Everyone has heard of Spyder and everyone knows about their pedigree and their links to the Olympics but do you know how it all started? Before we talk about our favourite Spyder products here’s a little insight into the company itself….
©Spyder
In 1977 while watching his sons at the ski race track David Jacobs noticed that there was only one brand of ski race sweater available. Knowing he could make a better product and sell it to the close-knit race community David L Jacobs INC was born.
In 1978 Jacobs created a blue racing pant with a yellow strip and protective pads…. this pant was given the nickname the “spider” due to its spider leg appearance. It was because of this that Jacobs changed the name of the company to Spyder. But why the “Y” spelling? Well Jacobs wanted the brand to stand out, and because of his love of cars he took the spelling from the Ferrari Spyder.
© Spyder
Throughout the 80′s Spyder’s World Cup pant became the must-have pant by all the national ski teams including the Yugoslavs, Australians, Norwegians, Canadians and many many more. In 1988 the Spyder suit took over from the padded slalom-wear as skiiers began to cross-block gates and only hit them on their lower legs. In 1989 Spyder become the official suppliers of the U.S. Ski Team.
In the 90′s Jacobs created ‘SpeedWyre’ which reduced wind drag by an amazing 40%, sadly it wasn’t meant to be as the FIS banned SpeedWyre in 1997 claiming that it gave skiers an unfair advantage. By 1998 Spyder released their Freeski apparel, the first time they created clothing not just for racing.
From 2000 to 2015 Spyder renewed their sponsorship with the U.S. Ski team from 2005-2011 and built their partnerships with 3M Thinsulate, Audi and the Canadian & U.S. ski teams. In 2015 Spyder has launched ‘Limitless’. This has a new brand look and feel, and since May of this year (2015) has grown a massive following.
©Spyder
Now you’re all clued up on the history of the brand, here’s a few of our favourite pieces this season…
Spyder – Monterosa Jacket
After a ski jacket that is warm, durable and has amazing breathability? Then the Monterosa is the one for you! The PrimaLoft material keeps you warm, is soft to the touch, water resistant and is comfortable to wear even if you’re back country skiing. The Monterosa also features RECCO which is an avalanche rescue system to assist in efficient location in the event that you are buried in an avalanche. Stylish and safe, what more could you want?!
Spyder – Dare Tailored Pant
The Dare (Tailored) pant features 3M Thinsulate insulation which will keep you warm when on the slopes or in the back country. The Spylon+ technology offers a brilliant DWR coating which will keep you dry throughout the day, the articulated knee construction will give you better movement when skiing and works perfectly with its tailored fit. Finally, the high back suspenders are waterproof, removable, and due to the mesh backing are highly breathable.
Spyder – Linear Dry Web T Neck
The Linear Dry Web features Spyder’s DryWEB technology which helps with moisture management keeping your skin dry and warm and keeping you fresh all day long. The Linear Dry Web is the perfect midlayer when skiing, whether it’s going to be on the slopes, race tracks or in the back country.
What Spyder clothing do you have? Have you had any great adventures in it? We would love to hear them, just comment below…
