Loaded Tan Tien

Rainy Days

When I was a boy there was always something melancholy about rainy days: Sitting in at recess, no afternoon skate sessions, just a boy and his thoughts (and his Nintendo). These days I find myself looking forward to less than fair weather. Not only does this infer snow drop in the Sierra Nevada’s here near the shop, but there is also much fun to be had on the slick streets of the city. Rainy days are an opportunity for shredders to get out there and slide as if it were ice. The cocktail composed of water and motor oil leaves a film on the streets that will break any wheel free from traction.

A couple of things needed in order to keep your set up clean and rust free during these sparse hydro-sessions would include a good set of ceramic bearings and a sturdy deck. Ceramic bearings may be a bit more expensive but will not gather rust. As for a deck, a good free ride board to slide the streets, would be the Loaded Tan Tien. At 39” long with a 8.75” width this bamboo deck is strong and versatile with a slight kick tail. I am a creature of habit and for as long as I can remember it was skate in the summer and snowboard in the winter; however I have no complaints about a couple extra months of skate. In a winter season where the snow has yet to accumulate this is a great way to suffice the itch.

Loaded

Skateshops & Clubhouses
For as long as there have been skaters there has been a need for some form of skate shop. In the earlier days these consisted of “mom & pop” hardware stores as well as garages from which extraneous hardware and components were harvested. As the years and sport progressed the face of skate shops had evolved as well. These store fronts became a common ground for all shredders to fraternize and exchange information as well as techniques. It is an area for veterans to reminisce on simpler times and for groms to learn from the experienced. All skaters constantly welcome (skate, longboard, shortboard, freeride, downhill, etc.). I have been blessed and can say that I am lucky enough to spend most of my day aboard one of these “club houses” rubbing elbows with some of the most modest pioneers of the sport. Life is good.

If you are feeling in the mood to join the club of millions strong, come see me at the store front at 641 Nord Ave Ste. D, Chico Ca. If the shop is a bit too far of a drive feel free to hang around our “cyber” clubhouse at nordboards.com. While you are there feel free to check out some of our bamboo boards produced by reliable companies such as Loaded and Arbor. From free ride tan tiens to the bhangra we have all aspects of Loaded bamboo decks covered. So again if you are interested in joining the club head by the site nordboards.com and pick up your plank today.

-ZC-