686 Welcomes Gigi Rüf To The Family

686 Technical Apparel has announced the addition of iconic snowboarder Gigi Rüf to the team. Gigi brings his own unique approach to snowboarding and will complement the entire global 686 team including snowboarders Forest Bailey, Sammy Luebke, Phil Jacques, Victor Daviet, Matt Belzile and Mary Rand along with skiers Parker White, Laurent De Martin and more.

Gigi will be wearing GLCR and Multi Collection garments from 686 while exploring the Earth. He will join Sammy Luebke as teammates at every Freeride World Tour top and will also focus on filming for various projects.

“I am honored to be offered a place on the 686 Team. With an independently owned venue, the welcome feels warm. I have always respected 686 for having their foot in the door for role models and talents to enter and getting to work on what makes our world different.” -Gigi Rüf, Professional Snowboarder and Slash Snowboards brand owner.

“Gigi is a great addition to the team. He has one of the most creative styles out. He has always been one of my favorites and I’ve been watching his video parts more than half my life. He’s a true legend!” – Sammy Luebke, 686 team rider

“Gigi has a unique style and history with snowboarding. He has always let his riding do all the talking and has pushed the forefront of creativity on his snowboard. His special vision of how to paint the mountain canvas his brush stroke is unlike anyone else out there. We were looking for someone to represent our commitment to the Austrian and the Germanic markets and Gigi goes far beyond that. He truly is a global legend and I couldn’t be happier to have him as a part of the squad.” – Patrick McCarthy, 686 Team Manager

“Style has always been one of the top tenets at 686. From my early days street skateboarding to founding the brand, I’m drawn to this natural aesthetic.  I couldn’t be more stoked and honored to have Gigi bring his natural style of the 686 family. Let’s go!” – Michael Akira West, 686 Founder & CEO