Social 101

Happy 15th Anniversary Fourstar Clothing

2011-08-23T17:43:00.000-07:00

Wow, I feel old. Fourstar has been the only skateboarding clothing brand that I have been wearing since I could remember stepping onto a board. This year they turn 15. In the 90's, a lot of companies came and went. Clothing companies were probably amongst the fastest to come and go followed by board companies (remember A-team?)
Trends come and go, styles change. This is life. Fourstar clothing has done it right. Being able to adapt to the changes I think was the key. That's how you survive. That's how you strive. That's how Eric Koston and the Girl guys became amongst the most successful skaters in the industry.

Congratulations on your 15th Fourstar Clothing. As an anniversary gift, you get Ishod Wair.

Fourstar Clothing welcomes Ishod Wair to the team from Crailtap on Vimeo.

Unbeleafable

2011-08-17T04:37:00.000-07:00

Great pics by Atiba.

DQM X Lakai

2011-08-10T19:36:00.000-07:00

Daves Quality Meat NYC X Lakai Footwear. This shoe is the Pico. All day, everyday.

Jason Dill and Anthony Van Engelen Syndicate

2011-08-01T02:52:00.000-07:00

So I've been seeing Jason Dill around LA recently and have been noticing that he doesn't rock Etnies anymore. Now, It's pretty common to see pros wear vans or chucks when they're chillin', however, I predicted that there was a going to be a power move on the way.

This Agenda trade show previewed some upcoming Vans from the Syndicate line and an upcoming shoe featuring Anthony Van Engelen and Jason Dill. So it's official. Jason Dill is on Vans and why not? Teaming up with fellow Alien rider and homie AVE. Power moves.

Congrats on the cover.

Fragmented

2011-07-25T20:31:00.000-07:00

This is possibly my favorite shoe in the closet. From a colorway standpoint, it's perfect. It took a Japanese design firm Fragment Design to make it.

Vans Syndicate Wtaps

2011-07-15T09:27:00.000-07:00

It's Vans sexy time.

Lunarlon Technology X Nike SB

2011-07-09T17:34:00.000-07:00

Nike SB Eric Koston & Lunarlon

I don't understand why every Nike shoe does not have lunarlon technology. This is by far the best, most comfortable cushioning I've ever experienced in a Nike shoe. Better than air, air max, air max 360, shox, zoom, you name it.
Supposedly they've been using lunarlon tech in running shoes for a long time but it took Eric Koston to put it in a skate shoe.
The overall aesthetic of the shoe is very simple. Some might say a bit mundane but when it comes to comfort and cushioning, this is the best skate shoe on the market now.

I got my limited edition pair of Kobe-Koston early and I already want another pair. No, I'm not trying to hype things out of proportion but if you find something that works you stick to it. I'm sticking to this.

Lakai X Supreme

2011-06-06T04:07:00.000-07:00

Mike Carroll's 5 sig shoe out of Lakai will see a ltd edition Supreme collaboration in the two colorways pictured above. Funny how anything Supreme is synonymous with ltd edition. Check out the La Brea Girl wall for details.
Available in-store June 1, 2011. Call and check for availability.

It's about time.

2011-06-03T18:21:00.001-07:00

This summer we get a peak of a set of new Vans Syndicate Shoes. Inspired by Rodney Smith of Shut Skateboards NYC. The two models will include the Old Skools and a new shoe named The Native American which spots a high top feel. Sort of a combination of a PF Flyer, Chuck Taylor and a Vans sk8 Hi, beefed up with only the finest materials The boys at Syndicate are known for.

We Get Lifted

2011-05-30T18:07:00.000-07:00

Today, Co-Founder, co-owner, mastermind of Lifted Research Group (LRG), Jonas Bevacqua was found dead in his Laguna Beach home at the age of 34. An icon in the industry and a genius all in his own. I am proud to say that I was there since the beginnings and there aren't that many brands I am able to stick to, and still maintain the amount of respect that I had since day one.

It's fair to say that everyone in the industry today was influenced some how or some way from Jonas. His actions paved the way for many of the clothing companies that do what they do today.

Respect.

Frost X Kob

2011-05-24T18:26:00.000-07:00

This June Nike SB will be releasing Eric Koston's first signature shoe for Nike. We all knew it was coming and now we're so close. The Nike Vault at the Staples center features a small exhibit on Eric Koston and displays a few of the upcoming shoes.

In celebration of the Koston 1 shoe release, Nike, Kobe, and Eric have made a super limited edition KOBE X Koston collaboration shoe that will be for sale this upcoming saturday at the Nike Vault @ the Staples Center.

This information was given to me earlier this week personally from Global Brand Manager of Nike SB, Kevin Imamura. What he forgot to tell me was there will only be 24 pairs of the limited edition Koston shoe! Thanks.

Anyways, The shoe's upper will be that of the Zoom Kobe VI with the Koston 1 sole that included the lunarlon insole. I have yet to try the lunarlon insoles and am really excited about trying them. The shoe itself if simple but very technologically advanced. To many of the non-skaters, the Koston 1 may seem a bit plain or even mundane but to the kids who grew up on suede skate shoes of the early 90's, this is gold.

I see this shoe as the revamped, technically advanced Jason Lee shoe! That's the best way I can put it. It will be fun to see Koston build a franchise out of Nike like P-Rod did.

Lakai Footwear now Girl Distribution.

2011-05-17T23:08:00.000-07:00

Since its upstart in 1997, Lakai Ltd Footwear has been distributed through Podium Distribution with the likes of Matix and DVS. Starting now, Lakai will be distributed in-house with Girl distribution. As it should be.

Belated B-Day

2011-04-07T04:49:00.001-07:00

Ok, March is over. My birthday month has ended. One last belated birthday gift via my best friend. Summers just around the corner so it's time to shade those eyes. Crystal Black/+ Red Iridium. RARE!

And no, you can't have one. lol.

PS. There might be one more surprise coming in.

Birthday Stuff

2011-03-21T23:37:00.000-07:00

This last weekend I celebrated a milestone birthday. This year and many other years past, my 2nd home and favorite city in the world, Las Vegas would play as the backdrop. Sorry I couldn't post any party pics as we are trying to keep this place rated PG. lol.
Let me tell you that although I'm stressed out because my life is almost over! SMH. I had one of the best, memorable birthday in a while. Thank you for all the friends and fam that made it awesome. love you all.

Before heading out to Vegas, stopped by Heelbruise HQ for goodies!! That leopard print logo is fire btw. Thank you Richie!

I got these in LA while I was in Vegas. Does that make any sense? It does.

I have a thing for green shoes, also orange and orange & black combo. These are real nice. Under the green color is a bronze oxidation color resembling the aesthetic characteristics of the statue of liberty. You have to skate them to get to the under layer but I'm not going to skate them. I love the green. Thank you for the B-Day present Ab & Tet.

Back home in reality, I met up with an OG surf local who just happens to have some DS Old skool Oakley frogskins. Among them, is a DS original Matte Rootbeer/Fire Iridium which I bartered for a pair of 4-legged frogskins which I wasn't that into to. This is one of the most sought after epic pair of Frogskins ever made. #winning.

