Zappos Blogs: Rideshop

Coolest Skate Park: Riverside Skate Park

James Hamel — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 14:00:42 GMT

New York City is known for many things—cutting edge fashion, crazy crowds and some of the best museums on the planet. But who knew that there were actually skate parks on the island of Manhattan? Isn't that borough just one giant scary skate park where local shredders battle cabs, insane bicyclists and pedestrians for space? While that may be true there are still a few safe skate parks set aside within the city limits just for skating.

Probably the best place to find a set of sweet ramps, rails and half pipes is at the Riverside Skate Park. Located at 108th Street and Riverside Drive this skate park requires the use of helmets, pads and wristguards. You also must sign a liability release waiver and underage riders must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. The skate park is located on the lower level of the park so keep that in mind as some people have a hard time finding it for that reason.

The Riverside Drive Skate Park is open Thursday through Monday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., weather permitting and entry is free of charge. So if there is a big thunderstorm blowing through the city you are pretty much out of luck. Best check out the killer local shopping or try to soak up some of the local culture on days like that. Either way, the weather in Manhattan can change at the drop of a hat so it's best bring a DC Vanguard Zip Hoodie just in case.

The Riverside Skate Park does have limited space due to the fact that it exists in one of the most cramped metropolitan areas in the world. But it does have five different ramps including a sizable half-pipe, a long set of rails for some serious grinding and a bunch of quarter pipes. As a bonus for skateboarders no bike riders are ever permitted in the park. With a limited amount of space on hand who really wants to battle BMX riders for skate park supremacy anyways?

etnies Malto RVL & RVM

Jim C. — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 17:00:38 GMT

In a sport dominated by the two coasts, it’s easy to forget that there’s a vast space right in the middle of America, where kids like Sean Malto are tearin’ it up in the heartland. Malto rides with etnies, and what better way to bring it all full circle than with a fresh new colorways of the RVL and the RVM that has Malto and Midwest written all over it?

Home is where the heart is, and that’s especially true with these signature colorways. Malto isn’t afraid to rep his hometown in his video parts, and as a result, this colorway bleeds Kansas City blue all over. Gold accents help add that extra kick of pop into a classic skate silhouette and it also features signature Malto embroidery details at the heel. Plus, it’s all backed up by the fresh features of both the RVL and the RVM, like the STI G2™ heel system that’ll ensure smooth landings and the STI™ Foam system that offers cushioned comfort even after a hard day of drilling down some sick tricks.

So show KC some love and check out the Sean Malto RVM and RVL from the Zappos Rideshop!

Skate Item of the Week: Vans Classic Slip on Core Classics

James Hamel — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 14:00:51 GMT

Who in their junior high and high school days didn't at least own one pair of slip on Vans shoes? These comfortable, long lasting and easy to slip-on shoes are a part of our national heritage. Sitting in homeroom, doodling in pen on the rubber edge of your Vans is possibly the most 80's of memories.

Well, now you can relive those glory days even in some of the retro-80's checkerboard styles with the Vans Classic Slip On Core Classics. These shoes are guaranteed to bring back memories and make your life a whole lot easier. Because let's be honest, who has time for shoelaces? You didn't have time for them back then and you definitely don't have time for them now.

Styles
Vans Classic Slip On Core Classics are so affordable you could easily buy a different style to suit your every mood or one for each day of the week. There is the retro checkerboard in black/white, red/white, pink/black and red/black. For more of a preppy look go for the blue, white or black. There is even a version so white that you could probably hit the skate park in the dark and the cops could still see you.

Materials
These shoes come with classic Vans EVA insole support to help cushion heavy landings when grinding, shredding or just jumping off the roof. They have a cotton drill lining for extra comfort and breathability. The sole is Vulcanized to repel heat and to make it durable. And as always there is the gum rubberized outsole that is a Vans trademark—you could probably even still write in pen on it.

