Jammed

Thread Shed Snowboard Competition

2010-11-10T17:10:00.002-05:00

For all you snowboarders out there, looking to get an early start, head out to Thread Shed for this comp on Saturday!

Justin Fabus Lazer Flip!

2010-10-07T11:24:00.003-04:00

Lazer Flip- Photo: Morley

Cody Shepherd Quick Pre-Winter Edit

2010-10-07T11:20:00.002-04:00

Hey guys,

I know winter is still a bit away, but Cody sent us this edit of him gearing up for the up coming season!

2010 Promo from Cody Shepherd on Vimeo.

AmGetttingPaid 2010

2010-09-20T12:34:00.003-04:00

Hey guys,

So we are headed to Montreal this week for AGP. Shayne Eldridge, Justin Fabus and Cole Hacker are all going down to compete--Good Luck Boys!

Will keep the blog updated as the weekend goes on.

Peace

Es Game of Skate and $500 Winner

2010-09-07T11:29:00.006-04:00

Nollie Heel
Photo: Morley

It's been a hell of a couple of weeks for Shayne Eldridge. The guy came in 3rd at Toronto Es Game of Skate qualifier, and on labour day weekend he won $500 taking 1st place at the rabid games Ashbridges Contest. Keep it going homie!!

Ridin 4 Riches Recap

2010-09-01T10:51:00.003-04:00

It was damm hot on Saturday for the Ridin 4 Riches contest but that didn't stop FJ rider Shayne Eldridge from capturing 3rd place in the 14-17 category and winning a ton of prizes. Congrats Shayne!!!

State Your Name Promo #1

2010-08-30T14:07:00.003-04:00

Erik Valentic and the Minor Media crew, have a new promo out. Peep it here.
Got a few of our riders in it (Justin Fabus, Cole Hacker, Shayne Eldridge)

Ridin 4 Riches This Weekend (August 28) at Ash-B Skatepark

2010-08-24T09:36:00.003-04:00

Yo check out the flyer, in what is going to be one of the biggest comps of the summer in the Toronto area. You have no excuses not to come down!!!

We are also one of the event sponsors!

Check This Shit Out!

2010-08-19T09:38:00.001-04:00

We just had to post this video!

The Week of August 9th

2010-08-12T10:05:00.004-04:00

Hey guys,

Well 2 weeks ago we took a trip down to Ottawa and what a great trip it was. Big thanks to our filmers and photographer who tagged along (Anthony Perre, Erik Valentic and James Morley)

Make sure to check out Erik's blog (http://www.minormediavideos.blogspot.com/) for some Ottawa footage.

And we will be uploading pictures real soon.

We also spent last weekend at Wakestock and hopefully if you where there you had a chance to stop by our booth and say hi.

The other big news on our front is look out for our new 2010-2011 Line coming out within the next couple of weeks. I think you'll really like what you see.

Make sure you get out there and enjoy the rest of your summer!!!

FIGJAM @ WAKESTOCK

2010-08-05T19:46:00.003-04:00

If you find yourself at wakestock this weekend, make sure to check us out at our booth..Definately going to be an epic weekend.

The Week that was...the week that's coming

2010-07-29T10:49:00.004-04:00

Couple of our FJ riders Shayne Eldridge and Justin Fabus where at the Throw-Down in O-Town last weekend, and killed it.

They managed to work through all the rain, both Shayne and Justin won their perspectie games of skates and Shayne took 3rd place in the AM category wining over $400 in product.

OTTAWA THIS WEEKEND- We got quite the crew heading to Ottawa this weekend. We'll be there from Friday to Monday. Competing in Volcom's Wild in the Parks (Shayne Eldridge, Justin Fabus and Cole Hacker) also coming along the Minor Media boys in Erik Valentik and James Morley, so look for some sick photos and monty coming out shortly after.

Peace

An Update on July 7, 2010

2010-07-07T14:08:00.005-04:00

So shit it's been a while since we updated this blog, we've been up to so much haven't been able to keep up with everything. So here goes some news for you

1. Let's welcome Cole Hacker to the team. Unless you've been hidding under a rock you've definately heard of this guy and he's recent trip to the berrics. He went down with the Minor Media crew. All you need to do is go on youtube, and search Minor Media and Berrics, and you'll see what we are talking about. So we are pretty stoked on having this guy on our team.

2. We also need to thank the guy's at switch skate and Snow for number 1 hosting a great Canada Day event, in which are man Shayne Eldridge took 1st place and a ton of prizes, and 2 hosting DC Nationals this year.

3. This weekend July 10th: Red Bull's Manny Mania, going to be a fun show to watch and participate in followed on the 11th at Dunbat Skatepark in Ontario, Matix Lord of the Lines.