One of my favorite things to do is eat. I live to eat. The eats this weekend was top notch and there was way too much to post. Plus, I don't want to make this a food blog even though I'm thinking about it. Food and Shoes!
However, there was one honorable mention that I have to post and give a giant shout out to. I'm a big burger guy and this is the best burger I've ever had in my life. I don't think I'm alone on this one. If you're ever in the Orange County area, or even if you're not, you need to make a stop here. Slater's 50/50 Burger in Anaheim Hills, CA. I'm not going to say anything else. Do your research or just GO!

This is not about quantity although quantity is a characteristic of the burgers, it is quality. This is no fast food joint btw.

Amongst all the material things that one could have, I'm the most thankful for the non-material things that money cannot buy. Like watching the sun rise in the desert on the way to Vegas (One of my favorite sights of all time).

I am grateful for my family, friends, health, life and being able to do all the things I'm able to do. Thanks everyone.

Billy Bad Boy

2011-03-16T23:30:00.000-07:00

Another Vans project with Max and his company, 4Q. Max doing his thing. This time around, the Vans Sk8 mid get revamped into the nicest pair I've ever seen. By the way, Max Schaaf will go by the name Billy Bad Boy from here on out. For the record.

Available April 9, 2011 exclusively @ Utility Board Shop in Upland, CA.
Online release April 11, 2011 @ Utilityboardshop.com

Vans 4Q Sk8-Mid Lmtd from Utility Board Supply on Vimeo.

Bruised Up

2011-03-11T12:44:00.000-08:00

So it's my big birthday weekend and I've got a million and one things to do before I can head out and enjoy my weekend in Vegas. Hectic before the hectic. Met up with Richie Mulder over @ Heel Bruise to say and see what was up.
Richard is one of the skaters that I've looked up to and been a fan of since I started skating. I've followed his career and still do to this very day with (Heel Bruise). We also share the same ethnic background of being half Dutch Indonesian. All in all, Richard is an OG 100% street skater and genuinely nice guy. Let's just say that if I were to have any street skater's career, it would be this mans. Thanks for the VIP warehouse raid Richie. Keep up the awesome work.

100% MADE IN AMERRRCA.

Vans Syndicate Versa "S"

2011-03-09T23:24:00.000-08:00

Yeah.

VERSA MID "S" / DOWNHILL THREE from Off The Wall TV on Vimeo.

VERSA MID "S" / DOWNHILL TWO from Off The Wall TV on Vimeo.

VERSA MID "S" / DOWNHILL ONE from Off The Wall TV on Vimeo.

SheepES (Sheeps)

2011-03-05T01:47:00.000-08:00

If you're old like me and skated in the mid 90's, you'll remember Ed Templeton and Sheep shoes. Sheep was the first skate shoe company to go "green" before the whole movement of going green even occurred.

The shoes were to take on a vegan approach to production, not using animal products and having renown Huntington Beach vegan pro Ed Templeton become the head honcho. What most people don't know is that the whole "vegan" shoe movement was unintentional as Sole Tech had to make changes in the order due to the prices of the original design being too high. So instead of the the leathers and suedes they intentionally had in mind. They had to "cut down" to synthetics and put a "go green" slogan to them. It worked for a while but didn't last the test of time.

Here I'm holding a sample of an Es shoes/Sheep remix that should or shouldn't be releasing. I wonder if these were the intentional model and material? Either way, these are a really fun shoe.

Ribbit........Ribbit.........

2011-03-03T02:11:00.000-08:00

Today was like Christmas as I opened a "product box" from Oakley. A big thank you to Justin @ Oakley for hooking it up. Call it an early birthday gift. More Frogskins!!

Polished Black Polarized. The cool guy shades. A must have in your wardrobe arsenal.

Grenade Fade/Black Iridium. I don't know what Danny Kass was thinking when he came up with this color scheme but it is sick! Not everyone can pull these off but I'm not going to front, I can pull them off. Lol! These are the 2nd Frogskins that Oakley did with Grenade.

Four Legged Frogskins. These are somewhat on the funky side with the interchangeable legs. I haven't seen these around but they are dope. This is definitely one when I'm riding my BMX.

So it seems I have a pair of glasses for every occasion (biking, snowboarding, chilling, stuntin!!) lol.

New Dunks

2011-02-26T02:46:00.001-08:00

Seriously, these are new dunk pro sb's. Beefed up even more for skating. My favorite element of the shoe is the option to have your laced protected (no more blown out laces in 2 days). I don't remember the last time I bought dunks.
All in all, I love the neon colorways. Pictures don't do justice. These are nice.

Thank you for always hookin' it up Mr. Tet.
Who coins these dunk nick name terms, ie. "neon j-packs", "hulk" (todd Jordan hi's), etc, etc. They're not even official and I never liked the nick names but I understand that kids use the terms to identify the colorways.

Oakley HQ Day Trip

2011-02-24T02:59:00.000-08:00

Had to take a day trip to Oakley HQ in Foothill Ranch today to meet with Oakley rep Justin and get some work done. I drove all the way from West Hollywood to pick up some new threads @ Supreme but luckily I kind of missed the traffic. I hate driving down there because all the toll roads around there are pretty confusing but I love being in the compound. It's amazing.

Just a few of the Oakleys I've obtained.

Oakley Frogskins Prescribed #2

2011-02-21T05:26:00.000-08:00

These Matte Clear Oakley Frogskins just came in with Oakley HDO plutonite prescription lens...Cool.

Vans X Supreme Old Skool S/S 2011

2011-02-04T03:36:00.000-08:00

My favorite shoe. Upcoming Vans Old Skool X Supreme. Releasing some time this year. Pay attention. Enough said.

Diamond Supply Co. Shoe samples

2011-02-03T23:54:00.000-08:00

There has been talk coming from Nick Tershey via Twitter about the upcoming shoe line from Diamond Supply co. Here is a picture via Nick of a sample shoe that may or may not make it into production. A good looking shoe if I may say. Look forward to seeing the rest of the line up.

All Time Favorite Skate Shoe of All "My" Time #5

2011-01-31T02:59:00.000-08:00

Throughout the next month I will be posting my top 5 skate shoes of "my" time. I say "my" time because these are my all time favorite skate shoe since I started skating in 1993. I really had a hard time putting them in chronological order so they will be listed in no particular order. So here is my #5 skate shoe of "ALL MY" time.

The Jason Lee Airwalk.

This was the first pro shoe that I came to know. I didn't know who Jason Lee was or have ever seen him but I noticed the older kids I started skating with wearing them. The shoe itself could be labeled as "the perfect skate shoe". All suede with cup soles. Simple. Effective. Super comfortable. This would be the dominant blue print to many skate shoe company models for the next 5 years and still exists today. Classic and timeless. Just like the man himself.

Being the personable kid I was, I got my hands on a pair and it was my second pair of skate shoes I ever had. I actually landed my first kickflip in these. Still didn't know who Jason Lee was. All I knew that he and Tony Hawk had signature shoes from Airwalk at the time so Jason Lee had to be good. lol.

I wish I still had my pair of Jason Lee Airwalks from when I first started skating but what did I know. Back then I was so eager to get on to the next shoe that when I did, I never looked back at my old pair. I really miss the one shoe at a time routine, now that I'm older I've got more shoes than I can thrash.