Content provided by Associated Content

Vans x R. Crumb Pack

Jim C. — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 15:51:38 GMT

R. Crumb, despite working entirely outside the mainstream comic book industry, is considered to be the founder of the underground comix movement and its most prominent contributor. Crumb began his career as an illustrator for American Greetings in Cleveland, but by the late ’60s he had moved to San Francisco where he became involved in underground publishing. In 1968, Crumb founded the seminal Zap Comix, which is still an outlet for leading artists today. One of his most recognized works, “Keep on Truckin’,” became a widely distributed fixture in popular culture in the ’70s. In 1981, Crumb produced and edited a new comic magazine, Weirdo.

By the late ’80s, fed up with America’s urban sprawl, Crumb sold a number of his sketchbooks and moved to a new home with his family in the south of France. Crumb seldom ventures back to the U.S. and, in recent years, has been immersed in his latest project, illustrating the book of Genesis. Two of Crumb’s most recognizable characters are featured in this Vans x R. Crumb project with Mr. Natural appearing on the SK8-Hi Deconstruct and Fritz the Cat dropping in on the special Vans Classic Slip-On.

Be sure to check out all the newest Holiday styles from Vans available now in the Zappos Rideshop!

etnies Willie-Yli-Luoma RVM

Jim C. — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 20:08:38 GMT

Now that snow season is upon us, it's only right to have those water-resistant after-shred shoes for the hill. If you're looking for a clean, stylish and functional pair, etnies has the shoe for you. Introducing the etnies exclusive RVM from professional snowboarder Willie-Yli Luoma.

This shoe features a water-resistant leather upper with a padded tongue and collar and triple stiched toe box. System G2™ insert delivers dual-cushioning comfort and protection that helps absorb a wide range of impacts to help reduce injuries and prevent heel bruises. STI molded PU footbed for increased comfort and cushioning. Vulcanized construction.

Pick these up now and see all the latest and greatest from etnies in the Zappos Rideshop!

Does Rob Dyrdek and His Dyrdek's Collection Secretly Rule the World?

James Hamel — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 13:00:54 GMT

Well, with sales of his all encompassing skate apparel line booming, Mr. Rob Dyrdek might be getting seriously close to being able to buy the whole world, Dr. Evil style. We all know he at least has his "Fantasy Factory" on MTV where each week the man shows off his toys and how he likes to abuse his staff. (Only in Jest, to be sure! The fights on that show are more staged than the plot of "The Hills.")

In just a few short years, the interlocking D and C for "Dyrdek Collection" has become one of the most sought after logos in the entire clothing industry, to say nothing of skate apparel. To put it in perspective, the Dyrdek Collection's DC has almost become as recognizable as the two GGs were for Gucci in the 1980's. And just as Gucci did in the 1980's, the Dyrdek Collection is also trying to branch out from a previously successful logo into an entire brand filled with fashionable goodies. Because life unfortunately sometimes requires more than just a hooded sweatshirt.

Oh, but DC does make a great hoodie now doesn't it? First is the"Electric Blue Dimensional Fleece Zip Hoodie" (perfect for winter) featuring a totally unique design over the front but the usual Rob Dyrdek quality. No interlocking DC logos here but it somehow still looks like a piece from this skate company.

Now the Dark Gray "Regain Fleece Zip Hoodie" still features the well known logos but this time styled much differently almost as if someone had put a hand-full in a blender and hit puree. Again, this is one warm and stylish hoodie.

Vans Veil x B4BC

Jim C. — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 17:36:15 GMT

This season Vans introduces another B4BC collaboration, the Women's Veil. Boarding for Breast Cancer (B4BC) is a non-profit, youth-focused education, awareness and fundraising foundation. Their mission is to increase awareness about breast cancer, the importance of early detection and the value of an active lifestyle. We all know and love someone who has been affected by this terrible disease. We believe, for the well being of the snowboard community, that our role is to teach positive health practices which assist in detection and prevention of breast cancer. For the 2010 season, Vans has partnered with B4BC on a special edition Veil, to help raise awareness in the fight against breast cancer.

The Veil features Vans custom-designed BOA Focus System. Zonal closure provided from the Focus System gives the rider the versatility to adjust to any condition imaginable. Coupled with the Custom Quadfit Thermal Liner with interchangeable fit bars, the Veil gives you a true custom fit you never thought possible. Check out the Veil and all the newest Vans product from the Zappos Rideshop!

