How To Guides, Reviews, and Articles for The-House.com

Win A Trip To The Frendly Gathering

Dana — Sun, 19 May 2013 13:00:34 +0000

Burton Snowboards and The House Boardshop are giving you an chance to WIN an all expense paid trip to the to the Frendly Gathering! (Click here to see the music line up for the show.)

To enter fill out the form below or buy any Burton item, between now and June 13th and you will be automatically entered to Win. Participation in this promotion is subject to the official rules.

Enter Below

Fill out my online form.

Stand Up Paddle Boarding

Dana — Thu, 02 May 2013 00:13:32 +0000

Stand up paddle boarding evolved form the Polynesians and migrated to the Hawaiian Islands thousands of years ago. Recently regaining popularity, Stand Up Paddle Boards (SUPs) can now be found all over the world – from the lakes and rivers of the Midwest, to the furthest reaches of Australia and New Zealand.

In the 1960’s, modern paddle boarding was first introduced by the Waikiki Beach Boys as Duke Kahanamoku and Rabbit Kekai, along with a few others, would use long boards and paddles to get out to the surf. As surfboards became lighter, smaller, and faster, the use of SUPs nearly disappeared. Thankfully, paddle boarding was re-introduced by surfing Instructors who wanted to keep an eye on their students and big wave riders who wanted to stay in shape when they were not dropping into 50 foot waves.

Stand Up Paddle Boarding Is A Great Workout

Stand Up Paddle Boarding is fun as well as a great full body workout and SUPs are used as a cross-training tool by athletes around the world because stand up paddling works just about every muscle in your body. It is estimated that by paddleboarding for one hour, a male can burn anywhere from 800-1000 calories while females burn between 500-700 calories per hour. When compared with the 500-700 calories burned by men and 300-500 calories burned by women while running on a treadmill (not to mention the fun factor… honestly, would you rather be out on the water and in the sun,or plodding away inside on a machine?), its no wonder why Stand Up Paddle boarding has become so popular.

Another reason for the rise in popularity of stand up paddleboarding is that, unlike surfing, paddleboarding is very easy to learn. Within one hour you can become very comfortable in the water and on your board. Did we mention that stand up paddleboarding is most popular with women? Very often women of all ages are much more skilled at Paddleboarding than men. Basically, if you don’t have a SUP yet, pick one up and go take a lesson – you wont be disappointed.

What do you need for stand up paddle boarding

Stand Up Paddle Board-By far the most important part of you set up.
Paddle-There are many different types of paddles, ranging form lite weight carbon fiber paddles to fully adjustable paddles for the whole family.
PFD -A life vest is required by law – unless you are surfing. See SUP Regulations.
Dress for the weather: Whether it is a full body Wetsuits for surfing on lake Superior or just a Rash guard to block out those damaging UV rays.

Paddle Boarding Tips and Tricks

History of Wakeboarding

milosz — Sat, 06 Apr 2013 12:05:09 +0000

Liquid Force Tony Finn and Jimmy Redmon

Wakeboarding is a popular activity, yet many are unaware of how the sport got its start. It combines surfing, water skiing and snowboarding techniques for a thrilling activity. There are a lot of different variations that come into play with this activity, depending on the boarder’s ability level, preferred towing method, weight and gender.

How Wakeboarding First Started

When wakeboarding first started in the 1980′s, it was commonly known as skurfing. There were several early skurfers in different locations who helped develop the sport. Boards that would be used for wakeboarding were created by surfers in Australia and New Zealand who wanted a different sort of experience. Tony Finn (Owner of one of the best wakeboard brands Liquid Force) and Jeff Darby were among some of the most notable early skurfers in this region. Howard Jacobs also designed early skurfboards in Florida.