Kenny Anderson Converse Sig Shoe KA-ONE

2011-01-31T02:32:00.001-08:00

Kenny Anderson's OFFICIAL signature shoe. The Cons KA-ONE. It's about time. 2 Chocolate pro's with signature Cons pro models.

Vans Mike Carroll X Supreme Retro Collabo

2011-01-26T23:23:00.000-08:00

Yeah, you didn't know Mike Carroll skated for Vans? How about Rick Howard? Both these now Lakai co-owners once graced the stripe. In 2011, Supreme and Vans will retro the Mike Carroll signature shoe. The original version of this shoe is super rare because of Mike Carroll's brief term with Vans in which he left to join DC (AVE just did the opposite a few years back). I'm personally stoked to see its re-release and some creative genius come out of Supreme.

Cons CTS Mid Red/White OX (Sample)

2011-01-21T03:59:00.000-08:00

In the summer of 2009 (When the Cons skate team was just taking off) I blogged about an upcoming release of this Cons CTS OX low red/white in canvas with the rubber toe cap that I was stoked about. Turns out Cons released a different version of the red/white CTS in suede without the rubber toe cap. I was a bit bummed that they didn't release the canvas' that had been shown so as a joke I asked Cons to send me the samples of the red/white CTS canvas since they did exist somewhere in this world.
Fast forward to a year and a half later and they somewhat answered to my calling. This week I received a sample package with the red/white CTS canvas with a little twist. Mids. So stoked on these. Don't know if these mids will make a general release but the low top versions have been released a few seasons ago. Enjoy the pics and thanks again for the samples.

p.s. If I could have my Cons shoe, this would be the colorway. denim gray/off white. Maybe they'll hear me out on this too! Peace.

2010 Thrasher King of The Road Converse

2011-01-21T00:33:00.000-08:00

This second 2010 KOTR clip via Thrasher mag features a piece of the action from the Cons Team in Denver and Minneapolis. The Cons KOTR crew consisted of Kenny Anderson, Eli Reed, Sammy Baca, Julian Davidson and Angel Ramirez.

2010 Thrasher King of The Road Nike SB

2011-01-21T00:26:00.000-08:00

2010's Thrasher King of The Road competition consisted of 4 skate shoe companies in the form of Nike SB, Converse, Etnies and Circa. It was definitely a good one. Check out this first clip via Thrasher mag for a little piece of the action. This is Team Nike SB (Eric Koston, Grant Taylor, Justin Brock, Ishod Wair and Corey Kennedy).

Nike Blazer CS

2011-01-13T00:00:00.000-08:00

So I haven't really skated vulcanized since I started skating in the mid 90's. I learned how to skate with vulcanized shoes (vans old skool) but I later on progressed to cup sole shoes because it not only lasted longer but was more supportive to my feet. The last few years, we've seen the popularity of vulcanized shoes once again. I bought into "vulcanization" by skating a pair of sb blazers, I guess they weren't bad but I'd still rather skate sb dunks because they provide better support on both cushioning and support.

The soles look vulcanized, but it's a cup sole. Lasts longer!

When Brian Anderson came up with the idea to create a cup sole version of a vulcanized shoe I was super hyped. I got my hands on a pair of the blazer sb cs and let me tell you they are great. not only are they great on the feet but on the board as well. It's exactly what you would think. A blazer the feels like a dunk, cushioning, support and all. Not to mention this colorway is insane!!

Check out the extra cushioning in the sock liner, feels great.

Vans Syndicate X Tommy Guerrero

2011-01-12T02:37:00.000-08:00

OG Powell-Paralta, SF local, co-founder of Real skateboards and skateboarding godfather Tommy Guerrero, teams up with a 2011 Vans Syndicate installation. The two silhouettes will be perf leather slip-ons and a what looks to be the larkins (introduced through the OTW line). All black everything.

Vans Zero to Hero

2011-01-12T00:00:00.000-08:00

This year Vans releases a GR version of the Zero model that was "Syndicated" in 2009 in lux suede. I'm usually old school when it comes to Vans and the classics but this model is a "like". Be on the look out for these.

Cons Pro Pros

2011-01-11T03:27:00.000-08:00

If you didn't know, Converse skateboarding is divided into 2 subcategories. One is called the Pro line which features shoes like the Chuck Taylor skate (CTS) and the Anthony Pappalardo pro shoe. The other is called black flag/label which features shoes like the sea star, CVO and the Kenny Anderson. At first I didn't know why they would have Kenny's signature shoe in the black flag line but now it makes sense.

With a lot of shops only carrying one of the two categories, it creates a demand for the other line. The black flag line is the least popular but some shops need to order shoes from this line until they can order from the pro line. This kind of sucks because I think the black flag line isn't as great as the pro line and I think a lot of people would agree with me. That's one of the reasons they put Kenny's shoe in the line. Anyhow,

Dig this new colorways for the Kenny Anderson

The newest pro model from the Cons pro line, Nick Trapasso. A good looking shoe.

NOS (new old school)

2011-01-11T02:12:00.000-08:00

I know we're only 2 weeks into the new year but so far so good. I'm glad the hectic holidays are done. I survived it. Time to get going. A box from Vans doesn't hurt either. It's been a while since Vans released it's red/white old skools. One of my favorite shoes of all time in the best colorway. Last time I had these I was in Jr. High. Very nostalgic.

Wieger on the new Nike sb Dunk Low Pro

2011-01-09T00:00:00.000-08:00

In 2002, Nike sb put the nike dunk silhouette into a skateboarding shoe history. Of course, the shoes were revamped and adapted for skateboarding. Nearly 10 years later, Nike sb reconstructs the ever classic shoe to outlast all the gripping and ripping of skateboarding. The Nike sb dunk low pro.

Around The World with Nike SB

2011-01-08T04:12:00.001-08:00

featuring some the crew that I haven't seen in a while (Chet and Daniel)

How Much Are They?

2011-01-07T00:00:00.000-08:00

Call me old fashion or out dated but I remember growing up in a time where a hundred dollar pair of basketball shoes were unheard of (Air Jordans, Reebok pumps, etc.) Back then people were saying dayuuuum! Maybe I've been out of the loop or maybe I've just been around skate shoes too much. I took a stroll through Nike.com to see what was going on currently in the athletic shoe world besides skateboarding, I discovered some shocking, unbelievable, can't believe my eyes kind of things. I'm going to share some of them with you.

Please note that these are current products that is readily available for purchase at Nike.com, not reseller/flight club prices. I selected a shoe from different sports and categories.

The first shoe that came up was a soccer shoe called the Nike Mercurial Vapor Superfly II elite. retail price $400.00
This is the most expensive athletic shoe I've ever seen.

This second shoe is a basketball shoe made popular by Penny Hardaway in the early 90's called The foamposite one. This bulky heavy boot of a basketball shoe is in my opinion, not technically basketball friendly. It looks like it would get an overall 3 out of 10 in weight, comfort, and response. Retail price $200.00.

This third shoe is from Golf and is called the Nike Lunar Control. Retail price $190.00. Why would you need $190 tech shoes in golf? Basketball, I'd understand. Baseball, soccer, football, maybe. Not golf!

