Jake Burton Carpenter
Jake founded Burton Snowboards out of a Vermont barn in 1977 and dedicated the rest of his life to snowboarding. He was our founder, the soul of snowboarding, the one who gave us the sport we all love so much.
The impact his spirit had on each of us is undeniable, and through snowboarding, the feelings we've experienced and the memories we've made are unforgettable. His legacy will live on forever.
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A global day of having as much fun as possible to celebrate the legacy of Jake Burton Carpenter.
Dear Jake...
Using the message board below, join us in honoring Jake by writing him a note sharing how snowboarding changed your life. Then scroll through the messages we've received so far to get inspired.
To write your own note to Jake, simply click on the pencil icon to get started.
"After his fascination with the Snurfer… he built the first successful snowboard company."
The New York Times
"What Snowboarding Owes Jake Burton: A Remembrance"
Snowboarder Magazine
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The Mine is Ours
Product development was Jake’s biggest passion, and he always made it fun. Taking a piece of gear and asking: How can we make it better? He couldn’t keep his hands off, and no detail was too small. Thus, Mine77, Jake’s personal creative outlet, was born.
"At Burton, we redefine traditions, turning the expected on its head. Our iconic use of the middle finger as a symbol reflects our resilience and pride as winter sports rebels. When Jake faced a life-threatening illness, the entire company gathered spontaneously for a group photo, expressing love and solidarity. The resulting 'We Fucking Love You Jake' image, displayed prominently in Jake's hospital room, became a source of inspiration for his recovery. This unconventional gesture encapsulates the love, mutual respect, and strength of community that define Burton Snowboards."
- Donna
"At Burton, we redefine traditions, turning the expected on its head. Our iconic use of the middle finger as a symbol reflects our resilience and pride as winter sports rebels. When Jake faced a life-threatening illness, the entire company gathered spontaneously for a group photo, expressing love and solidarity. The resulting 'We Fucking Love You Jake' image, displayed prominently in Jake's hospital room, became a source of inspiration for his recovery. This unconventional gesture encapsulates the love, mutual respect, and strength of community that define Burton Snowboards."
- Donna
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In His Own Words
Jake was always hands-on, and determined to do things his own way. No one could map out his life story but him, so he wrote it himself.
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How I Built This
Spend some time with Jake in his interview with NPR’s Guy Raz.
Jake’s Feed
His photos. His stories. Welcome to Jake’s world.
#RideOnJake