4.27.2009

Boredom.

I'm kind of bored with this blog lately.

I think I may scrap it and start another one.

Something fresh new and interesting.

Hope everyone is having a great spring and summer!!! And hope everyone's shred seasons wrapped up nicely!!!

XO/sarah

2.09.2009

SIA 09.

Was fun.

I have pics on my external hard drive. I'm incredibly sick right now, so I'm too lazy to put them up.

Pissed cause I think I may have an ear infection, went riding today and almost crashed into the trees because everything was spinning. Gotta shake this thing quick to keep up on getting as many days as humanly possible while trying to keep things on lock in the shop! So far things have been great both on hill and in the store.

It was awesome to catch up with old friends and make some new ones while I was in Vegas!! Take care everyone, much love.

See some of you sooner than later!! XO.

-sarah

12.12.2008

Born and Praised in NY

Here's some shred love from some NY heads, big ups to Ben Farrell! Hope Utah is treating you well!!

Enjoy!


CLICK for Snowboard Revolution.com


XO/sarah

11.26.2008

Krudmart.com

I'm a terrible blogger. First off, I don't really give a shit about writing in this thing every day and a part of me believes that my daily life is so damn busy that by the time I even remember to write something it is way late like 4am and I fall asleep. I honestly don't even really enjoy reading other people's blogs that much. It's just that I'm such a curious person and I find other's thoughts intriguing at times when I am bored. Most blogs that I check on the regular I just skim through meaning it is of mild interest at best.

When I stumbled across Krudmart, I was actually quite entertained. For one, probably because it hits close to home being in Buffalo. And that it was a little more than mildly amusing. Thanks for making me laugh and also sharing a similar love for music. It reminded me of a Buffalo version of Thread. But a little more raw and in your face.

Either way I love them both. On a side note, congrats to Thread for winning the City Newspaper "Best of Rochester" award for "Best Clothing Store" 2 years in a row. That is seriously rad, keep up the great work Mike and Sandy.

Anyway, go check out Krudmart.com for your own viewing pleasure and click the blog. It's one of the only blogs in a long time where I've actually clicked back to read older entries. That and the Ashbury blog.

Enjoy.

XO/sarah

11.21.2008

Response to Dogfunk's "Snowboard Boot Guide"

First off to give credit where credit is due, I actually started this post as a comment to Shay's blog. But it ended up growing so long and getting quite intricate, so I figured I'd post in up on here. Enjoy!

Everything written below is all in response to THIS blog posting.

I am going to point out a few flaws in all of this. Now I will first off say I do understand that customers shop online for products, why a customer would not take the time to commute to a local shop and try boots on and decide on a purchase amazes me.

First off, when going on Dogfunk's site to access this "Snowboard Boot Guide" the only place I found it could be accessed was once you clicked on the boot section of the page and then looked at the lower left under the listing of brand icons. It was not by any means obvious and easy to find.

I will say that if you're going to sell boots online at least it's a good idea to have a guide for people to start from.

There was also some incorrect or I should say incomplete information in the "Possible Solutions" area of the "Foot Characteristics" chart. I'm not going to go in detailed depth about this one, but I will just say, Van's also uses an inner harness, try explaining what high arches are so the customer may get a better feel for what to look for, you can find inexpensive options to custom footbeds like superfeet for example, I didn't know DC fit a wide foot that's news to me they have seemed to fit pretty damn narrow over the past two seasons and even in your rider reviews they hint towards a DC model fitting what would seem to be tighter overall.

The product rider reviews as a whole were vague at best. I'm sure someone new to the sport could find that information somewhat useful. But reading between the lines it just seemed like extremely random bits of info. First off, what type of riding were each of these riders doing while testing the boot, were they all at the same location? What were the conditions like? How long have they been riding for and what qualifies them to be a trusted and viable source for information in regards to providing a product review? I'm surprised more customers don't ask these questions when they are putting their trust and faith into an online store to provide them with information about products. I also searched the site to try and find where they may have provided more of this information but it was nowhere to be found. I know if I was personally buying boots online I would like to know more than what is included in their profiles.

In reading Shay's blog post I just wanted to test how credible a source this may actually be in purchasing a new pair of boots. So I conducted a live chat with a Gearhead under the premise of being a beginner rider....it went a little something like this:

-----------------------------------------------------------------

One moment please while we route you to a gear expert. You're currently number 1 in queue. Check out Tramdock.com, SteepandCheap.com, WhiskeyMilitia.com & ChainLove.com for up to 80% off the best gear on the planet. We'll be right with you.