Here's another basketball shoe from Jordan brand. These GR basketball shoes are probably something you would find in a outlet or a Ross. These are called The Jordan Rare Air Retail price $140.00

These guys make so many kooky shoes (spizikes, air force J's, etc.) I'm so over them. The quality of Jordan is so poor I retired from buying these pieces of shits a while ago. You can kiss comfort and quality out the door because now these guys are looking to grab all your money and run.
Don't get me wrong, I love my 3's, 4's and 5's but I cannot stand the price bumps on the retail price and further more, the poor poor quality of materials and construction.
P.s. The jordan XI cool grays had a box price of $175 excluding tax! Sold out instantly.

The last pair I'm going to share here is a winter style athletic boot called the Nike ACG posite balkin. Retail price $215.00

I know boots are an expensive item and probably worth coughing up $100-$200 but I doubt Nike makes a reputable boot. I would go with Timbs or cats or something.

Whoever knew that we'd see a Nike sneaker near hit the $200, $300 and $400 mark all in the same era and so quick! I understand the motive to purchased an expensive tech shoe that will protect your feet and provide you with the most comfortable cushioning and support to get through whatever it is you're doing. Especially knowing that injuries are costly and painful. I'm all for taking care of yourself when playing sports or getting physical but please don't rip the consumer with bull shit low quality shoes.

Hurry up and buy!!

2011-01-06T05:07:00.000-08:00

An oldie buy goodie. Definitely one of my favorite graphics to come up on a tee. From Ray Mate and the Mighty Healthy crew. It never gets old. (I actually had to cop one of these). Too good.

Whether you were born in the 90's and don't know where this is from or an OG, peep here:

Eli Reed's Neighbourhood

2011-01-05T04:25:00.000-08:00

I love this video clip. It's just Eli Reed in his natural habitat. The last couple of years I've been really diggin' this kind of skate footage. No bangers (although I still like bangers) but just cruising down the street, up and down curbs, slappys, etc etc. The way skateboarding really is, Fun. I'm still not used to skating in chucks though. I don't even like skating vulcanized! (However, my tre flips are buttery in my Cons.)

Keenan Milton Nike SB sample

2011-01-05T04:16:00.000-08:00

These Keenan Milton Nike Dunks have been floating around on-line and the validity of their existence or future existence is still not sure. My theory is someone from Girl/Chocolate or even Heelbruise had a hand in the creation of these pair. Whether or not these dunks ever release doesn't really matter. Just seeing them is awesome.

Stussy Skate Team Documentary pt 1

2011-01-03T04:46:00.000-08:00

Japanese website, Defrag, goes in depth to document in my opinion, one of the greatest skate teams to come and go. The Stussy skate team. Great people, great team, great skating. I hope they answer the one question I have in mind. What happened to the skate team and why don't they have one now?

Power Moves 2011

2011-01-02T04:12:00.000-08:00

First official post of 2011. There are still a few pics I will post up from the holidays because things got kind of hectic. Big moves for the big year. Chris Cole leaves Fallen Footwear for DC Shoes. Rumor on the streets was that Nike SB's prodigy from down under, Shane O'Neil, will leave Nike for DC as well. More info as if comes.

Happy New Year!

2010-12-31T02:30:00.001-08:00

Gear

2010-12-14T04:42:00.000-08:00

There's always cool stuff out there. Here are a few stocking stuffers I hope to find on Christmas day.

These Cons CTS are insane. Black Perf w/ black toe cap. This is the new holiday line up from Cons so you can expect to see these anywhere they sell Cons Skate.

No explaination needed. Harold Hunter ltd ed wheels from Zoo York.

Randoms-4-Sale

2010-12-10T18:46:00.000-08:00

Christmas is just around the corner I got some randoms laying around. email me if interested or they're going up on eBay. I'll consider barters in shoes 9.5. contact info to the right>>>>

Kaws X Original Fake X Incase X Arkitip laptop/iPad carrying case & Arkitip Kaws Zine.
Limited hand numbered of 2000 units. Available only through Arkitip and sold out.
2 padded compartments inside with full zip featuring Incase/Original fake embelishments inside and out. Fits all iPads or 13" laptops.
$90

Nike Air Max 90 (white-cement gray black infrared) Dead Stock w/ original box sz9.5
$100

Shipping is $10 in the US. All transactions will be securely made via paypal and sent USPS Priority Air Mail w/ Delivery Confirmation.

A New York Thang!

2010-12-10T18:44:00.000-08:00

A little taste of the right coast skate scene.

NYC stuff from Chandon on Vimeo.

Happy Black Friday!!

2010-11-27T02:43:00.000-08:00

All black everything! What's better than burning off that hefty Thanksgiving dinner than walking around for hours in the buck cold for hours and hours with tons of other people. That's right ppl, Black Friday! Midnight madness for the last 3 years. Usually I'm in Vegas Thanksgiving weekend but these last 2 years I've kept it local and avoided the Thanksgiving crowd.

We headed for the Camarillo Outlet shops in Camarillo, just a half an hour outside of Los Angeles. This is the one time a year where I stock up on essentials that I don't usually buy because I hate shopping at the mall! Boxers from Banana Republic (because in my opinion they make the best boxers), gym/basketball dri-fit gear from Nike. Under garments from Ralph Lauren ( because if there is one tee that I could wear for the rest of my life, it would be these Ralph Lauren cotton crews). Cologne, and other miscellaneous items of clothing that I may not have known about because I hate the mall.
Sorry I don't have pics but I was too damn busy trying to keep up with my partner. We got there at 11:30pm to avoid the traffic and to get a secure parking spot. We left the outlets at 11:30am! Yeah, we were there for a good 12 hours. We had a meal in between all that as well! subway! It was hectic but fun. Came up on all I had to come up on that day and got home and crashed. All in all it was a great tradition and I look forward to next Thanksgiving. Peace out and have a good rest of the weekend.

Happy Thanksgiving!!

2010-11-25T02:35:00.000-08:00

My Favorite day on my favorite weekend with my favorite people eating my favorite foods! I've got so much to be thankful for. Trust me when I say, I'm thankful every single day and I praise God every single day for all that I have and all the things that I'm able to do with the people who love and support me beyond a questionable doubt. Be easy. Black Friday after dinner!

Syndicated

2010-11-23T02:16:00.000-08:00

There is probably no other line of shoes that I love more than the Syndicate line from Vans. It's right down my alley and they make they always work with the best. This month I get an oldie but goodie care package from Vans Syndicate. Those Starter caps are WHAT'S UP! The white box is from Luke Meier's "Destroy Luxury" slogan and the shoe, well it speaks for itself. Super luxurious shoes, skated=destroyed. Wearing these for Thanksgiving. Happy Thanksgiving everyone.

You know what comes after Thanksgiving dinner right? BLACK FRIDAY! Thanksgiving is absolutely my favorite weekend of the whole year. Nothing says the holidays like Midnight Madness at your local shops. hahaha.

Fuck Surfing

2010-11-10T23:57:00.000-08:00

This is why I don't surf. Fuck Surfing w/ stick...

Me my Shark and I from Chuck Patterson on Vimeo.

Primetime Kenny, Eli, Baca, and Glifberg

2010-10-27T01:18:00.000-07:00

During the Lakers opener/Ring Ceremony today vs the Houston Rockets I saw Kenny Anderson! Eli Reed! Sammy Baca! Rune Glifberg! Yikes. Primetime baby. What do they all have in common? Of course Converse. I don't really understand what's going on in the commercial but who the hell cares. All I got to say is Kenny Anderson and Eli Reed. That's enough. It looks like they shot in NY. Where's Pappalardo?

