NEW AT SWELL: LADERA SKATEBOARDS

From Santa Cruz, CA, with a rusty jigsaw, a sheet of plywood and a passion for skating, Ladera developed a skateboard that is vastly different from the cookie-cutter decks available at the local skate shops. Adorned with hand-painted art and a shape that merges style with function, Ladera skateboards capture an element of individuality and expressiveness that define the company in its entirety. Armed with a progressive team of athletes and a shared passion for skating, Ladera Skateboards has evolved into a community focused on redefining the capabilities of every single rider.

When it comes to the great city of Chicago, Illinois, the first things that usually come to mind are windy weather, baseball and phenomenal jazz. But thanks to a pair of renegade eco-activists, surfing may one day be added to that list.

Former pro surfer James Pribram and Surfrider Foundation’s Lake Michigan Chapter Co-Chair Vince Deur are being hailed as the heroes responsible for lifting a 30-year ban on all flotation devices throughout city-wide beaches. The ordinance was initially launched following the tragic death of three young girls and an inflatable raft. (more…)

 Systematic, hydromatic, ultramatic… why, these boardshorts could be grease lightning!

In this modern age of high performance everything, it was only a matter of time before the term could be applied to surf trunks. Mind you, your average beach tourist won’t know and won’t care. All they’ll see are the flashy prints and think, “Dang, those sure will look sweet with my Teva’s!” But to the dedicated surfer who wants every session to be all-time, progressive technology is a necessity. And it all comes down to which boardshort offers the most strength and stretch. You’ll hear words like, hyperstretch, psychostretch, flex appeal, and learn more than you ever wanted to about Lycra. Within the last few years a handful of brands have even been able to incorporate top quality recycled materials, simultaneously allowing you to give Mother Nature a high-five while shredding her apart.

If it sounds like boardshorts on steroids, you wouldn’t be far off. Our selection of performance enhanced trunks were designed to give you more bang for your buck. Including Rip Curl’s WLP Next Strikeline, the signature series from 2007 ASP World Champion and 2009 title contender, Mick Fanning. Now in it’s third season, Mick’s boardshort was one of the pioneering models that launched the revolution.

But at the end of the day, whether you’re a veteran or just starting out, it’s pretty cool to think about all hot action you’re now getting in your shorts.

NIXON HAS STEPPED INTO THE AUDIO GAME, ENTER HEADPHONES! 

Nixon offers three models, the  above pictured studio-type “Master Blaster“, the “Nomadic” and of course ear buds called “Wire“.  Notable features of Nixon headphones include stylee  faux aluminum and  leather construction (the leather is real on the “Master Blasters“), stealth volume pot and detachable cord, (good if you break it as it can be replaced).  The “Nomadic” and “Wire” models feature an optional mic.

I tried the Master Blasters which retail at around 200 bucks. These Headphones are substantial and comfy. The thin inconspicuous wire, unlike some stayed nicely out of my way!  The firm ear surrounding leather cans did a nice job keeping out unwanted ambient noise, allowing an environment in which great  sound (with a little e.q. tweaking) was easily attained.  For my taste, midrange boost was required to get to get things sounding nice and warm.  Lastly, I was impressed with the volume control on the right can, this proved very convenient for quick volume tweaks.

Throw on a pair of Nixon Cans, and you’ll be rocking inside and out!

Yeah, they’ve got your number alright. Electric Eyewear and L*Space swim have become the first in action sports to team with iPhone in what is sure to be an explosive trend in product marketing. Featuring screen cleaner “episodes” that depict their latest merchandise, the campaigns can be downloaded for free by filling out applications in the ”lifestyle” sections at both iPhone’s and iTune’s app store. (L* Space’s campaign can also be downloaded to your Blackberry or desktop.) Thanks a lot guys. We were just thinking we didn’t have nearly enough distractions in our lives.

We knew it, you knew it, and now all of OC does too. Swell.com was just voted as OC Weekly’s favorite surf shop. Yes, surf shop. Not their favorite clothing store or beach boutique, but SURF SHOP! So, to everyone who claims we don’t support the sport: Suck it! And when you’re done you should check out our GEAR section, featuring all the latest and teched-out wetsuits, fins, leashes, traction, boardbags for 2009.

We have seen the future and its a beautiful, beautiful thing. ASR 2008 will forever be known as the historic event that saw the debut of Rip Curl’s H-Bomb, the first ever wetsuit to feature an internal heating system. For a mere $1,100 or so, and a handful of batteries, this revolutionary fullsuit uses a patent-pending coil system to keep wearers as warm as they want. Shock proof? You betcha. Easy to care for? Not even close. Don’t try throwing this in the back of your truck or over the shower rod, as it comes with only a 1-year warranty–compared to the lifetime warranties Rip Curl usually provides their suits. And you should know that the heating system needs to be “unplugged”after each use to avoid a reverse charge. But being that you’re probably filthy rich if you can actually afford it, we’re sure you can train your assistant to cherish it.

(Check out our Flickr site for all the winners of our ASR Booth Awards.)

You’ve got questions? Bill Larity, the Dude from Ask A Dude, has answers. From trick tips and weather patterns, to nail polish and DIY denim cut-offs, Bill’s been there and rocked that. In this week’s Ask A Dude, Jack Nutt from Ponte Vedra, FL, asks how to select a quality fullsuit for winter conditions.

If you have a burning question, please write to Bill at: askadude@swell.com

Hurley and Dita have teamed up to design some truly amazing sunglasses. These new stunner shades reflect Hurley’s love of the ocean and its constant state of change. The looks range from vintage to modern inspirations, proving solid style can be timeless! Check out some of the more fashion forward styles right here.