Chat InformationThanks for contacting us. My name is *Deleted*, how can I help you?

Me: hello, i'm trying to find some boots and i have no idea where to start

Gearhead: Do you have a price range or brand preference?

Me: well, i'm in my first couple seasons, and i don't want to spend too much

Gearhead: Where on the mountain do you spend most of your time?

Me: pretty much everywhere

Gearhead: Ok, just a moment

Me: ok

Gearhead: Burton Freestyle Snowboard Boot - Men's

Me: how do you feel about that boot?

Gearhead: It's a nice soft boot
Gearhead: I can also recommend something with a medium flex
Gearhead: Also in a reasonable price range

Me: have you rode that boot you just linked me to?

Gearhead: Sorry just linked it to you.
Gearhead: Just trying to think of something that would work good for you in a lower price range
Gearhead: Burton Ruler Snowboard Boot - Men's
Gearhead: This is a good all mountain boot.
Gearhead: It has a more medium flex.

Me: what exactly do you mean by flex?

Gearhead: Just the stiffness of the boot

Me: what kind of flex should i get?

Gearhead: If you don't do anything super aggressive, and you just are looking for something that would be a good all mountain boot I would look more at the Burton Ruler Snowboard Boot - Men's
Gearhead: Or something similar

Me: what makes that boot a good choice for a rider like myself?

Gearhead: First of all price range.
Gearhead: Second, is stiff enough to handle everything on the mountain
Gearhead: But not so stiff that you can't still play around in the park.

Me: is there any other boots you would recommend?

Gearhead: Sure I can show you some more.

Me: yes, please tell me what else you would suggest

Gearhead: ThirtyTwo The Lashed Snowboard Boot - Men's
Gearhead: That would be another one I would recommend.
Gearhead: Very similar but with a more traditional lacing system.

Me: what would make this boot a good choice for myself?

Gearhead: All of the features that you can read about in the specs. there that I sent you as well as the similarities to the second Burton boot I showed you.
Gearhead: Just a similar boot that gives you another lacing system to chose from
Gearhead: "choose"
Gearhead: Is there anything else I can help you with?
Chat InformationThanks for chatting with us today.

-----------------------------------------------------------------

First off, if I obviously say that I have no idea where to start shouldn't the first set of questions be in determining what type of boot would be right for me? Not do I have a price range or brand preference. Throughout the whole conversation I was not asked anything about my foot shape/size, or even my gender. It was just assumed I was male because I didn't specify I was female. Not even 4 responses into the chat I am already getting suggestions for a boot. If only it was that easy in person. The funny thing is that after the Freestyle is recommended I then get a recommendation for a Burton Ruler. No mention of the Moto which would seem like a more appropriate boot for someone of the riding level I described. And the Lashed is pretty darn stiff, for a second year rider that may be a little much. Oh, and the lag between their answers was quite long. I ended up just not typing back after my last response because I honestly was waiting so long it became a little ridiculous. And the Gearhead never even asked how much I weighed, how many days I may be getting in, and what type of conditions I would be riding in. It's just a bummer that a site like this would get such good hype over having a great boot fit guide that is only providing mediocre information in regards to purchasing a boot. The guide was somewhat helpful, but by NO means an end all be all to finding a boot. And the online chat customer service was not satisfactory to my standards by any means. Very disappointing.

PLEASE, do yourself a favor consumers and if you truly want a boot that is the right fit for your foot...go into a shop and try them out. Work with a knowledgeable staff member in getting into the right piece of equipment. Snowboarding is hands on and there is a certain element of touching and feeling the product before purchasing that shouldn't be lost. And if you can't find a shop that will take care of you the way you would like to be taken care of, then keep searching.

When you ask yourself, "What boot should I get?" The answer should always be, "The one that fits your foot right." You have to probably try it on first to determine that.

11.05.2008

Kissing Bridge - Mucho Jib - Sat, Nov. 8th

Come check this out, the crew should be there in full force!!! Word up.

Good luck guys, I'm sure you'll all kill it!!! :) And good luck to all riders competing, hope you all have a super fun day!!! I tried to work it out to come out, but I may have to be in the shop that day. If I don't see you there, jib it up for me!!! Trust me, if I'm trapped in the shop I'll be thinking of how much fun you all are having.


