We are so excited to start moving and exploring our favorite destinations more freely this upcoming summer. Here are a few tips for navigating travel rules in the upcoming months.
Most countries have reopened or eased their border requirements for American travelers. However, ensure you get the most up-to-date information from the country you’re visiting before arranging your trip.
Rules and regulations are constantly updated. Since 2020, we’ve seen regulations removed, reinstated, stricken, and loosened over two years. It can be painstaking to keep up with every possible outcome. Once you've planned your trip, stay regularly posted on your destinations' evolving rules.
Depending on your destination, the vaccine date and booster status can affect the places you can enter or visit. Preparation is vital. If you’re unvaccinated, you may be unable to enter altogether. In these cases, it’s best to plan your trip accordingly to enjoy the location.
The Transportation Security Administration is no longer enforcing the federal face mask mandate in the United States. Face masks will no longer be required for passengers and team members at U.S. airports and domestic flights. International flights differ, and testing or quarantining before and or after flights is still happening across the board.
Free spirit travelers, get your travel insurance. Due to differing statuses in every country, you always run the risk of not being able to enter or enjoy a vacation destination. This additional perk ensures you're covered in worst-case scenarios, from an unexpected illness in a foreign country to losing passports, being denied entry and more.
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Here are four fear-inducing extreme adventure vacations:
Not for the faint of heart, or one's afraid of heights, but definitely for those who love climbing. Cliff camping involves setting up camp on the side of a cliff during extensive climbs, and this practice is widespread amongst extreme climbers. Surprisingly the gear you bring on a multi-day climbing day is, for the most part, the exact same equipment you’d bring on a single cliff camping expedition. If you embark on this adventure, may the odds of gravity, wind, and suspension be ever in your favor?
Check out cliff camping in:
Helicopter skiing or heli-skiing is a type of backcountry skiing or free-riding. Hop onto a helicopter to access remote areas and slopes of virgin powder snow. Ultimately the helicopter acts as the lift to uncharted terrain. Skiers know this is a smooth, top-tier experience. Usually, the journey will take you to long descents and steep lines amongst other natural terrain features. If you’re new to skiing, you might want to sit this one out and enjoy the comfort of traditional ski resorts and all of the readily available safety precautions.
Favorite Heli-Skiing spots:
New dive spots are the epitome of adventure for seasoned divers, with all-new obstacles and conditions to navigate. However, the journey is usually by boat and involves a smooth descent into the ocean's depths. Heli-diving consists in hopping on a helicopter and heading deep into the sea or body of water that is usually inaccessible via dive boats. But the adventure does not stop there. Divers must then jump about 15 feet (if not more) off the helicopter into the water. Not only are you taking a literal leap of faith, but you're venturing into unknown territory without the safety guard of the usual boat. Depending on your tour, a chase boat will meet you to follow standard dive safety procedures.
Top spots to check out:
An incomparable American landmark, the Grand Canyon is a sight to see! Experience the vast size of the seemingly never-ending terrain as you raft down the calm and yet sometimes scary white waters. Rafting the Colorado River can be very smooth while floating on top of Class I to III rapids. Until you hit level IV & V section, that is. The more turbulent the waters become, the smaller passages and the terrain become rockier. When rafting, advanced and expert-level currents require high precision and fast movements. It’s important to be capable of practicing preventative and self-rescue techniques during these high-pressure and sometimes deadly adventures. Therefore this activity is not recommended for entry-level rafters.
Three of the most difficult grand canyon rapids include:
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Hanalei Anti-Fog Snorkeling Set
$49.99
Seavenger’s Hanalei Anti-fog set has everything you need to step into the sea! Complete with a soft-flex snorkel, quick-dry mesh bag and open heel trek fins that easily adjust to fit different sizes. But the real seller is the Anti-fog mask which allows you to see everything underwater crystal clearly. Featuring an all-new permanent fogless treatment on the tempered twin lens. The perfect gift for a sea explorer.
ZinTex Training Tank
$34
NonZero Gravity’s line of ZinTex activewear is more than just a standard workout clothing line. They’ve introduced Zinc Oxide antimicrobial technology perfect for long-wear that’s both odor-proof and water-resistant. Toss inside your gym bag or wear out while running errands - the perfect activewear or athleisure gift. We’re highlighting the classic T-shirt for men, but there’s sure to be something perfect for anybody in this performance-based collection. Available in sets and singles for men and women.
Power Resistance Bands
$14.50 to $145 (Complete Set)
One thing: LATEX-FREE! Fitness lovers are sure to tell the difference (especially in the scent) with these heavy-duty training bands. Not only are they snap-proof but incredibly aesthetically pleasing to the eye. Get in the right mood, with color coordinated weights available in seven levels of tensile resistance to match varying strength levels!
Fallout Skateboard
$49.99
We’ve all been cooped up for far too long, and the Fallout complete skateboard comes ready to ride straight out of the box. Cal 7 Skateboards are the perfect gift to encourage fearlessness outdoors for all skate levels, from rookies to the pros. In conjunction with original graphic art, the SoCal based brand has solid maple wood decks with 52mm 99A wheels.
MyoNetic Mini Massage Gun
$98
The universal gift for all by our favorite fitness brand, NonZero Gravity. Whether you work from home, commute to the office or live the healthiest active lifestyle, muscle pain is no joke. The MyoNetic is so easy to use and perfectly sized to toss in your gym bag, satchel or purse. I highly doubt anyone would not appreciate a little pain relief this holiday season. A self care gift that is sure to give your brownie points.
Enchanted Forest Quad Skates
$139.99
The Roller Skate fad is not dead yet! So why not give a super trendy pair of C7skates? The Dark Magic collection features darker skate hues including the mesmerizing emerald shade of the Enchanted Forest Quads. This skate setup includes a plush interior, vegan leather boot, adjustable toe stops and 62mm 83A wheels.
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The Moundsville Penitentiary operated between 1876 to 1995 and is now available for tours, training and as an avid filming location. As a correctional facility, Moundsville hosted some of America’s most violent criminals. Their men were cramped together, tortured and executed wither by the death penalty or other prisoners as you can imagine the indescribable amount of horrors lived throughout the premises, as it remains one of the most haunted places in the US.
Location: 818 Jefferson Ave, Moundsville, WV 26041
One badly made movie later, and the Winchester house has regained popularity. Construction began on this maze-like property in 1884 and was not “completed” until 1922. By “completed,” we mean whatever that means to the alluded mad owner Mrs. Winchester. It was rumored that the ghost of the lives lost through the family business Winchester rifles haunted Mrs. Winchester driving her to design a maze home to confuse the haunting spirits with doors leading to freefalls and paths to nowhere.
Location: 525 S Winchester Blvd, San Jose, CA 95128
Docked in Long Beach, California, sits the RMS Queen Mary, an iconic 1936 British ocean liner. The ship sailed from 1936 to 1967 but now serves as a hotel and tourist spot. It seems like some of the previous check-ins have never left, as this is one of the most haunted locations in the country. If only those walls could talk!
Location: 1126 Queens Hwy, Long Beach, CA 90802
Residence to every U.S. Since John Adams, the white house walls, rooms, and secret passages hold many secrets. It would be naive to think that this one would be immune to ghostly hauntings out of all buildings. Most famously, Abraham Lincoln was rumored to be haunted by his son Willie who died in the White House at age 11 in 1862. Since then, Presidents have fueled rumors with stories of unlikely visitors throughout the night.
Location: 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20500
Built in 1796 by General David Bradford and located in St.Francisville, Louisiana, sits The Myrtles Plantation. As an Antebellum-style property, horrific tales of torture and darkness loom over an avid slavery-era plantation. Although the property is architecturally stunning, located in a mossy green swamp-like forest, the beauty cannot mask the dark history and immense pain suffered throughout the land.
Location: 7747 US-61, St Francisville, LA 70775
Redrum. Redrum. Redrum. The Stanley Hotel is the inspiration behind one of the most iconic horror books and films of all time, Stephe King’s “The Shining.” This massive colonial Revival resort is home to 140 rooms and some luring guests in beautiful Colorado. Yes, the infamous room 237 is room 217, where a horrific gas explosion occurs, and it is available to book.
Location: 333 E Wonderview Ave, Estes Park, CO 80517
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The Ala Moana Bowls get their name from the massive curls in the bowl-shaped waves. Perfect for surfing! Paddle out from the parking lot on the eastern end of the park and you’re there! Unfortunately, this spot is not completely natural as part of the reef was cleared out to make a local yacht harbor, but the waves are perfect either way.
