Mike Basich is a legendary snowboarder and photographer who has left an indelible mark on the sport. Born in California in 1971, Basich began snowboarding at the age of 13 and quickly developed a passion for the sport. He competed professionally for several years, earning a reputation as one of the most innovative and fearless riders of his time.
In the mid-1990s, Basich began to shift his focus to photography and filmmaking, using his skills to document the beauty and excitement of the mountain lifestyle. His work has been featured in numerous publications and films, including Transworld Snowboarding, Snowboarder Magazine, and The Art of Flight.
But Basich’s impact on snowboarding extends far beyond his talents as a rider and photographer. In 2000, he purchased 40 acres of land in the Sierra Nevada mountains and built a rustic cabin by hand, using reclaimed materials and off-the-grid technology. The cabin has become a symbol of Basich’s dedication to living in harmony with nature, and he has used it as a base for his photography and filmmaking projects.
Basich’s passion for sustainability and self-sufficiency has inspired many in the snowboarding community and beyond. He has become a vocal advocate for environmental causes and has worked to promote sustainable practices in snowboarding and beyond. In 2012, he released a documentary film called “Off the Grid with Mike Basich,” which chronicled his journey to live a simple, sustainable lifestyle in the mountains.
In addition to his advocacy work, Basich continues to push the limits of snowboarding with his innovative riding style. He has been credited with inventing several tricks, including the “switch backside 180 to frontside 360,” and has continued to compete and film at the highest level of the sport.
As a true pioneer in the world of snowboarding, Mike Basich has left an indelible mark on the sport and the culture surrounding it. Through his riding, photography, and advocacy work, he has inspired countless people to connect with nature and pursue their passions with authenticity and dedication.
Despite achieving a great deal of success throughout his career, Basich has always remained humble and focused on his passion for snowboarding. He has been known to turn down lucrative sponsorships and opportunities that he felt were not in line with his values, choosing instead to prioritize his creative freedom and commitment to sustainability.
Basich’s impact on snowboarding can also be seen in the products and gear that bear his name. He has collaborated with several companies, including K2 and Lib Tech, to design signature boards and bindings that reflect his unique style and ethos. Some of his most popular collaborations include the Lib Tech Golden Orca and the K2 Party Platter, which are known for their versatility and performance in all types of terrain.
Today, Mike Basich continues to inspire and challenge the snowboarding community with his innovative riding, stunning photography, and commitment to sustainability. His legacy serves as a reminder that snowboarding is more than just a sport – it’s a way of life that can be used to connect with nature, promote sustainability, and inspire others to pursue their passions with authenticity and dedication.
Basich’s love for snowboarding extends beyond just riding the mountain. He is also an accomplished photographer, capturing breathtaking images of the sport and nature. In 2015, he released a book titled “The Outdoor Life of a Visionary: The Photography of Mike Basich,” which features some of his most iconic photos.
Additionally, Basich is committed to promoting sustainability and environmental stewardship. He built his own off-the-grid cabin in the mountains of California, where he lives and works. The cabin, which he designed and constructed himself, is powered by solar panels and features a unique design that blends in seamlessly with its natural surroundings.
Basich is also involved in several initiatives aimed at promoting sustainability within the snowboarding industry. He has worked with companies to develop eco-friendly snowboards and has been an outspoken advocate for reducing waste and carbon emissions associated with snowboarding.
In recognition of his contributions to the sport and culture of snowboarding, Basich was inducted into the Snowboarding Hall of Fame in 2016. The honor serves as a testament to his influence and impact on the sport and his commitment to preserving its core values.
In conclusion, Mike Basich is a true visionary and icon in the world of snowboarding. His innovative approach to riding, commitment to sustainability, and dedication to his craft have earned him a place among the greats of the sport. His legacy will continue to inspire generations of snowboarders to come, and his influence will be felt for years to come.