Shaun White recently flew from California to visit our Sun & Ski Sports location at Arundel Mills Mall, bringing his Whitespace team along to educate our Outdoor Experts about the brand. We were thrilled to have him in-store! Our team had a unique opportunity to dive deep into the vision, design, and performance behind Whitespace products. From checking out the snowboard designs to learning about the head-turning outerwear line, every moment was packed with insights and excitement.
Our Outdoor Experts had the chance to interview Shaun. The full conversation will be available on YouTube soon! He and his team were patient, authentic, and an absolute delight to host! It was an inspiring evening for everyone on our team, and we couldn’t be more excited to carry and share Whitespace with our customers.
We’re excited to share what we learned from Shaun during his visit and give you a closer look at his incredible journey in snowboarding, his major achievements, and the initiatives he’s leading today, including The Snow League and Whitespace.
Table of Contents
- Why Is Shaun White Considered a Legend in Snowboarding?
- How Did Shaun White Change the Sport of Halfpipe Snowboarding?
- What Were Shaun White’s Most Significant Injuries During His Snowboarding Career?
- When Did Shaun White Retire From Snowboarding, and Why?
- What Is The Snow League, and Why Did Shaun White Launch a New Professional Snowboarding League?
- What Is Whitespace, and Why Did Shaun White Create His Own Snowboarding Brand?
- Top Whitespace Snowboards: Montano, MAAX, & Freestyle
- Top Whitespace Snowboard Outerwear Kits for Men and Women
- Why We Love Whitespace Snowboard Outerwear
- Shaun White’s Community Involvement and Charity Work
- Shaun White’s Snowboarding Legacy and Winter Gear Essentials
Why is Shaun White Considered a Legend in Snowboarding?
Shaun White’s career achievements are unmatched in snowboarding. He won three Olympic gold medals in the halfpipe (2006, 2010, 2018) and dominated the X Games, earning more gold medals than nearly any other action sports athlete. Beyond competitions, his signature style, fearless approach, and charismatic personality earned him the nickname “Flying Tomato” and brought snowboarding into mainstream attention. Shaun’s influence inspired generations of snowboarders, solidifying his reputation as a true legend in the sport.
How Did Shaun White Change the Sport of Halfpipe Snowboarding?
Shaun White transformed halfpipe snowboarding by introducing more complex tricks and elevating the technical standards of the sport. Early in his career, he built a private halfpipe with a foam pit to safely practice and refine advanced moves. This allowed him to develop maneuvers like the frontside double cork 1080, cab double corks, and double McTwists, setting new benchmarks for skill and innovation. Shaun’s approach reshaped expectations of a “perfect run,” pushing competitors to combine flips, spins, and style in ways never seen before.
What Were Shaun White’s Most Significant Injuries During His Snowboarding Career?
Shaun White faced several major injuries throughout his career. In 2017, he suffered a crash that required dozens of stitches in his face. Leading up to the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics, he was managing ongoing knee and ankle injuries alongside previous surgeries. These challenges tested both his physical endurance and mental resilience, yet he continued performing at the highest level, demonstrating remarkable determination and perseverance.
When Did Shaun White Retire From Snowboarding, and Why?
Shaun White retired after competing in his fifth Olympic Games at the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics, finishing fourth in the halfpipe final. His decision was influenced by years of accumulated injuries, a desire to protect his long-term health, and recognition of his remarkable career achievements. Retirement opened the door for Shaun to focus on new ventures that continue to impact the snowboarding world, allowing him to shift from competing to shaping the sport in other meaningful ways.
What Is The Snow League, and Why Did Shaun White Launch a New Professional Snowboarding League?
The Snow League, launched in 2024, is the first professional winter sports league entirely dedicated to snowboarding and freeskiing. Shaun White’s goal was to create a structured platform where athletes can compete globally with consistent opportunities, prize money, and media exposure.
The inaugural season includes stops in Aspen, USA; Yunding Secret Garden, China; and LAAX, Switzerland, with events broadcast live on NBC Sports and Peacock. With $15 million in funding and Shaun’s vision for athlete development, The Snow League provides a fresh, professional structure for winter sports competitors and offers fans exciting new ways to experience elite snowboarding.
What Is Whitespace, and Why Did Shaun White Create His Own Snowboarding Brand?
Whitespace is Shaun White’s lifestyle and snowboard brand, founded in 2022. It offers snowboards, outerwear, and streetwear that combine performance with innovative design. Shaun created Whitespace to provide high-quality gear that reflects his experience and vision for the sport, allowing athletes to perform at their best while fans enjoy stylish, functional apparel. Whitespace represents Shaun’s ongoing impact on snowboarding beyond competition, bringing his expertise and creativity directly to snowboarders and enthusiasts.
A huge thank you to Shaun White for the warm welcome—our team couldn’t be more excited to partner with such an iconic brand. We are here to share Whitespace with our community and bring even more stoke to the mountain.
Top Whitespace Snowboards: Montano, MAAX, & Freestyle
Whitespace Men’s Montano Snowboard ’26
The Montano Snowboard is built for riders who want power, control, and powder performance. It works well in deep snow and still holds a strong edge on groomers. The Montano blends powder float, all-mountain control, and sustainable design, making it a great choice for riders who want one board for varied terrain.
