As the snow begins to fall across the Northern Hemisphere, athletes across the world are preparing for another season of exciting action on the prestigious freeride tour. The 2016 edition of the SWATCH FREERIDE WORLD TOUR is destined to be one for the history books as it will host the most talented freeriders on the planet competing on legendary venues across the world for a total prize purse of 467,000 USD.

With a total of 62 athletes representing 14 countries, this diverse assembly freeride athletes is composed of 27 male skiers, 14 male snowboarders, 14 female skiers, and 7 female snowboarders. Some of the most recognized names in their respective disciplines will face-off during the five competition stops over the 2016 season. These finely tuned athletes will test their limits after putting in countless hours of physical and mental preparation over the summer months. Athletes will attempt to secure their name in freeride history as they push the limits of the sport on the road to the Bec des Rosses in Verbier, Switzerland.

As the sport of freeride grows by leaps and bounds every year, the SWATCH FREERIDE WORLD TOUR is proud to welcome Peak Performance as the Outerwear Partner for the tour this season. Founded in Åre, Sweden in 1986, Peak Performance develops gear as a result of an organic process marrying function with fashion.

LEARN MORE ABOUT ALL FIVE LEGENDARY VENUES:

Vallnord Arcalís, Andorra – January 23, 2016
Few people have even heard of this hidden gem deep in the Pyrenees mountains straddling the France-Spain border – but that doesn’t mean that this ski resort in Southern Europe isn’t gaining a reputation among hardcore freeriders for having incredible terrain and a welcoming alpine culture.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, France – February 6, 2016
The legendary alpine playground with a rich history of alpinism and freeride will once again welcome competitors to the Mont Blanc massif. With stunning vistas in every direction and a population of hardcore mountain enthusiasts, Chamonix is guaranteed to deliver an exciting event.

Fieberbrunn Kitzbüheler Alpen, Austria – March 6, 2016
Anyone who has been to the Austrian Alps know that mountain culture runs deep in the Tyrolean Pillerseetal valley. Fantastic terrain combined with a legendary event village and warm welcome from the local community is a treat for athletes and spectators alike.

Haines, Alaska, USA – March 17, 2016
Descending the impossibly steep and aesthetic terrain of the Alaskan mountain is every freerider’s dream. This dream becomes reality in one of the most unique venues in freeride history. Take a ride on the wild side as riders push their limits on the most revered lines in the world, far from any ski resort or chairlift.

Verbier, Switzerland – April 2, 2016
For over 20 years competitors have given their most astounding performances during the Xtreme Verbier. It’s a place where legends are made and broken on the most committing and infamous venue of the tour: the Bec des Rosses. The intimidatingly exposed pyramid-shaped peak has long challenged top riders to face their fears and put everything on line to the seek the glory of victory on the definitive grand finale of the tour.

Not all riders will get a chance to prove their skills on the last two stops (Haines/Verbier) as they are required to make the cut-off after the first three events for Haines, and again after Haines for Verbier. This reduction in the competitive field ensures the highest level of competition for these spectacular venues and amazing performances throughout the season.

Stay tuned to www.freerideworldtour.com for the latest news, developments, and stories as athletes prepare for the upcoming season.

Fans can follow the FWT and view the live webcast on: www.freerideworldtour.com