Riding the Continents: South America and Europe
Federico, one of our CLEW Teamriders, grew up riding in the southernmost corners of Argentina and has since spent time exploring Europe’s iconic resorts. In this interview, he shares his insights on snowboarding across two continents—from the wild, technical terrain of the Andes to the established infrastructure of the Alps. He talks about his favorite spots, hidden gems, cultural differences, and what makes riding in South America so unique.
You grew up riding in Argentina. What’s your favorite region or resort to ride in your home country?
I was born in Ushuaia, the southernmost city in Argentina. It’s my favorite place in the world.
Besides Ushuaia, what other places in Argentina have you snowboarded, and which ones would you recommend?
I’ve snowboarded in a few places in Argentina, like Bariloche and San Martín. Argentina has very beautiful places with incredible mountains. I definitely recommend Ushuaia for touring and freeriding.
What makes riding in the Andes unique compared to Europe? Snow, terrain, vibe?
Compared to the Alps, in South America—especially in southern Patagonia—we don’t get the same amount of snow. This makes the terrain more technical, with lots of changing snow conditions in a single run and more rocks.
Can you tell us about a hidden gem in South America that most snowboarders don’t know about?
In Tierra del Fuego, there’s the Darwin Range, located on the Chilean side of the island. It’s a very wild place where not many snowboarders have been, due to its difficult access and very unpredictable weather. It’s a place I’d really love to explore.
You’ve been spending time in Europe now. What differences do you notice between South American mountains and European resorts like Laax?
In Europe, snowboard culture has existed for many years, and the infrastructure is much more developed than in South America. You can really see the difference in the snowparks, which makes freestyle progression slower in South America compared to Europe.
How do weather conditions in Chile or Argentina compare to Europe during the season?
In Ushuaia, the weather is very unpredictable. Storms and bad weather often come in without showing up in the forecast, which makes it harder to plan mountain days. In Europe—Laax, for example—the weather tends to be much sunnier and more friendly.
How does the snowboard culture in South America differ from Europe? Is it more laid-back, more adventurous, or something else?
In Argentina, snowboard culture is growing a lot, especially freeriding. In places where you used to see no one, now you see many people splitboarding. There are also many people with strong mountain knowledge who share it with others, making it a safer environment.
When you travel between South America and Europe, what do you miss most about home?
It’s always hard to be away. I really miss my family, the culture, and the food. Home is always the place where you feel safe.
If a European rider visited South America for the first time, what would be the first run or area you’d take them to/recommend?
I’d probably recommend three places: Mendoza, Bariloche, and Ushuaia.
Powder day in Argentina vs park day in Laax — which would you choose?
Without a doubt, I’d choose a powder day in Argentina, Ushuaia. Sunshine, good snow, and riding while looking at the ocean is incredible
One word to describe South America riding, and one for Europe.
South America: Community
Europe: Culture