Location: Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon Boardwalk, Honolulu, HI 96815
Season: May - September
Catch the winter waves at a popular surfing beach with massive wintertime waves. If you happen to drop in the summertime, surf on calmer waves fit for moderately skilled wave riders. Ehukai Beach Park is also known as Banzai Pipeline.
The surf season for the Pipeline runs from October thru April. Surf and ocean conditions can change rapidly during the surf season. Lifeguards are on duty from 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. daily.
Location: 59-337 Ke Nui Rd, Haleiwa, HI 96712
Season: October - April
Directions: Public access point is across from Sunset Beach Elementary School.
Catch the iconic paradise scene at Sunset Beach, known for its big wave surfing during the winter season. The original Hawaiian name for this place is Paumalū. This surf spot was mega-popular with filmmakers circa the 1950s surf movie craze. Just as popular today, get a little inspiration from contemporary films like Soul Surfer (2011), Point Break (1991), INHUMANS (2017), also shot in these magical waters.
Location: Sunset Beach Park, Pupukea, HI 96712
Season: October - April | Best during the winter months
Directions: ADA-accessible walkways are located at the Gazebo on 1st Street and 3rd Street.
Finally, there’s Rocky Point, located on the North Shore of Oahu. The name originates from the abyss of lava rocks scattered on the beachfront. Make your way through the rocky beach directly onto killer waves meant for seasoned surfers; no rookies allowed! Unless you’ve tackled effortlessly fast reef breaks, then catch the tail end of other surfers’ waves and you’ll be set. Choose Rocky Lefts or Rocky Right, two sides separated by a very shallow, sharp rock bottom that you want to avoid. Rocky Right tends to be the popular choice.
Location: 59-181 Ke Nui Rd, Haleiwa, HI 96712
Season: December-March + Month of July
Directions: Look for the lava rocks that form a "point" on land.
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What are you doing this summer? Skating, scuba diving, snorkeling, surfing, or simply having a beach day, we all need a few songs to get us in that hot summer spirit. It also never hurts to stay on top of what the cool kids are listening to nowadays. Check out these nine songs for summer fun!
Fittingly, we just want to grab our roller skates! The latest release by the iconic Silk Sonic duo Anderson Paak and Bruno Mars gets you in the quad gang groove. They can truly do no wrong; the follow-up single to “Leave the Door Open” (also a super mega-hit) this song makes you want to, very obviously, show off your moves on your favorite quads while Mars and Paak serenade you from a distance. Swoon-worthy lyrics and smooth music to help you dance a summer day away.
A summer romance is in the air with Doja Cat’s supermassive 2021 hit from her album “Planet Her.” SZA and Doja team up for a little (maybe not so little) pop hit that gets you in the spirit of fun times and a sweet summer romance. This song is everywhere, but somehow we’re not tired of it yet! Fun, cute and upbeat, play this sing-along bop at your next barbecue. You’ll have the whole party vibing out (insert wrist flick).
“Smooth like butter, like a criminal undercover,” you’ve got to be living under a rock if you aren’t mouthing along with the entry lyrics to BTS’s smash hit “Butter.” K-pop is just pop at this point, given the mega mainstream overseas success of the Korean pop group over the last years. We’re happy to support BTS and their unique family-friendly but still catchy and refreshingly upbeat songs anytime!
Let’s bring it down-tempo for a quick second with a sad but hauntingly beautiful duet by The Weeknd and Ariana Grande! What could we expect from Abel, if not sad songs of disillusionment and heartbreak, sung to us in a beautiful key? Ariana absolutely nails the whistle notes at the end of the song, per usual. Those are reasons enough to play this track! Plus, even during our hot girl/boy summer, we need a little melancholy moment to snap us back into reality.
What could we expect from the most popping pop girls in the game right now? Although often overlooked, this is a great collaboration famous in its own right but gets lost in the vast hits both these girls are currently releasing. The beats are on point, and of course, the vocals are strong as ever. Smooth and easy listening for a day chilling at the beach! “So tell me, what’s your motive?” Play it. You won’t regret it.
Ms.Rodrigo, my oh-my! She’s bringing the 90s nostalgia predominantly relevant in Gen Z culture back into the mainstream. Mesh Taylor Swift’s songwriting style with an angsty teen fantasy with this track. It seems like she popped out of nowhere, but the 19-year-old youngster has been in the Disney machine for a hot minute. She’s been popping in and out of our TV screens since “Bizaardvark” back in 2016 until she landed her more notable role in “High School Musical The Series” in 2019. Good for you, Olivia, good for you!
Get dance party-ready! The Black Eyed Peas are back with a dance/club hit, perfect for your next pool party. Ozuna has been a Latin heartthrob topping the charts for years now and we’re glad to see him teaming up with the Peas for a summer hit. J Rey Soul gives us a little Madonna “La Isla Bonita” moment with a twist throughout the song. Get ready to get down!
Justin Beiber has an IT factor, that’s for sure. Anytime he touches a song, BOOM, it becomes a mega-hit no matter what. The Kid LAROI kills this upbeat angsty anthem in the stratosphere of Machine Gun Kelly’s punk-pop revival but with more of an EDM influence. The beat and vocals are strong: we could not expect anything less from the Biebs. As far as LAROI, we know this kid (lol) is going places. There’s something indescribably special about this song. Sweet to the ears, check it out!
Camila Cabello wholeheartedly embraces her Cuban roots with this Latin-pop hit. As a late summer release, the track encompasses the love of dance, campy imagery and some new influences for the singer. The video gives you “if Beetlejuice we’re Latin,” jugo de escarabajos vibes. Maybe she got a little inspiration from the iconic Day-O (Banana Boat Song) scene - minus the gore. She teases, “Baby, don’t go yet because I wore this dress for a little drama.” Sassy and upbeat, this song is everything we need this summer season.
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Off to a strong start, Barracuda Point on Sipadan Island in Malaysia is one of the most sought-after snorkeling destinations for advanced explorers. Descend into a steep 22-meter wall that ends in a comfortably shallow coral garden. The sights to see are endless. Here you will find anything from a bump head parrotfish to hammerhead sharks if you’re lucky. Not for the faint of heart but a must-see diving location if scuba is pretty much second nature at this point.
Full of vibrant soft coral, Richelieu Rock in Thailand lies on an isolated pinnacle. Sometimes submerged underwater during high tide but visible from the shore during low tide. The maximum depth is about 114 feet (35 meters). While exploring this popular dive destination, you will find seahorses, ghost pipefish, harlequin shrimp, frogfish, octopus, snappers, fusiliers, manta rays and even whale sharks. The amount of sea life is abundant and you’re sure to be bewildered by the beautiful views. If the sea is in your favor, you might even run into the incredibly rare tomato clownfish who inhabit the area! A must-see location for any worldwide scuba diver.
A mermaid’s den? Maybe not. Magical views, nonetheless, from inside the famous heart cave found at Akumal, Riviera Maya in Mexico. Located on the Mexican Caribbean, you will find white sandy beaches with warm waters begging to be explored. Home to one of the largest barrier reefs in the world, there is a wide range of sea life you will encounter: local turtle, morays, lionfish species and much more. Dive deep through canyons and large coral formations up to 100 feet deep (30 meters). Mexico is pulling at our adventure heartstrings for sure!
The Yongala in Australia is a mesmerizing destination straight out of a Hollywood film. Over 100 years ago, the SteamShip Yongala mysteriously and tragically sank in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. The shipwreck is now covered in coral and has entirely integrated into the coral reef, housing over 100 species of vibrant sea life. You will encounter giant trevally, bull sharks, chevron barracuda, Queensland groper, moray eel, sting and marble rays, green sea turtles, amongst so many more. If you’re in a true adventure spirit, head to this one-of-a-kind location and maybe you’ll find something no one else has ever seen before.
The great blue hole in Belize is the largest ocean sinkhole in the world! Imagine the magnitude, this the only blue hole visible from outer space. About 65 miles from Placencia, the once limestone caves system is nearly 1,000 feet in diameter and 400 feet deep! If you travel with an eclectic experience group, no worries. The surrounding fringing reefs are perfect for snorkeling. The intensity is intermediate to advanced; it is not recommended for first-time divers to dive here. As you explore, you are likely to find: Caribbean reef sharks, butterflyfish, angelfish, midnight parrotfish and groupers. Turtles, parrotfish, angelfish, and butterflyfish! Not to mention crystal clear waters! Definitely worth the trip.
