Zen & the Art of Creating the World's Biggest Splitboard Binding Company: Will Ritter, Spark R&D

Zen & the Art of Creating the World's Biggest Splitboard Binding Company: Will Ritter, Spark R&D

Author: BLISTER November 2, 2018 Duration: 51:23

Will Ritter is the founder of Spark R&D, the largest splitboard binding company in the world, and Spark R&D designs and manufactures all of their products in Bozeman, Montana. This turned into such an interesting conversation with Will that we are presenting it in two parts. Here in part 1, we talk about the history of Spark R&D, and whether or not you’ve ever ridden a snowboard, if you have ever thought about starting any company of any kind, listen closely, because I promise you that you will glean some very real insights into what actually goes into starting and running a company.

And then we will be posting later part 2 of our conversation, where Will and I went deeper into Spark R&D’s specific products, we discuss hard boots vs. soft boots, how much room Will thinks there is for splitboards to improve, and more.

But for now, let’s get the origin story of Spark R&D, and listen to Will kindly share some real words of wisdom for anyone thinking of starting anything.

TOPICS & TIMES:

  • Trick or Treating & the myth of the Sugar Sprite?? (1:44)
  • When, where, and why did Will start Spark R&D? (3:48)
  • The many products Will worked on as an engineering consultant (5:25)
  • Working on the MFD ALLTIME touring binding with Jason Prigge (7:27)
  • The move from consulting to factory production (10:06)
  • The backcountry touring scene back when Will started Spark R&D (14:05)
  • "Making One" - and other major milestones (23:35)
  • How to have Zen get beaten into you (35:35)
  • The state of Spark R&D today (46:35)

STAY TUNED FOR PART 2...


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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: 398

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