Virgil Abloh was as a modern revolutionary. His drive to break down barriers was evident throughout his work. As an avid snowboarding fan, he launched an Off-White x Burton collection that highlighted women in the male-dominated sport. Now, Burton unveils a second collaboration with the late designer that has been in the works since 2020.
The Burton c/o Virgil Abloh project includes ten one-of-one “Manifesto” snowboards that were put up for auction last week, with funds going to Virgil Abloh’s Post-Modern scholarship fund. The designs for these snowboards and the full collection that will be releasing to the public are guided by a manifesto written by Virgil:
“PRODUCT THAT BY ITS EXISTENCE NOT ONLY STANDS AS EVIDENCE FOR THE EVOLUTION OF A SUBCULTURE AND SPORT BUT BECOMES AN ARTIFACT WHICH PROVES THAT DIVERSITY WITHIN SNOWBOARDING IS NOT ONLY AN IDEA, IT’S ACTUALLY HAPPENING, CARE OF BURTON and VIRGIL ABLOH™.”
Zeb Powell and Brolin Mawejje, two members of Burton’s boarding team, describe their interpretation of the manifesto:
“I try to leave my impact on snowboarders just like Virgil left on me. Keeping up with me. Taking the time to talk, it meant so, so, much.” – Zeb Powell
“The manifesto says it well. It’s not just an idea; it is beyond the conversation. It is happening. We are watching it happen and will continue to watch the sport of snowboarding grow.” – Brolin Mawejje
The full Burton c/o Virgil Abloh collection consists of snowboards, boots, and bindings. Featured are two camber snowboards in “Wood,” “Wall,” “Desert,” and “Paper” colorways while also offering a rocker snowboard in “Jungle” and “Mist.” Also featured are Photon Boa Boots and Genesis EST Bindings for men and Felix Boa Boots and Escapade EST Bindings for women.
Additionally, Burton will be carrying on Virgil Abloh’s legacy by pledging $300,000 over the course of three years to increase BIPOC representation and participation in snow sports. The Burton c/o Virgil Abloh collection launches on March 22nd on the Burton website.
