No Friends on Powder Days? No Way.

With BACKLINE’s third issue, we are very pleased to present an even bigger magazine for you to enjoy this year. We’d like to thank all our readers for sending us positive feedback, and our gratitude also goes out to all athletes, photographers and industry partners. Your comments and support are the motivation for us to continue on our chosen path.

Like in our first two issues, every single image of a line presented on the following pages was realized involving personal sweat and dedication; always with a clear choice of how to approach the ascent, voluntarily refusing any of the comforts of “fast food adventure”. The common ground for all features in this magazine is the athletes’ and photographers’ passion for skiing off-piste and out of bounds; it’s their respect for nature as well as their friendship and trust in one another and a clear “no” to the trendy yet superficial motto “no friends on powder days”.

In addition to some of the best backcountry photographers, this issue of BACKLINE also presents two artists and their very own painter’s view of fascinating moments in wintery nature.

In a unique and lasting way, “Tiny House” depicts the thin line between our dreams and the evanescence of our existence. Only last winter, photographer Patrick Orton went on a soul trip through North America with Molly Baker and Zack Giffin to capture some mesmerizing moments. Unfortunately, Patrick will no more share with us his unique views of backcountry skiing that have always inspired and delighted us. We are sad to say that Patrick had an accident in the summer of 2013 and passed away. Many thanks to you, Patrick, and to your friends and family. We feel honored to feature your wonderful images and hope that we were able to present them in an honorable manner. RIP Patrick.

As in the previous year, we offer you the chance to win some great gear with our photo contest for amateurs and professionals. Last year’s winner, Stefan Schlumpf, is featured in this issue with his story from New Zealand. All you need to do is pack your camera and capture some unique moments of your trip. We are once again looking forward to many great photos and impressions.

We would also like to thank everyone who made this third issue of BACKLINE possible. Have fun reading the journal and have a great and safe winter 2013-14 with many unforgettable lines and adventures.