Must Watch: LIFE ABOVE 1000 a Mountain Bike Film by VALE inc.

A Love Letter to the Ride

Some mountain bike films aim to showcase skill. Others, the landscapes. And then, once in a while, a film comes along that captures everything. This film is exactly that — a stunning celebration of what it feels like to ride.

From the very first shot, it’s clear that the filmmakers understand the soul of mountain biking. The way they’ve captured the satisfaction of a well-timed whip, the visceral g-forces of a perfectly railed corner, and the raw, unfiltered relief of pushing yourself past your limits. It’s not just about the action; it’s about the emotion behind it.

To me, what really ties it all together is the sublime soundtrack. There’s a pulse to it that elevates the visuals, perfectly syncing with every speed and every moment of calm. I couldn’t help but feel echoes of the early freeride era — there’s definite inspiration from classics like Seasons and other timeless productions by The Collective. But it also brings in a touch of that wild NWD (New World Disorder) energy. Like someone took the soul of those films and dressed it in a more cinematic, modern aesthetic.

The editing deserves its own applause. Seamless transitions, thoughtful pacing, and a natural rhythm that keeps you completely engaged — it’s EXTREMELY well done. You can tell this wasn’t just a project.

Major props to the crew — they’ve created something that doesn’t just document the ride, it makes you feel it. This film reminds us why we ride in the first place.

"The VALE INC. Crew spent a summer living at the legendary Gobblers ski lodge on Coronet Peak, Queenstown New Zealand. This film documents a period spent away from society, mostly above 1000m, with friends, bikes, shovels, and endless inspiration from the surrounding landscape. Thank you to everybody who came through Gobblers lodge and made it an experience we will never forget. Also big thank you to the Gobblers Family members for having us!"

Featuring: Matt Begg, Billy Meaclem, Nils Heiniger, Hunter Paull, Ryan Howard, Erik Fedko.

Film/Edit/Grade/Sound: Hunter Paull.

Additional Filmers: Rohan Key, Henry Jaine & Andrew Costain.