John Jackson Joins Gordini
A Vermont handwear institution adds one of snowboarding's most respected names to its team.
If you’ve been paying attention to snowboarding for any stretch of time, you know John Jackson. “John J” has been one of the sport’s most respected names for the better part of two decades, with a film catalog that reads like a greatest hits list: early breakout parts in “Hifi” and “The Empire,” iconic work with Standard Films and Brain Farm, plus “That’s It, That’s All” and “The Art of Flight” cementing his place in the upper tier of snowboarding’s all-time greats. More recently, the Red Bull series “The Book of John J” offered a more personal look at the man behind the riding. He lives in Verdi, Nevada, with his family, and he’s still very much out there chasing it.
So when Gordini announced this week that John J has joined their athlete roster, it makes sense on every level. Vermont-based and independently owned since 1956, Gordini has quietly built a reputation for serious handwear and performance socks without a lot of noise. They’re not the loudest brand in the room, but riders who’ve spent time in their gloves tend to stick with them.
John J currently runs three Gordini pieces, and they’re worth knowing about.
Gordini Polar Glove
The Polar is Gordini’s coldest-day weapon. Built around 700-fill DownTek insulation on the back of hand, Megaloft synthetic in the palm, a goatskin leather grip, and an extended gauntlet cuff with drawcord closure. AquaBloc waterproof/windproof insert keeps things dry when the weather gets nasty. This is a proper big-mountain glove.
Gordini Front Line Midi Glove
The Midi is the versatile layer you reach for when you don’t need a full gauntlet but still want real warmth. Primaloft 100g insulation, 4-way stretch softshell, and a Kevlar palm that actually holds up. Works as a standalone on cold-but-manageable days, or layers under a shell mitt when conditions turn. Packable and low-profile.
Gordini PYCO Sock
The PYCO is an ultralight, over-the-calf ski sock designed to perform without bulk. For a brand that’s been at the sock game long enough to win an ISPO award for their Winhall construction, the PYCO is a solid pick for riders who want a thin, precision fit inside a stiff boot.
The Last Word
Gordini adding John Jackson to their team roster alongside Julian Carr, Delilah Cupp, and Michael “Bird” Shaffer signals something intentional. This isn’t a brand throwing money at a big name for visibility. It’s a brand that makes serious handwear pairing with a rider who takes the mountains seriously. Fits.