Does that little nip in the air mean it's time to stock up on Trader Joe's [0] canned soup and get ready to hibernate? Nah. It just means it's time to check out Snowboard Connection [0]'s spankin' new South Lake Union store and prepare to strut your stuff in the snow.
Snowboard Connection was formerly located under the Alaskan Way Viaduct in Pioneer Square, but the store was looking to move so it wouldn't get caught up in any future viaduct reconstruction hassles. Conveniently, Vulcan Real Estate invited the 18-year-old gear source to set up shop across the street from REI [0], where it fits in nicely as the venerated outdoor store's stylish kid brother.
If you're one of the many snowboarders, skateboarders or surfers who have suited up at this Seattle mainstay over the years, don't worry. The fact that they have shiny new digs doesn't mean they've gone fancy on you. With the same stock of boots, boards, bindings, packs, pants and jackets, and the same raw, warehouse aesthetic, they're keeping it real. And despite 500 fewer square feet of space to work with, they've managed to expand their selection of skate gear and shoes.
And that's only the beginning. If you've never thought to come here -- maybe because you don't skate, surf or snowboard -- think again. The street wear collection for men and women, featuring brands like Element, Obey, Nikita and Roxy, plus Volcom bags, hats, belts and even panties, will make you look good even if you wouldn't know a snowflake from a cornflake.
Snowboard connection is at 263 Yale Ave. N.; 206-467-8545. Visit the store online at www.snowboardconnection.com [1]
If you have a shop, sale, event or great product tip you'd like to share, e-mail seattleshopping@nwsource.com.
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