It still trips me out when I see skateboarding out of it's elements whether its prime time TV or movies or whatever. It makes me feel that even with the X-games and other wacky interpretations of skateboarding, it is still underground, it's still not accepted fully and it is still a way to rebel. I hope and think that skateboarding will always have that element and feel. After all, this is the reason you picked up your board and have not put it down since.

Who Still Wears SB's?

2010-10-27T01:03:00.000-07:00

"Who still wears SB?" as I read through comments regarding the release of these Nike Dunk SB "loons". It kind of hits a nerve when people say these kind of things. I don't feel anyone is too cool for anything and to think that you're cooler than the next person will only last until what you're doing now is not so "cool" anymore.

I am personally hyped on these loons (The loon being the state bird of Minnesota). I think they have a dope colorway and will kind of revitalize the dunk game. Sample of these loons were floating around some years back but thought to be sample only. Turns out we're expecting a Holiday 2010 release. Well good, since nobody wears sb's anymore, I should'nt have trouble walking to my shop and grabbing a pair. If not, then I know somebody is still wearing sb's.

Gino Iannucci Mixtape

2010-10-26T03:02:00.000-07:00

When skating, I consider myself the Asian Gino. huahaha. Because how a trick looks is more important than the trick itself.

Frost is Boomin!

2010-10-25T06:06:00.000-07:00

It's nice to see another Nike skater besides P-Rod (not that I have anything against Paul) get into the spotlight that is a full on Nike commercial. Here's Frost with a stylee backside 180 shot in the middle of the night/early morn in K-Town on Wilshire blvd right next to the BCD Tofu House featuring a full on set, permits and all. That's how Nike rolls in Hollywood.
Check out the commercial featuring tons of stars, present and past. Boom!

Rx

2010-10-18T02:14:00.000-07:00

This past weekend I took a trip to Foothill Ranch also known as Oakley country because of the HQ located there to pick up some goods aka my new prescriptions. I should have taken pictures of the compound but #1, I don't carry a camera around everywhere I go. #2, I'm a bad blogger because I take bad pictures with a bad camera ie my iPhone.

Honorable Mention

2010-10-09T16:28:00.000-07:00

check out X-Large and a brief history lesson at X-Large
This is one of the handful of greatest clothing companies of all time. X-Large has been the real deal for a long time and have kept it going. Many of the kids born at about the time X-Large emerged don't have an idea of its impact on the clothing companies available today but let's just say they have been doing what a lot of the new jacks have been doing now since 1991. Respect.

Supreme NYC x Nike SB 94'

2010-10-09T16:12:00.000-07:00

Another new Nike sb (or Nike as a whole) silhouette has emerged in skateboarding syle via Supreme NYC called the 94'. The name derived from the Supreme's opening year in NYC and is an homage to the styles of skate shoes that you'd find NYC skaters rockin' at the time. Supreme designer Luke Meier who overlooks all of Supreme's Nike sb collabos stated that the Nike air jordan I was a big inspiration to the new shoe (I see it more of an airwalk/etnies natas kind of thang). Keep a look out for these this upcoming holiday season only available from Supreme.

Vans Syndicate X W)taps Sk8 Mid

2010-10-09T15:52:00.000-07:00

Thank God. Yet another collaboration from Vans syndicate and w)taps to look forward to in a classic form that is the sk8 mid. I'm stoked on this. Really. However, I wonder if they will have a few other models in the colorway. I would really love an old skool take on the w)taps syndicate. whoooooo!

On another note, I'd like to just say that some of these "fits" posts on some of these forums are gayer than gay cough!! nsb.org, because I don't even think gay kids do this shit ie. compare what you wore today from head to toe and see who wore it better. Shit that's a new level of gay. Note: I have nothing against homosexuals in any way shape or form, just straight kids conducting in homosexual activities.) I'd also like to regret for any "fits" thread I have posted on. Have a good weekend peeps.)

Dylan

2010-10-08T04:58:00.000-07:00

So I'm up on O'Dell's epicly later'd Dylan Rieder episode and was so fascinated with this kid's skating. I remember him being a standout skateboarder when he was younger but wow has he become gnar. Dylan has rode for Adio, Vans, Nike sb but has most recently landed in the Gravis shoes with pretty much his own signature line. His new shoes look so dope but I have no freakin' idea how you would skate in them or how long they'd last.

Check out his epicly later'd and you'll get an answer on why his Alien Workshop part was very disappointing considering his ability and potential. To make up for it, Gravis has put out a solo video part with Dylan Rieder and man oh man does it make up for it. Please watch and enjoy.

My Home Shop Non Factory On Blast

2010-10-05T23:56:00.000-07:00

This week Heel Bruise cruised through and put my home shop, Non Factory here in downtown LA on blast. Sorry I haven't done it earlier, I never considered myself that of a photographer, but these pics from Heel bruise definitely do justice. Big shout out to Tetsuya and AB, see you guys tomorrow.

Non Factory
110 S San Pedro St. Los Angeles
(213) 620-0314

Nike Zoom Eric Koston

2010-09-24T01:57:00.000-07:00

When Eric Koston appeared on one of the first ads for Nike sb not long after leaving Lakai, I put up a post that November after noticing that one of the labels on the boxes he was carrying read "Zoom Eric Koston SB"
9 months later, pics have officially been released of the anticipated shoe. waalaah.

Talk about a hybrid. This shoe looks like it has a Zoom Tre A.D. Midsole with a bruin silhouette. Almost seems seamless with extra padding around the ankle. Simple. Most likely technologically advanced. It's going to be interesting to see how these do popularity wise and whether we will see a little friendly competition between jedi and padawan (awkward).

Vince is Pro!

2010-09-23T02:27:00.000-07:00

Congrats to Vincent Alvarez who just turned Pro. If you've never heard of Vincent check him out here

Transworld Skate & Create 2010 Winner. Lakai

2010-09-18T03:50:00.000-07:00

Transwold Skateboarding presents its 2010 Skate & Create Video Contest Contestants and winner!

Lakairomania (The 2010 Winner!!)

And as promised, the winner on the cover:

Sorry I didn't post the other entries from Adidas and Fallen (Etnies video posted below)as I ran out of time but you can check them out yourself at Transworld skateboarding. peace.

Mommy, he bit me!

2010-09-18T03:29:00.000-07:00

To me biting is a big NO NO. I grew up in a community where it was very much frowned upon and I still live by those rules. I know nowadays nothing is truly original but where do you draw the line between inspiration and straight biting! I have never been a fan of the Hundreds but I respect what they do and admire their popularity/fan base from a business aspect. Chocolate was my first skateboard crew. Where do you think my loyalty lies?

Woodward China, Beijing Preview

2010-09-14T05:09:00.000-07:00

I had to pick up my jaw off the floor when I saw this clip. Check out the outdoor park with the marble and the biggest indoor skate facility in the world.