That's a small update for now, but rest assured we will keep you mroe updated now. Get outside and enjoy the sun friends.

Joey Bondi New 2010 Footy!

2010-04-22T09:22:00.002-04:00

Check out some of Joey's new 2010 footy, he's off to a great start to the year!

Some Amazing Results From A Couple of Our Riders

2010-03-12T09:25:00.003-05:00

So these two dudes- 1's from Ottawa and 1's from Barrie have been tearing up lately. Here's some results we love to share with you

Cody Shepherd: 5th Place at Edelweiss 3Xl Slopestyle, and 1st Place at the Mount Pakenham Series

Travis Mooney: Fuckin ripped it up and got 2nd Place at the Telus Triple Challenge

And Also our main Kirk Harriott killed it at the BTL Best Trick Contest couple of weeks back, winning of the best trick prizes!

Joey Bondi at industry skate park

2010-02-16T13:08:00.001-05:00

Here's a quick edit that Joey sent us today. Keep it up young Joey Bondi

Cody Shepherd 2010 Edit

2010-02-11T16:38:00.003-05:00

Hey guys, Check out the edit Cody Shepherd sent us from his 2010 season....Way to go Codes!!!

Couple of Matt Hutchinson's Edits Before His Injury

2010-01-05T11:01:00.001-05:00

Part 1

Part 2

GET BETTER MATT!

Just Had To Post This! (Skate 2 - Remake (Justin Fabus))

2009-12-15T09:25:00.001-05:00

1 Minute @ Iceland with Shayne Eldridge

2009-11-18T09:16:00.001-05:00

West 49's Ambition Skatecamp

2009-11-02T16:10:00.004-05:00

Our man Kirk Harriott is one of the skaters competing on West 49's Ambition Skatecamp which premiers tonight at 9pm on BiteTV

It looks like its going to be a great show to watch, join us and cheer on for Kirk, who we hope takes top prize!

Justin Fabus 2009 Promo

2009-10-28T09:32:00.001-04:00

Yo Check this out!! Our man Justin has a new promo out

Trick or Treat Snow Jam in Ottawa

2009-10-27T09:37:00.004-04:00

Hey guys,

FIGJAM is one of many sponsors, for En Equilibre 'Trick or Treat' Snow Jam taking place this October 31st. There's a sick riders list, and lots of prizes available. Here's the flyer below.

Our man Cody Shepherd will be there too!

Skate Contest- Asbridges Skate Park- This Saturday

2009-10-22T10:11:00.002-04:00

Hey guys,

It may be October but still a few contests going around in Toronto. Check this one out going on this saturday at the new Ashbridges Park, sponsored by So Hip.

Check out their website for more info
http://www.sohipithurts.ca/

Also for all those in London, the Boardshop is throwing together a contest at the new Kiwanis Skate plaza you'll definately want to check out.

2009-2010 FIGJAM Catalogue Release

2009-09-29T10:04:00.006-04:00

We've just released our 2009-2010 Catalogue...Some pretty sick stuff in there..... Have a peek

http://www.livinthedream.ca/2009cat/09/figjamcat/album/index.html

Visit our dealers page to find the nearest location for you, or if you are interested in purchasing online please contact us at sales@livinthedream.ca, and we will be happy to help.

DamnAm- Vancouver Stop

2009-09-18T14:39:00.003-04:00

This weekend a bunch of us will be at Bonsor Skatepark for DamnAm...If you are in Vancouver this is definately the place to be this weekend. Top 80 skaters from across Canada. Top 12 get to compete at TampaAM.....On our side--Good Luck Justin Fabus

Check for updates on TWITTER: FIGJAM Apparel

2 Great Art Shows to Check Out!

2009-09-09T13:05:00.001-04:00

Hey guys,Couple of the FIGJAM Artist are throwing or involved in a couple of amazing art shows this month. Definately something you want to check out!

Some of Joel Libbin's art will be on display at the Whipper Snapper Galley at 587A College street from September 11th to September 27th.

Opening September 11th at 7:00pmCallum Schuster has got a joint art show going at Earth and Fire Gallery (489 Queen Street West) on Friday September 25th, opens at 8:00pmHopefully we see you there...PeaceFIGJAM
www.callumschuster.com

Wakestock 2009

2009-07-31T11:04:00.002-04:00

FIGJAM WILL BE AT WAKESTOCK THIS YEAR!!!

LOOK FOR OUR BOOTH IN THE MARKETPLACE

FIGJAM's Justin Fabus @ AMGettingPaid

2009-07-22T11:42:00.003-04:00

Good Luck @ AGP- Justin

Check for updates on Twitter

Ching Skate Park Contest

2009-07-06T11:40:00.003-04:00

Going to be epic.

