Blogs
Splitboarding Essentials: Equipment, Preparation, and Tips
Splitboarding is all about freedom in the mountains. No more waiting for chairlifts, you carve your own line, away from the crowds, and you can access terrain far from ski resorts. But before you set off on your mission, it's best to be well-equipped and prepared. Here are the essentials for a successful outing, from safety tips to the little tricks that make all the difference. Basic equipment 1. The splitboard and bindings Unsurprisingly, the first item on your checklist is your splitboard. Choose a board that suits your style and preferred terrain. Add splitboard-specific bindings, such as those from Spark, Union, or Karakoram, to ensure a seamless transition between ascent and descent. 2. Sealskins Essential for climbing. Make sure they're the right size for your board and that they grip perfectly. Mohair/nylon mix models offer a good compromise between grip and glide (because we're not really using real sealskins!) 3. Boots Regular snowboard boots can do the trick, but boots with boa are our favorite for splits because they offer easy adjustment to movement; more rigidity and comfort on the way up. 4. The sticks Foldable or telescopic, they will save your legs on climbs and are ultra-practical for crossings. 5. The avalanche safety kit If you're venturing into the backcountry, don't leave without an avalanche transceiver (AVD) , a probe , and a shovel . Get into the habit of practicing with friends; responsiveness can make all the difference in the event of a problem. Preparation before departure 6. Check the weather and snow conditions Before you set off, check avalanche bulletins and weather forecasts. An app like FatMap or Avalanche Canada will give you a good idea of the risks based on your route. 7. Route planning Even if you're familiar with the area, take the time to study the map and anticipate technical sections. A GPS or watch with an altimeter can also be very useful. 8. Repair material A problem in the mountains can quickly turn into a nightmare. A multitool, a spare leash for your bindings, and some duct tape can save the day. The little extras that make the difference 9. Suitable clothing The secret? Layering . A breathable base layer, an insulating mid-layer, and a windproof and waterproof hardshell. Also consider spare gloves , technical socks , and a neck warmer . 10. Hydration and snacks An insulated water bottle or water pouch is a must. For energy, pack energy snacks (bars, nuts, chocolate) and why not a small thermos of hot tea? 11. Glasses and mask On the way up, sunglasses with UV protection are essential. On the way down, your snowboard goggles will protect you from the wind and snow. 12. Headlamp If the day ever stretches out longer than expected, you'll be glad to have a reliable light source. Last piece of advice: never go alone. Splitboarding is a magical experience, but the mountains remain unpredictable. Always ride with a partner and make sure someone knows your route. With this checklist, you're ready to draw your line far from the queue at Vali!
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Event Calendar: Homies Winter 2025
Winter is in full swing, and the 2025 snowboard season is shaping up to be busier than ever! We started the season off strong with a visit to Louif Paradis at Le Relais, Jamies at Mont Lac-Vert, and the Jam Optimiste at Mont Fortin, and that's just the beginning! Between contests, festivals, and sessions with friends, get ready for a busy winter in the region's iconic locations. Here's what's in store for the rest of the season! 🏂❄️ Friday, January 31 to Sunday, February 2: Le P'tit Fest Starting this weekend, Homies presents the first edition of P'tit Fest, a unique off-piste festival in the heart of Petit Saguenay, with some damn good people! Don't miss this opportunity to ride the FQME trails through the Sommets du Fjord, straight into powder! Splitboard Climb Presented by Jones x Homies All weekend long, come check out Jones Snowboards splitboard demos and take part in a splitboard climb. By trying one of their boards, you'll automatically be entered into a contest to win a Jones splitboard, courtesy of Homies! 🎟 Meet us at the Homies booth at 10am on Saturday to try out the boards and have fun with us. On the program : skiing/snowboarding in the powder, friendly dinners, film screenings, yoga sessions, festive aperitifs, DJ sets, various workshops and more!! All the details on the event page here! Saturday, March 1st: CampJam returns, with Homies Demo and ASR Slopestyle Homies Demo : Come and test the 2026 products firsthand right at the bottom of the slopes! Representatives from the biggest brands will be on hand, including Salomon, Vans, Capita, Union, GNU, Burton, Jones and many more. It's happening from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., so stop by and try out the stock before everyone else! ASR Slopestyle : The 3rd edition of this competition organized by the Regional Snowboard Association is back in force with a jump and rail contest open to young people and riders of all ages. Registration on site, several categories and prizes to be won! CampJam at Valinouët : After several years of absence, the legendary rail jam is finally back!!! This event, open to all (and the public!), promises a memorable show! Join us from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., more details to come soon! Save the date, it's going to be a day (and night) not to be missed! All the details on the event page here! Saturday, April 12: The Vali Games For its 7th edition, this iconic event is back in force for a completely crazy day! Get ready to face the classic events, discover new surprises and, who knows, write your name on the legendary champion plaque!! 🎟 Free registration (mountain tickets at your expense) Don't miss the opportunity to experience these exceptional moments with us! Whether you're a rider, a skier, or simply an enthusiast, there's something for everyone. Stay connected to our social networks for upcoming updates! Be there or be square! 🏂
