Lumi Experiences, the world’s premier provider of boutique cross-country ski vacations, is proud to announce an expanded partnership with US Cross Country Ski Team star, Julia Kern, designating Lumi Experiences as her official headgear sponsor for the 2025/2026 FIS Cross Country Season. This commitment helps support Julia as she prepares for the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympic Games in February.
What is a “headgear sponsor?”
The International Ski Federation (FIS) requires World Cup athletes to race in their country’s national team race suit, which typically includes logos of the team’s sponsors. The only space an athlete can use to promote personal sponsors is on their hat or headband.
From Junior Nationals to World Cup Success
On the ski trail, Julia has established herself as one of the most exciting competitors on the World Cup circuit, currently completing her 10th consecutive winter traveling the circuit for months at a time.
Julia is renowned for major achievements, including securing a bronze medal in the Team Sprint alongside a teammate at the 2023 World Championships in Planica, Slovenia, followed by earning a silver medal in the Team Sprint at the 2025 World Championships in Trondheim, Norway — along with multiple individual World Cup podiums along the way.
As a teenager, Julia thought junior nationals were the pinnacle of cross-country skiing and “didn’t even know what the World Cup was.” Through ski racing and travels, Julia now inspires people of all ages to get out on skis and discover the world — two passions that align perfectly with Lumi Experiences.
A Shared Passion
Lumi Experiences has been supporting Julia Kern as a sponsor since 2022. Julia’s regular social media posts offer insights into life on the World Cup circuit, inspiring followers with photos and videos of international travel and cross-country skiing.
Beyond skiing, Julia shares content like photography tips, packing tips, and her favorite places to ski — including destinations like Toblach, Seefeld, and Seiser Alm.
Julia’s prior headgear sponsor, The Memory Clinic, was unable to continue due to reductions in government funding. Lumi Experiences is pleased to step in and support Julia’s journey for the 2025/26 season.
Supporting Julia aligns with Lumi Experiences’ broader efforts to support cross-country skiing. Lumi has supported the National Nordic Foundation (NNF) since 2018, contributing to US cross-country skier development. Lumi is also a major supporter of the Trail to Gold Fellowship — a program inspired by one of Julia’s coaches — with a goal to bring more women coaches to the World Cup level. Julia’s team-first mentality reinforces Lumi’s investment in this community program. Lumi also supports organizations such as the Women Ski Coaches Association and the New England Nordic Ski Association, both of which have played a role in supporting Julia’s career.
A Lifelong Nordic Ski Connection
Julia’s personal background provides a unique connection to the international travel experience that Lumi offers guests. She holds US/German citizenship and speaks fluent German. Her parents are from Germany, and she grew up skiing the trails in Oberwiesenthal.
In recent years, the German-speaking destinations of Seefeld (Austria) and Seiser Alm (Italy) have often become Julia’s Christmas training locations of choice — which coincidentally are two of the most popular destinations for Lumi travelers.
“We are incredibly proud to step up our support for Julia Kern as her official headgear sponsor for the 2025/26 season,” said Garrott Kuzzy, Founder of Lumi Experiences and fellow Olympian. “Julia is an exemplary athlete who inspires fans worldwide, and whose connection to European ski culture, fluent German and travel expertise make her an ideal ambassador for Lumi Experiences.”
Julia Kern commented on the new partnership:
“I’m thrilled to expand my partnership with Lumi Experiences as my official headgear sponsor for the season. Lumi has supported me since 2022 and shares my passion for skiing, travel, and community. Their commitment to programs like the National Nordic Foundation and Trail to Gold inspires me, and I look forward to bringing ski fans along to destinations like Seefeld, Toblach, and Seiser Alm.”
About Lumi Experiences
Lumi Experiences offers boutique cross-country ski vacations, introducing travelers to winter cultures where Nordic skiing is a part of everyday life. Founded by Olympian Garrott Kuzzy, Lumi provides guests with expertly curated travel experiences — including opportunities to cheer on athletes like Julia Kern at World Cup and World Championship events.
Founded in Vermont and rooted in love for snow and ski culture, Lumi continues to bring together ski fans, athletes, and world-class destinations.
