Featured Image: Jonathan Finch | Skier: Maggie Voisin
Maggie Voisin has been in the headlines of the freeski world for years; almost a decade to be precise. The Montana native and BlackStrap athlete has shown determination beyond belief ever since she exploded onto the scene at the young age of 15. Since then, she has gone on to become a three-time Olympian for Team USA, take home seven X Game medals, and, in recent seasons, expand her prowess into the backcountry. But for Voisin, perhaps the most astonishing part is not the resume, but the timeline. She already has the credentials of an industry legend at 25 years old, and yet it seems that she’s cementing her legacy in new ways with every passing winter.
The 2023/24 winter season saw her yet again expand into new areas. She picked up the microphone at the X Games in a position she had only dabbled in before and became one of the principal voices of Women’s freeskiing at the event. Although almost her entire career has been spent in the park, she put in the time and effort to gather the necessary knowledge and earned herself a spot in a helicopter soaring above the legendary peaks of Haines, Alaska, with the famous ski film production company Teton Gravity Research. In both the culture and the sport, she continues to expand herself in ways that are new and inspiring. Reflecting on another winter of growth, Voisin shared her thoughts with FREESKIER on what these endeavors mean, and where she’s looking next.
First off, how’s Haines? What can you tell us about the project you’re working on with TGR?
It was such an incredible trip to Haines, and we really lucked out with great weather and lots of sunshine. Being out in the mountains in Alaska is unlike anything I have ever experienced. It’s not just the intensity of how big and steep the mountains are, but it’s the wild rollercoaster of emotions that comes along with skiing them. My trip to Haines was with Teton Gravity Research, and we were filming for their newest movie, which will be touring this Fall. I am excited to be a part of the Haines, AK trip, along with the Jackson, WY segment.
Tell us about your first time commentating at this year’s X Games! Is that something you see yourself continuing to do?
I’m not going to lie, going into X Games week I was so unbelievably nervous. I had only commentated on a run or two before, but it wasn’t anything serious. I put a lot of pressure on myself. But the second I got into it I found my flow, and I had the best time ever. It’s an honor to still be a part of the X Games, and an even bigger honor to be a voice that helps represent the women who continue to push the sport. I hope to continue commentating the Women’s ski events at X Games for years to come.
Looking back at this season, what are your biggest highlights and takeaways?
When I look back at this season, my biggest highlights have been continuing to push my skiing in a whole new direction. I took the season off from competing in Slopestyle and Big Air, which is what I have been focused on for the last nine years of my career. It’s been exciting to take a step back from contests and put my entire focus into skiing backcountry. It’s a whole different world. I have so much still to learn, but I love it so much. I feel like a rookie all over again, and it’s been really special to feel like I am skiing for no one else but myself. There’s no competition, and no one is judging me or giving me a score at the end of my runs. I’m truly falling in love with skiing all over again, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds.
What got you excited about working with BlackStrap?
What got me excited about working with BlackStrap is, first off, that I’ve been rocking their balaclavas for years. I love their products, and it’s an honor to be a part of the team. But what really got me excited was their enthusiasm for the direction I am taking my career. It means everything to be part of a brand that truly believes in my passions and a new vision for the future.
What Blackstrap gear are you sporting currently, and what are you excited to try?
The BlackStrap gear that I am currently sporting out in the mountains is the Expedition Hood Balaclava and the Dual Layer Tube Neck Warmer. I’m excited to try other BlackStrap cold weather gear, such as the Team Hood Balaclava. I love the function and fashion of an individual styled hood.
What are your plans for the remainder of spring and into this summer?
Haines was my last big trip for the season, but for the remainder of spring I plan on having at least one spring skiing trip. And summer, for me, is really my time to recoup and unwind. It’s my favorite season to get my mind and body right, and for me that means going home to Montana. I love being back in the mountains I grew up in, and spending quality time with my friends and family. There is nothing like going home! It fills my cup and gets me ready again for the winter months.
Any tips on keeping in ski shape throughout the summer?
My tips to keep in shape for the summer are simple. I’m all about cross training. I think it should be individual to the person. Move in a way that you enjoy, that feels good for you, don’t be afraid to mix it up, and keep it consistent. For me, I really enjoy and prioritize strength training, yoga, hiking, and biking. Not only am I focused on my physical health, but getting my mind right plays a huge role in my overall wellbeing. Being in nature is always number one for me, along with meditation, breath work, and nervous system regulating exercises. A combination of all those things make me feel my best.
