GEAR~Think Your Ski Gear’s Safe from Tariffs? Think Again.

Owner and Founder of Coaltation Skis, Jen. Photo Credit: Coalition Snow

At She-Shredz, we live for the mountain—the culture, the community, the freedom. But the ski and snowboard industry is facing a quiet storm that’s already changing how gear is made, priced, and accessed. New tariffs and supply chain disruptions are putting pressure on manufacturers and retailers alike, and it’s the rider-driven, independent brands that are feeling it most.

To get a firsthand view, we spoke with Jen, founder and owner of Coalition Snow, who’s navigating this trade shake-up in real time. Her insights offer a critical look behind the curtain.

Domestic Manufacturing: More Dream Than Reality

Despite strong interest in “Made in the USA,” most materials used in skis and snowboards—steel edges, bamboo cores, aluminum, fiberglass—simply aren’t produced domestically. Even U.S. brands rely on global sourcing, making local manufacturing more idealistic than feasible.

Jen recalls trying to produce Coalition skis domestically—only for their U.S. manufacturing partner to shut down in 2021. Attempts to relocate production within the country failed due to extreme costs and the inability to support full-size runs.

Tariffs and Pricing: The Math Isn’t Pretty

With tariffs pushing up material prices, manufacturing costs have skyrocketed. Jen’s recent estimate for producing a snowboard in Tahoe? $800 per unit. That would force retail prices into the $1,400–$1,600 range, which simply isn’t sustainable for most riders—or brands.

As a result, Coalition has chosen to stop producing certain models entirely. And they won’t be the only ones.

Global Brands Are Repositioning Fast

As tariffs loom, ski and snowboard brands across the globe are scrambling to secure reliable manufacturing. Many are locking in overseas factory hubs to avoid the brunt of cost increases, knowing the 90-day grace period offered by lawmakers is nowhere near enough to rework complex supply chains.

Coalition Snow, for example, partners with a third-generation Japanese factory known for its exceptional craftsmanship and ethical practices. For founder Jen Gurecki, the decision is rooted in quality, sustainability, and long-standing trust, not just cost.

Meanwhile, in conversations with other women-owned snow businesses, we’ve seen a different strategy emerge: a push to identify domestic factory partners as quickly as possible. Their goal is to establish U.S.-based hubs that could offer more control and resilience in the face of trade volatility. But with limited options and rising costs, it’s a race against time, and not everyone will make it to the starting gate.

What This Means for Riders

~ Gear prices will rise, even from budget-friendly brands.

~Fewer products will be available—expect reduced selection across categories.

~Current inventory reflects pre-tariff pricing—once it’s gone, prices won’t look the same.

Jen’s advice? Buy now if you’ve been eyeing new skis or boards—next season’s gear will carry a different price tag.

Small Businesses Are the First to Fall

The implications go beyond gear. Small businesses throughout the industry are facing declining sales, rising costs, and limited support. According to recent reports, employment at businesses with fewer than 10 employees has dropped by 3% in 2025 alone—an estimated 366,000 jobs lost.

With tariffs adding 10% to 145% in cost increases depending on materials and origins, small brands can’t simply absorb the financial hit. Many lack cash reserves, flexible supply chains, or the ability to scale. What’s unfolding is a gradual consolidation of power, where only larger companies with deep pockets will survive.

From She-Shredz to the Mountain Community

We believe the soul of skiing is built by passionate creators, not just corporations. Tariffs may be out of our control, but awareness, advocacy, and rider support aren't.

Let’s back the brands that keep snow sports soulful. Let’s elevate the voices on the frontlines. And let’s make sure that the gear we ride—and the values we carry—reflect the community we want to build.

Are you planning on buying new gear this upcoming season? Tell us below if you have concerns regarding the tarriffs and how it will impact your gear choices.