AETHER In-the-Field: Courchevel
One of the best indictments of the technical performance abilities and overall longevity of outerwear is to see it used by industry professionals. Day in and day out, these individuals put their gear through prolonged real-world testing out in the field. So, if anyone is qualified to speak on the quality, durability, and performance of modern outerwear, it’s these industry insiders. One such outfit is the Private Instructor, a prestigious ski school based in Courchevel in France’s Three Valleys. To unpack what makes Courchevel so special and discuss why this elite ski school has opted to utilize AETHER’s apparel on the mountain, we sat down with Private Instructor’s founder and operator, Julien Appino.
Julien Appino
Can you tell us a little about your background and what made you start a ski school in Courchevel?
I was born in the Alps and have been skiing and competing since I was 2 years old. My mom and dad had a restaurant on the top of the mountain so I was going to school by ski until I was 10-years-old. Skiing has always been my passion, and what a better way to live your life than doing what you love most! So, starting a ski school with my friend in Courchevel was a no brainer. Courchevel’s part of the 'Three Valleys' one of the biggest ski domains in the world. Being able to work here is just wonderful as it’s just so expansive and has so many slopes. You can spend weeks with clients and do a different slopes everyday.
What do you love most about teaching in one of the world’s most prestigious ski resorts?
We’re lucky because the resort is so large and vast so skiing is never the same. We also get to meet so many different people from all over the world, as Courchevel is such a popular destination. We get Brazilians, Americans, Chinese, Turkish, English, Qatari, South African, and Australian visitors, and even host Sheiks from the Middle East.
What makes Courchevel stand out compared to other ski resorts in the world?
It’s hard to even know where to begin; the ski in and out nature of the resort; the groomed slopes; the miles and miles of ski areas; the Michelin star restaurants; the list goes on. The amount of luxury is immense in every sense, from hotels and spas to restaurants and chalets. The service both on and off the slopes make Courchevel a stand out ski destination.
What’s your favorite time of year to visit Courchevel, and why?
Winter Obviously! Mid December and April are good too as it’s quite in-between the holidays. In January there’s normally a lot of snow so the off piste and Heli Skiing is in full swing. You also get some spring snow in March and lots of sunshine and consequently lots of bluebird days.
If someone is visiting Courchevel for the first time, what’s the one thing they shouldn’t miss?
They should make sure they go for a typical Savoie Fondue and drink a Vin Chaud. If they’re a good skier, they should get up early and ensure they’re on the first lifts to make the most of the amazing slopes, and tackle the ‘Three Valleys' where you ski from Courchevel to Meribel to Val Thoren's and back again! A big ski day with lots of hot chocolate and Génèpi stops!
In your experience, how does AETHER’s ski outerwear differ from other ski gear you’ve worn?
We need to look good for our clients as we routinely cater to clients and guests staying at some of the most elite hotels and chalets in the world. Lots of ski wear is very technical but it’s not always the smartest or classiest looking—let along the most comfortable. AETHER’s ski wear, however, ensures me and my team of instructors have the correct level of technical practicalities and comfort, while also looking extremely sharp and presentable. This combination of traits may sound simple, but the truth is that it’s very hard to find—especially executed this well.
As a ski instructor who spends long days on the slopes, what do you look for in high-performance ski gear?
There are a few key characteristics that are important to us. Technically being able to withstand all weathers and conditions on the mountain is a must. Strength and durability are also paramount, as the garments need to be hardwearing enough to withstand our day to day activities on the slopes. Also crucial is an overall sense of practicality and ease-of-use stemming from areas like having good pockets, good zippers and hardware, good waterproofing, good warmth, and, when needed, good breathability. Being easy to wash is also a major plus.
What specific features of AETHER’s outerwear make a difference in your daily routine?
The overall modularity of these garments and their conduciveness to layering is huge for me, as this allows the clothing to lend itself to a much wider range of temperatures and conditions while still ensuring that I’m warm, comfortable, and able to freely move.
