RefrigiWear is proud to sponsor Team USA Ice Carving as they represent the United States at the 2027 International Ice Sculpture Competition in Harbin, China.
This partnership brings together world-class artists, extreme cold and the kind of determination it takes to perform when the conditions get downright brutal. As Team USA Ice Carving takes on one of the world’s biggest stages for ice and snow artistry, RefrigiWear will be there to keep the team protected.
From the workshop to the world stage, Team USA Ice Carving and RefrigiWear share a commitment to craftsmanship, toughness and performing when the temperature drops.
SPONSORS
MEET THE TEAM
JIM DUGGAN
Jim Duggan is a master ice sculptor, entrepreneur and competitive artist with more than three decades of experience transforming blocks of ice into large-scale works of art.
As the founder and creative director of Ice Sculpture Inc. in the Atlanta area, Duggan has built a career around precision, creativity and the ability to perform when the stakes are high. His work ranges from custom sculptures and live events to film, television and major competitions.
Duggan began his career in the culinary world after graduating from the Art Institute of Atlanta, where he was introduced to ice carving and developed a passion for the demanding art form. He later took his skills to the competitive stage, earning top honors at the Ice Art World Championship in Fairbanks, Alaska. Among his standout works is Concentration, a realistic single-block sculpture that earned first place in 2016.
Today, Duggan serves as Team Manager for Team USA Ice Carving, bringing his experience as an artist, competitor and leader to the team as it prepares to represent the United States on the international stage. His approach combines technical skill, creative vision, teamwork and the kind of determination required to create something extraordinary from ice.
AARON COSTIC
Aaron Costic is an internationally recognized master ice sculptor, entrepreneur and competitive artist whose career has helped define the modern world of professional ice carving. With more than three decades of experience, Costic combines artistic vision with speed, precision and a deep understanding of the tools and techniques required to transform massive blocks of ice into intricate works of art.
Costic discovered ice carving while studying culinary arts and quickly found that competition was one of the best ways to develop his skills. Over the years, he has competed nationally and internationally, earning recognition as an eight-time winner of the World Ice Art Championships in Fairbanks, Alaska. He has also represented his craft at four Winter Olympic cultural events, earning fourth in Salt Lake City, bronze in Nagano, silver in Milan and gold in Torino.
Beyond competition, Costic is the founder of Elegant Ice Creations, a professional ice sculpting company that has created custom work for events for more than 30 years. He also plays a leading role in the annual Medina Ice Festival, where his team creates large-scale sculptures and brings live ice carving to thousands of spectators.
As a member of Team USA Ice Carving, Costic brings championship experience, technical mastery and a competitive drive to the team as it prepares to represent the United States on the international stage.
ABOUT THE GEAR
When you’re carving massive blocks of ice in one of the coldest places on earth, there’s no room for flimsy gear. Team USA Ice Carving brings American skill, creativity and grit to the international stage — and RefrigiWear is proud to help keep the team warm while they turn solid ice into works of art. Here’s the gear they depend on to stay warm, dry and focused during competition:
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PolarForce® Bib Overalls
Creating art from a massive block of ice often requires carvers to contort themselves into awkward positions (and Aaron would know, since he invented the tools used by carvers all over the world!). PolarForce® Bib Overalls from RefrigiWear give Jim and Aaron maximum flexibility at the waist, back and knees so nothing holds them back from achieving a perfect cut.
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Insulated Softshell Jacket
On days that Old Man Winter cuts Team USA a little slack, Jim and Aaron reach for Insulated Softshell Jackets from RefrigiWear. Built wind-tight and water-repellent and ready for temperatures down to -20°F, these jackets shrug off ice chips and frozen shavings while keeping cold from creeping down your neck.
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Insulated Softshell Bib Overalls
From the workshop to the world stage, Insulated Softshell Bibs from RefrigiWear are a staple in every cold-weather craftsman’s tool kit. With adjustable Y-back suspenders that stay put no matter how you move, these snow bibs are perfect layering with a thermal hoodie.
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Insulated Diamond Quilted Jacket
For frequent transitions between the ice studio freezers and the loading area, the Insulated Diamond Quilted Jacket, comfort rated for 10°F, is lightweight and flexible to keep carvers comfortable without having to wrestle bulky gear on and off.
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ChillBreaker™ Bib Overalls
Whether you’re carving ice, feeding cows or clearing snow off your sidewalk, ChillBreaker™ has you covered whatever your day holds. Comfort rated for 0°F and made with multiple pockets, these bibs hold all the tools you need to keep working.
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ChillBreaker™ Jacket
Whether you’re carving ice, feeding cows or clearing snow off your sidewalk, ChillBreaker™ has you covered whatever your day holds. Comfort rated for 0°F and made with multiple pockets, these bibs hold all the tools you need to keep working.
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Cooler Wear™ Frock Liner
Maximum coverage for maximum functionality – that’s what you get with the Cooler Wear™ Frock Liner. Comfort rated for 10°F and water-repellent, rip-stop outershell, this jacket guards you against cold from your neck to your knees.
SUPPORT THE TEAM
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“Think outside the ice block”
- Jim Duggan