Lindsey Vonn’s Comeback — An Inspiration for Every Skier

When Lindsey Vonn announced her intention to return to competition last year, the ski world collectively raised an eyebrow. Last winter had ups and downs for her, but she ultimately found her way to second place in the super-G race at the Stifel Sun Valley World Cup Finals in Sun Valley, Idaho, on March 23, 2025.

Now, at 41 years old, Vonn has worked exceptionally hard on and off the snow and has gained 12 pounds of muscle. She has proved the naysayers wrong who dismissed her because of her age and partial knee replacement. She is looking fitter and stronger than ever. Her passion for performance is as deep as it was in her 20’s. She will be competing for the USA, once again, in the 2026 Winter Olympics, in the Super-G, Downhill and team combined events taking place in Cortina d’Ampezzo next February.

It’s not just a comeback story — it’s a reminder that skiing can be a lifelong pursuit and source of joy.

🏔️ A New Definition of “Peak”

In sport, we often talk about peaking early. But Vonn’s story flips that idea. She’s showing that “peak” can be redefined — not as a single moment, but as a series of evolutions.

Skiing rewards knowledge, not just youth. Years on the snow teach balance, body awareness, and the art of timing — qualities that need not fade with age.

Just take a look at Britain’s Dave Ryding – a skier whose skill and precision has always been admired, and who will be competing in slalom at age 38. This will be his 5th Olympic Games.

At Chalets Direct, every winter, we see guests in their 40s, 50s, 60s and beyond, skiing beautifully, often better than ever. Why? Because experience, fitness, and good technique can last a lifetime.

💪 Stronger, Smarter, Safer

Lindsey’s physical transformation — adding muscle, training with precision, focusing on recovery — mirrors a truth all skiers can embrace:

The stronger and more accurate you ski, the longer you can ski.

That’s the core idea behind Safe Accurate Skiing (SAS) — a movement that values technique, control, and understanding over reckless speed.
Watching Vonn carve at full power reminds us that great skiing isn’t about pushing limits blindly — it’s about mastering your craft and respecting the mountain.

Explore more about SAS and how elite skiers like Paul Lorenz, Harald Harb, Nina Gigele, and Tom Gellie champion the same principles in their teaching and skiing.
Read more about Safe Accurate Skiing →

🎿 Skiing Is a Lifelong Sport

Vonn’s comeback isn’t just for prime athletes — it’s for all of us who love practising wintersports.

Maybe you’ve thought:

• “I’m not as fit as I used to be.”
• “My turns aren’t as smooth as they once were.”
• “Maybe my best ski days are behind me.”

Her story says the opposite: your best skiing could still be ahead.
With the right approach — smart training, proper instruction, and respect for safety — you can keep improving, season after season.

If that idea excites you, start planning now.
Find a resort where you can train, recharge, and rediscover your rhythm.

Find your perfect base with Chalets Direct →

🌍 Where Inspiration Meets Adventure

Across the Alps, we’ve seen a quiet trend building: people booking training-focused ski weeks, not just holidays.
There are more and more ski schools which offer something more than the “traditional” ski school options – such as smaller group sizes and clinics focusing on specific areas of technique. Take a look at the options available with TDCSki, Warren Smith Ski Academy and BASS – to name just a few. If you run ski coaching courses that are appropriate please let us know.

Vonn (and Ryding) prove that with the right approach you can ski better and for longer.

It’s a natural fit for this new era — inspired by athletes like Lindsey Vonn, guided by technique, and powered by passion.

💬 Your Turn

How has skiing changed for you over the years?
Do you feel stronger, more aware, more connected to the sport than before? Let us know in the comments.

Chalets Direct

Connecting passionate skiers with the mountains — for life.