Eileen Gu Showcases Custom Olympic Ski Outfit With Chinese Flair

The American-born freestyle skier competing for China turns heads with her unique slopestyle look.

Published on Feb. 7, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Eileen Gu, the 22-year-old American-born freestyle skier competing for China, made waves at the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics with her custom ski outfit that blended Chinese tradition and modern innovation. Despite a fall on her first run, Gu overcame the setback to qualify for the slopestyle final, showcasing her determination and technical skills.

Why it matters

Gu's choice to compete for China rather than the United States has been controversial, but her custom ski outfit reflects her desire to honor her Chinese heritage while also embracing her personal style and influences. The unique design highlights how athletes can use their gear to make a statement and connect with their cultural roots.

The details

Gu's ski outfit, designed by her Chinese sportswear sponsor Anta, features a bone white base color that mimics Chinese ceramics. The outfit is accented with blue graphics and pale golden highlights, including a Chinese-style dragon on the sleeve and her name in bold letters and graffiti-like lettering. Gu said she wanted to incorporate the dragon element, which was significant at the last Olympics, to bring her strength and courage.

  • Gu overcame a fall on her first run to qualify for the slopestyle final on February 7, 2026.

The players

Eileen Gu

A 22-year-old American-born freestyle skier who competes for China, having controversially chosen to represent her mother's home country rather than the United States. Gu is a highly successful professional model with over 20 brand endorsements, making her the highest-paid athlete of the Winter Olympics.

Anta

Gu's Chinese sportswear sponsor that designed her custom ski outfit for the 2026 Winter Olympics.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Oh my gosh, I've been waiting for this moment, fit check!”

— Eileen Gu, Freestyle Skier (Oskaloosa Herald)

“Of course, I had to bring in the dragon element which was relevant at the last Olympics as well. It brought me strength, it brought me courage, it served me well, so I wanted to keep that.”

— Eileen Gu, Freestyle Skier (Oskaloosa Herald)

What’s next

Gu will look to build on her strong start and compete for more medals in the upcoming events at the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics.

The takeaway

Eileen Gu's custom ski outfit for the 2026 Winter Olympics showcases how athletes can use their gear to celebrate their cultural heritage and personal style, even when representing a country other than their birthplace. Her unique design blending Chinese tradition and modern innovation reflects her desire to honor her roots while also carving her own path in the sport.