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Every little part of a skateboard works to give you the smoothest, fastest ride out there! If you’re an absolute skate newbie, let’s breakdown the most important parts to get you started. Whether you’re building your board or getting a complete ready-to-ride skateboard, these 6 parts are essential to get you on the right track! Remember, there are different kinds of skateboard styles; therefore, some facts may vary. Here we go:
A deck is straight up the flat board that you will ride on. Most commonly, decks are made with plywood or plastic depending on skateboard style: classic, longboard, cruiser, etc. The length of the deck will vary and is dependent on your actual size and preference. Standard deck sizes usually range anywhere from 7.5 inches to 8.75 inches.
Risers are hard plastic or metal pads inserted between the deck and the trucks to raise the board’s height. The pads allow more clearance between your wheels and deck to avoid shock. They often come in fun colors that are a super cool way to customize your board.
Grip tape is an adhesive heavy-duty textured paper used for grip. When constructing a skateboard, you will need to cut the grip tape to the perfect size and apply it to the deck’s top. The friction on the grip tape allows your shoes to have better control over the skateboard. The tape is crucial as a deck on its own does not provide any grip.
Skate bearings are itty bitty circular gears that give your wheels the ability to roll. This also determines how fast and smooth your ride will be. Bearing sizes are also pretty standard and universally sized for any wheels. When purchasing separately, make sure to do your research to get quality bearings as they determine such an essential part of your ride experience.
Trucks are the metal T-shaped hardware that mounts under your skateboard deck. Investing in quality trucks means that you will be able to grind more effectively and increase your board’s longevity. The wheels and bearings will connect to this part of the skateboard. Like everything else, they are absolutely essential.
What is a skateboard without its wheels? Just a board. The wheels and bearings are directly attached to your trucks. The diameter refers to width and durometer to hardness. For street, 50-60mm, wheels with a 95 to 101 durometer are recommended. For cruisers, softer wheels are used anywhere between a 78A-90A durometer and a 54-60mm diameter.
Nothing beats the views from Griffith Observatory at Mount Hollywood. Standing 1,134 feet above sea level, you’ll find epic views of the Downtown Skyline and the world-famous Hollywood sign. Inside the observatory, you can experience a “gateway to the cosmos” with various astronomy exhibitions and a variety of telescopes throughout the building. Admission is entirely free; there are plenty of restrooms located both inside and outside the property, perfect for the kids. Even if you don’t make it inside, the views are too incredible to pass up, walk around the premise and lounge in the grass. Parking is minimal, so make sure to plan. Don’t miss out this is a one-of-a-kind LA spot beloved by both locals and tourists.
Address: 2800 E. Observatory Road, Los Angeles, CA 90027
Open: 10am to 10pm
The Venice Beach Canals, not to be confused with the Venice Canals in Europe, carry a European ambiance in a very eccentric Southern California beach town. For about a mile, four canals line a neighborhood of beautiful homes in the Venice Beach community. Here you can walk alongside the canals through a series of sidewalks and bridges. About a mile away lies the shoreline, where you can also experience an upbeat and lively community of artists, street vendors, and many restaurants. The canals are the perfect place to take your roller skates, skateboards and bikes to have an adventure-filled day with the whole family.
Address: Off of 25th Street, Venice, CA, 90291
Open: 24 Hours
Thanks to Disney Channel shows and movies, every kid has dreamed of an amusement park on a beach boardwalk, grab your skates or skateboard and cruise down the beach. Santa Monica is one of those universally beloved places in Los Angeles and an essential beach to experience the California easy-going attitude. Pack a picnic or indulge in the various street vendors, restaurants and seafood. No matter your budget, you’ll be sure to have a great time here. Parking is sparse, but more often than not, you’ll find reasonable parking accommodations and bathrooms are accessible throughout the boardwalk, beach and downtown area. Rest assured, no matter the age range, youngsters and teens will love this spot!
Address: 200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA 90401
Open: 24 Hours (Businesses close around 10 pm)
Also known as Placita Olvera, Olvera Street is a hidden gem for those seeking a little piece of authentic Mexican-American history. Kick the burrito craving and devour authentic Mexican meals in a beautiful oasis in downtown Los Angeles. Here you find a colorful Mexican market where you can shop leather goods, yummy snacks and Mexican imports. Alongside the narrow paved paths, various Mexican restaurants feature reasonably priced authentic food and live music. Within the market lies Avila Adobe, LA’s oldest house now used as a museum to showcase the colonial 1840’s lifestyle. Make sure to check out the América Tropical mural painted by José Clemente Orozco, located directly above Olvera Street. There are so many fun things-to-do here within proximity; make sure to check this spot out and pay homage to the vibrant Southern California Latino community!
Address: Olvera Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012
Open: 10 am to 6-8 pm (Depending on the Vendors)
Snorkeling is a fun and safe water sport. Still, it is important to explore with someone familiar with the specifics— best breathing practices, familiarity with water conditions and sea life, etc. Two rookies do not equate to one expert. It is always highly encouraged to snorkel with an experienced partner, if not a group. With more people around, the more opportunities to get assistance with unpredictable ocean conditions and help avoid dangerous situations. Safe, supervised exploration is the key.
Essential Gear: Snorkeling Sets or Masks, Fins, Snorkels.
When the adrenaline rush kicks in, it’s easy to let go of common sense; rookie snorkelers are known to latch on to their partners in a moment of panic. As underwater explorers, this is what you want to avoid at all costs. Before diving in, take a moment to assess your surroundings and mentally prepare yourself for experiencing a different body state. Once submerged, if your first-time nerves kick in, slowly swim back to the surface. Once above water, float on your back until you feel ready to submerge again. Remember, you’re in total control of how deep you dive and can always swim back to the top!
Research where you will be snorkeling. Get familiar with the water conditions, terrain, and expected sea life. The more you learn, the fewer surprises you will experience and the more comfortable you will feel: thus staying calm and collected. Locals play a crucial role in understanding the underwater terrain. They can help answer some of your questions and advise on water conditions and prime exploration times. Check-in with on-duty lifeguards or local watersport businesses for directions and advice. You will be pleasantly surprised about how welcoming the watersport community can be. After all, the ocean is for everyone to enjoy and explore.
If you pick a diverse snorkel spot, which we hope you do, you will find an abundance of interesting underwater elements and sea life thriving in their natural habitats. It is important to note that although these aquatic creatures are often harmless to you, you are, in fact, harmful to them. The chemicals in most sunscreens deteriorate precious coral, and sea life is easily bothered by unnatural sounds and motion. Choose biodegradable sunscreens and avoid touching while admiring the beauty. The point is to leave everything uninterrupted to enjoy the wonders of a thriving natural habitat.
Underwater Protection: Rashguards, Water Socks, Wetsuits, Gloves, Reef Safe Sunscreen.
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Location: 1800 Ocean Front Walk, Venice, CA 90291
Cost: FREE and Open to the Public.
Hours of Operation: 24 hours, 7 days a week.
The Venice Beach Skate Park is the epitome of SoCal Skate ambiance. Positioned directly on the famous Venice Beach, the ocean breeze and pacific ocean views are the textbook definition of skating in Los Angeles. A laid-back atmosphere welcomes skaters of all ages and levels. This California state treasure features a variety of bowls, a snake run and street like features so you can shred. If you’re hesitant to visit a skate park, this is the best choice due to its amicable and laid-back atmosphere. You won’t regret visiting this gem!
Location: 7471 Center Ave, Huntington Beach, CA 92647
Cost: FREE and Open to the Public.
Hours of Operation: 9 am-8 pm, 7 days a week.
Another essential Southern California Spot, The Vans “Off The Wall” Skatepark, is a sight to see. Feel the Huntington Beach breeze as you shred through the 2,500 square foot park. Designed with various street elements: stairs, rails, gaps, planter ledges, kickers, rollers and a double-kinked 40-foot handrail. This park also features cool art installations like palm trees and a volcano! Spectators can safely keep a distance from outside the gated perimeter. Make sure to call ahead if you’re looking to skate; the park hosts private and professional events regularly. Wednesday are exclusively BMX days and no skateboarding is permitted.
Location: 1835 Stoner Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90025
Cost: FREE and Open to the Public
Hours of Operation: 10 am - 7 pm, 7 days a week.
Stoner Park Plaza gets its name from its location on Stoner Avenue. Legendary skater Rob Dyrdek of DC Shoes and the Rob Dyrdek Foundation propelled the development and creation of this safe spot in L.A. The design mimics downtown and urban elements, remaining true to the landscape of downtown L.A. You will find cool spots such as steps, benches, ramps and handrails to perform all kinds of tricks. At 26,500 square feet, the park features colored concrete designs that emphasize the skate park’s aesthetic. The park features one of the largest and longest manual pads, also known as a wheelie pad, which draws many visitors.