Carey Hart Visits Zappos!

Brett H. — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 22:00:44 GMT

Motocross legend Carey Hart visited the Zappos Officeslast week, and our Rideshop-Queen Cat S. had a few questions for the man!

Zappos will be sponsoring an After Party at Carey's rock club, Wasted Space, on Saturday, click here for details!

Marc Frank Montoya's new DVS Paradox Snow

Jim C. — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 18:42:01 GMT

Once again Marc Frank Montoya has delivered us a pre/apres shred shoe from DVS! This time he uses the Paradox and gives it some technical features for your way to the hill, and those after-shred festivities. Introducing the DVS Paradox Snow by Marc Frank Montoya!

This shoe features a slimmed down technical silhouette with a combination upper consisting of leather, textile and synthetic materials as well as added tongue and collar. Durable welded TPR toe cap. Sidewall TPR inserts. Welded TPR badging. Weather protective tongue gussets. Moisture wicking lining. Sure-fit elastic support. Lightweight EVA midsole and a grippy rubber outsole.

Buy the Paradox Snow now and see all the styles DVS has to offer from the Zappos Rideshop!

Motorcross After Party and Sweepstakes!

Brett H. — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 00:14:31 GMT

ENTER HERE TO WIN ONE OF 3 OGIO BAGS!

Fill out the entry form here and you may be lucky enough to win one of the 3 bags pictured below! Also, come to our Zappos Motorcross After Party in Vegas! October 10, 2009, 11:30 pm - 2 am (21 and over)

With Special Guests:
Davi Millsaps, Erin Bates, Josh Grant, Mike Mason, and Adam Jones.

The event will be rocking at the Wasted Space at Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, come on out, one and all!

Click here for the Sweepstakes Rules.

See you there, and good luck!

How do YOU wear your tube flops?

Cat! — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 20:55:52 GMT

We love spying new trends and picking up new steeze for our Rideshop, and Sanuks Tube Flops have definitely caught our eye. From tradeshows to the beach to the streets, we've started seeing them everywhere. Now since they're not your average flip flop (or leg warmer), we thought it would be helpful to provide a few "how to wear" pics for you to give you some outfit and styling ideas.

...and our last model is our awesome rep Nate, who went straight for the bling with his tube socks of choice. (he might have forgotten to take his sock off, but he could also be embracing the full tube sock sock look?) Yah Nate!

Grab your tube socks here and don't forget to check our Rideshop and blog site for upcoming trends and 'must haves' for Fall!

Word to the tubey floppies!!

Motocross Stars in the U.S: Travis Pastrana, Motocross 'King of the Double Back Flip'

Michael T. — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 13:00:17 GMT

Travis Pastrana is to motocross, as the Harlem Globetrotters are to basketball. Travis Pastrana, with a 26th birthday on October 8, has youthful potential as a serious motocross and supercross racer in the mode of Ricky Carmichael or James "Bubba" Stewart. He even won the 2000 AMA (American Motorcyclists Association) 125cc "Lites" season championship at the age of 17. Indeed, he still competes from time to time in motocross and supercross races, but his niche is as a stuntman, in the Globetrotters' tradition of Goose Tatum and Marcus Haynes, Meadowlark Lemon and Curly Neal. That's why Travis is a star on MTV's Nitro Circus.

Pastrana's legacy remains his status as the first and only person to land a double back flip on a motorcycle, first achieved in front of stunned fans on August 4, 2006, as the 12th X Games in Los Angeles. Videos of the momentous occasion abound on places such as YouTube. More difficult to find, is an in-depth explanation from Travis Pastrana regarding exactly how he figured out how to perform such a stunt, and then how he mustered the courage to make the first attempt. Travis, like a magician, appreciates the value of mystery and he's not about to explain his tricks.

Courage? Craziness? Maybe a little bit of both. Travis Pastrana not only performs double back flips on motorcycles, but he once did a back flip in a monster truck, albeit "only" a single back flip in this case. Furthermore, Travis has jumped out of an airplane without a parachute, relying on a co-jumper with a parachute to catch him and ease him to the friendly surface of Planet Earth.

