The Push Behind The Park: Our Radio Interview with BYU-Idaho Radio
This week, I had the opportunity to speak with BYU-Idaho Radio about something close to my heart—Pocatello’s new skatepark at Optimist Park.
We talked about how it all began. Since around 2012, I’ve been advocating for a real, permanent skatepark. Not just for myself—but for every skater in this community who deserves a safe, fun place to ride.
Skateboarding shaped my life. I’ve been skating since middle school, and over the years, it became much more than a hobby. It taught me resilience, creativity, and the power of community. That same spirit drives everything we do at Deckadence Board Shoppe.
During the interview, we discussed the decade-long push for this project. From community meetings to city conversations, I never stopped showing up. I kept going because I knew how much this park would mean to local skaters—young and old.
The new skatepark isn’t just a collection of ramps. It’s a space for growth, connection, and self-expression. Kids need that. Skaters of all ages need that. Pocatello needs that.
We also touched on the role of local shops. Deckadence was born because I saw a need. Big-box stores can’t build culture. But a true local shop? It supports the scene, invests in the future, and makes sure the next generation feels seen and supported.
If you’ve ever wondered why we care so much about the scene—or how something like a skatepark gets built from the ground up—this interview pulls back the curtain.
Hours is Yours: Why We Support Skater Owned Brands
It ain’t always easy sticking to your guns these days, right? Here at Deckadence, we’re dedicated to supporting skater-owned. It’s our mantra, what we live and breathe. But sometimes, you can only roll with what the people are actually backing.
Case in point: Hours is Yours. This spring’s footwear drop? Seriously rad. We managed to snag one shoe, and honestly, we think it’s got that sweet spot appeal – from the core skaters to the chill cruisers and even the sneaker fanatics just looking for something legit.
Yeah, we’d have loved to bring in the whole Hours is Yours drop, especially the DILO PRO and the rest of their killer lineup. As Dennis Martin, Designer at Hours is Yours, said, “As a skater-owned brand, we take pride in pushing boundaries while staying true to the culture. The DILO PRO is a testament to our dedication to craftsmanship and progression in skate footwear.”
Clean lines and classic vibes: the Hours is Yours DMC-1.
Mega-Brands not adding much
But hey, a lot of folks are still stuck on those mega-brands that feel more like they’re leeching off skate culture than actually contributing to it. And those big guys? They don’t exactly rush to answer our emails. Maybe we’re too tiny, too much of a local vibe? Maybe we’re just kooks in their eyes! Who knows?
Clean lines and classic vibes: the Hours is Yours DMC-1.
Skaters Supporting Skaters
But major props to Hours is Yours for keeping it 100%, skater-owned and operated, just like your favorite little spot, Deckadence. We’re cool with being the small shop. The malls can have their thing. We’ll be here, supporting the real deal, one awesome shoe at a time.
Clean lines and classic vibes: the Hours is Yours DMC-1.
Support the brands that support Deckadence
By choosing brands like Hours is Yours and shops like Deckadence, you’re investing in the future of skateboarding. See for yourself – click here to explore the new Hours is Yours DMC-1 shoe!
Skate Shop Day 2025 – Keep Skateboarding in the Right Hands
Skateboarding is more than just a sport. It’s a culture, a community, and a way of life. At the heart of that culture are local, independent skate shops like ours, Deckadence Board Shoppe. Each year, Skate Shop Day reminds us why these shops matter. They keep skateboarding in the hands of the people who live and breathe it—people who actually skate, who know what it means to step on a board for the first time, to battle a trick for hours, or to finally land something that once seemed impossible.
What Is Skate Shop Day?
Skate Shop Day (Saturday, February 15, 2025) is all about showing love to your local skate shop. It’s not just about buying a new deck or a fresh pair of shoes—it’s about supporting the places that keep skateboarding authentic. These are the spots that host events, hook up kids with their first complete, and help create a real community.
At Deckadence, we’re here for the long run—creating a space where skaters of all abilities can learn, progress, and be part of something bigger. As someone who’s been skating and snowboarding since I was a kid, I’ve had a front-row seat to the evolution of skateboarding. I’ve ridden all types of boards, seen styles come and go, and watched the culture shift. But one thing that should never change is this:
Skateboarding belongs in the hands of skateboarders who understand it and want to see it grow.
How We Celebrate Skate Shop Day
Last year’s Skate Shop Day at Deckadence was unforgettable. We threw a skate jam in our indoor skate room, set up a peanut butter & jam bar, played classic skate videos, and gave away door prizes—all while connecting with the skaters who make this scene what it is. It wasn’t just about selling products; it was about celebrating skateboarding together.
This year, we’re keeping that energy alive with exclusive product drops, giveaways, and a chance to connect with fellow skaters.
