PowderPlaits
Rachel Little
British Freeskier | Freeride World Qualifier Athlete
Hi! I'm Rachel. I'm a freeride skier from the UK currently living near Seattle, WA. If I'm not driving around North America chasing storms in my ski van, you might find me slaying pow in the snowy Japanese Alps. Occasionally I make it back home to Europe to bag peaks and indulge in some raclette. You can look out for me this season in Freeride World Qualifier competitions around the world as I try to make it to #1 female skier in the UK and top 20 worldwide. Nice to meet you, I'm stoked you're here!
Ski Life
There are so many amazing female skiers, mountaineers and outdoor women out there who I really look up to, and it's inspiring to hear their stories. I decided to start sharing my story too, in case one day it inspires someone else to get after it in the mountains!
In my blog I write about my experiences of working ski seasons and travelling around the world to freeride competitions. I love to talk about feminism in skiing and other sports, and how they can have a positive impact on women and girls.
Van Life
Last year I bought a sweet '91 GMC Vandura van and converted it into a storm-chasing home on wheels. Her name is Sweet Georgia Van and you can read all about her here!
When I was converting the van, I found it really helpful to read other van blogs, especially from skiers and solo female vanlifers. Hopefully if you are considering winter van life you find some helpful advice!
Why PowderPlaits?
I've been wearing my hair in two plaits (the British word for braids) since as long as I've been skiing. It started out as just a practical hairstyle that would keep my ears warm and fit under my helmet, but it became much more than that.
Each day when I do my plaits before I go out skiing, I feel like I'm putting on my warpaint or armour. It's a ritual that makes me feel powerful in my own way. Women from all cultures all over the world have been braiding their hair for as long as humankind has existed. To me, plaits are a symbol of feminine strength, empowerment and bonding.
And I love to ski powder! So there you go ;)
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