In celebration of her launch, we caught up with Julia to learn about her skiing career, where she finds motivation, and why water was a key element in designing her print.
What is your first memory on skis?
"My first memory on skis is skiing in Germany over Christmas with my whole family. My grandparents would teach my sister and I how to ski and bribe us to the next intersection by promising gummy bears and hot tea. Our whole family cross country skis all together on Christmas day every year in Germany, doing a big ski from Germany into the Czech Republic for a lunch break in a “Hütte” and then we ski back."
What are you most looking forward to this season?
"I am really excited to race the city sprint in Dresden, Germany! It is one of my favorite World Cups of the year because it is action packed, with lots of fans and this year I have a large crowd of my family and family friends coming to cheer us on! I am also looking forward to throwing down strong results that could qualify me for the Olympic team."
What motivates you?
"I got a Skida piece from the first ever Skida athlete collaboration with Liz Stephen, who was my U.S. Ski Team teammate and role model at the time. I watched my other teammates Ida and Sophie launch their own collaborations over the years and thought it was so special to see the community support them and become a part of their journey, rocking their Skida prints with pride."
What’s the story behind your waves print? Where did the inspiration come from?
"I absolutely love anything that has to do with water – surfing, water photography, swimming, or just being in the ocean. There is something relaxing and energizing at the same time, about spending time in the waves. One of my favorite quotes is 'Remember you are half water. If you can't go through an obstacle, go around it. Water does.' ― Margaret Atwood, The Penelopiad. The quote encapsulates the spirit of being resilient, no matter the obstacle.
What does the “Julia’s Journey” collaboration mean to you?
Julia’s Journey is meant to be a reminder to enjoy the journey along the way. I am so thankful for all the people who are part of my journey and support me no matter what."
Learn more about World Cup skier Julia Kern here »
• • • • •