Changes in Wakeboarding

There have been regular changes in how wakeboarding is done ever since the sport’s start. The earliest boards featured hydroslide pads, along with foot straps. Bruce McKee and Mitchell Ross debuted the first mass-produced boards in 1984. Early features included a concave bottom, keel fin and adjustable foot straps, all of which were designed to provide better movement. Patented designs ensured better strap and binding systems.During the sport’s early years, it was known as skiboarding. It gained much attention after the World Skiboard Association was founded in 1989. The next major changes would be brought about by Paul Fraser, along with his brother, Murray. Compression molded boards used for skurfing were first sold in 1991, made by Herb O’Brien from HO Sports, a close associate of Fraser’s. Because the movement of these boards changed considerably, this sport became known as wakeboarding. Several competitions were held regularly after the release of the compression molded boards. The World Skiboard Association officially changed its name to the World Wakeboard Association in light of its change in focus.

Popular Wakeboarding Brands

Byerly is one of the most innovative wakeboarding brands. The company was founded by an experienced wakeboarder in 2006. All of the boards are designed with the unique needs of competitive wakeboarders in mind. Hyperlite is one of the most recognizable brands in the world of wakeboarding. When it first premiered in 1990, compression wakeboards were introduced to the world. This has helped shape the whole sport. O’Brien is one of the most popular brands favored by professional wakeboarders and kneeboarders. Their selection of accessories is one of the largest ones available. Expert advice is readily available for new and seasoned boarders alike. Ronix‘s product lines draw on the experience of both engineers and experienced wakeboarders. The brand features one of the larger selections of products for women who wakeboard. It has a very visible social media presence.

International Top Wakeboarders

Scoot Byerly, founder of the Byerly brand, is one of the most well-known figures in wakeboarding. His photos for the Rockstar energy drink have made him known even among those who don’t follow wakeboarding. He’s also known for The Butter Effect, performed with Aaron Reed in 2005.

Daniel Fetz from Austria has an impressive list of championships. He’s a 5 times Austrian champion and has won several other European and international titles. One of his most popular tricks by far is the Whirlybird. In addition to competitive wakeboarding, Fetz is also a snowboarder.

Lior Sofer hails from Israel and is known for the number of championships he’s achieved at his young age. Some of the highlights of his career include IWSF European and world championships. He’s sponsored by Ten-80, along with Three Team and Hyperlite.

Kim Yon Il from South Korea also boasts an impressive number of championships, especially in Asia. He’s very well-known for hios 80 to 85-foot rope length that allows him to perform impressive tricks. Sponsors include Republic and Skull Candy.

Burton Technology

milosz — Sat, 26 Jan 2013 23:55:24 +0000

Burton Snowboard Technology

Shop all Men’s Burton Snowboards & Women’s >>

Burton Boot Technology

Shop all Burton Snowboard Boots >>

Burton Binding Technology

Shop all Burton Snowboard Bindings >>

Outerwear Technology

Shop all Burton Snowboard Jackets >>

Bag Technology

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Snowboarders of the mid-eighties, like Craig Kelly and Jake Burton for that matter, would have a hard time envisioning that a Double McTwist 1260 was only a few decades away. Professional snowboarders can’t possibly do the same tricks year after year – they wouldn’t be pro if they weren’t living to push the limits on their board. To keep riders on their toes, Burton puts an exuberant amount of passion driven energy and resources into research and development to keep snowboarding fun, fresh and progressive. They’ve been doing this since 1977. Each and every year, new technologies hits the market. Just imagine what a game changer the first highback became. For the first time ever, riders were given the tools to effectively carve as we know it today. From Jumper Cables to Heel Hammocks to Dryride Mist-Defy, we’ve created a little library, complete with videos and text, that clarifies all things Burton Technology. Sit back, grab a snack and get ready to be inspired…

Burton AK Gore-Tex Technology

Mindy — Sat, 26 Jan 2013 23:49:40 +0000

Do you like the best of the best? Do you like your purchase to deliver year after year? Look no further. Burton’s AK outerwear line is all that and more. Every piece is constructed with Gore-Tex®, the legendary fabric that’s guaranteed to keep you warm and dry. Before we dive in any deeper, let’s start with the acronym, ‘AK.’ What the heck is that? ALASKA, of course! Perhaps the best, untouched snowboarding is found way up north. Think thousands of acres of mountainous terrain with fluffy, white, perfect snow. You’ll need a sled, cat or heli to get to the goods. Lifts don’t exist in these parts. You’ll also need some solid snowboarding experience, a guide, beacon, avalanche safety equipment, some lungs and some kick a** snowboarding outerwear. If Burton’s AK outerwear line is tough enough for Alaska, it’s certainly lives up to being best in class.