The Beaver Has Landed Contest

2009-07-02T11:10:00.002-04:00

Last weekend Joey Bondi and Justin Fabus were both at the Beaver Has Landed annual contest. Finnished 1st and 2nd respectively in their age category, here's some pics from that day.

Justin Fabus at Ching Park-30 Second Edit

2009-06-23T11:47:00.003-04:00

Justin Fabus at Ching Park 30 Second Edit
Filmed and Edited by Anthony Perre

June 21st 'GO Skateboarding Day'

2009-06-19T11:57:00.003-04:00

Sunday June 21st, Go Skateboarding Day

Events happening all over Canada! Check your local websites for more information.......
We'll be at the Sound Academy for their skate jam on Sunday, see you there

FIGJAM in Concrete

2009-06-19T11:54:00.003-04:00

Hey guys

Make sure to check out our new ad in Concrete Skateboarding's 100th issue! Let us know what you think........

Congrats ThreadShed on your 2nd Anniversary

2009-06-19T11:49:00.003-04:00

On June 13th, ThreadShed celebrated its second anniversary with a massive sale, comp and party. It's a sick store with amazing deals and products, so next time you're in Innisfil make sure to drop into 1036 Edgar Street.

Go Skateboarding Day---Try Go Skateboarding Week!

2009-06-17T11:28:00.002-04:00

Canada's unoficial skateboarding capital, Vancouver- BC has announced that June 15-June 22nd will be officially known as skateboarding week in Vancouver.

Vancouver Mayor Gregor Robertson made the announcement this week. Vancouver is definately going to be party this sunday when the Emerica Team joins over 5000 skaters, for Emerica’s Wild in the Streets

Events are going on all over Canada..make sure to participate and get out there

Joel Libin Art Exhibit

2009-06-04T10:30:00.002-04:00

FIGJAM Artist Joel Libin to host Art Show

Beginning Saturday June 27th, 2009, at the Basic Inquiry Gallery in Vancouver BC, located at 1011 Main Street. The creator of many of our shirts, including the famous "MeTown" will be exhibiting his art from June 27th to August 1st 2009

Gallery hours are Tuesdays and Saturdays from 1 to 4 pm. The address of Basic Inquiry Gallery is 1011 Main Street, located on the west side of Main Street 1 and a half blocks north of Terminal Avenue. For further information about the exhibit you can visit the Basic Inquiry Gallery's website at

< http://www.lifedrawing.org/

http://www.joellibinart.com/

Skate Comp- Saturday May 16- Brampton's Ching Park

2009-05-15T11:06:00.004-04:00

Hey guys

This saturday head over to Brampton's Ching Park, for the first comp of the season at that place. If you haven't been there yet, its definately one the best parks around.

FIGJAM is a co-sponsor so you know they'll be some kick ass prizes

Registration is from 10am-Noon, cost $10. Waiver must be signed

Congrats to Joey Bondi and Justin Fabus

2009-05-15T10:58:00.003-04:00

CONGRATULATIONS

On May 9,2009, members of the FJ skate team competed at the 2nd annual Brantford Skate Comp.

Joey Bondi- 1st place 13 and under

Justin Fabus- 1st place 14 and over

Snow Team Member- Dave Janovjak 2008-2009 Footage

2009-04-29T09:30:00.005-04:00

Urban Rail Jam-DTN Timmins, ON

2009-03-06T11:34:00.003-05:00

Hey guys and girls,

If you find yourself near Timmins this weekend, make sure to go check out the 'Urban Rail' Jam taking place this Saturday, March 7th right DTN. It's going to be a hell of an event, with huge prizes. Event takes place 4pm-10:30pm

30 foot rails, flat boxes, VW Volkswagen and much more.

Not to mention the FIGJAM 'Best Trick' Contest for $$$Cash and Prizes!!

2009-03-05T14:05:00.002-05:00

Last month there was a sick skateboard and art thingy going on at the Five and Dime Trade Show. Our boy Justin Fabus competed.

fakie heel nose slide followed later by nose manny nollie flip

Check out the footage here on

SBC:http://www.sbcskateboard.com/off_the_wire?news_id=793&uniqid=39

New Skate Park Meetings

2009-02-26T11:26:00.004-05:00

Hey guys,

For all you skaters out there, couple of important meetings taking place about some new skate parks in Toronto and Ajax.

Make sure you show your support and get your voice heard in getting these new parks. Below you will find the information

Toronto Skate Park Meeting for an Etobicoke Park
March 3rd from 6:30-8:30pm
Mimico Centennial Library, 47 Station

Ajax Skate Park Meetings

Thursday, February 26, 2009Sign-in at 6:30 p.m. / Start time at 7 p.m. Ajax Community Centre (Youth Room), 75 Centennial Rd.

