“Ski Bum” is a term that typically evokes a specific image in people’s heads. A caricature of someone who makes skiing their number one priority, sometimes over jobs, homes, or clothes. “Ski bums” are known for being resourceful and making ends meet in order to spend as much time on the slopes. The aesthetic around them is one of functional, thrifted, and occasionally homemade accessories. In the past, the terms “ski bums” has been used in occasionally negative contexts, associating them with being “lazy.” In reality, people who embody this aesthetic are the opposite, especially today in a world where getting onto the mountains is becoming increasingly expensive. My upcycle project will embrace the culture around “ski bums” with a handmade four-point beanie using thrifted fleece fabric.
As mentioned above, the ski bum aesthetic is a unique blend of practicality, thrift, and individuality. Unlike the high-end look of luxury ski resorts, ski bum style is defined by secondhand gear, well-worn jackets, and DIY modifications. It’s common to see patched ski pants, vintage fleece pullovers, and mismatched layers that have been collected over the years. Bright colors and bold patterns add to the carefree spirit of the ski bum lifestyle. This aesthetic is not about looking polished. It is about embracing the scrappy, adventure-driven mindset that values time on the mountain over material possessions. Whether it’s a beanie made from thrifted fleece or a ski jacket found at a garage sale, every piece tells a story of resourcefulness and passion for the sport.
The four point beanie is a hat that has been gaining increasing popularity within the ski industry. It is typically made out of some kind of fleece and design to have four points on the top, hence the name. Although it seems like a more recent design, its history dates back over a hundred years. One influence for the design can be see in the Sami Four Point Hat, which is a traditional men’s hat with a four point star on top.
My project focuses on the “ski bum” aesthetic and hats essential role within it. Beanies are essential for warmth in the mountains, but for “ski bums” beanies are a form of self-expression. I will be taking fleece fabric I found in a thrift store and sewing the fabric into four point beanies. These beanies are typically selling online for for $20 to $30, but I am hoping to make 10 for under $10. I think that this also project also reflects the “ski bum” mindset of wearing something fun, functional, and also a bit scrappy. By repurposing thrifted materials, I’m not just saving money but also reducing waste, which aligns with the environmentally conscious side of ski culture.
Through this upcycling project, I hope to capture the essence of ski bum culture, a lifestyle built on a passion for skiing, creativity, and being resourceful. In a world where outdoor gear is often overpriced, a DIY approach brings back a sense of individuality and sustainability. Whether it’s duct-taped gloves, thrifted ski jackets, or handmade four-point beanies, the ski bum aesthetic is all about embracing the scrappy, fun-loving spirit of life on the slopes.
Works Cited
[1] Etsy. “Four Winds Hat.” Etsy, 2024, www.etsy.com/listing/1675667630/four-winds-hat. Accessed 29 Jan. 2025.[2] Switch Fleece. www.switchfleece.com. Accessed 29 Jan. 2025.
[3] “What Is a Ski Bum?” Newschoolers, www.newschoolers.com/news/read/What-a-Ski-Buma. Accessed 29 Jan. 2025. [4] Pinterest. “Ski Bum Aesthetic.” Pinterest, www.pinterest.com/search/pins/?rs=ac&len=2&q=ski%20bum%20aesthetic&eq=ski%20bum&etslf=6017. Accessed 29 Jan. 2025. [5] “Vintage Ski Bum.” Powder Magazine, www.powder.com/news/vintage-ski-bum. Accessed 29 Jan. 2025. [6] “Ski Bum Culture Hits Reality.” Adventure Journal, 12 Dec. 2023, www.adventure-journal.com/2023/12/ski-bum-culture-hits-reality/?srsltid=AfmBOorqgyfzz2Bt_ZS2S-h71nhswKVdzQWAifDtMxSpdER0uSZLkd4n. Accessed 29 Jan. 2025.
3 Comments. Leave new
Hello Elise! I super love this idea because in a way it challenges the cultural norms of the “expensiveness” connected with skiing. It’s both artistic and sustainable, and would honestly be such a great addition of color to the normal shades of gear in the mountains. However, I am curious, would this be something you wear under your helmet? or maybe it can also go over it?
Hi Elise! I find your project super cool! I find your description of the “ski bum” aesthetic really well done and authentic. I found it interesting how some of the original designs go back to traditional clothing. Are you thinking of sticking in patterns similar to the traditional ones? Since you’re making more than one, maybe you could experiment with different thicknesses, one for really cold days and another for warmer conditions. That could make them even more versatile!
Hi! Thanks for the comment. I like your idea of differentiating the design for the different hats inside of just sticking to one design. I was thinking of going with a more modern design, but maybe I could try to do one with the more traditional styles, along with ones for warmer vs. colder days.