The Poederbaas Freeride Festival 2025, the Dutch and Belgian Freeride Championships (NK/BK Freeride), will take place from March 15 to March 22, 2025, in Kappl, Austria. This tenth edition of the event is completely sold out with 110 participants, and more than 20 on the waiting list.
Ten years of freeride spectacle
Ten years ago, the Poederbaas Freeride Festival was organized for the first time, and it has grown into one of Europe's largest freeride events. During this week, participants get the chance to showcase their skills and compete for the title of number one freerider in the Netherlands and Belgium. Both skiers and snowboarders are judged on line choice, control, fluidity, air & style, and technique by the expert jury.
With challenging terrain and steep descents, Kappl is the perfect location for this spectacular competition. The competition promises to be a true spectacle again, both for the participants and the spectators cheering along the slopes.
Focus on safety
With a growing number of young participants, this year's emphasis is strongly on snow safety. For those participating for the first time, snow safety clinics have been made mandatory. These clinics are led by experienced ski and snowboard guides who share their knowledge to ensure a safe experience of the sport. The festival also offers freeride clinics and test sessions with skis and snowboards from major brands, allowing participants to improve their skills and become familiar with the latest equipment.
More than just freeriding: parties and fun!
In addition to the competitions and clinics, the festival is known for its unparalleled camaraderie. Besides all the daytime competitions, there are fun après-ski parties, and as soon as the sun sets, the party truly gets going! Throughout the week, there are various theme nights, live DJs, and parties where the freeride community comes together to enjoy the ultimate après-ski vibe.
One of the highlights besides freeriding is the legendary 'Law of the Sea' - waterslide contest. This hilarious spectacle attracts a large audience every year: participants try to slide across an ice-cold water basin on skis or a snowboard. Not everyone makes it to the other side dry, which leads to spectacular jumps and wet suits!
Additionally, there are numerous other activities such as wax sessions, freeride test days with the latest skis and snowboards, and communal dinners where experiences and adventures are shared.
NK/BK Skimo Vertical: tickets still available!
In addition to the freeride championship, the NK/BK Skimo Vertical competition is also organized during the festival. This discipline within skimo (ski mountaineering) is all about pure climbing power and perseverance. Participants complete a steep ascent on skis or a splitboard, where technique and endurance are central.
Tickets are still available for this unique race! So, if you want to show how fast you can gain elevation, this is your chance to participate in one of the most exciting skimo competitions of the year.
The Poederbaas Freeride Festival 2025 promises to be an unforgettable week for both participants and spectators. With a strong focus on safety, education, and fun, the festival remains a highlight in the winter sports calendar for freeride enthusiasts.