Nordic Ski Apparel: Building community through clothing

Hance Dorsch is looking for the path upward in life and on skis. Not only is Hance a Finance and Accounting double major, but he is active in the Finance Club, Goff Explorer Program, and Doman Innovation Studio. Finding time between classes, clubs, and internships can be difficult, so Hance finds leisure in cross-country skiing. As a seasoned nordic skier, Hance is passionate about the community and health benefits the sport has provided him over the years. Hance started Nordic Ski Apparel as a way to foster his community, “There’s plenty of ways to give back, but a part of me always wanted to go a little bit further in a unique sort of way.” Hance wanted to unite his fellow athletes through humor and quality products, Nordic Ski Apparel sells a variety of mugs, hats, shirts, and hoodies that boast cheeky slogans like ‘Real Skiers Ski Uphill’ and ‘No Brakes No Worries,’ He sees the brand as a way for cross country skiers to show pride for their sport and find other uphill skiers. Community and feedback are paramount to Hance as a skier and entrepreneur. His peers at Doman and the University of Utah have helped Hance stay accountable and provided validation for the work he is doing. Hance believes that his communities have helped him recognize his mistakes and what he’s learned from them, and hopes his brand can facilitate a similar experience for others. Find Hance on the trails at Soldier Hollow during the weekend, or online as the creator behind @nordic_ski_memes.