Caite Zeliff
Name: Caitlin Zeliff
Nickname: Caite
Nationality: American
Home Mountain: Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, WY - Cranmore, NH
Discipline: Big Mountain Skiing - Big lines, Fast Skiing
Athlete talk
How and when did you start skiing, how has it evolved ever since and what got you into freeskiing?
My dad introduced me to skiing at 2 then I really fell in love with the sport through a school program in Elementary school. From there I found ski racing which brought me all over the world and helped polish my technique before moving to Jackson Wyoming and learning how intoxicating powder skiing was. I found freeskiing through the group of friends I met while living in Jackson my first winter here and I couldn’t be happier about it!
Was there any particular experience that made you consider pursuing skiing professionally
I think ultimately skiing was the first time I ever felt true freedom, going fast, skiing how I wanted, where I wanted, I was in total control and I loved that feeling. I have been chasing it ever since. As a little kid I wanted to be a professional athlete or an astronaut and then when I found skiing, I was on a warpath to make skiing and the lifestyle it offered my number one priority and here we are :)
Who were/are your idols on and off the hill?
Shane McConkey and Angel Collinson are the two main ones that come to mind. I could make a very long list of the skiers that inspire me, that's why this sport is so cool. Everyone has their own approach and there is so much to admire. I would say Shane and Angel embody a certain style that resonates with me, ex ski racers, charging, going for broke and making sure they have a good time while doing it, that's what I always admire and emulate about them.
What does skiing mean to you personally?
I have been thinking about this question a lot lately as my ski career develops. I think the easiest way to put it is skiing is the ultimate creative expression for me. It's a mix of athletics and creativity that allows me to show who I am and figure out who I am with the help of incredible landscapes and a really rad community of people to learn and experience with.
Do you have any specific goals for your skiing in the future?
I have lots of goals! I am hoping to keep perfecting my craft. More stylish airs, tricks, bigger airs, cleaner stomps, I am attracted to mountaineering and bringing big mountain style to those full on high alpine lines.
What aspect of skiing thrills you the most?
I would say understanding my mind and fear and dealing with the stresses of being in the mountains is really thrilling. Going out each day educated and calculated looking to push myself and those around me and come home at the end of the day feeling proud of what I accomplished - that’s what gets me going :)
In what conditions and what terrain do enjoy riding the most?
Powder days are the best, light snow, steep landings, big double stager hits but I also like spring slush bumps with friends - it's all good!
Any activities that aren’t ski related?
I have been learning to paraglide which has been really exciting and something that consumes me in the same way as skiing. I like live music, cooking and spending time solving the world's problems with friends and family.
Please answer, if possible, with one word only.
- Trick/move: Spraffy!
- Food: Maple Syrup
- Country: Chile
- Resort/Place to ski: Jackson
- Car: Truck
What do you like about SCOTT?
I like the community that SCOTT offers, the athletes and team that SCOTT has makes it feel like I am part of a family.
What are your favorite SCOTT products?
I have been loving the Patrol E1 avalanche bag - it's like, makes sense and is an extra hint of confidence which I love having out there in the mountains.
What SCOTT products are you using this year?
I have been rocking the couloir freeride helmet and the Shield Goggles and have been loving the combo!
Where would you like to see yourself in 5 years?
I would like to see myself marrying my two favorite sports Paragliding and Skiing and seeing what flying with skis feels like
People you feel you need to thank:
Everyone, I have been really lucky to have so many amazing mentors, mountain partners, and friends but my Mom takes the cake - She is incredible, always supporting me on this wild ride, always there to listen and talk through things with - I love that woman. Thanks mom!
