Henrik Harlaut was a rookie at Winter X Games last year, and he ended up ended taking fifth in Slopestyle and seventh in Big Air. This year, he says he's gunning for a Winter X podium. Next Thursday, the Stockholm, Sweden, native will be releasing a new B&E episode alongside Phil Casabon that will drop on Inspiredmedia.tv. We talked to him about champagne, coming back from knee surgery, and his new sponsors.
You recently signed with Full Tilt boots and Armada Skis, after previously skiing for Ninthward skis and Salomon boots. What brought about that change?
I was looking for a new boot sponsor and I tried a pair of Full Tilts and they were super nice, a lot lighter than my old boots so it feels a lot better for my knees. And Armada has a ton of sick skis and a lot of cool people involved with the company and it really fit my style, so I was stoked.
You didn't compete in the King of Style big air, which was recently in your hometown of Stockholm. Why not?
I had knee surgery in June so I didn't want to stress on it this early; I have a big winter with big plans ahead. But I've really enjoyed competing in Stockholm because a lot of my friends live there and the jump is usually really good.
What are your big plans for this winter?
It would be really cool to podium at X Games. Then I'm going to ski everyday and film, dedicate all of my efforts into a movie called "Education Of Style" by Inspired Media. But most of all have fun with a big smile everyday.
You'll be competing in Slopestyle and Big Air at Winter X. What have you been doing to get ready for this year's contest season?
I have been on snow a bunch, mostly just been skiing all around the mountain to gain back all my muscles for my knees. But I feel stronger and better than ever so I'm super excited for this winter.
I hear your family is in the champagne business? So are you the one who's always supplying the bubbly on the podium?
Not really. I'm usually at that point back at my room getting ready for another day of skiing.
Uh, huh. Whatever you say, Henrik.
