Mountain Revelations: Jake Burton Carpenter, the Soul of Snowboarding

One does not talk about the history of snowboarding without bringing up the soul of snowboarding: Jake Burton Carpenter, who passed away on November 20, 2019 at the age of 65.

Jake Burton was always a bit of a rebel. As a child growing up in New York, he was always drawn to activities that were a little bit out of the ordinary. When he discovered snowboarding in the early 1970s, he was immediately hooked.

Despite the fact that snowboarding was a relatively new and unpopular activity at the time, Jake was determined to make it his life's work. He spent every winter weekend on the slopes, practicing and perfecting his skills. He also started experimenting with different board designs, trying to find the perfect combination of strength, agility, and style.

In 1977, Jake took a big leap and founded Burton Snowboards. It was a risky move – at the time, snowboarding was still seen as a fringe activity that was largely misunderstood and often dismissed by the mainstream. But Jake was convinced that he could make a success of it. He poured all of his energy and resources into his company, and slowly but surely, Burton Snowboards began to grow.

As snowboarding gained popularity, Jake's company flourished. He became known as the "father of snowboarding," and his innovative designs and commitment to quality helped make Burton Snowboards the industry leader. Jake was also an avid supporter of the snowboarding community, and he worked tirelessly to promote the sport and make it more accessible to everyone.

Over the years, Jake faced many challenges and setbacks. There were times when it seemed like the entire snowboarding industry was against him, and he was constantly fighting to keep his company afloat. But he never lost his passion for the sport, and he always believed that with hard work and determination, he could overcome any obstacle.

In the end, Jake's perseverance paid off. Burton Snowboards became one of the most successful and respected brands in the outdoor industry, and Jake was hailed as a pioneer and a visionary. He continued to lead his company until his untimely death in 2019, leaving behind a lasting legacy that will be remembered for generations to come.

But Jake's impact went far beyond just the world of snowboarding. He was a true innovator and a leader, and his drive and determination inspired countless people around the world to pursue their dreams and make a difference in their own way. Jake Burton was a man who lived life to the fullest, and his memory will always be cherished by those who knew him and those who were inspired by his example.