Location: 6240 Meridian St, Los Angeles, CA 90042
Cost: FREE and Open to the Public
Hours of Operation: 10 am-10 pm, 7 days a week.
Located in Northeast L.A., the Garvanza skatepark features one of a kind aesthetic. This park is well known for its design, featuring a colossal bowl reminiscent of backyard skating. Imagine an empty Olympic sized swimming pool drained and customized with smooth killer vert sides. If you’re faint at heart, you may want to skip out on this location given the large drop, but the park does feature other super rad elements for less thrill-seeking skaters. The vivid murals and colorful graffiti art present a diverse and eclectic vibe. At the very least, check this place out and you might just gain some courage to dive right in!
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Seavenger | Voyager Snorkeling Set
Every ocean lover needs to own a snorkel set! The Seavenger Voyager set is one of our particular favorites for its quality but specifically the well-designed travel bag. Just throw it over your shoulder and you’re set for a day of ocean exploration. The set includes a dry-top snorkel, dive mask and 16-inch trek fins. Find a color that best suits her personal style, the possibilities are vast!
Coolibar | Women’s Hooded Beach Cover-Up Dress
Stay protected from beach elements with this adorable beach cover-up. Not only is this a beautiful shade of blue, but the fabric has UPF 50+! Stay protected while rocking fashionable beach-wear. Everyone needs a mental health day to take in some salty ocean breeze and some well-deserved vitamin D.
Seavenger | Odyssey Women’s Surfing Wetsuit in Geometric Palm
The Geometric Palm design on the Odyssey wetsuit is a true fashion statement. This sleek design uses a colorful geometric panel on each side of the waist for a little added fun without being visually overbearing! This wetsuit offers great protection with the sharkskin chest panel and anti-abrasion screening on the knees and shoulders. Similar styles are available with slightly different color variations. This is an ocean apparel must-have.
C7skates | Premium Peachy Keen Roller Skates
Roller-skates had a moment this year and even if you’re not sure if skates are something she might have experience using, give her a little thrill seeking fun. These brightly colored skates are top-notch quality featuring durable wheels and a structured boot design. We all need the added exhilaration during these dull times.
Cal 7 | Classic Blue Mini Cruiser
This board was directly influenced by the Pantone Color of the Year 2020. What a way to wrap up what some may say is an unforgettable year on a high note. The cool toned board is a light-weight plastic with a 22 inch long deck, perfect for traveling. Petite in size but mighty in power with 60mm 78A pastel pink wheels.
Cal 7 | 90s Hella Complete Skateboard
We’re taking it back to the ‘90s with this geometric Saved by Bell-esque graphic design! If she loves nostalgia and is truly devoted to thrill seeking this is the board for her. The 90s Hella complete skateboard has a 7.75 inch long deck. It’s delivered fully assembled with quality 5-inch aluminum trucks and 99A PU wheels, fit for any avid skateboarding gal.
Has she been on her fitness buzz or is she desperately seeking the motivation to start? We all know-how hard it has been to keep up with our fitness goals during these crazy times. Help her release some of that pressure with the NonZero Gravity’s Sauna Collection. Made with 3mm neoprene fabric, the heating technology increases sweat for targeted weight loss and better muscle performance! The perfect addition to her stay-at-home functional fashion.
This fashionable one-piece bodysuit is an athleisure dream. The design emphasizes feminine curves and is available with either blue or purple details. Similar styles can be seen amongst fitness influencers. This is the perfect gift for a trendy girl.
NonZero Gravity | Matching Set
Who doesn’t love a matching set? Not only are they functional but they make you feel as if you’ve put a little more effort into your outfit for the day. Grab a matching pair of sauna suit leggings and tank top to elevate her work from home style or to get that high intensity workout for the day.
We hope we’ve triggered some ideas and helped you give the gift of adventure. Happy holidays! Stay active and enjoy a season full of fun memories with your loved ones.
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Here are three holiday gift ideas perfect for this season:
Kids dream of cruising down the street on anything with wheels! Why not give them a skateboard? There are tons of designs available to choose from. You can tailor a design choice to a certain age group or preferred aesthetics. If you’re purchasing a deck, you may consider getting the accompanying gear, there is nothing worse than receiving a gift you can’t actually use. An easier option is purchasing a complete skateboard since they are ready to ride straight out of the box! There are also cruisers, aka as penny boards, which are smaller and made out of plastic. Currently, Shop709 carries a variety of skateboards which are anywhere from $38 to $139.99. You’ll win brownie points for being a super cool gift giver and kids will be excited about being outdoors. A win, win.
As children, snorkel sets are so exciting, with the right imagination, nothing beats the possibility of peeking through the surface of water to clearly see the bottom of a pool or the wonders of the ocean. Gift a safe, quality and appropriately priced snorkel set. Shop 709 carries IST, Tusa and Seavenger Snorkel Sets anywhere from $18 to 49.95. There are also full face masks that serve as an all inclusive surface snorkeling device. Check out the new Nautilus Full Face Mask by Seavenger, coming in at $39.99, in three sizes and five different color choices. This is a great gender neutral gift idea that will encourage a desire for adventure and give kids an activity to look forward to in the near future.
This is the trickiest option to gift, given that you’ll need a shoe size. If you are a well informed shopper, this is an amazing gift option! 2020 has seen an incredible increase in roller blading and skating. Rollerskates tend to be favored by tween and teenagers, more so than younger kids. There is a wide range of accessories to customize wheels, laces, stoppers, etc. Check out the C7 Inline and Quad Skate selections. Once again, a gift with wheels will impress the masses. Not only are they trendy but are also the perfect social distancing activity.
These ideas are tangible items that can be used for a prolonged period of time. As far as we know, we’re not out of this pandemic quite yet and these gifts will hold the test of time as the current atmosphere shifts to a more social day to day routine. Bonus, you don't have to worry about being in store since all these gifts will be delivered to your doorstep. Let’s encourage adventure and fresh air this holiday season!
Check out all of Shop709’s extensive adventure gear gifts!
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The absolute best way to find a solid skate spot is to simply cruise. It doesn’t matter if you walk, drive or skate, get out of your general vicinity and look around. The more you know your hometown, the easier it’ll be to stumble upon what might just be a hidden gem. Pro Tip: Turn on your phone location services. Snap a picture when you come across a promising spot. Using this method, you’ll always have the exact location with a reference photo within hands reach. Make sure to stay safe, search during daylight and avoid exploring by yourself!
So maybe you don't love the idea of spending a couple hours roaming endlessly looking for a decent spot. The internet is your best friend. Open up your favorite map app with satellite imagery and start zooming in. This method is just as time consuming as getting up and exploring but you can be in the comfort of your home. You also avoid the added danger of possibly stumbling somewhere you don’t want to be. Zoom in on plaza’s, behind industrial parks and anywhere that you haven’t explored before.
Skate culture and content creation are one. If you love to skate, then you're more likely than not grabbing your phone and shooting your best tricks. Follow local hashtags, skate shops and brands to see social media posts that may directly link you to a new spot. Open your eyes to the content you’re consuming and is being produced around you. You’ll be surprised to find the random locations other local skaters are hanging out at. Eventually you’ll be at the right place at the right time and you can network. Once you become immersed in your local skate community, you’ll be able to access an abundance of cool spots that are only available through word of mouth - or in a post.
Although there are plenty of critics, skate spot apps are becoming mainstream. Gen Z reigns supreme and they’re actively downloading. Some top downloaded apps are; Loke, Snarly, ShredSpot, Sk8Spots, etc. Currently, SpotSesh is the top rated skate spot finder on the iOS App Store with a 4.5 star rating and 232 mostly positive reviews. To avoid lackluster content, do some diligent research to see which apps are being used the most in your community. This is still a fairly new concept, the quality of the posts will vary depending on engagement. Do not underestimate the power of skate spot apps, this is the future.
Once you’ve graduated from your front yard curb and you’ve exhausted every search opportunity, maybe it's time to start building. Drastic times call for drastic measures. Although this isn’t the ideal option for everyone, it is still possible. There is an entire niche YouTube community dedicated to posting content on do-it yourself skate spots. Here is a recent video from Zack Dowdy on,“How to DIY Skate Spots | 10 Tips Under $30.” Ask for help and make sure you’re following all rules and regulations. This is a great way to gather a group of friends and build something you can all use!
Skate parks aren’t available in all communities, don’t be discouraged and you’ll find the perfect place to shred on. Remember skating is about freedom, so go out there and explore! Follow the Shop709 blog for upcoming tips and tricks for all things adventure.
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There are a lot of images that come to mind when you bring up roller skating. You might imagine someone casual cruising on the beach, dancing along in a skating rink, or maybe you imagine hordes of people smashing against one another.
