Michael Johns
I live in Rossland BC. I have been a ski mechanic for some 25 years and a backcountry snowboarding enthusiast for almost 30. Starting off in an activity in its early stages of development was a true blessing as much of our gear was homemade or modified in some way. These skills were instrumental in improving and broadening my experience in setting up, modifying and repairing peoples gear. My evolution of backcountry snowboarding went from snowshoes, to small approach skis, to hard boot split board, to hard boot split board with Dynafit toes to where I have arrived now. I have been using what I call the “Lightswitch” binding interface. This is a full toe and heel Dynafit binding mounted on a plate, working for up hill travel and a safe full release binding for “split-ski” situations.
1023 Innovations is a company I have started to further develop this idea. The goal is to bring the “Lightswitch” to market. As well, further development of a snowboard specific hard boot is a must for the sport I believe. The Raichle boot from the mid 90’s was close to the ideal as possible and I am confident that a boot similar to it in construction can be produced from existing parts.