Alek Oestreng

Name: Alek Oestreng

Home Mountain: Hemsedal

Snowboarding Since: 2000

ORIGINS

I grew up in a place called Rykkinn just outside of Oslo. At the age of 9 I started snowboarding and together with a few friends I began spending all my spare time at the local hill. We got introduced to the scene and snowboarding gave me a direction and an identity. Aside from seeing other snowboarders, I found most of my inspiration in magazines and videos. My interest in snowboarding has always been about more than just the actual riding. Photography, cinematography, art, music and everything that comes with snowboarding makes it a culture and a lifestyle rather than a sport. These days I enjoy working on video and photo projects. Seeking to capture the feelings of snowboarding and hoping to inspire others to get out.

PERSPECTIVE

Snowboarding has been at the center of my life for the past 20 years. Over the years my perspectives have shifted. I started travelling at a young age and chased this idea of what I thought snowboarding should be. I didn’t find much happiness this way and ultimately my own experiences taught me to slow down. I am more patient now and my gaze has lifted so that I can enjoy and appreciate what my surroundings have to offer. Slowing down has also made snowboarding more sustainable, both for me as an individual and for our planet. I have the highest appreciation for the outdoors. Realizing it is the root of everything I am passionate about. I am truly thankful to live in a place with endless access to mountains, lakes, forests and the ocean

STORY

I used to travel a lot and live out of my bag, so having a place to relax and call home is important to me. I spend my time with my wife, family and friends. The seasons here in Norway provide me with a natural balance. The constant change through the year inspires me. When the snow melts, I like to spend my time skateboarding, climbing and hiking. These activities are agreat way for me to stay active, creative, social and put me in a similar headspace as snowboarding.