Nothing in this world comes free, there’s a price to be paid somehow, someway, whether it may be talent, time, or money. In the world of skateboarding, the competition is absurd with skaters everywhere around the world all competing for the same thing, to get noticed. Now theres an abundance of skate companies, but the ratio between skaters and those companies to sponsor them is almost uncomputable. Your blood, sweat, and tears can become another video in the countless stacks of others that have been sent in for review. Not only that, but if your video does happen to get reviewed that doesn’t mean you’re going to get that big break either. You have to have that certain spark, energy, and of course talent to stand out in regards to the competition. Nothing in this world comes free, you have to work, and work hard at it everyday with a persistent work attitude and a sense of perfection.
But once you do get that break, you have to work even harder. You have to break down barriers and overcome setbacks with a mind of progression. Initiative is the first step to molding your talent because without you’ll never grow, you’ll become stagnant and never make progress.Theres always going to be another person trying to take your place, so with that being said you have to secure your position as well as secure your path to moving up. Focus is the key and without it you’ll never build up the energy to to move forward.
Check out Sean Malto’s story on how he became sponsored and welcomed to the G!RL team.
What happens when two powerhouse companies come together for one common cause? It can be made out to be the next best thing, or it can turn out to be just a good idea. Well in this case, Girl and Sanrio served themselves and collectors justice. They have combined forces by tying skateboard culture along with the Hello Kitty franchise.
Not only did the break the boundaries and barriers of skateboarding, but they did in a way that separates the bias of the sport. It all started with the 35th anniversary of Hello Kitty and Mike Carroll, which then led to a complete series of Sanrio characters that are paired up with the likes of the Girl riders. These decks have made their mark already in the industry with a fine impression on the normal bonds of skateboarding.
They’ve broken the mold of skater behavior with a collaboration that speaks of something totally opposite of Skulls and whatnot. Collectors its time to stock up, with such a limited amount of these decks along with collaboration itself, it’d be crazy not to get your hands on these before they’re all gone. While you’re at it, check out our very own collection of the decks right here at Stix Ride Shop.
Summer is here, and we all know how uncomfortable the Sun can be. It doesn’t matter if you’re driving, hanging poolside, or relaxing at the beach, its never a pleasant moment when you’re squinting and staring into glares. Think of us as ants under a bully’s magnifying glass. Why pay an arm and a leg for some designer shades when there’s plenty of economical options to choose from? With that being said, Mike Mo and Vince Capaldi created the inexpensive solution to this pesky problem.
Meet Glassy Sunhaters, the ultimate formula to protecting your vision as well as keeping you in style. They come in a wide array of different color ways for you to match them with whatever outfits you might have in your wardrobe. Once again, why cough up a nice portion of your paycheck for something that you can get at a discounted price? Stay Glassy 8)
In case you didn’t know, National Go Skate Day was on the 21st of June. Well, here at Stix we believe skating should be an every day thing. Nike SB seems to have the same frame of mind with the launch of their Skate Every Damn Day campaign. It’ll consist of a month long crusade that includes an incredible lineup of pro’s from the likes of Eric Koston, Sean Malto, Stefan Janowski, as well as Paul Rodriguez.
During this month long adventure, these stuntdevils are said to have individual interviews that’ll take each skater on a journey into their memory banks explaining different shred spots that lead them to where they are today. Once July 21st hits, the good people down at Nike will release an all new Nike SB commercial including the awesome Nike SB team showcasing their talent in China.
A picture is worth a thousand words. That one moment caught in time can convey and depict the many emotions and feelings that were once felt. Those childhood pictures can bring back memories as far as you can remember and those candid shots can expose your genuine self.
For Omar Hasaan, a quick look through his old photo book brings back those fond memories of him and his quest through the skateboarding industry. The pictures hold a sincere depth that channels him through the success and hardships of his career. The shots vary from his first quarter pipe all the way to Europe during his travels along with a list of reminiscent memories that made Omar what he is today.
Ever wondered what it feels like to shred with the pro’s? If you ever had the opportunity I’m sure it was a good one, or maybe not since they busted your chops at s.k.a.t.e. Well in this case, Vans and Pro-Tec gave us the option to have some kind of connection with these guys. They mic’d up some of our favorite skaters during a bowl session that gave us the feeling of being there.
Its pretty cool to hear Jesse Fritsch telling Tony Hawk and Bucky Lasek which tricks to do. It was a unique experience providing the different aspect of their use of audio. It has been a pleasure, and were definitely looking forward to the actual Pro-Tec pool party competition. Stay Tuned!
The competition is heating up and the line up has been minimized to a number of 8 competitors. Make your vote count and vote for your favorite skater. If you head to the Real Street site you can view minutes long clips of straight up matches like Bobby Worrest versus Aaron Jaws Homoki, or how about Collin Provost versus the likes of Chad Tim?
The list goes on as the excitement rises. Every single skater in this competition has a chance of pocketing 50 grand as well as the honor of accepting an X Games Gold medal. Be sure to vote if you haven’t already, the tallies for this round will conclude on the June 18th.
Just like we said before, the wait is almost over. X Games Real Street is here to take command once again for its 3rd year now. With an incredible line-up of 16 of the Globe’s top performing professional skaters. Every single skater has submitted a minute long video showcasing their talents for an opportunity of scoring $50,000 as well as an X Games Gold medal. Some exciting names coming out the bunch would be Nyjah Huston, Aaron “Jaws” Homoki, and Freddie Gal.
Once the clips air during the X Games showcase on ESPN2 on July 1st, a line up of judges will determine the Winner of the X Games medals. The purse of $50,000 will be awarded to the skater that gets the most votes in a tournament styled contest. Make your vote count and contribute to this exciting event. Vote here.
The Vans half cab is celebrating its 20th birthday this year, and as a way to celebrate the life of this icon was to release a limited edition signature label every month during the summer. Vans will commemorate and reflect on the history and success of this shoe. The designing of the labels will be a joint effort of four Half Cab artists including the one and only Steve Caballero himself.
The brands very first drop will showcase Morizen Foche commonly known as Mofo, a legend in the in skate industry. He’s also well known for his hand in starting Thrasher Magazine during the early 80′s. His actions led to the raw setting of the industry that evolved into the notorious brand that its known for today. Morizen took the infamous picture of Steve Caballero that became the origin of the label that appeared on Half Cabs over a period of 20 years.
The first step for a skater to be recognized can be a number of things. It all starts with dedication, commitment, and hard work. It could start with the first day you stepped on your board. The dedication aspect will tie into your development as a skater, whether it may be a few injuries or countless pairs of shoes to damage. In the end you reap what you sow, and if you think you have what it takes, then the opportunity is here for the taking.
Element along with the Berrics have been hosting a contest across the nation for an opportunity to prove yourself. Its not too late to compete in the finals, all you have to do is send in a one minute video of yourself at any skatepark showcasing your best tricks. The winner of the finals will not only take a completely paid trip, but they’ll be able to spend a day at the Berrics with the Element crew, along with the possibility to be sponsored by Element as well.
