Hidden Gems: Meet Diane Boyer

Today we’d like to introduce you to Diane Boyer.

Hi Diane, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
Diane Boyer has had many firsts. She attended Dartmouth when women students first matriculated at the college and she was the first female chair of Snowsports Industries America, the trade association of the winter outdoor industry. In 1992, she took over her family’s ski wear line, SKEA, which celebrates 51 years this season. To her, these accomplishments are not surprising. Boyer has never thought twice about being a female in a male-dominated industry.

“My parents always supported me as an individual first — daughter and female second. They never made a distinction in business between male and female. I grew up with boys all around. But I did attend an all-girls boarding school which allowed me to find my voice and thrive as an individual without worrying about competing with boys. Then I attended Dartmouth, where I was accustomed to speaking in a room full of boys and men. I learned to speak my mind forcefully, no matter who was around,” Boyer said.

That voice landed her a spot on the Snowsports Industries of America board of directors from 1998 to 2009.

“All of my fellow board members were supportive of me. I try to lead with compassion and clarity. It’s important to take a stand that you believe in and stick to it. Doesn’t matter if others disagree — that’s what a forum of discussion is for — finding common ground for the best outcome and benefit of all,” Boyer said.

Throughout her years in the snowsports industry, Boyer said the women are starting to show up.

“Finally, I see many women in our ski and outdoor industry. Female leaders of companies and world-renowned female athletes in sports like big mountain skiing, alpine racing and cross-country skiing. Women have shown that they can compete and thrive in the snowsports industry, both on and off the slopes,” Boyer said.

As Boyer reflects on a lifelong career in the snowsports industry, she has this bit of advice.

“I encourage women and men to be strong and forceful in their discussions, but always remain gracious in their demeanor. We are blessed to have the opportunity to live the mountain lifestyle — live it with passion — positive passion,” Boyer said. “And remember, if health is the new wealth, then we who live in and enjoy our beautiful mountains must be the wealthiest people alive.”

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Challenges and struggles  include Being a small individually owned company in a big company world, being in a weather dependent business being too far ahead of the curve.

We’ve been impressed with Skea LTD, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
SKEA, a women’s outdoor clothing brand that specialized in ski wear has celebrated five decades. It is designed by women who ski for women who ski. SKEA’s fashions were showcased in a 2024 Fashion Preview Show in Big Sky.

“I do think functional fashion is important in the ski industry. People who ski are enjoying a special, happy time on the mountain, so they need a type of release from their everyday clothing, and they need to be warm, dry and comfortable. We skiers wear our ski clothing more than any other clothing during the winter season,” Boyer said.

What does success mean to you?
I encourage women and men to be strong and forceful in their discussions, but always remain gracious in their demeanor. We are blessed to have the opportunity to live the mountain lifestyle — live it with passion — positive passion,” Boyer said. “And remember, if health is the new wealth, then we who live in and enjoy our beautiful mountains must be the wealthiest people alive.

Contact information:

• Website: https://www.skealimited.com/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/skealimited
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skealtd/?hl=en

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