January Newsletter

Liberty:  You've gotten fed up with having short arms on your jackets, tell us about your new project:

Lesh:  Ha! That's one way to put it! Yeah, I really got tired of outerwear sponsors giving me stuff that didn't fit so I approached a number of companies and asked if they would let me design a suit.  I suggested just prototyping one suit, and if it didn't receive rave reviews, then they wouldn't have to make it.  Well, everyone turned me down!

These large companies are so bureaucratic and to get them to try anything new is like pulling teeth; that's one reason that Liberty is so refreshing.  Anyway, this summer I decided to go my own way and founded my own outerwear company, First Drop.

Liberty:  Liberty is pretty stoked that you have started a clothing company -- what's it like trying to start something like that? Are you sourcing from China, did you get a booth at SIA? Have any retail outlets yet?

Lesh:  Shit you ask a lot of questions!  My daily lifestyle and schedule really changed when I began First Drop. I got myself onto China time, and spent a LOT of time in front of my computer Skyping, emailing, calling, joining trade sites, finding translators, making connections, etc.  The outerwear is made in China, stickers come from Denver, and most of the accessories come from California. I really want to keep it factory direct for at least the first few years, so there probably isn't a good reason to have a booth at SIA this year.

That being said, I will be there walking around, sporting some gear, and helping out at the Liberty booth, so come by and see me in my new line, and of course the new Liberty sticks will be there.

[editor's note - Liberty Booth is #3855 at SIA in Denver, January 28-31]

Liberty:  Shifting gears, tell us about your resolutions for 2010.

Lesh:  I want to continue to push myself as a skier, take lots of fun trips, and do more international traveling.  My goal is to continue to grow First Drop into a bigger brand with more sizes, designs, colors, and styles.

Liberty:  OK, and what about some general advice to the world at large?

Lesh:   Live life to the fullest, don't let any opportunities pass you by, and don't be afraid to make mistakes. Just get out there any try things. If you aren't happy, figure out what makes you happy and go for it.

Liberty:   Fast forward to next year. Do you think that 2011 will exceed this year?

Lesh:   I certainly hope so, and I think it will. Liberty won more awards this year than any other company, and it seems that this trend will continue - even the big companies are copying Liberty with bamboo cores, etc.  Also, First Drop has been really well received in the snow sports community.

Liberty:  Famous Last Words?

Lesh:   Thanks for the interview, and see you somewhere snowy!