Big Waves & Big Vibes at Mount Bachelor: Nate Jacobson Shreds the Jerry Lopez Big Wave Challenge
Every spring, the snow-covered flanks of Mt. Bachelor transform into a celebration of style, flow, and Aloha spirit for the Jerry Lopez Big Wave Challenge. It’s not your average contest—think less rigid comp structure, more soulful session. This year, Telos athlete Nathan “Nate” Jacobson once again dropped into the surf-inspired course and walked away with 2nd place—and a whole lot of stoke.
But this isn’t just a story about podiums. It’s about legacy, community, and the kind of snowboarding that reminds you why you fell in love with it in the first place.
A Surf-Inspired Shred Fest
Founded by legendary surfer and all-around style master Jerry Lopez, the Big Wave Challenge is now 13 years deep. Held at Mount Bachelor, the event mimics the ebb and flow of ocean breaks—Lopez-style—with banked turns, hips, spines, and quarterpipes shaped to reflect some of the world’s most iconic surf spots.
But don’t be fooled—this isn’t just for the pros. Whether you're launching to the moon or just learning to link turns, this course is about sharing good vibes, creativity, and community.
More Than a Contest—A Cause
Beyond the berms and board tweaks, the Big Wave Challenge is rooted in giving back. This year’s event helped raise funds for Michelle Shinaki, a beloved member of the Bachelor community recently diagnosed with brain cancer. It follows past fundraisers like the one for Pat Malendowski, reflecting a powerful truth: at the heart of snowboarding is people looking out for each other.
As Nate puts it, “It just brings back the mindset that you're supposed to be up here to have fun and cruise with your buddies.”
Nate’s Line to the Podium
Nate’s journey to the top started young—by 16, he was lining up with legends like Scotty James and the Ferguson brothers. That first comp hooked him, and the Big Wave Challenge became a yearly tradition. Two years ago, he took first place, earning a trip to the iconic Volcom Pipeline House on Oahu’s North Shore—just a week before his wedding. Naturally, he turned it into the ultimate bachelor party with his wife and wedding crew. (Talk about “going big.”)
This year, riding with his best friend (who ended up taking first), Nate snagged a solid second and once again proved why he's one of the most stylish riders in the game.
The Weapon of Choice: The Lemurian
For Nate, one board stood out for this unique course: the Telos Lemurian.
“It feels exactly like a halfpipe board, but with a directional shape—super snappy, super fast. It does exactly what you want it to do.”
The Lemurian is Telos’ most advanced freeride board, infused with next-gen carbon fiber, Torsion Control Core, vertical aluminum dampening, and D3O for vibration absorption. Translation? Lightweight power with a locked-in edge hold that Nate calls “indestructible.”
When you’re boosting transition hits and disastering quarterpipes, you need a board that doesn’t flinch—and the Lemurian delivers.
Why Telos? Ask Nate
For Nate, it’s not just about the gear—it’s the crew, the quality, and the love behind the boards.
“I’ve never felt more supported by a snowboard brand. With Telos, it’s like how you’d want to be treated as an athlete. Every trip, every session—it’s just a good time with the homies.”
After six years of hard riding on Telos decks—including contest laps, backcountry drops, and some truly massive sends—Nate has only broken three boards. For context, that’s exceptionally low for someone who’s pushing gear to the limit day in and day out.
“I’ve ridden for other brands where I’d snap 15 boards in a single season,” Nate says. “With Telos, I’ve had three breaks in six years.”
For everyday riders? That translates to serious peace of mind. Telos boards are engineered to handle high-speed charging, deep carves, and whatever you throw at them. Whether you’re lapping the resort or chasing storm cycles, they’re built to last—and to keep performing season after season.
And the feel? “They actually make you feel like you’re snowboarding better than you ever have.”
See You Next Year
We’re beyond proud to back Nate and be part of events like the Big Wave Challenge—where the mountain becomes a canvas and the ride is what it’s all about. Next year, we’re aiming bigger: team riders, camp setups, on-site media, and a full Telos takeover.
See you in the lot, boards waxed, ready to send.
👉 Follow the Big Wave Challenge on Instagram
👉 Follow Nate Jacobson for more freeride fire
👉 Shop the Lemurian Snowboard Nate rides
