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Park City - Deer
Valley - Est. 1982

'Mountain Speak' with Bogner Ambassador Jill Johnson

Posted by Cole Sport on Feb 6th 2016

'Mountain Speak' with Bogner Ambassador Jill Johnson

We recently had the opportunity to sit down with Jill Johnson, Bogner Ambassador, Deer Valley Mountain Host, Art Therapist, Coach, Writer, Million Mile Skier and Mom. From what it like growing up in Park City, to the ski gear she recommends, to what it means to have great fitting ski boots, it’s clear that Jill knows her stuff. Jill was kind enough to share some of her secrets to living the mountain life style, getting the most out of what Park City has to offer and enjoying every minute of it. If you ever have the chance to run into Jill on the hill, we know she’ll brighten your day just as much as she does ours!

Besides skiing and smiling everyday, what does your current job entail?

Jill: I wear many hats right now. I have a cross section of work that fulfills my life at this point, but all of it leads to being there for my kids. I am a Mountain Host for Deer Valley, a coach for a few young female freestyle athletes, an art therapist, provide soulful experiences within the Summit County area, I write and ghost write for some corporations and I work with women who are sexual trauma survivors... so as you can see, I juggle but I love the multitude of opportunities and people I work with on and off the slopes.

You are also a Bogner Ambassador. What about Bogner makes the brand special to you and why would you recommend it to others?

Jill: I am still tickled when I hear those words "Bogner Ambassador".  Growing up in Park City and skiing Deer Valley since it opened, Stein Eriksen was known for his "suit du jour". He would be skiing in his latest Bogner and the combination was iconic. Bogner is the quintessential ski clothing company. Quality, function and fashion, these are the key elements driving the Bogner Brand. Getting to ski in Bogner and represent the brand is dreamy. The construction and attention to detail on each item astounds me and each piece is incredibly comfortable and skis beautifully. I have several of my mother's Vintage Bogner suits and they stand the tests of time. People are drawn to Bogner on the slopes.  This season I have been asked more than any previous season what I am wearing. The ski jeans are a favorite item and are a constant source of inquiry. One of my dear friends describes her experience putting on Bogner as "buttery". Once you put on Bogner it elevates your ski experience and it simply feels special to be wearing beautiful gear. As a mother of two, I love having a slice of luxury in the fabric of my days, and Bogner allows that moment each time I wear the clothing. 

Favorite run to ski at Deer Valley?

Jill: I love a powder day in Mayflower. I grew up skiing from and around Mayflower Chair and it is still a favorite playground for me. I love the Daly Chutes and Ontario Bowl, but Mayflower has a special place in my heart

If you were to recommend skis, boots or equipment for women, what would you recommend?

Jill: Most highend ski shops have a demo program.  Cole Sport, for example, allows clients to try different skis before purchasing a ski. I recommend trying at least three pairs of skis before you buy. Trust your intuition. Just because someone recommends a ski, doesn't mean that it is right for you. Feel what different skis ski like, and then make your choice. I personally ski on Volkl. For boots, fit is key. Definitely get a boot that fits and custom foot beds to accommodate the nuances in your feet and stance. Boots can make or break a ski experience, so it is the best place to invest money and time for a good fit and great performing boot. Boot heaters are also a plus, warm feet=happy feet! Right now I am skiing in Lange.

What is one tip you would give someone who is new to the sport of skiing?

Jill: There are so many incredible "never-ever" programs that ski areas provide now. A new skier can get rental gear, a ski pass and a lesson package. Definitely take a lesson to get the feel of your skis and the rhythm of the mountain. Then, go explore and play!  The mountains are a playground, enjoy the terrain and try skiing, then finish the day with an apres adventure to recount your stories of the day... there will be plenty to laugh and reminisce about! (Drink water and bring advil just in case and enjoy a hot tub!)

What’s your favorite spot to apres ski after a perfect day on the slopes?

Jill: Goldener Hirsch and Stein's. I love sitting in the bar area of both, ordering a tall beer or glass of wine and enjoying fondue! Dreamy!

Why do you love to call Park City home?

JJ: I have been here since birth. Park City is home. I have witnessed Park City grow and transform from a small town with a couple ski resorts to a premier all-season resort town. I love that there is still a small town feel here - I run into someone each time I go grocery shopping or skiing. But I love the diversity that our town attracts from our visitors and tourists. I am in awe of the opportunities Park City provides on all levels and each season!

Favorite breakfast spot?

Jill: I have a couple: The Eating Establishment on Main Street is an old school local favorite and some of my dearest friends have worked there and still pick up a shift of two. The food is hearty and the coffee cup is bottomless. Windy Ridge, yum!  In the summer I love mountain biking then going to Silver Star Cafe.

What kind of music do you listen to?

Jill: I love music and whatever song seems to pop into my head. I have two kids ages 6 & 8 and a lot of their music seems to filter in my consciousness. However, I notice that Led Zeppelin sneaks in often on epic powder days.

You’ve heli-skied over one million vertical feet in the Canadian Rockies. What did it feel like when you saw that vertical shift from 999,000 to the 1 million mark?

Jill: It was a rites-of-passage for me. My dad, Jack, has close to 8 million vertical feet. Growing up, I watched him go heli-skiing with his buddies every season. When he would come home with his "million foot" ski suit and stories, I knew it was a big deal. The first time I went with him, I was 18 and I think I partied more then I skied. When I was finally allowed to come back, I made sure that I was his ultimate ski buddy. A ski buddy can make or break your trip. I knew that if I became the ideal buddy, he would have to take me. Luckily my plan worked and it was our winter ritual for several years. When I finally received my first "million foot" suit, I was honored and felt extremely lucky to have skied with my dad on so many adventures in the Canadian Rockies. Together we have shared epic powder days, laughter filled falls and an uncanny flow and connection when skiing lines together (an unspoken language we share).

Who inspires you on a daily basis and why?

Jill: Obviously, my dad inspires me. He is a serial optimist, entrepreneur and amazing skier. When he turned 50, he made a personal promise to ski 100 days a year and has done so for over 2 decades. He continues to improve and learn on his skis. Most of all, he taught me how to love, respect and play in the mountains. His mother, Ivy, inspires me as well, because she was timeless. The secret to her youth of 96 years was to stay interested and curious. I am also inspired by all women who ski. It is incredible to witness the sisterhood of shredders that grows with each decade. I am in awe of my girlfriends that rip and those willing to try!

Favorite quote or words you live by?

Jill: I love quotes and read constantly. My favorite quotes change daily. However, there is a word I read in "Jitterbug Perfume" that consistently revisits my consciousness. The word from the book is "Erleichda" which essentially means "lighten up." I believe in being light-hearted, my eyes lighting up each time I see my kids or someone dear to me, lightening the load that people sometimes carry and being a source of light, positivity and laughter.

You were a US Ski Team Moguls Specialist. What were some of your most memorable experiences during that time?

Jill: The people and places. The experience of traveling and competing is incredible. I loved meeting athletes from around the world, the camaraderie, the antics and the art of refining skiing to such a high level.

What did those experiences teach you?

Jill: Overall, I learned how much skiing meant to me as a lifestyle. Initially, my dream was to compete and represent the U.S. in an Olympic Winter Games. As I experienced several knee injuries, surgeries and recoveries, I began to internally shift. I learned how to care and train my body for longevity. I also discovered that I wanted to ski for life. I learned about the role of the mind over the body and the importance of discovering the "zone". Skiing is my most Zen place, I feel instantly aligned when I click on my skis and I love sharing that joy with anyone I encounter.

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