Why Shopping Local Matters
Buying from a local shop like Deckadence keeps your money in the local skate scene, helping us host events, sponsor riders, and support the next generation of skaters. Big-box stores and online retailers don’t invest in your community—but we do. When you shop local, you’re not just getting gear; you’re keeping skateboarding in the right hands.
Exclusive Skate Shop Day 2025 Drop: Limited-Edition Products
This year’s Skate Shop Day at Deckadence brings you some truly one-of-a-kind releases:
Gonz and Natas decks – Paying tribute to the legends who helped shape modern skateboarding. Whether you’re a collector or a rider, these boards are a must-have.
Ed Templeton Colorway – Emerica Wino Slip-On – A Skate Shop Day exclusive, only available at core skate shops like ours.
These limited-edition drops will go live on our website at midnight on Saturday, February 15th. To secure your gear:
Buy online and choose local pick-up for a free, easy way to reserve your items ahead of time.
Drop by Deckadence throughout the day to grab your gear in person, meet other skaters, and celebrate together.
Ed Templeton: A Skateboarding Legend & His Exclusive Shoe
Few skaters have influenced skateboarding as much as Ed Templeton. A true DIY legend, Templeton built Toy Machineinto a brand that stands for creativity, independence, and raw skateboarding. He’s a pro skater, artist, and photographer, and his impact on skateboarding goes far beyond just tricks—he helped define skate culture itself.
For Skate Shop Day 2025, Emerica has released an exclusive Wino Slip-On in Templeton’s signature colorway, paying tribute to his legacy.
As Ed Templeton puts it:
“Skate shops are the backbone of the skate community. It’s the meet-up spot with your friends before you hit the streets. It’s the place that stays open late for you to grab a new board. They organize community events, host video premieres, and probably helped get the skatepark in your town built.”
This shoe is only available at core skate shops like Deckadence—a true thank-you to the shops that keep skateboarding alive.
The Impact of Skateboarding Legends: Gonz & Natas
Skate Shop Day is also about honoring the skaters who paved the way—legends like Mark Gonzales and Natas Kaupas, who changed the way we think about skateboarding.
Mark Gonzales (“The Gonz”) brought creativity and style to street skating in the ‘80s. He wasn’t just about tricks—he changed how people saw skateboarding as an art form.
Natas Kaupas took technical street skating to another level, pushing the limits of what was possible on a skateboard.
Their impact is still felt today, and their Skate Shop Day decks are a chance to own a piece of that legacy.
Marc “Gonz” Gonzales with the Skate Shop Day Love/ Hate Krooked Beamers
Natas Kaupas with artist Todd Francis and the Exclusive Real Skateboards Natas Guest Pro Model
Join Us for Skate Shop Day 2025!
We’re celebrating Skate Shop Day 2025 at Deckadence Board Shoppe on Saturday, February 15th—and you don’t want to miss it!
🎯 Exclusive drops – Gonz & Natas decks, Ed Templeton colorway Emerica Wino Slip-Ons, and more.
🎟️ Door prizes – Because who doesn’t love free gear?
👥 Skater meet-up – Hang out, share stories, and celebrate what makes this scene special.
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to support the community that’s been supporting you.
👉 The exclusive drop goes live online at midnight on Saturday, February 15th. Secure your gear before it sells out!
🌟 Choose local pick-up to reserve your boards and shoes ahead of time, then drop by the shop to hang out and join in the celebration.
Join the Celebration & Share the Love!
Help us make Skate Shop Day 2025 one to remember!
📲 Share this event with your friends and tag #RideWithDeckadence to show off your new gear.
❤️ Support your local shop—because core skateboarding starts with core skate shops.
We can’t wait to see you at Deckadence—let’s celebrate skateboarding together!
When we think of snowboarding, we think of a culture, a lifestyle, and a community. At the heart of this community are snowboarder-owned and operated brands and media outlets like Method Magazine. For over 30 years, Method has been the voice of snowboarding, capturing the essence of the sport and inspiring generations of riders.
A Rebellion Against the Norm
Founded in 1994 by Anders Hagman and Calle Eriksson, Method Magazine was a breath of fresh air in the snowboarding world. Tired of the polished, corporate image of the sport, they set out to create a magazine that reflected the raw, authentic spirit of snowboarding. They documented the lives of riders, captured the beauty of the mountains, and celebrated the unique culture that surrounds the sport.
Supporting the Real Deal
At Deckadence Board Shoppe, we’re proud to stock brands that embody the true spirit of snowboarding. Method Magazine is one such brand. Unlike the countless internet fads and copycat brands, Method is a genuine, rider-owned company that has been supporting the snowboarding community for decades.
By supporting brands like Method, we’re not just buying products; we’re investing in the future of snowboarding. We’re helping to keep the sport alive and thriving, and ensuring that future generations of riders have the opportunity to experience the same passion and excitement that we do.
Awesome Method products we’ve got in stock:
Method Tech Riding Hoodie: This hoodie is perfect for layering over your favorite base layers. It’s water-resistant, windproof, and super comfy.