XO/sarah

Omatic Love.

Thanks guys for your support!!!

Click the pic to read about Omatic's adventures.


Oh, and to my good friend Nick and his girlfriend who picked up their new Omatic decks at the Dome Sale, thanks a bunch you guys!!! Glad you got some sweet props on Omatic's site!!! :)

XO/sarah

11.04.2008

So Fresh, So Tight.



So this rad group of lady riders out of QC, Quebec found it in their little hearts to send us their kick ass video. They straight up CRUSH it!

Received it in the mail at the shop today, and watched it on repeat all day on the five flat screens. Just a peek here and there, but the glimpses I caught I can say I was thoroughly impressed! Got home and instantly watched it front to back, and one thing is for sure, it got me stoked to ride.

I think the great thing about a video like this is that these ladies are just regular people like you and I, who are amazing snowboarders, who look to be out there having a great time doing something they love. Everything snowboarding should be. How refreshing!


Long story short, I can see myself watching this video to get pumped to go ride over and over. Can't wait to share it with every other female snowboarder I know, in the shop and out. Tell every single person I know that they should watch this, and help spread the love.

Keep killing it ladies!!!!

XO/sarah

11.03.2008

A Much Needed Downsizing.

My good friend The Angry Snowboarder wrote up an excellent post on the current and future state of affairs of the snowboard industry. It was very well written, and extremely truthful. It inspired me to share a semi-frequent topic of discussion that I have had with multiple long time ski/snowboard industry veterans.

It is simply the fact that, snowboarding is due for a large downsizing. I think it is a little ridiculous that there are so many random companies popping up so frequently. And also that some of those companies have hung around for a few years and are on the climb. I mean, don't get me wrong, I think it's great that there are individuals that are driven to start up their own businesses and try and break into the industry. I just think that in this current time period it is extremely challenging to compete with the companies that are already established. The even more challenging part is a lot of these "small" or start-up companies are doing things that have already been done. I do appreciate the fact that individuals are out there trying to start something or bring something to the table. But it is rare that what they are doing is truly original or different. Everyone wants to offer something that is "different" when all they're really doing is putting their own label and name on someone else's product.

If you're going to put your time and efforts into something, take the time to see if it's already out there, and what you can do to actually make an impact in a positive way. Otherwise, you're just doing the same thing, providing the same products, giving the same pitches, showing the same exact lines, colors, and styles...as a million other companies.

I'm going to elaborate in a different direction about what I have just said and say that those out there with extreme heart and soul into what they are doing, do stand out more than those who are just copying and pasting. Those out there doing grassroots and guerrilla marketing. Those who actually are putting a spin and twist on things that have been done a million times. Those small companies and individuals who are supporting the local community and pushing to do the same that they do for their locals on a national level. You can usually tell these companies/individuals from the others. I will put it simply, they have goals, they are driven to succeed, and they will not let anything stop the progression of their brand. They give back to their local community first, before trying to spread their name out there and make a quick buck. They do what they can to help establish their brand and plant solid roots in the ground. They will not let anything get in the way of their growth. They are driven by pure heart and soul for this industry. At least if a start-up company with that mentality went under after a few years I would consider that an actual loss of something good that could've been great. Other than so many of these companies or people that are just in it for the money or fame.

All those others who don't seem to care about the long-term growth and balance of this industry...will determine their own fate. Or even worse, have their fate determined by the hands of the consumers.

Be a smart and educated consumer, and understand what and why you are supporting certain things and ideas. It is the most raw and base level that you as an individual can contribute back positively to the snowboard industry and make sure the brands, companies, and shops that you want to stick around actually will.

First off, shop local. Local businesses support the brands that the community wants and the local shops are here for YOU. To a majority of these corporate companies your money is nothing more than dollar signs. They don't care about providing back for the local snowboard community. When's the last corporate store local rail jam you saw? At least at where we live in the Mid-Atlantic. I'm sure it may be different out West. Corporate stores also do not have the ability to have the same control over what products they are providing for their local shoppers. Where the local business is a direct reflection of what their community wants. Simply, if you shop corporate, you are basically a contributor to the death of your local snowboard shop. And having seen many shops come and go, just know your purchases and decisions on where you shop really does matter. You too can make an impact, by choosing to shop local.

