THE OPEN ROAD CAPSULE — Arizona, U.S.A

When we started to plan this year’s Moto Month, we knew right off the bat that we wanted to work with lifestyle photographer, creative director, and all-around badass Ben Christensen to bring the collection to life. Ben is perhaps best known as the quintessential modern cowboy, using the ideological tenets of the Old West—self-reliance, respect for the natural world, love of adventure, etc.—to navigate the demands of contemporary life. That means you’re just as likely to find him on horseback as you are to find him revving up his Harley, charting his own course, moving at his own pace, and appreciating the journey.

After some brainstorming, we decided to celebrate the Moto spirit by sending Ben off on a solo ride through his home state of Arizona. With the necessary provisions and gear—including his trusty Moto Jacket—in tow, he hit the road. Because Ben is a photographer by trade, he took some pretty incredible shots (and even some video!) along the way. Once he got back, he agreed to sit down for a little conversation about his career, his love for the West, and what the #LivingMyOwnWestern movement is all about.

Tell us a bit about yourself—where you come from, what you do, and what drives you?

My earliest and fondest memories all occurred outdoors with my family—especially my dad. I grew up in Arizona, and was raised to love being outside. During summers and on the weekends, we'd go horseback riding, horse packing in the mountains, camping, hiking, backcountry skiing, waterskiing, you name it. When I think about it, if we weren't out there exploring, we were getting inspired for our next adventure, huddled around the living room television watching a spaghetti Western with Clint Eastwood or Lee Van Cleef.

The pairing of Arizona's Landscapes and my dad's enthusiasm for the natural world is without a doubt the reason that I fell in love with the Western lifestyle. He instilled in me a deep respect and reverence for the great outdoors where we spent so much of our time together. I take that with me everywhere today. Today I am a western lifestyle photographer and creative director. In my work I aim to capture the simplicity of the American West and everything that comes with it.

How’d you get started as a photographer?

It all started with capturing some of the adventures my friends and I went on and then one day my friend asked me to shoot his wedding. His mom gave me $800 and I have been shooting photography and getting paid for it ever since. 12 years deep now and loving every minute!

THE OPEN ROAD CAPSULE — Arizona, U.S.A

How’d you get into motorcycles?

Ever since I was a kid I have always loved motorcycles, but there was something special about Harley Davidsons. It was more than just the bike; it was the person you become when riding one that interested me. So, eleven years ago, I bought my first Harley Davidson and it changed my life forever. It’s my Iron Steed, my mode of travel and a constant reminder to simplify my life because I can only bring the essentials that can fit on my bike. There is no turning back.

You put The Moto Jacket through its paces on a solo ride—just you and the open road. How was the trip?

That ride is special to me because it's one I do just about every other month here in Arizona. It’s a ride where I feel the heat as I pass through the Saguaro, cool down through the high desert and experience the crisp cool air in the pine trees as I take photos of the red rocks and canyons near Payson, Arizona. The Moto Jacket was perfect because I always have it tied to my handle bars ready to go when I need it. The fit and comfort is key when you are on long rides.

What’s next for Ben Christensen? Any exciting projects coming up?

Just riding horses, Harleys and filming westerns!

We’re so grateful to Ben for helping us make this year’s Moto Month extra special, but before you kill your engines, remember—the month’s not over yet! We’ve already unveiled a ton of awesome gear, including our signature Moto Jacket in three classic colorways (after seeing Ben’s photos, we wouldn’t blame you for eyeing the Black one) and a fresh Orange Plaid edition of The Moto Shirt. Most recently, we showed off The Ranch Boot in Redwood Waxed Suede, an exclusive, fully weatherproofed take on a fan-favorite silhouette.

Now, with Ben’s help, we’re expanding the collection even further with two new printed pieces that celebrate the thrill of the journey—The Bandana in Wherever The Road Takes You and The Cotton Hemp Tee in Charcoal Open Road—as well as two pairs of sunglasses fit to survive the searing Arizona sun—The Surfrider in Dark Tortoise & The Waylons in Chestnut—made in collaboration with our buddies at VALLON. Each piece in The Open Road Capsule is In Stock and ready to ship now, but quantities are limited—don’t lag behind!