Pop In to the Alchemy of Ride Pop Up!

Alchemy of Ride Returns to Sun Peaks — and It’s Becoming a Winter Ritual

It might be just a flying visit to do a weekend Pop Up, but it has now become firmly established as a Sun Peaks winter tradition. With so many Sun Peaks skiers sporting the Alchemy of Ride colourful ski suits already, it’s turning into a kind of community club, which everyone needs to join. And once you buy one garment, the resulting compliments, conversations, and the feel-good factor, make you an AOR addict who must have more. Of course, there’s the website (https://alchemyofride.org/) to satisfy that itch, but nothing beats the opportunity to see the whole range for yourself, meet the designer, and try on the variety of colourways and styles. 

For the fifth winter, Alchemy of Ride is returning to Sun Peaks Resort, once again bringing its unmistakable creativity and Canadian-designed ski style to the mountains. This year’s pop-up takes place in the events room at Morrissey’s Public House:

Saturday, February 28 (12–5pm) and Sunday, March 1 (12–4pm)

If you’ve ever felt the need to jazz up your winter wardrobe — with something joyful, expressive and just a little rebellious — this is your moment.

More than ski wear — it’s wearable WOW!

Alchemy of Ride is definitely not about blending in - but it is about joining a team. Founded by Canadian artist and designer Lynne Harrison, the brand has built a cult following for ski suits and separates that feel as good emotionally as they do technically. Think bold colour blocking, playful patterns and silhouettes that flatter real bodies — all designed to be skied hard and loved long-term.

Lynne’s background in design and lifelong connection to skiing shows in every detail. Married to Crazy Canuck, Dave Irwin, she has had decades in professional ski circles and a lifetime of winters in ski areas. It’s immediately apparent that these are garments created by someone who understands cold chairlifts, variable conditions, and the confidence boost that comes from wearing something that makes you stand out in the chairlift crowd. 

Better still, Alchemy of Ride produces in small, considered runs, with an increasing focus on Canadian manufacturing — a rare thing in the ski industry, and one that resonates strongly with community and country-minded ethos.

Ski and Style the Wong Way

 

One of Alchemy of Ride’s 2025 ambassadors is freestyle ski icon Wayne Wong. Best known for his influential ‘Ski the Wong Way’ instruction and unmistakable presence on the mountain, Wong isn’t just a name in skiing history — he’s one of the sport’s most legendary, expressive, and joyful personalities. That combination of creativity, confidence, and connection makes him a natural fit for AOR, where performance meets individuality and style is always part of the ride.

Born in Vancouver, British Columbia, Wong helped define what freestyle skiing would become, pioneering iconic tricks like the ‘Wong Banger’ and being named one of the most influential skiers of the 20th century by SKI and Powder magazines. He’s been inducted into both the Canadian Ski Hall of Fame and the U.S. Ski & Snowboard Hall of Fame, and his career has spanned competitive success, film appearances, coaching, and ongoing influence in the ski world. 

Today, Wayne brings that lifelong passion for style, performance, and pure joy on snow to Alchemy of Ride — embodying the spirit of adventure and creative expression that the Canadian company champions. Whether he’s turning heads on the mountain in vibrant, art-inspired skiwear or connecting with the skiing community through events and collaborations, his presence elevates the brand’s message that ski gear should be as bold and joyful as the riders themselves. AOR thrives on blending high-performance apparel with Canadian artistic flair, and with Wayne Wong representing the brand, that fusion of legacy, style, and mountain culture feels truly authentic. 

Pop-Up Perks

Trying on ski wear isn’t like buying a sweater. Fit, feel and movement matter — especially when you’re layering, bending, skiing and living in it all day.

That’s what makes this Pop-Up special. It’s a chance to:

• See the colours properly (they’re even more vivid and “must-have” in person)
• Try on different sizes and styles and have fun mixing and matching
• Ask questions directly
• Find the piece you didn’t know you were missing

And Sun Peaks, with its relaxed, village-based energy and strong local scene, is the perfect place for it. This isn’t a rushed retail environment — it’s ski town shopping at its best. And, don’t forget, this is the storytale winter village shown in the December 2025 Netflix top Xmas movie My Secret Santa! You can read my article about this at: https://sunpeaksnews.com/my-not-so-secret-sun-peaks/ 

Shopping meets Après: the Morrissey’s Mix

This year’s venue adds an extra layer of indulgence.

