Elena Pressprich

With Orage since: Winter 2015

Date of Birth: June 6th, 1986

Home: Bend, OR

Instagram: @findmeoutside

Website: elenapressprich.com

Sponsors: BlackStrap, Orage, Surface Skis, UCO Gear, Crows Feet Commons

What is your favourite place to ski and why?

I really love my home area of Central Oregon as well as traveling to new places. Central Oregon has some pretty amazing backcountry skiing, it is fairly easily accessible and is close to home.

What is your dream place to ski and why?

Japan! Seeing all the photos pour in from Japan this year (as well as all the other years) was making me drool and super jealous! Those pow lines look delicious and I want to be in one. right. now.

What kind of skier are you?

I really enjoy spending time in the backcountry, but I don't mind getting some help from the chairlifts either. I love skiing steeps and anything new that will give me a challenge.

What has been your greatest accomplishment as a skier?

I have skied since I can remember, and although I can't say that there is one thing in particular that is my greatest accomplishment, I can say that I love challenging myself in new terrain. Pushing myself higher into the mountains than that last time, or getting into a line thats a little bit steeper is what I look for when I get out. Getting a little bit of that pucker factor is a good thing and lets me know I'm giving myself a challenge.

Who has inspired you the most while growing up?

Sarah Burke... she paved the way for all of us lady shredders... we owe her everything. Liz Daley will always remind me to live with passion and positive energy in everything I do.... and Caroline Gleich... the girl is so inspiring, she reminds me to keep aiming for my goals, because someday, I'll get there.

What does your typical day consist of?

Currently, I am in full-time school to be a radiology technologist, so most days, I'm consumed with studying. When I find breaks, I absolutely can be found in the mountains, skiing.

How do you stay busy during summer?

Training... seems like I am always training for something! I do a lot of running races and triathlons in the summer months. They are a great challenge and keep me in shape when it comes time to slap the skins on and get uphill!

When are you most satisfied when skiing?

The feeling you get when reaching the summit of a mountain that has taken you most of the day to get to is incredible. Ripping and reaping the benefits of that hard work is a tremendous feeling that I just cannot get when skiing in resort.

Is there a rule that you live by?

Push and scare yourself a little bit everyday. Do something that gets you out of your comfort zone because great things never come from being comfortable.

What is the biggest obstacle you face in life?

Wanting to do a little bit of everything and not having enough time to do it all! I have a long list if dreams and goals, and I'm working my way through them, I just get antsy and want to do it all, now and all the time.

What do you see in Orage that reflects who you are as a person?

Orage is fun and vibrant yet down to earth.... and so am I!

What is your favourite piece of Orage gear?

My Deal Jacket, keeping me warm, dry, and riding in style!

What are you up to this season?

I certainly keep myself super busy, but my priorities are school and skiing. School is taking a little away form my skiing time this season, but have a few trips planned in the spring I can't wait for! PRAY FOR SNOW

All photos via Elena's Instagram. Follow her at @findmeoutside