Tuesday, March 3, 2009Sign-in at 6:30 p.m. / Start time at 7 p.m. McLean Community Centre (Banquet Hall), 95 Magill Dr.

Get your voice heard!
FIGJAM Apparel

FIGJAM'S KIRK HARRIOTT IN FINNESE VIDEO!

2009-02-10T17:38:00.002-05:00

Check out FIGJAM's own Kirk Harriott in the Finnese Video. It's available online via Youtube.com as well as Kirks profile and JAMMED.

Guest Blogger - Dave Janovjak

2009-02-01T13:52:00.004-05:00

Dave competed at Volcom's Peanut Butter Rail Jam on the weekend and blogged about his comp...

What a Day
January 31st, 2009
Blue Mountain, ON.

It's about 11:30 when we get all our crap together and head out for Volcom Stone's Peanut Butter Rail Jam, one of my favorite events of the year.

I arrived at Blue around 12:45 and run to the registration room. As we're all waiting in the line for the 16 over section. It's not looking so good and my patience is definitely running out. So I looked to the left and see an empty line for the Open division of the comp. I say to myself "HELL YA I'M NOT GUNNA WAIT AROUND!!!" and so I signed up for the Open Division. With Everything looking good, we get our gear on and go do some warm-up runs. I end up EATING it on my second hit of the day. I land my trick and roll right through the fence they had bordered around the comp area...go down flipping, helmet flies 50 feet into the damn forest.

great start, huh?

Alright, comp time.

Qualifiers
3 features: Flat Bar, Up Rail and Flat gap Down box.

I didn't get off to the start I wanted in an open division comp, but i guess i made it through alright.

Tricks: Flat Bar: fs 180 in 180 out.

Up Rail: fs 50-50 shifty back 180 out.

Flat Down Box: Front Blunt 270 switch up bs 180 out.

At this point I thought, "man I did shitty. I am definitely not making finals." However, as it ends up, I did make it to finals, and I was damn proud of it too.

Finals
Same Features.

I was a little nervous because of how I did in the qualifiers, but I got my head in gear and threw it all down.

Tricks: Flat Bar: fs 180 in, to switch back tail, 270 out.

Up Rail: Frontside Blunt 450 out.

Flat Down Box: Front Blunt, 360 switch-up to the down, out to fakie.

Now I was pretty damn happy with myself. I got the crowd going a bit. It was an awesome final, a lot of people threw down. But as it ends up, I guess I didn't quite make the cut for top 5 in Open. I was a bit disappointed, felt I shoulda' been up there, but what are you gunna do about it right? Cry, don't think so.

I had an amazing day, lots of fun; and as for the loss, well it just gives me more drive to throw down even harder in my next comp.

WAY TO GO DAVE!!! FIGJAM IS PROUD OF YOU!

Summer Time

2009-02-01T11:13:00.003-05:00

and the livin' is easy...

Joey Bondi

2009-01-30T12:09:00.002-05:00

Joey Bondi Releases new Skate Vid. Check it out...

Justin Fabus at the Warehouse!

2009-01-30T11:46:00.003-05:00

Check it out!

HOLY SH*T!

2009-01-30T09:54:00.003-05:00

WATCH THIS

wingsuit base jumping from Ali on Vimeo.

Power to the Planet.

2009-01-30T08:27:00.004-05:00

Watch this video from Element Skateboards.
Do your part...We CAN make a difference.

Peanut Butter Rail Jam 2009

2009-01-30T07:45:00.004-05:00

Here's a taste of this years Peanut Butter Rail Jam courtesy of VolCast pod cast...enjoy!

New Wii Game lets you shred the slopes and your competition

2009-01-30T06:49:00.003-05:00

Looking for a new Wii game? Why not try Snowboard Riot. This new game features wicked options such as invisibility and turbo speed. Don't you wish you had those on the hill sometimes? You can battle up to 4 players at a time using weapons like rockets and mines to blow away your competition. A neat catch? you can use the Wii balance board to shred the virtual slopes.
You can also design your snowboarders outfit using Oakley brand clothing and accessories. How long before we see FIGJAM in a game...
Read it all about it at worthplaying.com

Achieving the Impossible - a FIGJAM motto

2009-01-30T06:32:00.004-05:00

The first time I went snowboarding, like most, I was a complete and utter mess. I had waterskied my whole life and thus skiing in general was easy to pick up. I figured that I could slalom pretty well and that Snowboarding must be sort of similar. Ya, I was wrong. I spent my first day on my ass for a solid 5 hours. I couldn't even go down a hill that required a chair lift. The thought of looking down the mountain plummeting down it at such speeds would surely be the end of me, not to mention everyone around me.
Imagine my surprise when I learned that 27 year old, Adil Latif, had done what I could not have dreamed imaginable, only he is blind. That's right Latif is legally blind. The Scottish native started going blind in his youth and by 15 had lost his eyesight. He had taken up skiing but he couldn't find a coach in Scotland that could teach differently abled people. He then set off for Utah, where there was a coach, Travis Thiele, that was certified to do just that. Now Thiele and Latif compete in snowboarding events around the world and he is set to compete in Canada this year.
It just goes to show you that if you can believe you can acheieve.
Read the entire story here.

