We’re always being told to buy local, eat local, shop local. You can write that off as just another Sainsbury’s selling technique, but when it comes to snowboard kit, there’s some sense in it. Local brands support local scenes, organise and sponsor local comps and nurture up-and-coming talents.
Take these independent British brands for example. These guys all started out as riders with big ideas to make something great for their fellow shredders. With little or no backing, they’ve build these brands up from the grassroots – sourcing funding, spreading the word and producing everything from super-warm mitts to rad graphic hoodies.
None of these guys are in it for the money, they’re all in it for the love. By supporting them, you’ll be helping to make British snowboarding a better place. And if that doesn’t make you feel warm and fuzzy than we don’t know what would.