Michelle Shea Lives in Danger

There’s something to be said about roshamboing with a girl to see who is going to death ride down a pine tree in the preseason. Most people wouldn’t want to jib something that sketchy that early in the season but Michelle was all for it. At that moment in time I realized this chick has the potential for bigger and better things, she might not have had the best season last year, but now she’s poised for a better season this upcoming year.

Angry Snowboarder: What companies are you officially repping?

Michelle Shea: Never Summer Snowboards, S4 Optics, Monster Energy, Thug Bunniez and Shred Betties.

AS: So other than blowing your knee this past season how did the year go for you?

MS: Honestly, terrible.  I did get a few good days in, but collectively, I’m very glad the season is over.  I never felt 100%, I was constantly injured, and then I lost a few people I was very close to…definitely a frustrating season.

AS: Now knowing that “Danger” is your middle name I’m kind of curious to hear how you blew your knee apart?

MS: Haha, Danger is my business!  It all began at Super Girl in Venice last September, and it just went downhill from there.

AS: How do you foresee this injury impacting your riding?

MS: This sounds crazy, but I am very thankful for this setback.  I am getting proper care and taking better care of my body than I ever have.  I think in a way it was the universe’s way of telling me to take a break and spend time away from snowboarding.

AS: So which shred mecca is better Breck or Mammoth and why?

MS: Mecca wise…Breck is definitely the place to be these days, shred kids from all over are popping up around Summit County.

AS: What do you find to be the best part of being a sponsored rider at the level you’re at?

MS: I’m finally earning respect and getting some amazing support behind me.  It makes such a huge difference to have people and companies who want to see me succeed, because it makes it so much less stressful at times like these when I’m injured.  When I’m back riding, I’m motivated to do everything I can to support them in return.

AS: And the worst?

MS: The most common problem in the industry right now…the economy.  I’m still at the level where if there are any cuts I’m the first to go.  I have had the worst luck with outerwear sponsors for that very reason.

AS: What’s the hardest part of marketing yourself as a rider in a male dominated industry?

MS: Lack of exposure.  There are fewer photographers and videographers willing to shoot with girls because they will not have as many parties interested in paying for their shots.

Michelle Shea…Stalking Myself from Michelle Shea on Vimeo.

AS: Three most underrated girls and guys to shred with?

MS: Izzy Lalive
Possum Torr
Bev Vuilleumier

Guys, sorry but there are too many to name! I’m stoked to see a lot of them working hard and coming up.

AS: Thanks and shout outs?

MS: Never Summer Jeremy and Micah, S4, Di and Kelly at Shredbetties, Davey Smidt, Snowdogg, Connor, Ninjah, Bridget Smith, Brandon Highland, the Chargers, and of course my friends and family because they are as supportive as a bra!

Some photos courtesy of Miriah Clarke