Montec athlete Fabio Studer: A life shaped by the mountains

Name: Fabio Studer
Bio: Freeride Skier · Montec Team · Freeride World Tour Podium · Film Athlete
Age: 39
Hometown: Feldkirch (Austria)
Based in: Feldkirch/Koblach (Austria)

If you’ve spent any time following freeride skiing, chances are you’ve heard the name Fabio Studer. Born and raised in western Austria, Fabio grew up chasing gates as an alpine racer before discovering the freedom of the backcountry and never looking back. Since then, he’s carved out a career that’s taken him from the Freeride World Tour to film shoots in deep powder and dream trips across the globe.

But Fabio isn’t just about big lines and perfect tricks. As one of the first athletes to join the Montec family, he’s been part of the brand’s journey from the early days, bringing the same authenticity to gear and community that he brings to the mountains. In this interview, Fabio shares his roots, what drew him into freeride skiing, the highlights that still give him goosebumps, and what’s next on his bucket list - from stomping cliffs in Chamonix to chasing powder in Japan.

When and how did your skiing journey begin?

I started skiing when I was just two years old. My mom was a ski instructor, and she was the one who first taught me how to ski and really sparked my love for the mountains.

Where did you grow up, and how did that place shape the skier you’ve become?

I grew up in Western Austria, in the famous ski regions of Arlberg and Montafon. As a kid, I mainly skied at Sonnenkopf, and by the age of 10, when I joined a ski boarding school, I got to explore more of Montafon. Until I was 16, I was focused on alpine ski racing, so my roots are in racing. But at the same time, I spent a lot of days in the backcountry with my dad - he even taught me how to do my first frontflip. That mix of racing discipline and freeride freedom really shaped the skier I am today.

What pulled you into freeride skiing? What makes it your thing/special compared to other styles?

I was actually about to start snowboarding, but then I saw a ski halfpipe contest on Eurosport and got totally hooked. I had no idea you could do that on skis, and from that moment on I knew I wanted to become a freeskier. For me, freeride skiing is such a creative sport - you can choose your own line, add your own tricks, and give everything your personal style. I love standing at the top of a face on a powder day and seeing all the possibilities in front of me.

You were one of the first athletes to join Montec. How did that connection start, and what does it mean to you - or what has the experience been like - being part of the team and journey for so many years?

It was basically perfect timing. I was starting to focus more on social media and ski content production, and at that moment Montec and Dope were using those platforms in a completely different way than most other brands. I also really liked their cuts and the wide selection of ski apparel. I’m super happy that Montec trusted me from the beginning, and being part of the team for so many years has been really motivating - especially getting to see everything that goes on behind the scenes.

You’ve been on multiple adventures with Montec - is there a moment or trip that stands out as a highlight?

The trip to Japan last winter was definitely a highlight. The snow and culture there made it an amazing experience, and I really hope we get to go again this coming winter.

What’s a career highlight or moment that still gives you goosebumps when you think back on it?

The Freeride World Tour in Chamonix in 2013. It was only my second competition on the tour, and everything just clicked. I opened with a right-side fast plant 360 over the first cliff, then went into a left-side cork 720 into a super steep landing that had to be stomped perfectly. When I crossed the finish line, I was insanely happy with my run and it’s still one of those moments that gives me goosebumps whenever I think back on it.

Who or what inspires you most - on or off the mountain?

I’m inspired most by nature itself. I just love being outdoors - whether it’s skiing, paragliding, surfing, or via ferrata. For me, it’s all about having fun and enjoying these sports for as long as I can. I feel truly alive whenever I’m out in nature doing the activities I love.

What’s next on your skiing bucket list?

I might be planning a ski film for the upcoming winter, which is really exciting. And an Alaska trip with Montec is definitely high on the list too.

Get Fabio's look

Doom Ski Jacket Men Dark Blue/Black/Orange

Fawk Ski Pants Men Orange/Black/Metal Blue