2010 Etnies Throwback

2010-09-10T03:57:00.000-07:00

Here's a clip from from the Etnies crew for TWS' Skate & Create. An homage to the sickest era in skateboarding with the old World Park theme. I'm sure some of the team ie Sean Malto and Tyler Bledsoe were just teeny grade skoolers during the time so it's cool to see 2010 meet 1995. Note: Even the clothing is on point.

Etnies Skate & Create 2010 from Nun Chuck on Vimeo.

Props in Amerrrca

2010-09-09T01:47:00.000-07:00

I'm really big on stuff being made in the USA. To me, it is a sense of pride to have an American brand/product or anything in that sense be made in America. Nowadays money, quantity and profit seem to overlook quality and pride. I know shipping overseas is both more productive in quantity and inexpensive in labor. Double whammy, but why would you sacrifice your brands' integrity for the sake of the almighty buck? (that's a rhetorical Q). I don't want to get into the economical aspect of this because quite frankly I'm not an economist.
The term "They don't make em like they used to" really hits hard with me. I don't know how it was everywhere else in the states and I don't know if this matter really matters to anyone else but it does to me.
Here are some of the things that I grew up with that are disappointingly no longer made in the USA.

In the early 90's Vans Shoes decided to globalize and start mass producing vulcanized shoes in China. I remember how disappointed I was when all of a sudden my shoes that used to be made down the street in Orange were stamped made in China. Now every Vans shoe on the market is made in China.
I wish: To have one freakin' production plant here in the States and produce a subdivision of the company that makes shoes in the USA. Maybe just have all the classics be made here.

Growing up in the BMX circuit, my favorite bicycle factory, GT, decided to pack up and move from beautiful Huntington Beach, CA to China. What a sketchy confusing time that was. The aspect of the product that they were so proud of and famous for (as seen by the made in Huntington Beach USA decal that was stock on all GT BMX models from the start of the company to the mid 90's. The end of an Era. Not to mention their sister company Robinson. Why? If it's an American brand made in China, it's now a Chinese product. Yes, all shoes are Asian.

The first athletic cap manufacturer that I was introduced to was Starter, then American Needle, then New Era Cap. I first new about about New Era because they produced the official on-field caps used by the players in the MLB. Fitted 100% wool caps with cotton trim sweatband and under-brim made here in the USA. At the time New Era did not do hats for anybody else except the the MLB and it wasn't until the late 90's did we see them globalize the market with their popular onfield 59/50 cap design for other brands all over the world, not including New Era's own subdivision of fitted caps (Too many). I wonder who buys all the wack ones? because you know there are a lot of wack ones out there.
I realize that all the on-field MLB caps are still produced here in the USA but everything else is made in China. Of course there are a few exceptions here and there of US made New Eras, such as this New Era Cap with Long Beach Shoe boutique Proper that produced a line of the ever so popular 59/50 cap made in USA. Props for Proper on that one.

These are just a few notables that I've included in this post. From now on I will start a post on products/things that I'm hyped on labeled "Props in Amerrrca". My first props go out to the Proper crew in Long Beach, CA. Good job guys. Now if only everybody else would follow in your footsteps because I would rather pay the extra cash any day knowing and having a sense of pride in the "originality" of the products I have. Out.

One of These Days......

2010-08-26T04:54:00.000-07:00

I'm seriously going to get a pair of these to skate... They look so perfect.

Either the Campus Vulcs or these Gonz'

Top Secret: Christian Hosoi X Vans Syndicates

2010-08-20T05:25:00.000-07:00

I don't think I ever showed these to anyone but I got these Wtaps samples from 5yndicate a while back. These are called the "Bash" and is a new model that was introduced through the 5yndicate line a couple years back.

The shoe had a basketball shoe/old school high top skate board late 80's feel and silhouette to them but I didn't see these flying off the shelves. I personally do not think it's a bad looking shoe. They're really light weight and are actually really nice on the board with the cup sole.

The upcoming collaboration between Vans 5yndicate and Christian Hosoi will see the beefed up reincarnation of the "Bash". The colorways will be fresh not straying too far from Hosoi's flag of red and black and will carry out nubuck uppers and a classic Vans grippy vulcanized sole.

If the Wtaps' Bash didn't open your eyes, these will. Keep on the lookout for these because these are for sure to be a winner.

A.V.E Vans Commercial

2010-08-17T05:34:00.000-07:00

A.V.E. "In the Cut" Commercial from OFF THE WALL SINCE 66 on Vimeo.

What's In The Box?

2010-08-10T04:23:00.000-07:00

It's nice to get a box from Nike. Even if I'm not switch flipping 12 stairs. Big thanks to C.H.

Vans Era LX Syndicate Wtaps

2010-08-07T04:42:00.000-07:00

The Wtaps boys are back in town and back at it with another upcoming Vans Syndicate. The Wtaps X Syndicate collaborations are and never will be bad news. I felt like a secret agent taking pics of these damn things but I couldn't resist. Too good! (all the pics were taken from my phone because this shit is top secret bitches)

It looks like this time around, the Vans Era gets treated with a little premium leather in what seems to be a Dr. Marten's motif. The yellow sport stripe around the mid-sole representing the signature Dr. Marten's stitching with the classic black and maroon colorways.

They even go as far as making the "wair-air" tag on the back of the shoes as well (if you know Docs, you know this). Classy as shit. I can't wait to see the rest of the pack and for these to release. My predictions are a holiday 2010 release on these bad boys.

This Is My Town

2010-08-04T04:13:00.000-07:00

It's been a hot minute due to some technical difficulties that is my computer. About two weeks I think. Not too much went down but I have to get caught up on some thangs!
Last week went through the ol' Dodger Stadium to see the "Doyer's" take on SD in a 4 game series. This was actually my first Dodger game and I've talked to so many people who always remember their first Dodger game and my first would never be forgotten. We rolled in style w/ our Baseline Club Box Seats w/ Preferred parking!

Dig the view from our club box seats.

Food and drinks included so we ate like kings. Not your typical run of the mill ball park food though. It was a nice touch.

Dodger Dogs for Days.....

Andre Ethier walked up to us!

The Doyer's came through with the win and I made it official as the newest addition to the Dodger fam. I definitely had an unforgettable time. A big shout out to LA for the royal treatment.

Gino's

2010-08-03T05:23:00.000-07:00

You know anything that has to with Gino is going to be stylish. The guy reeks it. The OG Nike Sb rider gets some with an upcoming perforated blazer sb in the first Gino dunk colorways (obsidian/midnight). Notice the midsole is not the typical blazer midsole but the midsole from the zoom harbor sb. The lighthouse in the back to representing Long Island.

The blazer would've sufficed but Nike needed to step it up a notch and do a Gino dunk. The new strapless dunk mids inspired by the black perforated dunk dubbed as the Gino II. Darkness everyone, darkness.

Maloof Cup OC Course Revealed

2010-07-31T03:53:00.000-07:00

Here it is.

Check the OC Maloof Money Cup August 6-8 from noon-8 in Costa Mesa, CA.

Vans Draw the Line

2010-07-31T03:17:00.000-07:00

This may not be significant at all to you but it is to me. Most people fail even to pay attention to this kind of detail but this is my favorite Vans model and I'm hyped about the minor yet significant detail. The side stripe. If by nothing else, the Vans old skool model is infamously known and identified by the white (on the black/white colorway) side stripe that is present on both the inner and outer side panels.