Morrissey’s Public House (https://www.sunpeaksgrand.com/dine/morriseys-public-house) has long been a Sun Peaks favourite — part pub, part gathering place, part restaurant, part events venue - always welcoming. And this winter, they’ve added something new to their après line-up: Hot Stone Après, available daily from 2–5pm by advance order and reservation. Send a message to Scotty at: Scraig@sunpeaksgrand.com. 

With the full bar and comprehensive list of cocktails and alchol-free versions, a visit to the Alchemy of Ride pop-up can become a full-on après ski experience.

A Pop-Up With Heart

The fact that Alchemy of Ride keeps coming back says a lot. What began as a one-off has evolved into something expected, anticipated and looked forward to every winter. Locals come up from Kamloops, regular visitors from all over BC and beyond time their Sun Peaks stays to coincide with the Pop-Up dates, and staff, residents, and seasonaires add it to their calendars. 

In a ski world that often feels dominated by bland, dull sameness, this collection is a reminder that creativity and individuality have a place on the mountain. And the range of AOR clothing translates to other sports —snowboarding, Nordic, snowshoeing, skating, hiking, biking, surfing, racket sports, golf, vacation-wear and everyday life. 

Those who have been wearing AOR since first the bike and then the ski wear was first launched in Canmore Alberta in 2017 will also know that the clothing washes well and is durable and long-lasting. Each clothing item is an investment, just like one of Harrison’s pieces of art.   

So whether you’re already an Alchemy of Ride devotee, or discovering the brand for the first time, mark the dates, bring a friend, and make an après afternoon of it. Because some things are worth stepping out of your ski boots for — at least temporarily. 

Quick Links:

Website: https://alchemyofride.org

Email: mountainimage@shaw.ca 

Facebook: @alchemyofride

Instagram: @alchemyofride

Morrissey’s: https://www.sunpeaksgrand.com/dine/morriseys-public-house - for reservations, email Scotty at: Scraig@sunpeaksgrand.com

Sun Peaks Resort, BC, Canada: https://www.sunpeaksresort.com/

Event Link: https://www.sunpeaksresort.com/events-things-to-do/events/alchemy-of-ride-pop-up-shop 

Wayne Wong: @skithewongway on Instagram; Wayne Wong on Facebook; Ski The Wong Way Movie: https://www.skithewongwaymovie.com/

More skiing, less shopping this Christmas!

                                                 Sun Peaks Resort, Canada - Photo by Kelly Funk

Snow is accumulating, Christmas is coming, and the ski season is up and running! There have already been two issues of Ski Canada magazine out, inspiring us all to get into the snowsports mode. In the 2026 Buyer’s Guide edition (Vol 54 #1), I had my first article of the season published. “From Mountain to Masterpiece” - in the Short Turns section - looks at upcycling resort raw materials into useful and collectible items such as this clock, created from parts of a decommissioned Sun Peaks chairlift by metal artist Will Dallimore. 

Photo by Louise Hudson. Artist Will Dallimore. Clock on display in Vertical Café Sun Peaks

Although December décor and delicacies liven up our lives at this time of year, the gift shopping process can drain our energy - and our bank accounts! 

             Men’s Spa Robe in Autumn Green - also available in antique silver, navy, black. Ideal for après-ski relaxation, warming up by the fire after a dip in the hot tub. 

One Stop Shop

So, rather than pounding the pavements in pursuit of perfect presents, online shopping has an attractive allure at this time of year. One of my favourite companies, Heat Holders has made gifting even easier this season with specific sections on special collections, activity-related gifting, and items suitable for different age groups and genders. And there are Heat Holders sites in the UK, USA, and around 40 other countries making delivery where you live easy, too.

              Cable knit Heat Holders® Women's Neck Warmer with HeatWeaver® thermal lining - the warmest and softest way to keep your neck warm while skiing, snowboarding or strolling around the resort

‘Deck the Smalls’

From long underwear, to socks, slippers and PJs plus outerwear, mid layers, gloves and scarves, Heat Holders’ has you covered. Products engineered for long-lasting warmth are crafted with comfort in mind, adapting adapt to snowsports, winter walks, and year round outdoor activities. Heat Holders caters for everyone on the list with its wide range for men, women and kids. And, once worn, never forgotten - there’s nothing more heart-warming for the holidays than a Heat Holders hug!