That's the great thing about roller skating though, there is more than one way to enjoy it.
This is probably the one that is gaining the most traction in popularity because it is an activity you can learn and perfect all on your own without having to get too close to any other person.
All you need is a sidewalk and some awesome skates to get rolling. Many people do roller skating challenges when they first start to stay motivated because of how challenging of a learning curve there is.
Luckily, that challenge and the sense of accomplishment you get are what keeps many skaters involved in the activity long after they have accomplished it.
It's also a great way to stay fit since it is estimated that an hour of moderate roller skating can burn more than 300 calories! Plus, you won't even notice how hard you are working when you are having as much fun as you are.
Everyone knows the notoriously cold sport where you sit in an icebox for the extent of the game as people glide along a huge floor of ice. If the cold isn't for you, there is another way to enjoy hockey -- gliding over some smooth, warm cement on a pair of roller skates.
There are a ton of roller hockey leagues out there for people of all ages, and it's a great way to enjoy one of the most popular sports without the drawback of being stuck in a fridge all day.
Keep in mind your roller skates are likely to take more of a beating when you are playing an aggressive sport in them, so you'll need something a little more rugged and durable. Many roller hockey players opt for in-line skates rather than quads because they can get a little more maneuverability out of them.
One of the coolest parts about rolling skating is that the roots go deep into roller rink dancing. Since it's been perfected over the decades, there are scores of tricks and dance moves you can find and learn to keep improving.
Some skating rinks still offer dancing nights, where groups of skaters work together to show off their moves, and you can find plenty of roller skaters in skate parks or in city buildings finding new and interesting places to land their favorite trick.
If you think hockey is aggressive, you are going to lose your mind when you realize there is an entire sport dedicated to nothing other than pushing back the opposing team while you are on roller skates.
The technical rules are a little more complicated than that, but that doesn't change just how in your face roller derby can be. There are more than 1,250 amateur leagues worldwide, which means the odds of you being able to find a group to skate with is pretty likely.
As one of the more aggressive methods of roller skating, you'll have to get used to fixing some gear and get yourself some of the necessary tools you'll need to stay competitive.
If you want to get involved with roller skating, but don't want to just cruise around the boardwalk every day, then roller derby might just be the sport for you.
Whatever your level of comfort is, remember: roller skating is more of a medium than a sport. There is more than one way to enjoy roller skating, all you have to do is figure out which one is right for you!
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And unless you are a seasoned veteran, it is impossible to know exactly what kinds of things you’ll need in different situations.
So what are some of the most important items you can have when you are going spearfishing? Here are four of them:
We know this seems pretty self explanatory, but the truth is that there are a ton of cheap, poorly crafted spear guns on the market. Many of these models haven’t been properly safety tested and become a liability in the water.
When you combine that fact with the spears they are usually loaded with, the last thing you want is for your speargun to fire unintentionally or malfunction.
Making sure you are grabbing a well-crafted speargun, even at the expense of a few more bucks, will save you a ton of headaches and hazards on your trip.
You also just want to know that your gun will shoot consistently. Skill comes from understanding how your speargun will operate and getting a feel for that motion. If you don’t have consistent equipment, you’ll never really be able to improve your talent.
You never really know what will happen on your next trip. Even when you are not out exploring and fishing in the ocean, there are a ton of times when you have probably thought to yourself “man, I should really get a pocket knife.”
And it doesn’t really slow down when you start to get in the water, either, so investing in a high-quality knife to have alongside you when you spearfish is a smart move considering how much convenience it will provide.
There are a ton of knives out there that can function as both everyday utility and diving knives, so all you have to do is find one that you like.
The whole point of speargun fishing is to adventure beneath the surface to see what kind of fish swim beneath you and if you can catch them. If you are using a cheap mask, then you are probably regularly dealing with problems like excessive fogging, leaking, discomfort, and poor visibility.
Your mask is only as good as the design and materials it is made from, but just because a mask is expensive doesn’t mean it is good. In fact, there are a ton of top-tier scuba and snorkeling masks available around the $100 price point.
The trick is to find the quality and style that best fits your needs. Planning on going deep? Something to help you equalize ear pressure might be your best bet. Planning on staying near the surface, but still want the best views possible? An oval mask might do the trick.
Nothing — and we repeat — nothing is worse than getting all the way out to your speargun fishing location just to find that after one or two shots your equipment has broken. It’s possibly one of the worst feelings any adventurer could feel.
Unless, that is, you have a back up plan that includes high-quality replacement slings. Then, it still feels pretty bad to have gone through a piece of equipment, but at least the day isn’t ruined.
With these four items, there is still a chance you might get out to the location and kick yourself for not grabbing that really obvious piece of equipment, but the odds are a lot lower at least.
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This 9-mile path begins at Ferry landing Marketplace and ends at Imperial Beach. It’s a great place to take your skates for a spin because there is zero elevation gain on the trail and has great views of the oceanside and city.
This trail is one of the more popular places for bicyclists to explore since it is fully paved and relatively flat (52 ft elevation gain/loss). It is 6.3 miles long and offers awesome views of the water and city.
There is just really nothing quite like rolling down a boardwalk on your roller skates, taking in the ocean breeze and the summer sun. It’s even better when that boardwalk is a bustling destination for all the shops and restaurants you would expect a top-tier boardwalk to have.
This trail stretches around 4.5 miles and is full of beautiful scenery, shrubbery, wildflowers and more. You’ll probably spot more than a few people birdwatching or wildflower spotting while you are on this trail, but that engagement from its visitors is part of the Father Junipero trail’s charm.
As Mission Trails Regional Park puts it themselves, “[Lake Murray] is very popular for bicycling, jogging, walking, rollerblading, and picnicking.” Its trails are set along the gorgeous lake views that put you right in the center of nature.
The trail going around Lake Miramar is a closed loop that is completely paved. There are a lot of different activities you can take advantage of as well if you are looking to shake things up a bit. Another plus: this trail is also dog friendly if you want your pup to do some of the pulling.
Embarcadero is a cultural hub that paints a clear picture of San Diego’s maritime history. Museums, harbor tours and historic ships are all part of this hub, and the stretch of concrete that connects them all makes for an awesome place to do some casual skating. You’ll probably want to keep the speed at a minimum here, though, since it is usually filled with lots of visitors!
Liberty Station in itself may not be a particularly great place to roller skate, the area around it has some awesome views and stretches of sidewalks to push through. If you want to take the skates off, there are even more sites that you can check out at this former Naval Training Center.
While the Gaslamp Quarter might be most well-known for its nightlife, it offers an awesome downtown environment to roller skate around and explore. You’ll want to be careful here and mind your speeds, though, because it is pretty heavily trafficked by pedestrians and cars.
Little Italy has been growing in popularity for years now because of its huge supply of craft eateries and breweries. While you’ll have to be alert in this populated area while you skate, you can easily grab a quick order of pizza by the slice or sit down for a full meal and great drinks once you need a break. The scenery and personality of this area are second to none, so it’s definitely worth the consideration.
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If you are looking for a board that can offer you the same kind of coasting experience while also being extremely agile, then you are looking for a mini cruiser.
What is a mini cruiser, anyway? A mini cruiser, commonly referred to as a penny board or just “cruiser,” is sort of a combination between a longboard and a street skateboard.
The average mini cruiser is about 22 inches long (closer to that of the skateboard), but their design more closely resembles that of a longboard, which makes them a great option for getting places.
But why should you buy a mini cruiser? Easy:
They come in a ton of different colors and designs, so you can grab something that perfectly matches your personality and vibe.
Mini cruisers are built to be travel size. We know you are looking to go places and don’t want to have to lug around a massive log of wood whenever you get a place where you can’t ride.
Storing something the size of a longboard can be cumbersome, so why not avoid the headache and get something that is a convenient size?
On that same note, mini cruisers are super lightweight. Generally made from plastic and equipped with aluminum trucks, you won’t be weighed down by a ton a weight when you inevitably have to grab your board.
Despite being travel size and lightweight, the ride that a mini cruiser offers is incredibly smooth. This is primarily because of the size of the wheels, which tend to be wider than wheels on skateboards. Couple that with softer wheels, and you will find yourself feeling like you are drifting through clouds even on rough asphalt.
A mini cruiser is also much more agile than a longboard. The short size (roughly 22 inches) allows the rider to pivot quickly without having to lean as hard into the turn. If you are looking to ride through heavily trafficked areas, a mini cruiser is the ideal choice.
If you are new to riding a board and need a few tips to get you headed in the right direction, check out our beginner’s guide on how to ride a penny board (mini cruiser).