The last few years, the Vans old skool has been made with what in my opinion was the cheapest quality ever. Both the lining of the shoe and overall structure was poor. However, recently I have noticed a difference in the newer production of the old skools which is the skinnier side stripe! At first I thought it was a pair of the reissue 92's but turns out they are a run of the mill GR version of the Old Skool. After I picked the shoe up to examine its details, I notice the changes in the quality of the lining and midsoles. Much much better. I don't have a picture of the new production old skools but here is a sample pic of the "crappy skools" and the version of the newer production. See the difference? Of course not.

More from Syndicate

2010-07-25T01:10:00.000-07:00

We saw a preview of these Syndicates a few months back but here's Luke Meier's of Supreme fame commercial for his upcoming Vans Syndicates. Classy.

WDIWT

2010-07-21T11:01:00.000-07:00

Attempted to sell these last week on egay but didn't sell. I'm glad cuz these are one of my faves. Still so clean. All black w/ white midsoles and a gold swoosh? Yikes! Often immitated but never duplicated. The original Takashi's circa 2003.

Some Epic Covers from Girl Riders

2010-07-21T05:43:00.000-07:00

Some oldies but goodies from my favorite skate magazine, Skateboarder featuring the best of Girl/Chocolate riders.

Gino 2004, NYC w/ the Nike SB FC's he loved so much.

Frost & Gonz, SF 2008. Legenda.

The Olsons, LA 2007. I was actually @ Supreme the day they shot this!

Guy, LA 2000. Epic cover still in the Axion Aries.

Fresh Air

2010-07-18T14:16:00.000-07:00

To commemorate my little baby's birthday today, I wanted to bust these out. Jordan IV's LS. I think these were the first of the Jordan LS series (lifestyle). After being suffocated in the closet for 4 years they finally get a breath of fresh air. So clean. Not to mention comfortable. Note: Nike Airs make you jump higher.

Re Re Up on Cons

2010-07-17T00:12:00.000-07:00

Re-up on some Cons skate gear in shops now including probably my second favorite model, the Star Player OX. I saw Kenny Anderson wearing these and said "oh, he's on Cons again".

In addition to my stack is another pair of CTS (my favorite all time slack shoes) courtesy of Eli Reed. I don't think I' would wear regular Xonverse again. Not only because of the fact that I support skateboarding but because they're comfy. Note, these are the Cons he wore @ Maloof this year in New York.

Disclaimer: these shoes are way too for school.

5 days only!

2010-07-07T04:19:00.000-07:00

Cleaning out the closet sale. Got some old nikes on sale through egay, I mean ebay. They've spent so much time in the boxes all these years I almost forgot I had em. All the listed are unskated and still all good. Still got some dunks I'm keeping. jump on and give it a bid or holler at me if you want to pick em up pronto. Auction ends Saturday night at 11:59 pm. Check it. don't sleep.

Shanghai 1's. sz. 9.5 VNDS circa 2006 comes w/ OG box.

Takashi 1's sz. 8.5 NDS circa 2005. comes w/ OG box

Todd Jordan Hi's sz. 9 VNDS circa 2003. comes w/ OG box

Reese Forbes "Hunter" sz.10 VNDS circa 2005. comes w/ OG box.

Nike Air Jordan IV Retro "Mars" sz.9 VVNDS. circa 2007. comes with OG box.

Round 3, Fight!

2010-07-06T04:11:00.000-07:00

Once a year the biggest baddest names in the game industry showcase their upcoming releases from consoles, game titles and accessories in a global phenomenon called E3. This is known as the Mecca of international gaming exhibits.
This year Capcom corp. unveils the release of one of their most successful fighting game franchises in the history of gaming that is Street Fighter in the new Capcom Vs Streetfighter 3 "Fate of 2 Worlds". All of downtown was plastered in billboards for the game as it's long anticipated sequel is finally announced for an early 2011 release. check the insane trailer below.

It seems that this Street Fighter fever has caught on at the guys in Beaverton, Oregon and here is a peek at an upcoming release from Nike SB that is the Street Fighter pack. Right now little is known on the pack and it's content. We have seen some pics of an upcoming Iron Man dunk and it makes sense to say that it's a part of the Marvel side of the game. Personally I hope to see a Hulk dunk. That would be sick. Check out the Chun Li and Ryu inspired dunks here. Release unknown.

July Nike looks

2010-06-29T03:18:00.000-07:00

Hard to believe July is just around the corner. With the summer months here, we expect to see some dope release from the shoe game. Nike SB in particular will be releasing a few dope colorways. Look for these simple but sold white/black bruins and green Stefan Janoski's to hit stockists this month of July.

Also releasing this summer is a new rendition of the Dunk mid. This time its strapless! I like it, looks clean.

Vans OTW's are on the way

2010-06-21T21:06:00.000-07:00

If you didn't know about the upcoming release of Vans new subdivision, OTW, click on the youtube clip below. Even if you know about it, click on the clip below. Vans OTW is a new line from Vans which integrates fashion, art, skate and street into one universal subdivision known as OTW. Advocated by some familiar names from the art, design and skateboarding worlds such as Atiba and Ako Jefferson, Eric Elms and Demitri Coste. This line is what I would describe as your grown up Vans.

Unlike the other subdivisions of Vans such as Vault, California and Syndicate who use the silhouette of classic or existing Vans models, OTW takes their approach on new models influenced by the classics keeping the soul of the shoes within Van's skateboarding roots.

(L)Larkin (R)Tustin

The models shown above will be available in various color schemes excluding rainbow explosion, so too bad if you're looking to match your 50 Pantone multicolor Hundreds shirt.

(L)Frazier (R)Alomar

The OTW line will not be exclusive to any shop or locale, these are on its way to your nearest Vans stockist but not Vans retail shops. The quality on these are supposedly great for the price tag attached. So check it. peace.

Vans OTW

Party Time

AVE Vans 2010 line

2010-06-16T02:23:00.000-07:00

Here are a few of my favorite skaters of all time in no particular order: Richard Mulder, Anthony Van Engelen, Jason Dill, Scott Johnston, Eric Koston, Mike Caroll, Brian Anderson, Guy Mariano just to name a few. But how many of these dudes have their own line of clothing? Well, Dill's got Fucking Awesome, Mulder's got Heelbruise,,,,,, actually they all have clothing lines but how many of them have a signature line? Aha! I'm talking about Alien Workshop/Vans rider and one of my favorite skaters of all time Anthony Van Engelen's signature line from Vans. Did you know he's had 6 shoes with Vans now! Whaaaat? Time flies. I would have left DC for all that Vans cash as well. Holla! Here's a peek at the upcoming 2010 line from AVE.

Sooo Good

2010-06-16T02:17:00.000-07:00

I don't even own a pair or have ever had a pair of adidas but these campus skates look sooooo good. They just reek "SKATE ME"! I've been looking at them for a long time now and I got to say that no other skate shoe makes me feel the way this shoe does when it comes to skating.

Diamonds on my neck, Diamonds on my feet.

