They're bright and bold
And they almost render one of the most classic longboard videos of all time defunct.
Sixteen years ago Orangatang released their purple 83A urethane at a brief yet important moment in human history: Kevin, Patrick, James and Louis were all riding for them.
The release video changed people's lives. Never before had we seen such buttery slides in such proximity from four of the world's best.
I couldn't wrap my head around the shots at the 3:00 mark. From four different angles, Louis makes the pass up the inside.
Was such control possible? Had they filmed it just once and been able to edit out the cameraman in post?! I watched again and again:
I say almost defunct because the 75mm 83A InHeat remains purple.
But round lipped 83A Orangatangs are changing to pink.
We have been blessed thus far with:
The most exciting for me is the Bees Knees.
Already unique in the realm of big wheels being centreset and softly rounded lips, it is now also the hardest big wheel available.
And yes, that means fast over good asphalt... but it also emphasises the playful, more slidey nature of this wheel vs the pure efficiency of other wheels in this size range.
My racing days are behind me - I know which I'm looking for.
But talking of efficient distance wheels... the new batch of Pantheon Karmas now all feature the new core - we're stoked to be able to fully update the photography now that it appears the old one is no longer being delivered into Europe.
The urethane has gotten more vibrant too - that's not just the camera. Jeff has been innovating faster than anyone else this past couple of years. It makes for a lot of admin and photo updates, but we rate it!
I don't know when England are next playing football but I do know that roads will be dead quiet during the match... do with that information as you will.
Ah, I've just checked. I'd like to say I'll be out skating but the likliehood is I'll be fast asleep.
Worth a shot though,
Matt @ Vandem
Fat Free Orangatangs - 65mm, 83A
And now in pink!
Orangatang Stimulus - 70mm 83A
These take us back to another classic Loaded video, filmed on the yellow Stimulus.
Longboarding: Let Go inspired more than a generation of skaters and non-skaters alike.
Thanks Adam and Kyle.