"Running the Ridge" – A Trail Runner's Story
There's a moment, halfway up a mountain, when the world goes completely quiet — except for the rhythm of your breath and the pulse of the earth under your shoes. That's the moment I chase every time I lace up.
I've run trails on five continents — from the volcanic ridges of Iceland to the dusty switchbacks of Utah — but nothing compares to the feeling of freedom I get when I'm running light, fast, and dry in BWO gear.
BWO isn't just another outdoor brand. Their clothing feels like it's made for movement — the fabric stretches with every stride, breathes through every climb, and somehow still feels weightless even when the air turns thick with mist. I don't think about the cold. I don't think about the heat. I just run.
On my last ultra in the Dolomites, the weather shifted from sun to sleet in minutes. My BWO One Fit shell handled it like a dream — shedding rain while keeping my body temperature balanced. By the time I crossed the 60K mark, my legs were dead, but my core was steady, dry, and focused. It's strange how much confidence you gain when you trust what you're wearing.
"When I run in BWO, I feel less like I'm fighting the mountain — and more like I'm part of it."
Leo Matsen – Trail Runner & BWO Explorer
Personal Details
- Nationality: Norwegian
- Based: Bergen, Norway
- Profession: Professional Trail Runner / Mountain Endurance Coach
- Years of Experience: 10+
Races & Achievements
- 1st Place – Nordic Sky Ultra 2024
- Top 5 Finisher – UTMB Mont-Blanc 2023
- Brand Ambassador – BWO Outdoor (since 2024)
- Environmental Partner – Clean Trails Europe Initiative
Quote
"Every trail has its own rhythm. BWO lets me hear it — instead of fighting against it."
Leo Matsen
Leo Matsen is a professional trail runner and BWO athlete from Bergen, Norway. With over 10 years of experience in mountain endurance sports, he has competed in ultra-marathons across five continents and serves as an environmental partner for the Clean Trails Europe Initiative.