FIGJAM Annouces a Canadian Stimulus Package

2009-01-28T10:56:00.004-05:00

Toronto and North Vancouver, Canada – FIGJAM Apparel Inc. is a Canadian owned and operated apparel and marketing Company based out of North Vancouver, BC and Toronto, ON. Today FIGJAM announces a Canadian stimulus package for consumers and retailers. FIGJAM has just released new additions to its Spring/Summer 2009 line that is sure to lift spirits, capture an audience and get people feeling good about the times.

Director of Marketing Justin Hanna states “While the action sport industry is as strong as ever, and we’ve actually seen a growing consumer base, we felt that while politicians argue over the release of a pessimistic federal budget, we’d offer retailers and consumers something exciting for a change. We are extremely proud to announce some new additions to the FIGJAM line.”

Meet Cody Shepherd

2009-01-07T22:08:00.000-05:00

Hitting the slopes for 4 months with time off school sounds like a dream come true for most 16 year olds and indeed it is for FIGJAM's Cody Shepherd. Shepherd grew up snowboarding in Cold Lake, Alberta where he began shredding slopes at the tender age of 6. Ten years later he is moving to Mt. Avalia to train with professionals and attend homeschooled classes. This is one champion that does not kid around with his training. He was third at the Volcom Peanut Butter Rail Jam and is set to make his debut at the Axis Slopestyle and the Empire Shakedown.

Welcome to the team Cody!

Watch Cody!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EwmG5kCgB2U

Justin Fabus Throwaway 2008

2008-12-10T14:08:00.000-05:00

FIGJAM- AM Skater Justin Fabus

Got some new throwaway footage for 2008, this is some of the best throwaway u'll see anywhere.

Check it out here
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lcjcu8dQQwE

Matt Hutchinson Promo Video

2008-12-10T14:07:00.001-05:00

Hi guys

FIGJAM Skater Matt Hutchinson got a new promo out for 2008- You can check it out here
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tUH2xKcBg20&feature=channel_page

Finesse Video Premiere

2008-11-20T11:53:00.000-05:00

Hey Guys,
This Saturday make sure to check out the Finesse Video Premier at Switch Skate and Snow. FIGJAM's Kirk Harriot is featured in it!!
Click here to get more info!
http://www.finessevideo.blogspot.com/

Great Promo's on Youtube as well

Conflict Resolution Through Skateboarding?? Maybe one day...

2008-09-22T22:59:00.000-04:00

"To me, skateboarding is like a brotherhood," -Hamid Shahram

Kabul: site of some of the most impoverished children in the Middle East is now home to a new flock of skateboarding fanatics. Skateistan started when a couple Australians brought over some boards to engage kids in non-violent and non-competitive sport. The kids and coaches began riding together in empty swimming pools that under the Taliban rule were used for public executions. If the proposed skate park gets built, it would pass into ownership within 12 months however, unlike some NGOs, this project would not collapse.
Percovich, founder of Skateistan, poignantly put it,
"The relationship between Afghans and foreigners is getting more distant," he said. "At least we're not pointing guns at them."

Check out the rest of the article here

Meet Kirk Harriot

2008-09-18T09:27:00.000-04:00

What do England, Gymnastics, dodge ball, and Pink Floyd have in common? Well, nothing unless, of course, you’re Kirk Harriot.
An imperial ex pat, Harriot ditched the gymnastics and headed across the pond to Canada. When asked why he wanted to join FIGJAM, Harriot said, “the clothes and of course, they hook it up good.” Well, it seems Harriot knows a good thing when he sees it. After dabbling in other sports Harriot found his niche in skating. For the past 6 years he’s been hitting the skate scene hard and it all came together when he dominated the Ontario skate scene this year winning the Men's Open Division at this year’s DC National Qualifier.
Harriot’s desire to stay true to the skateboarding culture is apparent when he notes that his motivation comes from seeing younger skaters rip up the concrete. His leadership and incredible skills embody what FIGJAM is all about.
Welcome to the team KIRK!

Girls Girls Girls

2008-09-09T21:35:00.000-04:00

ALL WE WANT IS GIRLS!