Because of their nimbleness, many people find it much easier to correct a potential wipeout on a mini cruiser. Being able to quickly nudge it back into line without feeling like you have to overcorrect is a huge advantage to having a small board.
Most cruisers, such as the Penny Limited Edition Simpsons Mini Cruiser, have a “waffle” plastic design on the top unlike the closely related street skateboards that rely on griptapes. This reliable grip pattern doesn’t wear as easily as griptape does and will never need replacing.
At the end of the day, the mini cruiser achieves exactly what it sets out to do: give you a smooth, agile and easy ride to your destination. Everything about them is designed to achieve that goal, and, until you’ve ridden one, you won’t really know how life changing the ride can be.
The basics of spearfishing are simple: you use a sharp spear attached to an elastic or compressed air powered gun in order to hunt fish. After that, the rest is pretty self-explanatory. You find a body of water with some fish you are looking to catch and have at it.
Spearfishing has a long history in many different cultures. The earliest civilizations would use sharpened wood sticks to stick fish from above the water in rivers, streams and lakes. Modern spearfishing was really popularized in the 1920s in the Mediterranean.
(This would eventually lead to the development of contemporary diving masks, fins and snorkels.)
There are a few different variations of spearfishing to choose from, though. Free-diving or snorkeling are popular forms of the activity that require very little investment other than picking up some standard snorkeling equipment and basic spearfishing gear.
This is a great way to get a feel for the sport without having to commit heavily to a ton of equipment or overwhelm yourself with harder stuff like scuba spearfishing.
Scuba spearfishing is a little more expensive of a hobby to get into. If you already have some scuba gear lying around, then you don’t need to worry too much about the initial investment or learning curve.
Having a solid background in scuba diving means you don’t need to learn two skills and can focus solely only on getting a hang of spearfishing, which is a hard enough task to learn on its own. Here are a few tips to get you started:
If you don’t know how to scuba dive, this guide is a great place to start. It handles some of the basics to get you in the water and a few pro-tips that will help give you an edge.
But it is absolutely vital to make sure you are properly certified in scuba diving before you make any attempts.
If you take the proper precautions and do your due diligence, spearfishing can be a safe and exciting pastime with very minimal risk. But you should always be aware of your surroundings and keep a keen eye on the conditions just to be safe.
Look up local regulations and conditions before you dive. This will minimize the likelihood of something taking you by surprise. You’ll likely also learn about local threats to look out for in your location.
Read the instructions for your gun and understand how to operate it and your scuba or snorkeling gear well before actually diving into the water.
It is physically exhausting to snorkel, scuba dive or free dive. When you add the extra layer of work that comes with operating a speargun, you are definitely in for a challenging activity.
Once you get the hang of it though, spearfishing is like any other hobby. It just takes practice to get going. The more you do it, the better you’ll get. Hardcore enthusiasts call this process “getting a feel for your shot.”
Where you spearfish generally makes a difference in how difficult your experience is as well. There are four main types of spearfishing: shore diving, boat diving, blue water hunting and freshwater hunting.
Shore diving and freshwater are where most beginners tend to get their start and hone their skills since there is generally less risk there than blue water (open ocean) and boat spearfishing.
It’s a skill you’ll need to practice, but once you do, you will be able to take part in one of the oldest and most fun hobbies that are out there.
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So, is roller skating dangerous? Many people will tell you no, but the honest answer is that it can be. If you don’t do your diligence and take some time to learn about it, you might put yourself in a position where you are in harm's way. Just like any other sport or activity, you have to learn the proper way to do things to keep yourself safe.
Instead of having to read through hundreds of forums and dozens of how-to guides, we decided to compile a list for our customers of the most important ways you can keep yourself safe while learning how to roller skate.
Getting a new set of roller skates is exciting. All the excitement you have built from watching hours of roller skating videos comes bubbling up to the surface. So, what mistake do a lot of people make? They immediately take their skates to a skate park or some other public place.
No matter how many videos you watch, it will take you some time to learn the movements of roller skating. It will take you even longer to get comfortable with falling (yes, you read that right, falling) when you are in a bad situation.
Instead, strap the skates on and head to your nearest … driveway. There’s nothing safer than having your own small piece of concrete to push around when you are first learning. There are no skateboarders or bicyclists sharing the space, so the chances of you crashing into someone are slim, and you won’t feel so compelled to push yourself out of your comfort zone yet.
If you don’t have a driveway, any kind of block of concrete will do. A sidewalk on a lightly trafficked street is a great option,and comes with the additional benefit of having softer things to land on like grass or shrubbery should you take a tumble. And, again, you will take a few tumbles when you are learning.
Once you get comfortable riding around your block, then it is time to visit those more public places like the boardwalk or skate park.
This seems like a no-brainer, but so many people make the mistake of picking the wrong size when they are first starting out.
The trick to successful roller blading is having stability in your ankles. If your ankles are wobbling around inside the skate, then you are probably going to have a hard time keeping your balance regardless of how good you are.
If you find that your skates are just a little too big and would prefer a bit of a tighter fit, don’t send them in for a resize. Instead, throw on an extra pair of thick socks to see if that gets you to where you need to be. Going down an entire size might put unnecessary stress on your feet if they are too small especially if it is only your ankles that are moving around.
If your whole foot has a ton of space to wiggle around, you might need a smaller size. Many skates have sizing guides that can help you figure out what size you need. Different brands have different sizing standards, so check the dimensions before you make a purchase.
Many roller skaters might not even be aware that there are different wheel options meant for different types of roller skating. The two biggest factors are hardness and wheel size.
Roller skates typically come in a hardness scale measured between a 78A (softest) and 108A (hardest) rating. There are pros and cons to both sides.
Softer wheels tend to perform better on surfaces like asphalt and rough concrete because the wheel will give into pressure caused by small rocks and debris. Since they are more malleable, they also offer a lot more grip than harder wheels since they can grab more of the surface. This makes them a great option for beginners.
Harder skates are usually used for smooth surfaces like coated concrete and wood. They offer less grip but more maneuverability than softer skates, so they are often preferred by roller skating veterans and artistic skaters.
There are a ton of wheel options that fall in the middle of the hardness scale. If you are just starting out and plan on getting to a skating rink sometime soon, your best bet might be to find something right in the middle.
As for the size of the skate, the general rule of thumb is that larger wheels are easier to control and offer more grip, whereas smaller wheels offer a wider range of movement but less grip.
The good news is that wheels are easily interchangeable. So don’t be afraid to try new wheel options to find what variety best suits your needs as a roller skater.
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Many of our customers have asked how they can properly clean their skates without causing any damage.
So, to help answer that question, we wanted to create an easy guide for everyone to reference when the time finally comes for your roller skates to get a little love and attention.
We’ve broken down the cleaning guide into three easy-to-follow parts: wheels, bearings, and boots.
The most important thing to remember when you start cleaning your roller skates is that you do not want any amount of water to get into your bearings.
Similar to skateboard bearings, roller skate bearings are the small, circular pieces of metal inside the wheel that allow the wheels to roll freely. If water comes into contact with them, then they can rust and slow your ride.
So when you are cleaning your wheels, it’s important to remove the bearings from the wheels entirely. You could do this with a special tool, or you could just use the bit of metal that holds the wheel to pull it out gently from its nook.
As long as you aren’t damaging the bearing or the wheel, you can pretty much use anything to pull it right out without much fuss.
Once you’ve done that, the best way to do an in-depth clean is to take the wheels and place them in warm, soapy water and let them soak for a bit to get all the grime off. You’ll know they are ready when the hardest bits of dirt wipe off with light scrubbing.
If you have a stronger degreasing agent, you could use that as well, just check the instructions on the product and make sure it isn’t harmful to the plastic of the wheel (some degreasers have powerful chemicals that can eat or strip plastic).
Once you’ve scrubbed the dirt off from the soaked wheels, let them dry completely before reassembling to avoid any accidental rusting.
If you don’t want to completely remove your wheels, you could use an alcohol-based cleaning solution (or just regular isopropyl alcohol) and scrub them down with a hard sponge. This will take a little more effort when it comes to scrubbing, but it prevents you from having to disassemble the roller skate wheels.
Cleaning the roller skate bearing gets a little trickier, unfortunately. It’s still a pretty simple process, but you will need some kind of tool like a paper clip or dental pick to remove the bearings seals (little rubber circles that are inside the bearings).
Once you have those removed, grab that isopropyl alcohol again and fully submerge your bearings in a container. Let them sit for about eight to 12 minutes depending on how grimy they are.
