This hand-painted helmet, donated by extreme skier Kent Kreitler, is a remarkable blend of athletic gear and personal expression. Kreitler, a pioneer of big mountain skiing, made his name by pushing the boundaries of the sport in ways few had before. Born in Kansas City, MO and raised in Sun Valley, Kreitler honed his skills in the challenging terrain of the Sawtooth Mountains, and Ketchum became a home base for his lifelong passion for skiing. His influence is deeply felt in the world of extreme sports, where his daring descents and inventive tricks earned him a place in the U.S. Ski & Snowboard Hall of Fame.
The helmet, which he wore during his illustrious career, is covered in vibrant, hand-painted details. On the left side, a man in a red shirt with a clenched fist stands out against a white background, symbolizing resilience and strength. The center features “JONES” in hand-painted letters, a nod to one of Kreitler’s key sponsors, Jones Soda, along with “Boeri” in white stickers, representing the helmet manufacturer. The right side adds a playful touch with “WHOOP ASS” written in red novelty font, while the back repeats the Boeri name in yellow stickers.
One of the most distinctive features of the helmet is the red chin guard, which boldly displays “THE KREITLER”, marking this helmet as a true piece of personal memorabilia from his distinguished career.
Kreitler’s connection to the Wood River Valley runs deep. He was part of a generation of skiers who helped solidify Ketchum’s reputation as a hub for extreme sports. This helmet, with its mix of personal touches and sponsor shoutouts, represents not just an athlete but a pivotal moment in the culture of skiing.
From the Kent Kreitler Collection, Wood River Museum of History and Culture.