The first time I stepped on a skateboard I must admit, I nearly killed myself. My friends decided that I should be the first girl to test their 5ft half pipe built in a backyard barn. Me being the "I can do whatever the boys can do" kind of girl said "no problem". Little did I know the skill that is actually needed to fling oneself down a 5 ft. ramp. The guys strapped me up in hockey equipment and said, " just lean forward and go with the momentum of the board" ...uuh, ya right!
I think right then and there I decided I needed to perhaps stick to trying to master street style.
It seems more than ever, however, girls are starting to join the ranks of the males skate scene. Global Surf News reports that,
Of the 38 sports and activities surveyed by the National Sporting Goods Association (NSGA) in its Sports Participation – Series I and II reports, the female share of skateboarding showed the strongest increase. Females represented 26.6% (2.7 million) of total skateboard participation in 2007; in 2002, they represented on 19.5% (1.9 million) of the participants.

So what does this mean for the industry??
Well, for one we will have to start catering towards a younger female market in order to maintain a pool of up and coming female skaters. This will mean everything from competitions and sponsorships to clothing and and equipment. Will the industry follow suit? Well, if it wants to cash in it will have to. Mark my words, look out for more and more female oriented skate gear in stores near you.

Back To School Skateboard Competition

2008-09-03T10:24:00.000-04:00

On August 30th, FIGJAM co-sponsored a 'Back To School' Skateboarding Comp in Brampton, ON. We're glad to say our own Joey Bondi won the AM division-- Good job, way to represent!

Here are some pics of our product toss--- It was an amazing day, 30 degree weather, sun

'Back To School' Skateboard Competition

2008-08-26T11:02:00.000-04:00

Well labor weekend, means thousands of peeps are headed back to School on tuesday, but not after winning some cash and cool prizes. If you are in the Toronto/Brampton area this weekend. Make sure to head down to Ching Park for the 'Back To School' Competition being held. Cash to be made, prizes to be won.

Check out the flyer! $10 reg fee.

FIGJAM At DC Nationals

2008-08-26T10:35:00.000-04:00

This past weekend, FIGJAM National AM Skater Justin Fabus competed at DC Nationals at Montreal's South Park for the chance to win $20,000. The competition brought 40 skaters who had previously qualified from acrooss Canada. J.S Lapierre took first place with an $8000 cash purse.

The weekend was truly amazing, lots of skating, lots of partying (We may no longer be welcomed at the Econo Lodge)

FIGJAM would like to congratulate Justin Fabus for qualifying and competing at the event.

FIGJAM Hits Montreal- AMGettingPaid

2008-07-28T10:02:00.000-04:00

On the weekend of July 18-21st, FIGJAM skaters Justin Fabus, Keenan Beauchamp travelled to Montreal for this year’s AMGettingPaid with videographer Anthony Perre and Director of Marketing Justin Hanna. The trip was an eventful one to say the least, yes a lot of skateboarding got done, but as you can probably tell, you a get a bunch of guys in a city like Montreal, and you know fun times where ahead. Certain things where figured out during this trip, that you probably did not know about the FIGJAM crew.

Number 1: Justin Hanna speaks very good French- no matter what people say
Number 2: Justin Fabus does a terrible impersonation of a French Canadian. Don’t stand in front of him cause the spit that flies from his mouth is large enough to fill lake Ontario.
Number 3: Always always bring a shaver with you on a trip, just ask Keenan whose beard started looking so raggedy, people miss took him for a Vancouver Homeless man.
Number 4: Videographer Anthony Perre may not speak any French, but his moves with the French ladies, mostly the ones at Boston Pizza, are as we should say..parfait
Number 5: Don’t ever leave your phone number on the back of a receipt for a girl- it dosen’t work! Mostly when you’re out of town
Number 6: Justin Fabus is coming out with his own line of hot dogs... The Mayo Dog (aka the sperm dog) as seen below. This is not a FIGJAM product.
Number 7: Skateboarding in Montreal- bring a cheque book. The crew did some skating at the park in front of the Palais De Congres. Well it cost us, $120 fine and a confiscated skateboard. Thank god the ticket was a for a minor, cause if you are over 18 and skateboarding in Montreal the ticket is a wooping $620..Fuck Shit BALLS, that sucks. PS has the city of culture turned its back on Youth Culture?
Number 8: Nightlife in Montreal, still friggin rocks, and nothing beats it.
Number 9: If you ever have a chance to skate South Parc, take it!
Number 10: Montreal city police you haven’t seen the last of us!

I Ain't Sayin' You're A Gold Digger...

2008-06-05T08:22:00.000-04:00

The Skateboard industry is a $2 billion a year business – and that’s just US alone. This is quite an accomplishment considering the majority of the apparel and equipment companies are not big box retailers. This of course is changing. Retailers like Kmart and Target are looking to cash in on this youth culture as it doesn’t seem to be going the way of the Kriss Kross look anytime soon (remember when we wore clothing backwards!? WTF were we thinking?).