Key Features
- Surf-inspired taper for smooth turns
- Directional hybrid camber for float and stability
- Carbon-reinforced fiberglass for fast rebound
- Sintered base for long-lasting speed
- Eco-friendly materials such as bio-resin and water-based inks
Whitespace Men’s MAAX Snowboard ’26
The MAAX Snowboard is a true do-everything board. It handles park jumps, all-mountain cruising, and powder days without missing a beat. The MAAX is ideal for riders who want one snowboard for park, powder, and all-mountain terrain. It feels light, playful, and strong under pressure.
Key Features
- Directional hybrid camber for pop and float
- Dual-radius sidecut for quick, responsive turns
- Lightweight poplar/paulownia wood core
- Carbon X45 fiberglass for power
- Fast sintered base
- Eco-friendly construction using bio-resin
Whitespace Men’s Freestyle Shaun White Pro Snowboard ’26
The Shaun White Pro Snowboard is built for riders who demand speed, control, and freestyle versatility. It was designed and tested by Shaun White for top-tier performance. This board turns the entire mountain into a freestyle playground. It delivers strong edge hold, fast response, and the durability needed for advanced riding.
Key Features
- Responsive camber profile for power
- Full-length carbon for stability and strength
- Directional twin shape for freestyle riding
- Sintered base for maximum speed
- Eco-conscious construction
- Backed by a four-year warranty
Top Whitespace Snowboard Outerwear Kits for Men and Women
Whitespace Kit for Men
The ultimate men’s kit pairs the Whitespace Men’s AMF Cargo Snow Jacket with the 2L Insulated Cargo Snow Bib. Waterproof, insulated, and built for mobility, this combo keeps you warm, dry, and comfortable all day on the mountain. Cargo pockets, vents, and stretch panels make it perfect for serious riders.
Whitespace for Men
Whitespace Kit for Women
The top women’s kit combines the Whitespace Women’s Cropped Puffer Jacket with the High-Waisted Riding Bib. Lightweight, waterproof, and insulated, it offers style and performance on the slopes. Articulated knees and adjustable suspenders ensure freedom of movement and a secure fit.
Whitespace for WomenWhy We Love Whitespace Snowboard Outerwear
- Performance Meets Style: Each piece balances mountain-ready function with modern, street-ready aesthetics.
- Sustainable Materials: Many Whitespace jackets and bibs feature recycled insulation, waterproof membranes, and PFC-free DWR treatments to reduce environmental impact.
- Smart Storage & Venting: Thoughtful pockets, PAS venting systems, and thermal compartments keep essentials safe and comfort high during long snowboarding sessions.
- Fits Every Rider: From roomy men’s cargo bibs to sleek high-waisted women’s snow bibs, Whitespace offers snowboard outerwear for all body types and riding styles.
Shaun White’s Community Involvement and Charity Work
Shaun White’s impact reaches far beyond his athletic achievements. Throughout his career, he has dedicated significant time and resources to supporting youth, promoting outdoor activities, and partnering with organizations like Make-A-Wish to bring memorable experiences to children facing critical illnesses. His involvement in events such as “Air + Style” also helped raise funds for youth programs while showcasing top snowboarding talent.
In addition to long-standing charity efforts, Shaun has launched global initiatives aimed at expanding access to snowboarding. His 2019 campaign in Japan provided underprivileged kids with gear, lessons, and the opportunity to experience snowboarding for the first time. Through Whitespace, he continues this mission by supporting environmental organizations, promoting sustainable product development, and reducing waste across their outerwear and gear lines.
Shaun’s commitment to community extends to his own foundation, which works to remove barriers for young people entering action sports. Recognized with numerous awards for his charity work, he and Whitespace remain focused on inspiring and empowering the next generation of riders. Their efforts ensure that each new product, program, and initiative contributes to a more inclusive and sustainable future for the snowboarding community.
Shaun White’s Snowboarding Legacy and Winter Gear Essentials
Shaun White’s journey is a remarkable mix of achievement, innovation, and vision. From dominating the halfpipe to launching The Snow League and Whitespace, he has shaped the sport and continues to inspire athletes worldwide. His visit to Sun & Ski Sports at Arundel Mills Mall highlighted his dedication to sharing knowledge, mentoring, and building the future of snowboarding.
Heading to the slopes or winter adventures? Our Outdoor Experts can help you find the perfect snowboard for your skill level and style, insulated outerwear, and best winter boots. We’re here to give you pro tips and tricks for snowboarding, skiing, and other winter mountain activities. Swing by a Sun & Ski Sports near you to gear up with all your winter essentials and make the most of the season.
Shop All Whitespace
About the Author, Allie Cheney
Hello there :) Allie Cheney here! I'm a Texan turned mountain enthusiast with a twist. After a year of croissants and conjugations in France where I completed an MBA, I traded baguettes for mountain air and moved to Colorado. As a Copywriter and Content Creator for Sun & Ski Sports I'm thrilled to share my 6 years of outdoor industry knowledge with you! Living in a converted van, I'll be skiing along the Rocky Mountains and West Coast this winter. My aim is to deliver content that is not only accurate and genuine but also provides valuable knowledge and insights into your favorite hobbies, the latest trending styles, and cutting-edge products. Let’s explore together! For questions feel free to email me at ACheney@sunandski.com or contact an Outdoor Expert at any Sun & Ski Sports store location near you!