Word came through that Ellery Manning just joined the Nidecker family—and if you’ve been paying attention, the timing checks out.

This season’s been stacked with firsts. First RnD win a few years back. Youngest rider to touch Natural Selection. First real film trips, first Japan missions, first proper on-the-road moments. Arc'teryx even dropped a doc following her path to NST.

So yeah—first real board deal feels right on schedule.

We caught up with Ellery mid-season to talk about the new setup, where her riding’s at, and what this next chapter looks like.

Long time no see :) What was a highlight from this year so far?

RnD is a highlight every year—especially this one. It just felt extra fun. I didn’t really understand jump building before, but after Japan, I felt like I had a way better grasp on it. I felt more dialed for the film days this year.

All these clips & photos from Japan are sick—was this your first trip there?

Yeah, my first trip to Japan and my first filming-specific trip. I was able to just focus on trick progression. I learned you want your tricks dialed for filming—you have to know what you can land. Once you’re happy with your style and the clip, then you can start trying new things.

It was the first time we saw you on Nidecker—is that where you warmed up on the board? How were the first couple days?

I was hyped—it looked similar to boards I’ve ridden before. Once I got on it, it felt super playful but still sturdy. I ride the same setup every day—park and freeride—and I’ve been on the Venus. It felt familiar right away. I love the boots and bindings too. I played around with the setup a bit and started landing a lot more, which felt really good.

What does having support from a board company like Nidecker change for you?

Having a board sponsor is really important—it opens up a lot of opportunities. Nidecker is super supportive and the team is sick. I’ll be able to travel more and keep progressing.

What are you most focused on progressing right now?

I’m focused on riding some bigger lines and incorporating some of my newer freestyle skills into the backcountry. I am also hoping in the future to get back on the Natural Selection Tour!

What’s in the immediate future—what does the rest of 2026 look like?

I’m heading to Low Maintenance at Baldface next week, then the Silver Belt freeride event. After that, I think Billy, Juliet, Maggie, Estelle, and I are going to do a spring road trip edit—from Whistler down to San Diego.

What’s something you learned this season that you’ll carry forward?
I think the biggest thing I learned this year was how to snowboard in a film environment and be productive on film trips.