All that is meant to happen will happen naturally. Brands and companies will start phasing themselves out. And those that were able to stick it out will come through this economy low and begin to rise again.

All we can do until then is keep our heads up and support what's important to us.

XO/sarah

10.26.2008

Something Cool.

I thought of it today...I'll tell you all about it tomorrow!

xo/sarah

10.25.2008

Over It.

I have always loved this statement. It's fascinating to me that two words could describe so much. What an all encompassing term. It's actually pretty amazing. In any conversation, in any context you can combine these words and it is instantly implied the point you are getting to.

I could elaborate on that point, but I don't really think it's necessary. The thing that is great about being "Over It" is you usually find actual tangible reasons to reinforce your already strong feelings of not feeling. Saying you are "Over It" is the first verbal step in understanding your own personal decision to move on from a thought process or situation that is not something that lines up with what you believe. Then there is the other side to that sword, that you are possibly using being "Over It" as a cover up for actually being not over it. The funny thing abou this second idea is that it is usually coming from the person(s) or situation that you are directly "Over". Hmmm...what an anomaly. Imagine that, the human nature trying to persuade otherwise....

I am here to play devil's advocate.

I rarely use this term in the way others do. I use it in a thought process related manner. Through almost deductive reverse reasoning. It's almost as though when all reasons to not be "Over It" are stripped away, is when you are officially "Over It". Because if there is nothing left to put your efforts and thoughts into, than what are you really accomplishing? What the hell are you really doing?

The point is. You can't always listen to what others want you to think and do, especially on the deepest personal life level, those decisions really are truly up to yourself. In this world of do this, do that, live this way, act like this, don't act like that, conformist, non-conformist, opinion, reality, perception, this is real, that is not real, i am this way, i will not be that way, society is wrong, society is right, spotlight is on you.... We all need to really start thinking more for ourselves, and stop relying so much on others. Make your own life decisions... You really are the one who knows best for yourself. Don't let others tell you that you are or aren't "Over It". Or that you are or aren't anything...can or can't...will or won't...

You decide....

And when you're busy thinking about that, I'll be pushing aside what I am "Over" and focusing on those things that I am NOT quite "Over" yet....because those are the things I want to put my energy and focus into...instead of wasting my time with all the things I've already moved on and away from....

WORD.

10.24.2008

Current State of Affairs.

Tired as shit!
10.24.08 : 11.01pm

Computer eating my soul. But getting to chill with old and new friends this weekend so it's worth it, goooood times!!

Should be a raging weekend, goodbye sleep, hello tired. :)

It's all good...sleep is just a waste of time anyway! This post was pretty much pointless, but hey, I'm pretty spent right now. Oh well, there will be some substance soon, I swear. On another note, I am so f'ing pumped to hop on my Stepchild Latchkey as soon as I am the proud new owner of one, which is very soon here. I'm seriously going to jib the shit out of that thing. Of course, after I fine tune and refine my jib skills even more than last season, haha. Thanks friends for all your teaching and support, I'd be lost without you. Your help means the world to me!! This season is going to be killer.

XO/sarah

10.23.2008

Shop Love.

Transitions Boardshop
...my second home :)

CLICK THE PIC : VISIT THE SHOP BLOG

XOXO/sarah

10.22.2008

Tired and Busy.

Hence the reason I have not written anything in the last few days.

The weekend was crazy and long, and I'm just ready to curl up and sleep. Mt. Snow opened on Monday with 7 hikeable features, in NorthEast news. Big things have been in the works in all aspects of life, and I'm ready to sleep until the snow falls and I have a reason to wake back up.

Tiredddd ya'll. I'll do my best to keep posting over the next few days, it's as though I'm a walking zombie lately on autopilot. I'm pretty sure that I'm just being a little bitch about all this, and I should just suck it up. But hey, I seriously have been working my butt off and am exhausted.

At least I'm still finding time to partake in what I enjoy most. Newcastle, how I love thee.

10.17.08 : Walk to Haunted House : 10:14pm

It's time for my face to hit the pillow.

XOOXOXOOX/sarah

10.17.2008

Upstate.

I have a friend...Upstate. They're rad.

You should check them out and support the local NY snowboard scene!!!

Keep up the good work, I love your style!!! :) You can check em out on myspace HERE.


Small and grassroots. Just how I like it. Keep it local and get down with the cause...support something built and grown by people just like you and me.

XO/sarah