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Daria Fuchs - HAE WOMEN
Daria Fuchs by Kuno Egli
This season, for the first time, we launched a small collection with our HAE WOMEN and conducted interviews with our riders, which we would now like to present to you in full. Today it's Daria Fuchs' turn. In her interview, the passionate snowboarder and surfer tells us how her first trip to Fuerteventura changed her life and ignited her thirst for adventure. She talks about the power of diving into the unknown, the joy of nature, and the importance of flow – in the snow, in the water, and in everyday life. With her creative energy, whether surfing waves or working on projects outside of sports, she encourages others to follow their own heart's path and be guided by their dreams.
Which moment in your life – athletic or creative – has particularly shaped you? What comes to mind spontaneously?When I traveled to Fuerteventura at 18 to try surfing, I immediately fell in love with the sport and got to experience life outside the Swiss "matrix" for the first time. After that, I finished my education, worked for two months, and then moved to the Canary Islands. Since then, I spend the summer months surfing and the winters snowboarding. That one week in Fuerteventura shaped my life.
What does adventure mean to you, and how does it influence your creative side?For me, adventure means plunging into the unknown – whether it's a country whose language and culture I don't know, or discovering a new mountain or surf spot. Adventure means excitement and stepping out of my comfort zone. This step teaches me to remain flexible and open.
Daria Fuchs' adventure outside the Swiss "matrix".
How do you feel when you're on your board, whether in the snow or on the water? Are there creative parallels to these moments?I think I've experienced pretty much every emotion on a snowboard and surfboard. It can switch from frustration and fear to success and pure happiness within minutes. The best feeling is being present and in the moment. Then I feel in the flow and connected to myself, the board, and nature. This connection to the universal is probably the strongest and most beautiful feeling I strive for.
Daria Fuchs surfs waves in various states of matter. Photo: Aaron Schwartz
Where do you draw your creative inspiration from – whether on the mountain, in the ocean, or in everyday life?I like to be inspired in the moment and on location. Whether on the mountain or in the water – I love watching others and learning from them. If I particularly like a style, I focus on all the movements. By observing, I've learned a lot and found inspiration.
How is your personality reflected in your style on and off the board, as well as in your creativity?Since I'm a person with a lot of fire, I'd say that manifests as power in my style. I'd also describe myself as a free spirit, because in the backcountry, I like to rely on my intuition and creativity. I love standing at the top of the mountain, freely imagining my line, and then riding it. Whether on the water or in the snow – I love dancing with the elements.
Daria Fuchs by Kuno Egli
Are there projects outside of snowboarding where you particularly express your creativity?As a trained hairdresser, I've always been able to express myself creatively in my profession, which brings me a lot of joy. I love to let go and get into a flow while making music with friends, dancing, photography, cooking, and writing.
What makes you particularly proud of what you've achieved – athletically and/or creatively? This can also include your career.In a few weeks, I'll be releasing my first self-portrait short film. The film is about snowboarding and surfing, and about bringing softness and tenderness into a harsh environment. I think the film is special and different, and thanks to the luck of being friends with Morgan Maassen, it has become an artistic masterpiece.
Daria Fuchs by Morgan Maassen
How do you inspire other people (everyone, not just women) to follow their own path – whether in snowboarding, through creative projects, or simply in everyday life?I follow my heart, and I believe many people see that in me. I try to spend as much time as possible doing what makes me happy and not limit myself. No matter how big my dream is, I believe that anything is possible if I truly want it with all my heart. I hope to encourage those around me to follow their heart's path and not limit themselves.
Daria Fuchs by Morgan Maassen