                        Men's Eddie Santa ULTRA LITE® Ho Ho Ho Crew Socks

Slick Click

Just click on the Gifting tab at the top of each website and it will give you choices based on different categories including Budget, Relationship and Activity. 

There’s a section dedicated to snowsports gifts - https://www.heatholders.com/collections/gifts-for-snowsports-lovers. 

And an easy link to Christmas-themed products - https://www.heatholders.com/collections/christmas-gifts

                                         Men’s Heath Hybrid Vest by Heat Holders

Save Yourself Bundles

….by buying multiples - https://www.heatholders.com/pages/deals - such as 3-piece matching sets, several pairs of socks or a baselayer top & bottom combo. Heat Holders products are made even more affordable with the 10% discount for first time purchasers.

 

                                            Women’s Sock Drawer 3-Pack Bundle

The Non Skier

For those who’ve had to hang up their skis or prefer indoor activities, there’s the Heat Holders Home Spa Line: https://www.heatholders.com/collections/gifts-for-the-home-spa-lover. As well as the luxurious robes pictured above, there are plush throws, blankets, slipper socks, lounge pants and cozy cable-knit drawstring slippers. 

Winter Warmth

New this winter, Heat Holders® men's & women's thermal underwear is benefiting from cutting-edge CeraCore® insulating technology. An innovative lightweight product, Heat Holders® Ceramic Base Layers offer warmth without bulk, perfect for layering.

                                        Women’s Ceramic Base layer top 

Made from a revolutionary ceramic-infused fabric, these thermals bake in the warmth. They strike the balance between the thicker ORIGINAL™ base layers while being almost as thin as ULTRA LITE™ garments.

The Ceramic Base Layers have all-way stretch for full range of motion and fit, made with flat seams for comfort and easy layering. The fabric is also brushed during the manufacturing process for softness, resulting in the ultimate warmth, softness, and comfort.

Read more about the Heat Holders’ trajectory since it launched in 2008 at: https://www.heatholders.com/en-ca/pages/our-story

                                    Simon Hudson wearing the Heat Holders Puffer 

BIG NEWS FOR SUN PEAKS

This month saw the launch of the Netflix film, “My Secret Santa”, starring the suitably named Alexandra Breckenridge. Filmed primarily at Sun Peaks Resort, the rom-com could be an enduring showcase for the village, resort and ski slopes. Check out the movie over the holidays and read about it in publications like Entertainment Weekly and AOL. Bearing in mind the value of ‘film tourism’, perhaps this film will persuade you to visit Sun Peaks, Canada’s second largest ski area. The resort has leveraged the film with community showings as well as a movie set experience included in the Holiday Kick-Off Schedule. 

Alchemy of Ride Back in Sun Peaks March 1 and 2!!

Alchemy of Ride Returns to Sun Peaks BC

When: March 1st and 2nd

Where: Morrisey’s Public House Sun Peaks

Times: 1pm - 4:30pm

Links: https://alchemyofride.org/

Events Calendar: https://www.sunpeaksresort.com/events-things-to-do/events/alchemy-of-ride-pop-up-sale

                 Six different Alchemy of RIDE shirts - ideal for bike, ski, gym, golf, or everyday wear 

                                                            (Photo courtesy of Dan Matte)

A head-turner in lift-lines and high visibility even in a whiteout, Alchemy of Ride’s dazzling ski collection is coming to Sun Peaks for a Weekend Pop Up Sale on March 1 and 2. Morrisey’s Public House will come alive as a vibrant activewear boutique from 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily, offering a chance to meet artist and AOR designer Lynne Harrison and explore the bold, colourful collection. Your opportunity to try on Lynne Harrison’s designs, created from her Canmore home. Yes, they are available online, but nothing beats being able to try on the whole collection, feel the fabrics, compare all the colourways, and see which ones suit you best. 

      Wearing The Sky The Sky Technical Jacket at the iconic sign at the top of Sundance Chairlift at

                                                                  Sun Peaks Resort

Sun Peaks has one of the biggest followings for Lynne Harrison’s amazing AOR skiwear brand. So much so, that when a group of amateur filmmakers were planning their movie for the ArtZone Sun Peaks Locals Filmmakers’ Contest, they decided to dress their actors in Alchemy of Ride apparel.

On the major day of outdoor filming, when the cast was tackling the challenge that forms the centrepoint of the plot, the day was clear and sunny with beautiful blue skies setting off the bright hues of Harrison’s handwork. 

