For far too long, “outdoorsy” has been associated with exclusivity, privilege, and stereotypes that alienate large segments of the population. Whether it’s gear that doesn’t fit, marketing that doesn’t reflect diverse bodies and identities, or the high financial barriers to entry, the outdoor industry has a history of making people feel unwelcome. That’s why it was such an honor to sit down with Maria Baker, founder of Nobody’s Princess, to discuss how she’s changing the narrative in snow sports.
Maria’s story is one of determination and innovation, driven by a desire to dismantle the systemic barriers that have kept many women—and especially women in larger bodies—from fully enjoying the outdoors. Her work proves that thoughtful, inclusive design can empower people to take part in activities they love, while also challenging outdated norms within the snow sports industry.
Watch the full video episode below, continue reading this recap, or listen to the audio episode wherever you typically get your podcasts!
From a farm in South Australia to the slopes
Maria’s journey to becoming a leader in snow sports didn’t follow the traditional path. Growing up in South Australia, her childhood was spent on her family’s produce farm. The outdoors was a part of her daily life, but it didn’t involve the traditional activities associated with being “outdoorsy.” Hiking, snowboarding, and mountaineering weren’t part of the picture.
“I grew up in the driest state in the driest country in the world,” Maria shared. “I didn’t even know snow really existed in Australia until I was in my early twenties.”
Her family would spend school holidays caravanning around Australia, a budget-friendly form of travel that introduced her to the joys of exploration, but the idea of snow sports was far from her reality.
It wasn’t until her 30s, after moving to Melbourne, that she encountered snowboarding. Encouraged by new friends, she gave it a try—despite initially being skeptical of what she referred to as “the cold version of water sports.” What she discovered was a love for the sport that would completely change her life.
Facing barriers as a beginner
Maria’s early experiences on the slopes were transformative but also fraught with challenges. As a beginner, she found the technical aspects of snowboarding intimidating. But what stood out even more was how difficult it was to find gear that fit her body comfortably and safely.
“I went through three pairs of pants that I ripped because I just wasn’t fitting into them,” she recalled. “I was maxing out the XLs in most brands, and even then, they weren’t designed to fit my shape. I’d spend my lunchtime glued to a fireplace because my bottom was soaked from the snow.”
The frustration didn’t stop at sizing. Snowboarding fashion, which is heavily influenced by trends, offered few options for women who didn’t conform to the industry’s narrow idea of what a snowboarder should look like. For Maria, this wasn’t just inconvenient—it was exclusionary.
“I realized the issue wasn’t just size; it was shape,” she said. “Bodies move differently, and the industry wasn’t accounting for that at all.”
Everyone deserves technical gear that fits
The outdoor industry has long perpetuated the myth that snow sports are only for a certain type of person: thin, elite athletes with endless resources to invest in the latest gear. This couldn’t be further from the truth.
“There are people in larger bodies who are incredibly athletic,” Maria pointed out. “Just because someone doesn’t fit the traditional image of a skier or snowboarder doesn’t mean they aren’t out there crushing runs and pushing their limits.”
These athletes—and recreational participants—deserve access to high-quality, technical gear that supports their performance and safety. Ill-fitting gear can lead to discomfort, lack of mobility, and even injuries, creating unnecessary barriers for people who are fully capable of excelling in snow sports.
Maria shared stories of customers who finally felt seen after finding gear that fit them well. One particularly memorable story came from a mother who had avoided snow sports entirely because she couldn’t find clothing that worked for her. She told Maria she finally got to go to the snow with her kids instead of sitting in the café watching.
“That’s what this is all about—breaking down barriers so people can enjoy the outdoors.”
Breaking stereotypes in snow sports
Snow sports aren’t just for the “granola-y outdoorsman” archetype. They’re for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned heli-skier or someone trying out snowboarding for the first time, you deserve gear that makes you feel confident and comfortable.
Maria emphasized that participation at any level is valid. “Why shouldn’t someone who goes to the snow once a year have access to the same high-quality gear as someone who spends every weekend in the backcountry?” she asked.
This mindset challenges the elitism often associated with snow sports and underscores the importance of inclusivity. By designing gear for all levels of participation, Nobody’s Princess is ensuring that snow sports can truly be for everyone.
The connection between safety and confidence
One of the most compelling points Maria raised is how ill-fitting gear can affect both safety and confidence. Snow sports require participants to rely on their gear, and when that gear doesn’t work, it can be both physically dangerous and emotionally demoralizing.
“The safety element around clothing and apparel for any outdoor activity is huge,” Maria explained. “If you’re constantly thinking, ‘Is my waist gaping? Is snow getting into my pants?’ then you’re not focused on the run. That distraction can lead to accidents.”
She also pointed out how gear affects confidence. “When your clothing fits well and feels good, you’re more likely to feel confident and capable. That’s what we want for every woman on the slopes.”
Changing lives, one pair of pants at a time
The impact of Nobody’s Princess has been profound. Maria shared stories of women who, for the first time, felt empowered to participate in snow sports because they had gear that fit them.
Her designs prioritize both technical performance and inclusivity, ensuring that everyone—from plus-sized athletes to petite women—has the tools they need to succeed. By addressing both the functional and emotional needs of her customers, Maria is helping to reshape what it means to participate in snow sports.
What’s next for Nobody’s Princess and Maria Baker
Maria is focused on expanding Nobody’s Princess to reach more women worldwide. This includes breaking into the U.S. market, increasing size and shape offerings, and exploring new product lines like non-insulated shells. Her ultimate goal is to ensure that every woman, regardless of body type or skill level, has access to high-quality, inclusive gear.
To those who feel excluded from outdoor spaces, Maria offers this powerful message:
“It’s not you. The barriers are real, but they don’t define you. You deserve to be out there, doing what you love, at your own level. And there are brands and communities who will support you.”
Redefining outdoorsy
Maria (and Nobody’s Princess) is leading the charge in making snow sports more inclusive, accessible, and empowering. By focusing on representation, thoughtful design, and challenging industry norms, Maria is proving that the outdoors truly can be for everyone.
If you want to learn more about Maria’s journey or explore her inclusive gear, visit Nobody’s Princess. And don’t forget to listen to the full podcast episode for even more insights into how we can redefine what it means to be outdoorsy—together.
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