In 2007, from a garage in Los Angeles–Ashbury Eyewear was founded with a mission to develop high-quality, affordable, rider-driven snow goggles and sunglasses. They prioritized an understated, classic style derived from their own experiences in and around music, skating, and snowboard culture. At a time where oversized, bubbly, rainbow colored goggles were the norm, Lance Hakker, Mike Hakker, and professional snowboarder Nima Jalali felt that the big goggle brands weren’t creating products that reflected the demands of snowboarding’s core riders. Most of street snowboarding’s biggest names at the time couldn’t land goggle deals because, well… they were never seen wearing goggles. The founders of Ashbury spotted that gap in the market and stacked the team with riders who wouldn’t be pushing product as much as they’d be amplifying a culture. Back then, Louif Paradis, Laurent-Nicolas Paquin, Jake Kuzyk, Nick Dirks, Jordan Mendenhall, Justin Bennee, Mike Rav and others were all on the roster which, in turn, created a cult following among tight pants jibbers who hailed these guys as gods.
Introducing: Ashbury Eyewear
Shortly after the brand started, co-founder Lance Hakker established the legendary Videograss Productions allowing them to celebrate their team of heavy hitters through endless video parts while simultaneously creating a hub of snowboard media that would come to define a generation. Today, Ashbury continues to produce high-quality action sports eyewear that looks great while remaining affordable. With a current team of Louif Paradis, Jody Wachniak, Parker Szumowski and Mikey Cicarelli, as well as a huge crew of ams – Ashbury continues to support the culture. Their core principles have remained; all their goggles feature a timeless aesthetic with simple, no-fuss technology that leaves options for everyone.
For a heavy dose of nostalgia, check out some of the edits below from Ashbury's golden era.
LUCAS BERARD
Hobbies: Snowboarding (33 years)
Bio: started skateboarding and snowboarding at a very young age. Snowboarding has brought me all around the world from Argentina to Chile, British Columbia, Colorado, California. Growing up in northern Vermont everyone in my town either skied or played hockey. I chose snowboarding from the start. I have always had a function over fashion mentality when it comes to my gear and these examples of what I’m running, are no exception, although still very stylish.
Korua: Otto Plus (In-Store Only)
My favorite board right now, super light, super responsive and a very burly build. Nice and still tail that will support you on those backseat landings. Super fast base, and easy to repair with it being all black
Arc'Teryx Sabre SV Jacket
Amazing fit, fits like a snowboard jacket should! And has out performed any of my other shells. Amazing waterproofing and breathability.
Woolf Svarthetta Balaclava
Couldn’t hit the mountain without it, super warm, quick drying, and never freezes up like other balaclavas I’ve owned.
OLIVIA BRAVO
Hobbies: Snowboarding / Climbing / Lifting / Hiking / Traveling / Fashion
Bio: I love anything and everything to do with staying active in an adventurous way. Pursuing and connecting with nature and the outdoors is my lifeline. Naturally, the clothes I wear are just as important to keep me comfortable and stylish for the spontaneity of my adventures.
Vans Womens Hi-Standard OG
As someone who likes to be comfortable and cozy, and someone who has tried many, many different snowboard boots, these are by far my favorite that I own. When my riding style for the day is centered around slow laps and playing around, these boots are my first pick out of the lineup. The V1 Ultracush Liner and V1 popcush Footbed provide me ultimate comfort for landing side hits on the mountain and multiple riding hours.
Patagonia Black Hole Duffel 70L
Roadtripping is my favorite thing in the WORLD. Unfortunately, I'm a heavy packer. I mean it. Thanks to this 70L I can fit what I actually need, AND all the stuff I don't! My favorite feature of this bag is that you can attach the shoulder straps and use it like a backpack. It's a clean looking bag, has a shiny finish to it, and the inside pockets are super functional.
Rivvia Projects Men's Flow Hoodie / Men's Reason Hoodie
Hoodies are my favorite article of clothing, and these are my favorite hoodies. The boxy fit and thickness keeps me cozy no matter where I'm going or what I'm doing. I've worn this during winter to keep me warm, or early summer mornings/late summer nights to keep me cozy. I also support this brand so much because of what they stand for and the way it resonates with my lifestyle.
KAITLYNN SWEENEY
Hobbies: Rock Climbing (10 Years) (Snowboarding 4 Years) Camping (Whole life) SUP (11 Years)
Bio: California and Texas native with a deep-rooted love for nature. Spending my childhood near the beaches of Southern CA, and living on Lake Conroe in TX, I've always found ways to be outside. Currently, rock climbing occupies much of my time throughout the year, a passion I've pursued since 2014. And thanks to my time here at Neon Wave, In the Winter of 2020 I found a love for snowboarding in my late 20s!
Arc'Teryx Women’s Konseal Harness / Men’s Konseal Harness
As someone who's spent countless hours at the indoor gym, I can't recommend this harness enough. The thick padding around the hips provides unbeatable comfort during long climbing sessions, while the adjustable straps ensure a perfect fit every time. Its streamlined design allows for unrestricted movement, and the mesh paneling keeps things cool even during those hotter months. Just a heads up for ice climbers, there are no ice clipper slots!
Patagonia Mini MLC Bag / Black Hole MLC Bag
Trust me, this backpack is a game-changer for travelers and commuters alike. It's my ride-or-die plane travel companion, fitting snugly under the seat as a personal item, even when it's bursting at the seams! Packed with pockets and compartments, it keeps all my essentials organized, and the recent redesign now includes a handy pocket for your water bottle. Plus, it's a breeze to clean, making life on the go a whole lot easier.
Smith I/O MAG Goggles
Finding the perfect goggles can be a struggle, but the I/O MAG? Pure perfection. They fit like a dream, no gaps or fogging. The ChromaPop lens tech is an absolute game-changer for visibility and clarity, especially on those cloudy East Coast days. My googles came with the Chromapop Storm Yellow Flash as the spare, and they have been incredible to have! Making this kit versatile for any condition.