Method Vortex Long Sleeve T-Shirt: Get sucked into the Method vortex with this classic long-sleeve tee. Soft, comfortable, and featuring the iconic Method logo.
Method Star Beanie: Stay warm and stylish on the slopes with the Method Star Beanie. This cozy beanie features a unique star pattern and a retro Method logo, paying homage to the brand’s 30-year history.
Method Winter Tech Balaclava: Stay warm and protected on the slopes with the Method Winter Tech Balaclava. This lightweight, moisture-wicking balaclava features a soft micro-fleece lining and a stylish Method logo.
Method Knit Balaclava: Stay warm and stylish with the Method Knit Balaclava. A classic design, now with improved quality and fit.
Don’t Sell Out to the Fads
Don’t let short-lived Instagram fads dictate the future of snowboarding. Sure, those “dope” brands might look cool on social media, but at what cost? By supporting these fleeting trends, we risk losing the authentic brands that have been the backbone of our community for decades. Let’s prioritize quality, heritage, and the riders who truly shape the sport.
It’s crucial to support brands like Method and other independent brands that are owned by riders. These brands are the lifeblood of the snowboarding industry, and they need our support to continue to thrive. By choosing to shop at local board shops and supporting independent brands, we can help to ensure that the snowboarding industry remains strong and vibrant for years to come.
So, the next time you’re looking for snowboarding gear, remember to support the brands that support the sport. Visit your local board shop today and help keep the snowboarding community alive. Don’t let yourself say “I miss that place” tomorrow!
Stop by the shop and grab a free copy of the latest issue of Method Magazine!
Stay up-to-date with the latest trends and news in snowboarding with Method Magazine. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or just getting started, Method has something for everyone. So come on down to Deckadence Board Shoppe and pick up your free copy today!
The latest issue of Method Magazine is here!
Check out Method Mag’s instagram page HERE and give them a follow. Grab Fast and Tweak Hard!
Lakai, once a symbol of skateboarding rebellion, is shifting gears. The brand known for its “Lakai or Die” mantra is moving towards a “Lakai or direct-to-consumer” shift. This type of business model, moving away from traditional retail channels, threatens to change the very fabric of skateboarding culture.
In a shocking turn, Lakai’s new corporate ownership has dismissed the brand’s skate team, management, sales reps, and office staff, signaling a complete shift to a direct-to-consumer model. As the news spreads, it raises questions about what this means for the brand’s identity and its connection to skate culture.
From Core Skate Brand to Corporate Machine?
Founded in 1999 by pro skateboarders Mike Carroll and Rick Howard, Lakai was born out of skateboarding culture. Leaving DC Shoes, Carroll and Howard partnered with Tim Gavin at Podium Distribution to create a brand built by skaters, for skaters. Named after a friend’s child, Malakai, Lakai quickly became known for its attention to design, functionality, and quality—qualities that resonated with skateboarders worldwide.
This recent decision marks a sharp turn from Lakai’s roots. By shifting focus from skate shops to direct-to-consumer sales, the new owners are bypassing the very community that helped build the brand. This isn’t just a business decision; it’s a redefinition of the company’s values.
The Decline of the Local Skate Shop
Lakai’s move is part of a growing trend in retail. Brands increasingly sidestep traditional retail partners to sell directly to consumers, potentially improving profit margins but at a steep cost to local shops. Skate shops aren’t just retailers—they’re the beating heart of the skate community. They provide spaces for skaters to meet, share stories, and connect. They also bolster local economies by creating jobs and supporting other businesses.
As brands like Lakai go direct, local skate shops face fierce competition from lower online prices and wider selections. This shift threatens to decrease foot traffic, reduce sales, and ultimately close down these crucial community spaces.
For skateboarders, this could mean the loss of something irreplaceable: fewer places to gather, fewer spots to swap stories, and fewer resources for the next generation of skaters. Once local shops start closing, those connections won’t easily be rebuilt.
What Do Skateboarders Really Want?
This move challenges skateboarders to think about the future they want to support. Will they embrace a Lakai without the team, the reps, and the community roots that once defined it? Or will they push back on direct-to-consumer models and continue to support their local shops, choosing to buy from spaces that foster the skate culture they love?
As consumers, we hold the power to shape the future of skateboarding. By supporting local shops and smaller, community-focused brands, we can help preserve the core of skate culture. The question is, are we willing to make that choice, or will we continue to be wooed by multi-million dollar marketing campaigns and the convenience of online shopping?
Let’s not let “Lakai or Die” lead to the death of our local skate shops. The future of skateboarding is up to us—where will you click next?
Leave a comment and let me know how you feel about this latest trend in retail.
Grab the last of our Lakai Footwear collection before it’s gone! Use CODE: fattytoflatty for $5 flat-rate shipping on orders over $50.