Their movie, Girls in Gils, was submitted for the 2025 Third Annual McSporties Locals Filmmaking Contest which was part of the Fifth Annual Sun Peaks Film Festival, put on by Art Zone Sun Peaks. It won the Fans’ Favourite Award, voted the best by the majority of the audience at the premiere in January. 

In the context of mountain film festivals, the Sun Peaks Locals Contest is unique. Banff and Whistler may have the edge in terms of international festival fame, but no-one else features home made movies conceived and created by locals and regulars at the resort. Their movies are a marketing marvel, showcasing the best that Sun Peaks has to offer in a truly authentic lifestyle perspective. This aspect caught the eye of Ski Canada Magazine which featured the concept in a Short Turn article in The Best of Skiing Awards 2025 edition written by yours truly. And since then Sun Peaks Resort has used clips from Girls in Gils in its social media posts. As of now, there have been 1044 views on YouTube. 

 Girls in Gils star, Pippa Crane - at the top of Gils where the arduous climb and the terrifying terrain ahead led to a dramatic collapse! Luckily, her Alchemy of Ride ski suit kept her cosy. Watch the film to find out what happened next…..

You can see the 10-minute mini movie here:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E4sW0cOJFhU 

A still from the après ski scene towards the end of the Girls in Gils film, featuring AOR shirts (and a Shotski made by Kelly Brown). Great as base layers, these eyecatching shirts really work well for après and cross over to bike season and beyond.    

Hailing from Canmore now - but Kamloops and Whistler previously - Lynne Harrison has been creating sportswear since 2016 when she took her mountain-inspired art off the wall and transferred it to technical bike shirts and shorts. The immediate success of the clothing line led her to turn her attention to skiwear, which she designed in collaboration with her partner, Dave Irwin, the celebrated Crazy Canuck Olympian. Her men and women’s collections now include ski jackets, vests, pants, bibs, base layers, après shirts and neck buffs as well as bike and surf gear. 

Australian Sun Peaks homeowner, Glenys Ambe has been sporting Harrison’s designs since 2018. “I found AOR on line after being prompted by a friend who thought the ‘out-there’ colours and styles of AOR would suit my penchant for colourful skiwear,” she explained. She contacted Harrison through the site to help choose the right pieces. “She was so helpful regarding sizing queries and had my new suit in my Sun Peaks post box in a matter of days just in time for the festive season.” 

For Ambe, who volunteers with Adaptive Sports Sun Peaks, the allure is a combination of impactful artwork with high quality durable fabrics and expert tailoring. “Her ski outfits really turn heads. More importantly, my ski suit is very warm,” she said. And the bonus is that the range is not mass produced. She has gone on to purchase eye-catching AOR apparel which she uses for various sports including horse riding and exercise classes. “I have also been the instigator of encouraging my husband and numerous other friends to invest in AOR ski suits and activewear,” she added. “They all love AOR with many of my friends now being multi-purchasers.” This March, she plans to take advantage of having Harrison help her choose a new ski suit in person at the AOR Pop Up Shop. 

Sun Peaks has been on Harrison’s circuit since skiing Tod Mountain in 1982. In the 1990s, she moved to Kamloops from Whistler where she had been working as an artist. “My kids started skiing at Harper and then we skied at Sun Peaks as a family,” she recalled. An accomplished alpine skier, she is also a mountain biker, Ironman triathlete, and has participated in ‘Ultra Marathons’ - grueling seven-day, self-supported footraces through the Gobi and Sahara Deserts. Her experience in all these sports and love of mountain scenery are evident in all her designs. 

Links:

https://alchemyofride.org/
https://www.facebook.com/alchemyofride 
https://www.sunpeaksresort.com/events-things-to-do/events/alchemy-of-ride-pop-up-sale

Some snaps of various Alchemy of Ride items: Ski, Bike, Beach!

                                    Gear for your Groovy

https://www.sunpeaksresort.com/events-things-to-do/events/alchemy-of-ride-pop-up-sale

AOR WALL ART - You can commission an original to brighten up your home or business: mountainimage@shaw.ca for more info or call Lynne on: +1 (403) 688-0697 

Join the Alchemy of Ride Community on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alchemyofride/

You can submit your photos wearing your fave AOR apparel around the world! Here’s one of my favourites taken on the Rock of Gibraltar: