The Chillfactor Podcast – Chris Benchetler: Skier, Artist, Designer, Filmmaker, Family Man
Mountainwatch | Podcast Interview
In this episode of the Chillfactor podcast Reggae Elliss’ guest is freeskier, artist filmmaker and designer Chris Benchetler, one of skiing’s most creative individuals, both on and off the mountain.
Chris grew up skiing Mammoth Mountain where, like many local kids, he trained with the race team but given Mammoth’s terrain, world class terrain parks and Chris’ creative instincts a move into freeskiing was a natural progression. He made himself in the freeski comp scene and that, combined with his backcountry skills, lead to sponsorship and movie segments.
Chris was co-founder of Nimbus Independent, described on his site as “an artsy ski film company” with fellow pro skiers Eric Pollard, Pep Fujas and Andy Mahre. In recent years Chris he has focussed on his own film projects including the award-winning Fire on the Mountain
Chris has been involved in ski design with his long-term sponsor Atomic skis for 15 years and the result is the hugely successful Bent Chetler freeride range that also carries Chris’ artwork on the top sheets. Married to pro snowboarder Kimmy Fasani, the pair have two young boys and have been through their fair share challenges, including Kimmy’s battle with breast cancer.
Chris is thoughtful and articulate it’s a great conversation that covers a lot of ground and well worth a listen. The Chillfactor Podcast is available on Spotify, and Soundcloud
