RUFFNEK® x JUSST Ski Team: From University Slopes to Olympic Dreams

This winter, we’re proud to announce our collaboration with JUSST - Liverpool John Moores University’s Ski and Snowboard Team. As the snow sports world turns its attention to the upcoming Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina, we’re celebrating the grassroots passion that fuels the sport at every level - from university dry slope training to the world’s biggest stages.

Who Are JUSST?

JUSST (Liverpool John Moores University Ski and Snowboard Team) is a vibrant, student-led society bringing together snow sports enthusiasts from across the university. Whether you’re a seasoned racer or trying skiing or snowboarding for the first time, JUSST offers an inclusive community built around a shared love of the mountains.

The society organises annual trips to world-class resorts such as Avoriaz and Morzine in France, making alpine skiing more accessible to students. Alongside these trips, members enjoy regular dry slope sessions to hone their skills, competitive racing opportunities, and legendary themed socials that build lasting friendships both on and off the slopes.

Training and Competition

Every Wednesday, JUSST members travel to Stoke for dry slope training, developing their technique and race-readiness throughout the academic year.

The team competes in KINGS Ski Club events - University head-to-head dual slalom races held at dry slopes across England and Wales from October to March. JUSST fields teams in:

• Mixed (5 skiers)
• Ladies (4 skiers)
• Snowboard (3 boarders)

They also compete in BUDS - the British University Dry Slope Championships, representing Liverpool at the highest level of university competition.

Last season was particularly special, with JUSST winning the league for the university - a testament to the dedication and skill of students balancing academic life with serious athletic commitment.

Training on dry slopes brings unique challenges, which is why our lightweight ski snoods and neck warmers are so popular with university ski teams - offering protection from wind and spray without overheating during high-intensity dry slope sessions.

The Olympic Connection

With the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina capturing global attention, it’s the perfect moment to reflect on where Olympic dreams begin. Many of today’s elite athletes started exactly where JUSST members are now - on university ski teams, dry slopes, and affordable ski trips that make snow sports accessible.

Britain’s own Dave Ryding, the UK’s first Alpine Skiing World Cup winner and a multiple Winter Olympian, famously honed his skills on the dry slopes of northern England - proving that world-class talent can emerge from grassroots beginnings.

University snow sports societies like JUSST play a vital role in keeping skiing and snowboarding accessible in the UK, helping to develop confidence, community and competitive pathways. The student perfecting their technique on a Stoke dry slope today could be representing Team GB tomorrow.

Why We’re Partnering with JUSST

At RUFFNEK®, we’ve always believed in supporting outdoor adventure at every level. Our collaboration with JUSST reflects our commitment to the UK snow sports community - from dry slope training to alpine racing.

The JUSST x RUFFNEK® snood celebrates this partnership, combining technical performance with the energy and spirit of university snow sports. Lightweight, breathable and versatile, our ski snoods and snowboarding neck warmers are designed for dry slope training, university ski racing and alpine conditions, performing in real-world environments.

For students and club members looking for a ski snood for dry slope skiing or a neck warmer for university ski training, versatility and comfort are key - especially when moving between British slopes and alpine trips. They also work brilliantly off the slopes, acting as a lightweight base layer to keep you warm during après ski and colder evenings.

Students can follow JUSST on Instagram and Facebook for membership details and upcoming events.

Looking for your own ski snood or snowboarding neck warmer? Explore the RUFFNEK® range of ultra-lightweight technical neck gaiters, fleece snoods and supersoft reversible designs - built for dry slope training, alpine adventures and everyday winter use.

Here’s to the students, the societies, and the unstoppable passion that keeps snow sports thriving in the UK - from campus to the Olympics and everywhere in between, we can't wait to see what the next generation brings!