, where the essence of skiing is celebrated.
The Obermeyer Heritage
Across the equator, in Aspen, Colorado, another family has been shaping the world of winter sports for over 70 years. Klaus Obermeyer, the visionary founder of Sport Obermeyer, is a name synonymous with innovation and passion in the skiing industry. Since 1947, Obermeyer has been dedicated to creating gear that not only enhances performance but also honors the skier’s relationship with nature. From the first quilted down jacket to advancements in technical fabrics, Obermeyer has consistently pushed the boundaries of what’s possible in winter sports apparel.
Klaus, who celebrated his 100th birthday in 2019, built this company on the principle that skiing should be accessible to everyone. His relentless pursuit of quality, functionality, and style has made Obermeyer a trusted name for generations of skiers. The Obermeyer family’s dedication to skiing goes beyond just business—it is a way of life, a passion that has been passed down through the years, much like the Purcells’ stewardship of Portillo.
A Meeting of Minds in the Andes
The collaboration between Ski Portillo and Obermeyer is more than just a partnership; it is a convergence of two families who have dedicated their lives to the mountains. Over the past two years, the jagged Andes have served as the perfect testing ground for Obermeyer’s latest innovations. Ski Portillo’s terrain and varied weather conditions offer the ideal environment to put Obermeyer’s gear to the ultimate test, ensuring that every product is as durable and reliable as it is stylish.
But this partnership goes beyond product testing. It is a relationship built on mutual respect and a shared love for the mountains. The Purcells and the Obermeyers, both steeped in the traditions of skiing, have found common ground in their desire to push the boundaries of what’s possible in the sport. Their collaboration is a testament to the idea that when families with deep roots in the skiing world come together, the results are nothing short of extraordinary.
Looking to the Future
As this partnership continues to grow, the legacy of Ski Portillo and Obermeyer is only set to strengthen. Together, they are not only shaping the future of skiing but also honoring its rich past. Their collaboration is a reminder that the mountains are a place of connection—between people, between families, and between the past and the future.
In the years to come, as skiers continue to carve their way down the slopes of Portillo wearing Obermeyer gear, they will be part of a story that stretches back decades, a story of two families united by their love for the sport and their commitment to excellence. The partnership between Ski Portillo and Obermeyer is more than just business; it is a celebration of heritage, of innovation, and of the timeless allure of the mountains.
