How TGR Started In a "Smelly" Snow Cave Outside of Valdez, Alaska

Teton Gravity Research (TGR) and POWDER Magazine have worked together since the rowdy film outfit began shooting big-mountain skiing in the mid- to late 1990s.

30 years later, TGR and POWDER are still collaborating to bring you some of the best stories and action in the ski world, but this occasion is quite special.

POWDER’s print magazine 2026 Photo Annual is available to purchase online today (it hits newsstands on Friday, October 17, 2025), and TGR’s origin story is a major feature. The Jones brothers have shared anecdotes about how their company began in the mid-90s before, but this is an intimate look with never-before-seen photos, stories, and details.

We won’t reveal the whole story quite yet (it’s much better to read in print, obviously), but POWDER is excited to share a sneak peek at ‘Rigging The Game—30 Years of Teton Gravity Research’ by POWDER Gear Editor Max Ritter.

Take a look below and consider purchasing your own copy of the 2026 POWDER Photo Annual Issue.

Quotes From ‘Rigging The Game’, POWDER Magazine ’26 Photo Annual

• “We shared a dream to make a living out of skiing and snow-boarding,” says Todd Jones, “and spent every day on that glacier trip talking about how we could set ourselves up to do just that.”
• “I’ve lived through this insane time where the film world existed without change for so long, and then all this change happened so quickly,” says Jones. “The cost of entry was really high back then, but then the internet happened. At this point, I’ve seen every innovation except the advent of color and sound.”
• “I feel very blessed that my son is now a big part of it. That multi-generational experience keeps me going. I actually really like how most things have evolved. I mean, come on, if you told a 15-year-old me that marijuana would be legal and that big mountain skiing, skateboarding, and surfing would be in the Olympics, I’d be like, ‘Get outta here!'”
• “When you’re in it you never know you’re in it, but looking back, it’s special. I’m proud to see where it’s come and know that we played a small part.”

Images From ‘Rigging The Game’ POWDER Magazine ’26 Photo Annual

Photos by Greg Von Doersten.

More About the POWDER Magazine ’26 Photo Annual

Experience the thrill of the slopes with Powder: The Skier’s Magazine. Dive into our annual photo book, explore the latest in ski movies, discover the beauty of the Green Mountains, and follow the next chapter of Mike Hattrup.

Plus, get the inside story as the White Circus takes over Sun Valley and learn more about Gary Bigham. Powder is your ultimate guide to the ski world!

Related: Versatility Is Her Middle Name—Maggie Voisin on Her Breakout Performance in TGR’s ‘Pressure Drop’