Burton has devoted a ton of R & D to their AK line. It’s basically a test laboratory for new technologies that will eventually trickle down to the regular Burton line. Riders like Terije Haakonsen, Jussi Oksanen and John Jackson ride AK for comfort, style and the ultimate protection against the elements. Whether hiking the pipe or dipping out of bounds for freshies, you can be certain that AK outerwear will keep you warm and dry while allowing the garment to breath. Say good bye to sweaty and clammy days ripping some pow. Seriously, AK Gore-Tex really is all that. The most popular jackets for 2013 include the 2L Cyclic Jacket, 2L Stagger Jacket, 2L LZ Down Jacket, 3L Freebird Jacket and 3L Hover Jacket. For pants, dip into the 2L Stagger Pant, 2L Cyclic Pant or 3L Freebird Bib Pant. Whatever you choose, we promise you won’t be disappointed. AK is worth every penny.

We incorporate Gore-Tex® fabric into the entire AK outerwear line for riders seeking the ultimate in comfort and durable waterproof, breathable protection. Gore-tex® is so confident in their gear that they back every product with their guaranteed to keep you dry promise.

This has been a part of the Burton Technology articles.

Burton 3M Thinsulate Tech

Mindy — Sat, 26 Jan 2013 23:49:14 +0000

Remember when Mom used to dress you in the thickest jacket for winter? The “Mom Test” really doesn’t hold true anymore. Whether waiting for the bus, walking to class or tearing through the trees, a warm, compressible winter jacket with less bulk is where it’s at these days. As far as snowboarding goes, what a drag it’d be to feel restricted when launching a huge Japan Air. Burton came up with an incredible solution through a blend of 3M™ Thinsulate™, which is a high loft insulation made of compressible microfibers that keep you warm. Compared to any synthetic (non-down) insulation, it’s truly one of the best. Guys, pick your poison - Arctic Jacket, Breach Jacket, Faction Jacket, Groucho Jacket, Hackett Jacket, 2L Gore-Tex® Highland Jacket, Highlife Anorak, Poacher Jacket, Squire Jacket. Ladies, have at it – Delerium Jacket, Elenor Jacket, Jetset Jacket, Logan Jacket, Method Jacket, Penelope Jacket , Prism Gore-Tex Jacket or Scarlet Jacket.

Burton team riders require ultimate mobility and comfort in all conditions. With 3M, Burton found a progressive solution through a blend of 3M™ Thinsulate™ , an insulation constructed from unique, hi-loft microfibers for increased warmth with less bulk. Breathable, water resistant and durable, it’s proving there’s substance to the cliche, “less is more.”

This has been a part of the Burton Technology articles.

2013 Burton Leg Lifts Technology

Mindy — Sat, 26 Jan 2013 23:48:52 +0000

Burton prides itself on being a rider driven company. And for that very reason, they come up with the wackiest, craziest and smartest ideas in everything they design to make riding more practical, comfortable and FUN. The Burton team riders travel the globe following snow throughout the year and it’s a no wonder they demand outerwear that suits their every need and desire. One of our favorite features on Burton pants are the leg lifts. It’s simply a snap system where the back of the cuff can be tucked up to avoid stepping on it…and ruining your pants overtime. Many riders wear their pants a little big, so stepping on your pants will certainly wear them down much faster than the rest of the pant. The leg lifts are a quick and easy way to tack your pants up. Even better, it doesn’t look nerdy. The snap is only on the back, so it just looks like your pants are bunched up a bit. Leg lifts are incorporated into all Burton mens pants, womens pants, boys pants and girls pants.