There are a couple of things to keep in mind at this stage:
Once everything is cleaned, let it all sit out to air dry for at least 15 minutes. After that, you are free to reassemble.
The boot itself is a little different than the wheels or the bearings. The best way to clean them is to treat them like you would any other shoe. If you have leather, use a leather cleaner and protection. If you have suede, pick up a good and affordable suede cleaner to get the job done right.
A lot of faux leather and vegan-friendly skates can be cleaned with some basic soap and water. Just make sure you are using appropriate products for whatever your skate is made of, and don’t be afraid to take the laces off and let them soak too!
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Learning how to ollie will teach you fundamental skills that you will need to master every other skateboarding trick out there.
While the movements for an ollie are pretty simple to understand, taking the time to perfect the muscle memory will help you out a ton in the long run.
Practice this trick while staying in one spot at first. Once you have the movements down, start practicing your ollies while rolling forward.
The biggest piece of advice any skater will give you is to have patience and keep at it. Some people can learn to do a reliable ollie in a few weeks, others might need a couple of months. Being confident doing this basic trick in all different capacities will pay huge dividends later on when you are trying to learn something like a pop shuvit or kickflip.
Even if you find yourself struggling early on, it’s important to remember that different people are better at different tricks. The extra time you spent learning how to ollie might be saved later on when you find you are a natural at a more advanced trick.
Once you are confident in your ability to ollie while rolling forward, mastering the ollie while rolling backward will help you feel even more comfortable moving around on the board.
Learning curves are drawn out when skaters are too nervous to hurt themselves.
It might take some time to get comfortable rolling backward, especially after spending so much time practicing while moving forward, but this trick should come a lot easier since you already know how to do the ollie movements.
Make sure you are utilizing the grip tape on the board properly — it will give you the friction you need to pull these tricks off without putting in too much force. If your board is lacking effective grip tape, there are some good grip tape options out there that you can get for less than $15.
While a pop shuvit looks way cooler than just an ollie, the movements you need to make for an ollie are actually a little more complex.
But since the board is actually spinning, it can feel a little more intimidating — this is where the confidence from spending weeks on the ollie can come in. Don’t be afraid to get out there with an aggressive start.
Essentially, a pop shuvit is making the board do a horizontal 180-degree spin. Your back foot will be doing most of the work here, you will only be using your front foot to catch the board from spinning past the 180-degree point.
Once you’ve put in the hours to master this trick, you will finally have a little flair to show off for all your hard work.
The kickflip is probably one of the most iconic skateboarding tricks around. It is also the point where a little bit more skill and finesse on the board is needed to pull it off.
There are two major components to this trick: the pop and the kick. Spend some time visualizing the trick and going over the movements in your head before even stepping on your board.
If you don’t understand the movements of the board, you will only get frustrated by a lack of technique.
Once you understand the mechanics of a kickflip, the heelflip is essentially the same trick — you are just positioning your foot a little differently and kicking out the opposite way.
For this trick, you want your front foot to be positioned similarly to how you would set up an ollie, except that you want your toes to slightly hang off the board.
Once you have any of the tricks figured out, the next step is learning how to do them from different starting points — rolling, drops or any other starts you can think of will help you become more and more comfortable on your board.
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It’s normal and exciting to want to share that time with your entire family, but after booking that trip to Hawaii or the Great Barrier Reef, there is a common question that parents start to have shortly after all the arrangements are made: is snorkeling dangerous?
The answer? It can be — if you don’t take the proper steps to prepare you and your family for the adventure.
Snorkeling is generally considered to be a safe activity, but there are always dangers that can occur out in the ocean that should be considered. Staying safe isn't difficult. It just takes a little awareness and preparation.
To help get you there, here is a list of 5 of the best ways you can stay safe while snorkeling.
One of the biggest problems new snorkelers run into is not being able to securely fasten a mask to their face. In the water, this creates visibility problems that can increase the likelihood of injury and dampen the snorkeling experience.
Many people choose to rent snorkeling gear at their destination. While it may seem like a better option to save baggage space, you can’t always be sure that the integrity of the equipment you are renting is up to par.
Straps may be worn out and stretched, and the glass may even be stained, scratched, or too corroded to see through.
Opting to purchase your own snorkeling equipment rather than renting at the location you are snorkeling is the best way to ensure that your entire family gets the most out of the excursion.
Jellyfish populations, harmful coral and aggressive fish are just a few of the dangers that you need to watch out for when snorkeling. Not every location has the same risks, so it is best to do some research on your destination specifically.
Having a first aid kit handy or some ointment to help soothe jellyfish stings (which are very common in popular tourist locations like Hawaii, Australia and Japan) can make a huge difference if a problem does prevent itself.
Full-face masks are a relatively recent development in the snorkeling community, and there have been many reports of people not getting enough oxygen and showing signs of CO2 poisoning during their snorkeling sessions.
These masks also don’t offer a way to equalize the pressure around your face, which means diving even a few meters deep could become extremely uncomfortable after small periods of time.
Choosing a standard mask with watertight ear cups or even an oval single lens mask can help prolong your time in the water by keeping you and your loved ones as comfortable as possible.
If you or a family member insists on using a full-face mask, it is best to find one that has been developed with a mechanism to expel CO2 as you breathe naturally.
Snorkeling is one of the more relaxing water excursions you can participate in, but that doesn’t mean you should neglect your own health. Conditions like asthma, diabetes, anemia, or high blood pressure can be problematic with strenuous activity.
Take a minute every so often to evaluate how your body is holding up. There is no shame in getting out of the water for a few minutes if you need to relax or regain your footing.
Bringing along floaties or inflatable tubes for children can help them worry less about straining their bodies and more on the scenery in the ocean. Since adults might be a little less likely to put floaties on their arms, life vests are a good alternative to help keep them afloat.
If someone in your group does have a condition that could become a factor, it is a good idea to keep them around another adult. Which leads us into our next tip...
Adventuring is always safer when you have companions to help you out if something goes wrong. The general consensus among the snorkeling and watersports communities is that you always go out with at least one other person.
This way, if something does happen, you or your family member aren’t out on the ocean by yourself without a paddle. Keep children and younger teens with adults just to be safe or travel together through the ocean as a family or group.
After all, the best experiences you will have while snorkeling are those you share with the people closest to you.
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Resettable Padlock. This super durable padlock has a carabiner clip with a resettable 3-number combination. Perfect for locking up your luggage at the hostel or keeping your dry box secure on the beach, it’s essentially the gift of peace of mind — totally worth it.
Dive Torch. Even if your loved one isn’t a diver, we’d recommend gifting a dive torch in place of a standard flashlight. Why? Because they can take the beating that comes with being thrown around in a carry-on. Plus, they’re completely waterproof, which is a huge plus.
Dry Bag. Speaking of waterproof — this one’s a no-brainer. Dry bags aren’t just good for tropical vacations, they’re also awesome for storing liquids in your luggage, keeping a wet towel away from the rest of your clothing, or storing dirty laundry.
Snorkeling Set. If you know someone who loves the ocean and continues to rent their snorkeling gear — stop right now and get them a snorkeling set. Honestly — would you want to use a snorkel that (who knows how many) people have used before you? Yeah, we didn’t think so.
Repair Patches. One of the most difficult things about traveling is that you can’t just run home and grab another jacket (or bag or umbrella) if yours rips. These adhesive repair patches are waterproof, and they can be cut into any size or shape you need.
Glasses Lanyard. Whether you’re backpacking through Europe or on a dive boat off the coast of New Zealand, having a lanyard to keep your glasses in place might be the best accessory to have (especially if you have a prescription that’s not easily found in stores).
Rescue Flash Mirror. For the outdoorsy traveler or hiker in your life — this signal mirror is an awesome little piece of safety gear to have on hand in case of an emergency. It’s visible for over 20 miles in clear weather and is super compact for easy storage.
Water-Resistant Binoculars. Pausing your plans because of inclement weather can be a huge bummer. These water-resistant binoculars ensure that — rain or shine — you can follow through with your outdoor plans.
Sun-Protective Clothes. Coolibar is the first brand with fabric that’s recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation. With everything from rashguards to swim shorts to tunics, this line of gear is awesome for travelers who take advantage of the sunshine every time they get the chance.
Earplugs. Even if they travel frequently, there’s no getting used to a crying baby or a couple of buddies who won’t stop gabbing in the seat behind you. These earplugs are super soft and reusable.
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Skate tool. Having a skate tool is essential for anyone who skates regularly. No need to lug around a bunch of tools — just one piece to keep on hand for adjusting any skateboard setup.