While it’s pretty nice to able to afford skate and board style clothing – because I mean, let’s face it, $95.00 for a golf shirt can get a little steep for some 13 year olds, I have to question what the mass commercialization will do to the sport.

Take Shaun White for example: great guy, super talented, and sponsored by everything that walks but when you have to negotiate your deal with Sony Playstation because the event is sponsored by Microsoft X-box, you wonder where the integrity and loyalty to the sport has really gone.

Kmart has announced it will launch a new line of affordable skate inspired clothing under the label “Boarding.” This rather dull name consists of a logo tha,t to Labelnetworks, is considered “a mash up between Quicksilver and RipCurl.” Ingenious guys! I mean, it’s not like we’re not going to notice the difference. Kmart says it intends to target 13-25 year olds, which is not surprising. This demographic notoriously has the most disposable income but I guess what really gets me is who manufactures the line: Orange Clothing out of Miami Florida. Their “About Me” section states:
“We provide high quality, desirable merchandise that stands out in the industry by leading clothing trends through innovative designs and cutting edge materials”
Well, I tell you what Orange Clothing, there is nothing “innovative or cutting edge” about you. In fact I am not sure you even manufacture your entire line in Miami. Why else would you have companies based in Bangladesh and China? Out sourcing for cheap labor is not innovative. Are you selling clothes to 15 year olds that are made by 15 year olds? Because that’s not cutting edge either.

So what to do? I say, it’s time for a gut check guys. If the boarding industry is to remain grass roots we have to be willing to resist the temptation for a fast cash grab. We have to remain true to the sport and to the integrity of what it means to be an extreme athlete. Going the way of the Big Box or following suit of questionable business practices is not extreme or risk taking. It’s boring and old and we’ve all been there already.

Fabus Places 2nd in Both AM and Open at Park He Designed

2008-05-18T16:44:00.000-04:00

FIGJAM'S Justin Fabus skated to a second place finish in both the Amateur and Open competitionthis weekend at Brampton's Chinguacousy Park. Fabus' consistency might have something to do with the fact he was part of the park's design committee. Fourteen year old Fabus, a Brampton native, was asked for his input on the parks design and ended up designing the top section himself.
The Next big comp for Fabus is the DC National Skate qualifier...stay tuned, there is more to come from this rising star.

meet justin fabus...

2008-05-13T08:54:00.000-04:00

With hopes of qualifying for this year’s DC National Skateboarding Championships, Justin Fabus is securing his place as one of the country’s top amateur skaters. Joining FIGJAM in 2008, this Etobicoke native caught the eye of president Justin Hanna right away and was signed almost instantly. Fabus cites FIGJAM as a supportive and “awesome” organization that has “amazing clothes.”

Skating for 5 years and currently residing in Brampton ON, Fabus likes to head to downtown Toronto to practice some of his best tricks like sw tailslide and sw 360. His long term goals include learning sw lipslide down handrails, heading to university, and having a great life. We think that with his positive attitude and thirst for all things extreme, there is not doubt there are only great things to come for Justin Fabus.

GenME and Daft Hands

2008-05-09T19:15:00.000-04:00

This slays!

GIVE'R

2008-05-09T09:40:00.000-04:00

A big part of the FIGJAM mantra is giving. Yes, we love to shameless self promote on youtube, facebook, blogger; and we'd love for the world to be wearing our kickass designs, but in the end we can only get back what we put out.

The Staff and TEAM at FIGJAM are selected because they know what it is to give and they know how important is to give right now! They believe that the reward of self sacrifice is astounding that's why FIGJAM decided to sponsor the Summer for SickKids.

Summer for SickKids is a 2 day urban rail jam fundraiser that takes place from May 31st through June 1st at Boardsports in Toronto, On. Ok, but, WTF is an Urban Rail Jam you ask?? It means that right in the heart of downtown TO a giant pool will be created and the best wakeskaters and wakeboarders in the city will be throwing down their moves all for the kids at Toronto's Sick Child ren's Hospital. Pretty sweet eh? WE KNOW! So come out and support your local skaters/boarders and most of all come support SickKids hospital....we'll be there, will you???

FIGJAM'S NEWEST SKATER!

2008-05-01T23:28:00.001-04:00

meet keenan beauchamp….

