When Tanner wasn't on the Freeride World Tour, he spent the 2019/20 season doing mind bending tricks in the streets and in the backcountry. This is 'Eternal' Music by Dillon Cooper
Tanner Hall, nicknamed “Ski Boss,” was born in 1983 in Kalispell, Montana. A true pioneer of modern freeskiing, he made history by winning seven X Games gold medals between 2000 and 2008 in Big Air, Slopestyle, and Superpipe, becoming a living legend of freestyle skiing. He co-founded Armada Skis in 2002 and helped shape ski filmmaking through his studio Inspired Media Concepts, producing iconic films like Retallack and Like a Lion. His career was marked by two major injuries: a double ankle fracture in 2005 and serious knee damage in 2009, requiring years of recovery. Despite these setbacks, Tanner returned to the top, winning more titles and taking on the Freeride World Tour, where he quickly achieved top-10 finishes. Now over 40, he continues to deeply influence ski culture with his style, creativity, and visionary spirit.
Colorado is a cornerstone of North American skiing, known for its high-altitude peaks, consistent snowfall, and wide variety of resorts. The state’s ski history began in the early 20th century but took off after World War II, especially with the founding of Vail in 1962 by veterans of the 10th Mountain Division. This specialized mountain warfare unit played a key role in spreading ski culture across the United States. Colorado is home to some of the most iconic ski resorts in the country. Aspen blends historic charm with international luxury, drawing visitors from around the world. Vail, one of the largest ski areas in the U.S., is famous for its expansive Back Bowls. Breckenridge offers a mix of historic town atmosphere and varied terrain for all levels. Keystone, Copper Mountain, and Winter Park provide technical terrain and a more relaxed, local vibe. Further west, Telluride is nestled deep in the San Juan Mountains, offering breathtaking views and a uniquely remote experience. With its high elevations allowing for a long season and a deep-rooted ski heritage, Colorado remains a top-tier destination for skiers seeking adventure, scenic beauty, and a true mountain culture.
Armada was born in 2002 from a vision shared by a small group of professional skiers and friends, including Tanner Hall, JP Auclair, Julien Regnier, and photographer Chris O’Connell. Frustrated by big traditional brands that didn’t understand the booming needs of freestyle and freeride skiing, they decided to build their own company, dedicated to this new generation of skiers. Their goal was simple: design skis by riders themselves to push limits in parks, powder, and big mountain terrain. Based in Costa Mesa, California, Armada quickly earned a reputation for its innovative, independent spirit. It developed iconic models like the ARV for freestyle and the JJ for backcountry. Thanks to the direct involvement of its founders in design and marketing, the brand cultivated an authentic, rebellious image closely tied to freeski culture. Even today, Armada remains true to the legacy left by its founders, keeping passion and creativity at the heart of its identity.