“An Infectious Energy”: Shaun White Pens Emotional Tribute to Virgil Abloh Who Supported Him in Creating ‘Whitespace’

Shaun White has always been careful about his investments and projects. In 2022, White has already launched his post-Olympic business. He has started his brand label related to snowboarding.

Known as “Whitespace”, the lifestyle brand will focus on launching snowboarding goods and products. The major highlight of the brand is its snowboard.

On Monday, White posted pictures of the newly released products on his website. He also mentioned how famous designer Virgil Abloh was the one behind the design of the products.

The story behind Whitespace

Shaun White had it on his mind to launch his own brand for quite some time now. He already knew he was going to call it “Whitespace”. He also knew all his products would have the same white strips that his own personal snowboard had, something to set them apart.

All he needed was someone with the same creative mind as his, who would help him finalize the design of his products. He was very lucky to have met ace designer, Virgil Abloh, around that time at Mammoth Mountain. Abloh was the artistic director of Louis Vuitton Menswear. Additionally, he was also the CEO of “Off-White”, his own brand.

White and Abloh realized they shared the same kind of creative ideas and decided to put them to use. Shaun White was more than happy to take his advice with the design of the Louis Vuitton snowboard trunk as well.

“He was so supportive. He loved the name and the creative direction I was going in. I was so honored to receive feedback from such a visionary,” said Shaun White.

Moreover, the late designer also loved the idea of the signature “white strips” which make the Shaun White gear different from others. Both White and Abloh put an immense amount of effort into the product.

“In the short time, we knew each other, Virgil had an infectious energy and excitement when we talked about design.”

Abloh was the one who suggested that the white strips be painted over the black LV embossed monogram of leather. Shaun White also shared screenshots from their conversation.

Shaun White and Virgil Abloh shared the same inspiration

When they first talked about the design, they realized immediately that they shared something of a similar vision. It was beautiful to have someone to complement White’s ideas.

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“The idea is like, how to pull up to sports like a pro, like a rock star would his guitar,” read the message that Abloh shared with White.

“Man that’s literally my inspiration for the case, the snowboard sits on top like a guitar and underneath is everything you would need to play,” replied White, sounding equally excited.

The combined pair worked for months to bring their dream into existence. However, it is quite tragic that Virgil Abloh passed away before he could see the final product.

Shaun White has revealed that he will use his newly released products in memory of his dear friend, who passed away before his time.