2010-06-15T03:37:00.000-07:00

News came in not too long ago concerning the production of hardware bolts company turned street wear icon, Diamond Supply Co's new upcoming footwear line. In a licensing agreement with Podium Distribution (DVS, Matix, Lakai, etc) the Diamond brand will be debuting a whole new footwear line through DVS and Podium Distribution.
The first that we've seen Diamond Supply Co hit the skate shoe scene was the release of the Tiffany Nike Dunk which was a part of a Team Manager Pack that Nike released years ago. Arguably one of the greatest dunk colorways ever created. We've seen many DVS X Diamond Supply collaboration since but now Diamond is heading for the direction that many a HUF and the Hundreds have dipped their hands into as well, our feet. It's nice that they have an established brand but will they sway kids from the core skate shoe brands out there? I guess everybody is trying to get a piece of the pie. Now you can deck out diamond from head to toe. Totally radical.

Happy Birthday BA & Frost

2010-06-12T22:37:00.001-07:00

What better to commemorate your birthday than an unofficial signature shoe from Nike. The Nike Blazer Mid SB with signature SF colorways (represent). The new cup soles to the blazers should be a plus. Happy 34th BA and Frost. These officially released at dealers today. Holla!

Tommy and Billy on L-R-G??

2010-06-08T22:19:00.000-07:00

The question marks are in my head. I remember very clearly when L-R-G first started. Back before they were "underground" and no one outside of the underground hip hop community and skateboarders in the LA/OC area have heard about. Billy Marks rips but it's "strange" to see him get picked up by a clothing company that was hip-hop underground that sponsored the likes of Talib Kweli, Reakwon, Kanye West and Bun B to name a few. It's evident that L-R-G has twisted off the hip hop path into more of a hesh crowd by picking up Tommy and Billy. I think its creative though.

The Next Best Thing

2010-06-07T02:11:00.001-07:00

Last month I got a shipment of Vans Old Skool Re-issue 92's (sorry been lagging on the posts). A few posts ago I blogged a "Remember when" post about how Vans used to be made in USA and the quality of the shoes were so much better. Well, these 92' reissues are the closest that you or I will ever get to those again. For those that were born in the 90's, I'm sorry you didn't get to experience this awesomeness.

If you're wondering what the difference between the regular old skools and these 92, Re-issues are, well, to sum it up in one word; Quality. The 92' Re-issues are done by the Vault crew which in my opinion make the best quality Vans shoes than any of the other Vans groups. The uppers, sole and cut are perfect (never sloppy like the other general Vans) not to mention the nostalgic aspect of the shoes.

The black/white old skool re-issues were created in a pack to commemorate Ray Barbee's career in skateboarding in conjunction with Vans footwear throughout the 20 years of their relationship. These Vans old skools are a one of Ray's favorite shoes to the specifications of that time, the early 90's. Even the box gets the re-issued flare.

The navy/white old skools gets the Supreme NY twist in form of snake. It's just like that pepsi and mountain dew throwback, they don't make them like they used to. Let me add to my statement and say they don't make them as good as they used to. Peace.

Lakai Cairo 2 Select X RVCA Limited

2010-06-03T01:43:00.000-07:00

This summer Cairo Foster and Lakai releases a limited edition Cairo Select 2 to commemorate the long relationships between Cairo Foster, RVCA apparel and Lakai footwear. The sleek black suede upppers with the vulcanized sole look like they're ready to rip right out the box. Check out the new Cairo Foster "happy feet" commercial too. peace

Vans X Supreme part deux

2010-05-24T22:26:00.000-07:00

Vans has their hands full this year and with all the work and product being thrown out you'd think they'd give me a job, especially since I literally live down the street from HQ here.
This is the second round of Vans we've seen from Supreme this year and from the looks of the shoes, I'd say it's the worst ones yet. This is just my opinion. Two models are released in the form of the Sk8 mid and the Era. Each model feature bleached denim uppers and one with no bleach.

Vans Spit Fire!

2010-05-17T22:40:00.000-07:00

This year, Vans team up with what I think is the best skateboard wheels company in the game, Spitfire. These two heavy hitters in the skate game will be producing an assortment of tees, accessories and shoes (no word on collabo wheels yet).
Here's a preview of the 3 shoes getting the Spitfire "flare".

Chukka Low: In my opinion one of the dopest new classics in the Vans arsenal. Clean, comfy and effective. Red uppers and all white midsole with Spitfire hangtags.

Era Pro: My second favorite Vans model after the Old Skool. Beefed up tuff-suede upper material makes it pro. Spitfire tags with all white midsoles.

AV6: AVE's got 6 pro models? already? It's beefed up version of the Old Skool that will not blow out on you in two sessions. Black on all white midsoles.

Keep an eye out on these to hit skate shops and Vans shops @ the mall. Mall grab!!

Collin Callsen Nike Zoom P-Rod 3 @ Nike.com

2010-05-07T23:57:00.000-07:00

A partnership between Doernbecher Children's Hospital and Nike, Doernbecher Freestyle are Nike shoes designed by kids being treated for life-threatening conditions. Each design expresses personal messages about their life, experiences and hopes for the future. An empowering creative opportunity, it also helps to raise funds for the hospital. Collin's Zoom Air Paul Rodriguez 3 Shoe is a tribute to some of his favorite things including hunting, dirt bikes, skulls and playing pool.

Designed by Collin Callsen, age 11, of Stayton, Oregon
100% of Nike's profits from the Doernbecher Freestyle Collection benefit programs at Doernbecher Children's Hospital, the premier pediatric medical center serving Oregon, Southwest Washington and the surrounding region.

These limited edition P-Rod 3's are available at Nike.com for $57! Hurry up and buy. You're due for some new kicks and you'll feel 10x better knowing you helped the cause. Get your roll on.

Official HUF Footwear Commercial

2010-05-06T00:51:00.000-07:00

Remember When..........

2010-04-23T18:17:00.000-07:00

Vans were made down the street in Orange County, USA! I miss that a lot.

New Goods from Nike SB

2010-04-22T09:48:00.000-07:00

Some upcoming goods from Nike SB. Nice to see some normal colorways. I say simplicity is always a winner. The first kick is new colorway from Nike's current hottest seller, The Janoski. With what looks like an all white perforated leather Janoski, keep an eye out for these to hit shops this summer.

These Nike Dunk Highs are from an Eric Koston inspired pack which features colorways inspired from Buddhist temples in Thailand. Being Thai himself, Frost represents for his.

These general release Dunk Highs are my favorite upcoming kick from the bunch. Keeping it simple yet "dope" with a colorway that works well. This should be out within the next month or so.

Vans Syndicate Ballistic Pack

2010-04-20T05:15:00.000-07:00

So far this year we've seen Syndicate take on the classic black old skools and sk8 hi's for Andy Kessler. The next Syndicate shoe will take the form of the TNT II mid (beefed up on steroids and PCP). The new TNT "s" will feature the most tech of tech components featuring:
- Outlast® temperature regulating lining that keep the foot cool when it's hot. A PU foot bed with ImpactSorb™ Durable cushioning that prevents heel bruising. EVA midsole heel cartridge with Boardfeel XD construction for best feel, durability and grip.
- TecTuff Bulletproof Leather overlays that is wear test approved.
-CORDURA® underlays (look up Cordura if you don't know what it is. It means business)

Not to mention the Multcamo technological design for the camo version. Syndicate is using the technology used to defend nations into this skate shoe. The best materials and the best technologies should make for the best skate shoe. Makes sense right?