Olympic Skier Outfitted by Baltimore’s Innovative Metal Ski Maker

As the 2026 Winter Olympics approach, Olympic skier Alex Ferreira is set to compete with a unique advantage: custom poles made by a Baltimore-based company. Known for its innovative designs, Zipline Ski is outfitting several Olympians, including Ferreira, who aims for a gold medal in Italy.

Custom Equipment from Baltimore’s Zipline Ski

Founded over a decade ago by Chuck Heidenreich, a former U.S. skier, Zipline Ski has established itself as a leader in ski equipment. The company is renowned for its poles that utilize advanced hexagon graphite technology, balancing strength and lightness. Ferreira uses these specialized poles while skiing, despite utilizing skis from a German manufacturer.

Historical Context of Ski Innovation

The roots of skiing equipment in Baltimore date back to the 1940s. Howard Head, an aircraft engineer at the Glenn L. Martin Company, developed aluminum-plated skis after feeling frustrated with his performance on wooden skis. This innovation revolutionized the sport and led to the formation of a company in downtown Baltimore that produced thousands of ski pairs annually.

• 1940s: Howard Head develops aluminum-plated skis.
• 1950s: Head’s company manufactures about 1,000 ski pairs yearly.
• Mid-1960s: Production soars to hundreds of thousands of pairs.

Alex Ferreira’s Olympic Journey

Ferreira, who hails from Colorado, is a decorated competitor in the halfpipe event. He previously won silver and bronze medals in the 2018 and 2022 Olympics, and he is determined to secure gold in his likely final Olympic appearance. The talented skier has garnered attention for his alter ego, Hot Dog Hans, which has amassed over one million followers on social media.

Competing Athletes and Sponsorships

The 2026 Winter Olympics feature a host of athletes supported by major sponsors. Baltimore’s Under Armour backs renowned figures like Lindsey Vonn and Mikaël Kingsbury, among others. The inclusion of advanced ski technology from companies like Zipline adds a competitive edge to these athletes, particularly as the stakes rise in Italy.

Future of Ski Equipment

The association of skiing with innovation continues through companies like Zipline Ski. As the sport evolves, the integration of advanced materials and technologies remains essential for athletes aiming for Olympic glory.