Shop Talk: Vertical Playground, Oppdal Norway

Shop Talk: Vertical Playground, Oppdal Norway

Author: BLISTER November 5, 2021 Duration: 59:12

Once upon a time, a couple of friends who were scheming to get some gear for their own adventures ended up creating a phenomenal outdoor shop. We talk to Trygve Sande and Rune Kvalsnes about the origins of Vertical Playground; their trip with Hoji where the idea of the 4FRNT Raven was born; the ski touring and mountain biking scene in central Norway; some of their favorite gear; and more.

TOPICS & TIMES:

  • Vertical Playground today (4:23)
  • Origins story (8:40)
  • Ski touring culture in central Norway (14:08)
  • Hoji, Sterbenz, & the birth of the 4FRNT Raven (19:07)
  • Touring bindings (35:35)
  • Mountain biking & summers in Oppdal (43:46)
  • The future of Vertical Playground? (49:08)
  • What We’re Celebrating (56:00)

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For anyone who has ever stood in a shop debating the merits of a new jacket or stared at a trail map while thinking about their skis, GEAR:30 is that conversation. This BLISTER podcast goes far beyond basic specs and marketing claims, offering a nuanced, often technical look at the equipment that defines our time outside. The discussion is driven by the people who live with these products: our own reviewers who are putting gear through its paces in real conditions, the designers who obsess over materials and intent, and the athletes whose livelihoods depend on performance. We also check in with the seasoned folks from our network of recommended shops, who see what works and what doesn’t after a season of hard use. Episodes dig into specific items, broader trends in innovation, and the sometimes-surprising realities of long-term testing. It’s a deep, authentic resource for anyone who appreciates the intersection of sports, design, and technology, and who believes the right tool can transform an experience. Tune in for honest, detailed talk that treats outdoor gear with the seriousness and curiosity it deserves.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 391

GEAR:30
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