One witty analyst wrote that MTV and Travis Pastrana's various corporate sponsors recently honored him in Hollywood with a lifetime achievement party, "in order to honor the living legend, while he's still, you know, living." With his carefree outlook, Pastrana himself laughs at these types of jokes. The King of the Double Back Flip clearly loves his sport and appreciates his fans.

SOURCES:
/en/TRAVIS/Bio/
http://www.motorcycleshows.com/motorcycleshows/Home+Page+News/Travis-Pastrana-King-of-the-Double-Back-Flip-and-M/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/482990
http://laist.com/2009/08/16/travis_pastrana_gets_toasted.php

Are You The Next Spy Girl?

Cat! — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 07:02:15 GMT

SPY OPTIC ANNOUNCES THE FIRST SPY HAWAIIAN BOMBSHELL MODEL SEARCH

The search begins now! Spy is scouring the islands, asking questions and taking names (taking photos in fact), searching for the 1st Spy Hawaiian Bombshell Model.

This November, among the lush tropics, one lucky beauty will lock down a one-year modeling contract with Spy and say “Aloha” to her place in the modeling world.

The winner will be invited to participate in the 2010 Spy global ad campaign photo shoot, during the 2009 Vans Triple Crown of Surfing, on the North Shore of Oahu, Hawaii. This winner will be chosen from a combination of at least three current photos plus a video or written submission of “why” she should be chosen as the 1st Spy Hawaiian Bombshell.

The winner will be selected by the Spy family of both professional surf athletes and staff. The model’s look must align to the Spy brand by exuding a healthy lifestyle connecting to the women’s market by adding a fresh, alluring image to Spy’s game.

The winner will receive a published photo in connection with Spy’s 2010 global ad campaign, an image CD from the photo shoot and global exposure through Spy’s website. Photo shoot accommodations and Hawaii interisland transportation will be provided. A prize pack, consisting of a year’s supply of sunglasses, sandals and swimwear, valued at $2000 is included. The winner will be considered for additional future modeling opportunities within Spy. The winner must be 18 years or older, currently residing in Hawaii and available during the photo shoot dates, which will be released by November 10th, 2009. For more details and complete rules and regulations, please visit www.spyoptic.com/contests.

Be sure to keep checking our rideshop http://rideshop.zappos.com/ for newness from Spy. And with winter right around the corner (it's already snowing in some spots!) don't forget to protect those baby blues and look good while doing so with new Spy goggles!

Burton premieres new snow movie THE B in Vegas on Saturday!

Cat! — Sun, 04 Oct 2009 18:29:43 GMT

Word on the Vegas streets is Burton's coming to town.. Did someone say party?

Yes that's true and yes we did! Get off your couch and hold off on that hangover until Sunday so you can make it out to Burton's new movie premiere this weekend at the District. The Burton crew is packing up their RV with all the essentials: beer, a band, their new movie THE B, their team, and making the haul out to Sin City this weekend for a night of fun and fiasco to show Las Vegas what powdered dreams are made of.

The crew is rolling in on Saturday and will be holding an autograph session with their team riders from 6-8 at the District, followed by the premiere of their new move THE B. But wait, there's more..they're also bringing the band Really Addictive Sound with them to jam out, and holding an after party at Al's Garage (sorry kiddos, this is the only part of the night you have to have a real 21+ ID for) to keep the festivities and brews flowing.

Come meet the team and check it out Saturday night at the District (what else are you doing?).. and don't forget to check our Rideshop for Burton's latest and greatest sic winter steeze!

The Rob Machado Experience by Dragon

Jim C. — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 14:00:32 GMT

From surfer to environmentalist, the Rob Machado Experience continues, this time focusing on the creative side of Rob and his passion for photography. Introducing the Bali Focus from Dragon.

Each year while Rob was on tour he would travel with different cameras. One year it would be a 35mm, the next it would be a Polaroid. Years later, he would find himself consistently coming back to one of his favoriet Indonesian surf spots, where he took his photograph and appropriately name it Bali Focus.

Be sure to check out the Bali Focus and other new Dragon styles from the Zappos Rideshop!