Burton leg lifts eliminate the need to roll up each pant leg to steer clear of mud, rock salt, pavement or nasty restroom floors. Simply snap up each cuff and you’re set.

This has been a part of the Burton Technology articles.

2013 Burton DryRide Mist-Defy Technology

Mindy — Sat, 26 Jan 2013 23:48:15 +0000

If you’re like many savvy consumers of today, a purchase that serves several purposes and has a long life span is worth every penny. How about a flannel shirt that wicks moisture, breaths, adds a layer of warmth and looks clean enough to wear to a parent teacher conference? Burton has made this possible with their Tech Apparel line. Long are the days of wearing cotton hoodies to the mountain. Well, some people still do it. They’re easily recognizable with chunks of snow glued to their cotton snow magnet that hangs beneath the jacket. Wearing anything cotton while snowboarding is just plain silly. Because we’re snowboarders, we don’t want to look like a goof wearing a nerdy mock turtle neck base layer either. Snowboarding is all about style and individuality on the mountain…in the lodge and at happy hour!

This year, the designers at Burton bumped up a few pieces of their tech apparel line with Burton DryRide Mist-Defy. In addition to being quick drying and moisture wicking like the rest of the tech apparel line, DryRide Mist-Defy pieces also water repellent. They look and feel like street wear, but perform like a regular jacket. Take your pick from these mountain and street friendly killer pieces…

MEN
Dags Flannel Jacket
Sabath Fleece
Tusk Jacket
Repel Flannel

WOMEN
Pick Up Fleece

Select Burton Tech apparel styles have been enhanced with DryRide Mist-Defy. Water repellent, quick drying and moisture wicking, it performs on and off the mountain while maintaining soft, stretchy and comfortable benefits of cotton. Read more about Burton DryRide Tech here.

This has been a part of the Burton Technology articles.

Burton Reflex Baseplate Technology

Mindy — Sat, 26 Jan 2013 23:47:15 +0000

In simplest terms, Burton Reflex baseplates are designed to optimize board feel. It’s underfoot flex is 70% softer than a traditional baseplate, which naturally allows the board beneath the binding to flex more naturally. The baseplate is cored to dramatically reduce weight. A lighter weight binding allows for improved performance, reduces fatigue and just plain feels better. ReFlex technology combined with Living Hinge™ disc dramatically improves board flex and feel, reduces weight, and sets the stage for plenty of cushioning options. With plenty of Reflex bindings to choose from, The House won’t let you down…

Cartel
Cobrashark
Diode
Malavita
Escapade (women’s)
Lexa (women’s)

Reflex offers more flex and feel than traditional disc bindings – all in a package that’s compatible with any platter including 4 x 4, 3D and The Channel. The refined styling of the minimized baseplate and hinge disc uses as little plastic as possible allowing for added flex where you want it and added strength where you need it. Less baseplate material also means more flexibility and cushioning materials and an overall lighter weight binding.

This has been a part of the Burton Technology articles.

Burton Gas Pedal Technology

Mindy — Sat, 26 Jan 2013 23:46:38 +0000

Burton is the creator of the snowboard binding as we know it today. Back in the day, bindings didn’t even have a highback. Leave it to Burton to come up with revolutionary functions and features that make their bindings the best on the market. The adjustable gas pedal has been around for over a decade and makes a world of a difference. It wasn’t too long ago that the adjustable gas peddal was only offered in high end bindings. Guess what? Now it’s on every model of Men’s and Women’s bindings. Why? Because it makes the world of a difference for true comfort and performance.

The adjustable gas pedal allows the toe portion of the baseplate to extend outward, catering to larger feet. If you’re toes are hanging off the edge of your binding too much, get ready for some serious toe drag, less power on your toe side turns and maybe a few face plants. Seriously, though. The adjustable gas pedal really does add to the “all that” factor on Burton bindings.

One of our team’s favorite adjustable features, Burton Gas Peddals, are extendable ramps that let you heighten toe/edge response while reducing the dreaded affects of toe drag.

This has been a part of the Burton Technology articles.