Skateboard wax. One of those items that skaters can’t get enough of, wax is a must-have, particularly for street skaters since it helps keeps those rails and ledges slick for grinds. Plus, they usually come in pretty funky tins and shapes, so they’re a fun item to pull out of your stocking.
Griptape. While buying parts for a skateboard can be a dangerous game in other circumstances, griptape’s one of the few that you can mostly get away with. Lots of skaters still have their preferences, but it’s usually one of two or three major brands.
Stickers. This one might seem a little basic if you’re outside the loop, but skaters consume stickers like water. They collect them, sticker-slap their decks, and stick them on light poles at street corners anytime they get a chance.
Hardware. Only buy skateboard hardware as a stocking stuffer if you know their usual setup. Some skaters put rubber risers on their board, which can extend the length of the bolts they’d need.
Skate t-shirt. If you’re worried about buying skateboard parts and you’d rather go another route, a t-shirt from their favorite skate brand is a great route to take. Skating is a grimy sport, so they can never have too many clothes.
A beanie. If you don’t live in one of the more temperate skate capitals of the world, having a beanie to skate during those winter months is almost as essential as the skateboard itself.
Bearings. While some skaters have a preference for bearings, they’re all going to be the same size and work pretty much the same way. This is an easier piece of gear to buy, with the only major difference being the material (some bearings are made of ceramic, which you’ll recognize by the price tag). Bearings are some of the most frequently replaced items on a board, so they’ll never have enough stocked up.
Gift cards. When all else fails, get them a gift card to their favorite skate shop (and believe us, they definitely have a favorite). It’s by far the most valuable and useful thing they could get.
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Skate laces. Can’t roller skate without laces (well, you could try but you wouldn’t get too far). Laces are a great little accessory to slip into a stocking because skaters always more of them. They’re also the perfect piece to show off some personality.
Skate leash. The perfect gift for the forgetful skater — or just someone who carries around their skates like they’re the star of a 70s musical.
Bearing lubricant. Going for something a little more functional? Don’t attempt to buy them new bearings; just — don’t. They’re almost guaranteed to have their picky preferences. But bearing lubricant is the next best thing and something they can never get enough of.
Insoles. Those feet sure do take a beating when they’re on wheels. A good pair of insoles are super useful (and might even make their skating technique better!).
Pin. We’re cheating a little bit here because this category is so broad. Go look up “roller skating pin” on Google. We dare you to open up that Pandora’s Box.
Socks. This one’s for the grandmother out there who just loves to give socks for Christmas. Now’s your time to shine.
Hockey tape. Hockey tape is used in roller derby to protect skate boots from damage. A great one for that skater who goes through roller skates like they’re water.
Epsom salts. Epsom salts are as common as shampoo among roller skaters. They always need them and can never have enough.
A spa gift card. If you’re looking to go for something a little more special, a gift card to a nail salon or spa is like a trip to Disneyland for roller skaters. Treat them to a pedicure or a massage and they’ll never forget it.
Jacket patch. This one’s in the same vein as pins — there are so. many. options. But skaters love to show off their passion, so you can’t go wrong with a good jacket patch.
Face paint. If you’ve ever seen a derby match, it’s like a performance and a sports match all rolled up into one. Many derby teams paint their faces before a match, so a palette of face paint is a fun gift to get.
Skate key. This universal tool is designed to quickly tighten the axle nuts on your wheels and usually comes in the form of a keychain for quick and easy use.
Mouthguard spray. That mouthguard can get pretty raunchy after a while. Freshen it up with mouthguard spray for her gear bag, or hey, you could always get a new mouthguard as a gift instead!
Ankle booties. Bruised and swollen ankles are a pretty common occurrence for regular roller skaters. And if your loved one is fresh meat, that possibility is much higher. Keep them comfy with a pair of ankle booties for the holidays.
Toe stops. Most roller skate toe stops are removable, and because they take obvious wear and tear due to their function, they’re a frequently replaced piece.
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There are a few things to consider before you start shopping for wetsuits. They’re not difficult questions to answer, but if you’re a newbie at this kind of gear, it might require a little bit of research on your local waters. You can easily access this information by talking to someone at your local surf shop.
What is the water temperature? If you’re surfing in the cooler waters of Southern California, you’re going to need a little more coverage than if you’re snorkeling in the temperate Florida Keys. If you tend to travel a lot and go from warm to cool waters, consider a two-piece wetsuit that allows you to layer on pieces without having to buy multiple wetsuits.
What will you be doing? Different watersports require different types of movement. Purchasing a wetsuit that caters to that sport will maximize the use you get out of it and make sure it will be comfortable and functional. For example, anti-abrasion shoulder panels are a great option if you plan on wearing a backmount BCD.
What material do you want your wetsuit to be? By and large, neoprene is the most common material used to manufacture wetsuits. While most people will be able to use this standard material with no problem, it’s worth noting that if you have an allergy to neoprene or prefer a more environmentally-friendly option, there are natural rubber wetsuit options for you. They are more difficult to find and more expensive, however, so you may have to do some extra digging to find a wetsuit that fits your needs.
If you’ve never worn a wetsuit before (or you’ve only borrowed an ill-fitting one from a friend), the trying-on process can be tedious. It’s normal to feel like your wetsuit is too tight, but keep in mind that once you get in the water, the neoprene will stretch slightly. If your wetsuit is skintight but you can still lift your arms above your head with some effort and breathe normally, then you’re wearing the right size.
Once you’ve bought your wetsuit, it’s a good idea to stock up on a couple of essential care items to extend the life of your wetsuit and make sure it stays in tip-top shape. Wash your wetsuit with a good wetsuit cleaner and hang it in the shade to dry after each use. It’s also a good idea to use a silicone lubricant for donning your wetsuit to prevent any snags or tears in the material.
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Keep in mind that not everything on this list will work for you because every person’s anxiety is different. Take it slow and try one or two things at a time. If you’re suffering from severe anxiety, consult your doctor.
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Barcelona started to become more known in the skate world in the late 1990s when Transworld was putting out videos featuring some really amazing spots. One of the most iconic is MACBA, or the Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art. With some of the coolest street spots you’ll find, Barcelona is a must-visit on any skater’s list.
The birthplace of skateboarding. From San Diego to LA, Southern California is the home of many pros for good reason. Warm weather year-round means the opportunities for street skating are endless. It’s also where skate culture was born, so you can skate the same spots that paved the way for icons like Tony Alva, Stacy Peralta, Patti McGee and Tony Hawk.
20 skateparks within a 10-mile radius — is there anything else to say? While Sydney is definitely the favorite child in pop culture, Melbourne is a skateboarding mecca for Australian locals and visitors alike. Outside the parks, urban open planning provides plenty of spaces for street skaters.
Shenzhen is located in the Guangdong Province in southern China, where explosive urban growth has led to virtually untouched skate spots throughout the area. There are open plazas in front of almost every building, and marble seems to be the new concrete no matter where you go.
While the rain can be a real downer, London has continually been a European epicenter for skateboarding. And over the past few years, demographics of the skate scene have expanded, welcoming skaters of all ages, genders and cultures. New skateparks continue to open across the city, showing how skating has become ingrained in the culture.
This underrated hotspot had a recent building boom, with fresh pavement making way for super smooth sessions all around. While it’s not on many “must visit” lists, we expect it to make its way there in the next few years.
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Weren’t expecting that to be on the list, were you? Posture isn’t just about not slouching at the dinner table. It’s also about distributing your bodyweight properly, a really important factor when you’re on wheels! When you’re skating, make sure that your feet are shoulder-width apart with your knees bent into a slight squat. It might feel a little awkward at first, but once you start moving, you’ll understand why it’s so important.
If you’re not sure what gliding means, it essentially refers to longer strides on your skates as you switch from one foot to the other. As you push off with one foot, practice gliding a little bit longer on the skate that’s still on the ground. The foot you just pushed off with should be slightly hovering above the ground with your knee still bent. Once you begin to lose momentum, do the same with the other foot. Practice doing this with longer and longer (and don’t forget to maintain your posture!).
Stopping on roller skates can be really daunting at first, and it’s usually one of the hardest things for beginners to grasp — especially because it requires balance. To stop, put the skate with the toe stop (if you only have one) in the back as you push down on it. Make sure that you’re still in a squatting posture as you do this to maintain proper bodyweight distribution and prevent you from falling.
As with anything in roller skating, the best way to get better at balancing is through consistent practice. Lace up your skates daily, even if it’s only for 15 minutes. Just this little bit of regular use will help you get in the habit of using the proper techniques. Pro tip: find someone who is a more advanced skater than you are and learn from them. Having someone whom you can emulate and who can give you feedback can be a huge benefit as your skills grow.
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