It is with deep sadness that we mourn CR Johnson. CR became part of the Spyder family in 1999 at age 15, a confident kid who seemed to know his life path was pointed toward ski greatness. His talent was apparent and undeniable from the start. CR’s work ethic was strong and constant; from building on his natural talents to become a world-class skier to pushing Spyder to allow him to design his signature apparel to rehabbing after his brain injury, he didn’t cut corners or take “no” for an answer. Spyder has always been an athlete-driven company and CR was a Spyder athlete who immediately stood out in terms of his creativity and his ability to articulate his design ideas, which became important to the brand. He was a pleasure to work with.

“Passion” is a word too cliché for his love of skiing – it was part of his being, and the sport is better because of his role in it. He progressed the sport to a point where all skiers owe him homage. He was a spiritual spitfire, tittering between individualistic irreverence and mutual respect. A few years back one of our athlete questionnaires asked CR for his words of wisdom. His response was “Be impeccable with your word.” He lived honestly and true to this mantra.

Our condolences are with his family, friends, and all of our ski community. We’ve lost a good one.

David Jacobs
Founder, Spyder