Macbooks, Iced Tea and FIGJAM. This kid sure knows what cool means. Keenan is the newest member of the FIGJAM TEAM but you wouldn’t know it with his confident yet down to earth demeanor. Skating since he was young, Keenan’s abilities have made him a quiet force on the skate circuit. Placing 3rd in his last competition, Keenan cites his best and favorite tricks as the Nollie heel and switch frontside flip.
This St.Thomas, Ontario native’s long term goals include going to university, meeting Steve Jobs and working at FIGJAM (and no we didn’t pay him to say that). When asked about what motivates him to skate he says, “my friends. They are my main inspiration.”
He’s unashamedly got Spice Girls on his Ipod, can shred the concrete like no other and is loyal to his friends---what more could you ask for? Keenan’s got that it factor.

Skateboarding and Cycling--the same sport?

2008-05-01T17:36:00.000-04:00

While I can recognize the need to increase the Olympic's youth viewership I cannot fathom the thought of seeing skateboarding under the direction of the International Cycling Union as suggested in this article posted last year by ESPN.

In order for Skateboarding to appear at the 2012 Games in London, the sport must be filed as a new discipline under and already existing sport as it is too late to add any more sports to the 2012 roster. Skateboarding, like most extreme sports, is a little late on the organizational bandwagon and has no unifying international body of governance. Maybe it's the rebel ingrained within the culture or maybe it's plain laziness, whatever it is, it better find one fast before it ends up under the discipline of this organization.

Bondi Rips Up The Concrete

2008-04-17T14:09:00.000-04:00

meet joey bondi...

Skating since he was 5 years old, Joey Bondi has quickly become a force to be reckoned with. Dominating the Florida skateboard scene since early 2000, the London, ON resident has placed in the top three in every contest he has entered over the past 8 years including: The Counterpoint Skate Challenge, Spring Break Skate Jam, Thrasher, Pampano Indoor Skatejam, M.R’s Street Contest and Spring Break Jam.
No competition is too tough for Bodi. He has skated against competitors 5 years his senior crushing them with his natural talent and dedication to the sport. Last year Bodi placed 2nd at the DC Nationals and most recently he won the St.Thomas Skate comp and was awarded best trick.
He is currently sponsored by FIGJAM, THE BOARDSHOP and GLOBE.

Burton Builds and Nike Buys

2008-04-17T13:57:00.000-04:00

When my brother was 9 he came home from a local pipe competition with a Burton backpack as a prize.
“What’s Burton?” I asked thumbing the bag’s tag.
“Snowboarding company. Basically, they started snowboarding” he replied.
“Never heard of them.”
“Good,” he said over his shoulder.
No longer the early 90s, the Burton brand is synonymous with snowboarding and snowboarding culture. Nevertheless, the conversation between my brother and I brings up two interesting points. The first was that the brand was acknowledged within a particular community: the tight-knit snowboarding community, which at that time was still considered a grassroots extreme sport. Burton was known as the grandfather of snowboarding; their boards and apparel were used and coveted by boarders of all levels. But interestingly enough it was still recognized as a unique brand that hadn’t “sold out” and that was probably why I had never heard of it. Burton was committed to snowboarding; it didn’t sponsor track and field athletes, it didn’t start making basketballs, and it sure as hell wasn’t seen on the backs of girls roaming the shopping malls, which brings me to my second point. The Burton brand, although high recognizable was built on the idea that they had created a sport and a culture. If you weren’t aware of them then you probably weren’t part of the snow and skate scene and well, then you really had no use for them. As far as I could tell, for Burton that was OK.

Flash Forward 17 years.

Picture the Vancouver skateboard scene: the quintessential hotspot for Canadian skaters due to its mild temps and its proximity to the manger of skateboarding, Cali. Skaters are gathering to shoot a skate video, which is not uncommon to do in local skate parks and urban landscapes within the sprawling ocean side city. However, something was different. The video was being shot in the dome and shot by Nike. Nike? Ya, don’t bother rubbing your eyes because you read that right. No longer part of the grassroots extreme sports, Nike had, in one day, equated the skate scene with the common baseball game. People scoffed at Nike making hockey skates, stick and golf clubs and while their equipment isn’t top notch, their brand’s worth has risen simply due to the fact they have purchased top athletes. The monolithic company, acquiring Hurley, decided that the next sport to be purchased was skating. Would Tony Hawk be next?
But what does this mean for a brand such as Burton who is known for building a sport not buying one? Well, although Burton still remains a company committed to snow sports it did something unheard of for skate and snow gear companies: they made a television commercial. Whether or not this was due to impeding competition from super brands remains to be seen however, the clever teaming with HP was genius. It diverted the attention of it being simply a Burton commercial (something a super brand would do) and became Burton promoting and the HP product it used to make its boards. But the question still remains whether or not Nike will succeed in the snow and skate scene. What will happen to the foundations and founding fathers of these sports if Nike and other likes start acquiring athletes with the lure of the shiny green Benjamins??

To read more about Nike and the Vancouver Skate scene click here

The Burton Commercial