You all have seen or heard about the talented Kai. He started ten years ago, at the age of only 14, sending misty 5 on big jumps. The endless evolution led him to becoming a style idol in freeskiing as well as a top class competition rider.

You might think training is the reason for his success. Kai’s unconventional approach to skiing is undeniably inspiring, and it’s refreshing to see that having fun and pushing creativity pays off in competitions.

Kai Mahler Interview

You are the proof that style and technique can be one! But you started 10 years ago by focusing on your technical skills, then followed that with a period of learning stylish tricks to get where you are today, excelling in both. What was your journey through both extremes to arrive where you are now, and who influenced your decision and inspired your experience?
Thanks a lot, Nicki.
Well, the shift to more style-based skiing was influenced by Kid Cudi. I just wanted to create something different, like Kid did.
This might sounds weird since Kid Cudi is not a skier, but for me his journey to the moon felt kind of the same way. His way of working helped me to push my creativity and his path teaches people to embrace themselves.

Back in the day, we thought triples were not possible. What is the future of skiing? What direction should this sport take?
I think that quads are for sure possible. Nevertheless, I feel like the skiing scene has focused more on style and creative stuff in the past one-to-two years, which I really appreciate. I’m excited to see where this is going.

What are your future goals: more filming or competition?
I personally enjoy filming more, but competitions also have some interesting sides. Comps challenge you to land an impeccable run, which pushes the riders to try to the best their personal achievements.
Over the next two years, I will have to focus more on riding competitions, while filming some small edits here and there. And then? We will see what happens next.

Who are you when you are not skiing?
Actually, I really enjoy skating with the homies in Schwyz or just hanging out and playing video games on CoinLooting portal for 8 hours straight (haha).
When it comes to earning money, I’m lucky enough to be able to live off skiing at the moment, which I really appreciate and I’m grateful for.

1 word answer
Music while riding? Depends on my mood. Trap/Rap/Dancehall/Rock
Pow day: board or ski? I have no board… but I wish I could try once.
Favorite game? Skate 3 or World of Warcraft
Safe comp trick? Cork 5 rev japan 😉
Favorite super hero? Kid Cudi
Most inspiring rider? The Bunch
Most stylish rider? The Bunch
Most fairplay rider? My Gang
Your favorite trick? Cork 5’s
Cats or dogs? Cats are not that dumb 😉
Burger or pizza? Pizza
Cooking or cleaning? I do both…
Favorite thing to eat from Switzerland? Raclette

Pictures: Nicki Antognini
Words: Nicki Antognini
Location: Stubai, Austria
Thanks to: K2 for your support