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Fashion Trends to Watch in 2025: Streetwear Trends This Year
Every year, fashion always finds a way to surprise us. In 2025, fashion continues to evolve, and streetwear is expected to be more innovative, more sustainable, and more expressive than ever. At Homies, we always keep an eye on emerging trends to make sure you're one step ahead! Here's what's trending this year: The Return of Techwear: Multifunctional Clothing for 2025 If you're dreaming of a jacket that protects you from the rain while still breathing like your favorite t-shirt, welcome to the world of techwear. We've already seen some of this in recent years, we're talking about clothing designed to tackle urban life: multifunctional, modular, and highly sought-after. Waterproof, breathable, and full of pockets to carry your gear stress-free. Practical, comfortable, and always cool! Y2K: 2000s Fashion Is Coming Back in Force Thought you'd given up on low-rise jeans and funky glasses forever? Sorry to disappoint (or rejoice), but the Y2K style is making a huge comeback. We're keeping the fun going: denim everything, baggy jeans, baby tees, cargo pants, colorful clothes, and bold designs! Sustainable Streetwear: The Sustainable Trend of 2025 Sustainable fashion has become the norm. In 2025, streetwear is taking a green turn: eco-friendly materials like organic cotton, locally sourced collections, and complete transparency in manufacturing. At Homies, we do our best to offer you the best products while continuing our commitment to the environment! Oversized & Layering: The Comfortable and Creative Style We know you like to have some range of motion, whether you're riding or just chilling at home. This year, oversized silhouettes and baggy pants continue to reign supreme. Layering adds a touch of creativity to your outfits: mix materials, lengths, and colors—the sky's the limit! Inclusive Fashion: Outfits for Everyone In 2025, we're leaving rigid categories behind. Inclusive fashion is at the forefront, with collections that speak to all bodies and identities. Everyone deserves to feel good in their pants and find what suits them. In short, the future is bright for those who want to look good and feel good! We promise you Homies collections that blend our DNA with the latest trends. Stay tuned!
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Essential Snow Season Checklist: Are You Geared Up?
With the mountains opening and the heavy snowfalls of the past few weeks, the excitement of getting back on a board is at its peak. But before hitting the powder, have you taken the time to check your equipment? Proper preparation is the key to a successful season! Whether you're an experienced rider or just starting out this year, here's a complete checklist of essentials for heading to the mountains. 1. Board and bindings: the heart of your setup Let's start with the basics. Your choice of board and bindings can completely transform your experience on the slopes, whether you're a beginner or a pro. If your board has been sitting in the garage for several months, now's the time to give it a good sharpening/waxing and check that the bindings are in good condition. ARBOR GPS Snowboard – The GPS, the flagship model of Bryan Iguchi’s Signature series, offers exceptional cross-terrain performance thanks to its System Camber, Grip Tech and 3D Fender, ideal for technical terrain and high mountain adventures. Union Atlas – The 2024/25 Union Atlas, designed for intermediate to advanced riders, offers powerful response with a medium to stiff flex. Ideal for all terrains, it incorporates a new highback, improved ankle straps and a 2-layer toe strap. 💡 If you're unsure about your choice of equipment, come see us in store for personalized advice. 2. Snow boots: comfort and performance Boots are often underestimated, but the wrong choice can ruin your day. Too big or ill-fitting, they'll make you lose control or cause unnecessary pain. Look for a pair that combines support, comfort, and warmth. ThirtyTwo STW Double Boa – The STW Double Boa combines comfort and flexibility with precise zonal control thanks to its Dual BOA® system, providing a micro-adjustable fit and reliable performance in all conditions. 3. Technical clothing: stay warm and dry A day in the mountains can start in the sun and end in a snowstorm. Don't forget to layer up: thermal underwear to stay dry, a mid-layer for warmth, and your jacket to protect you from the elements. 686 Dojo Jacket – Inspired by Forest Bailey, this coat is one of our favorites this year. Souvenir 3 Ply Ripstop Pant – One of our favorite pants, with a 20k/20k waterproof shell, practical details and a comfortable fit perfect for riding. Airblaster Classic Ninja Suit – A legendary base layer, combining comfort, functionality and Ninja spirit. 4. Gloves or mittens: keep your hands warm Choose well-insulated, waterproof gloves or mittens to keep your fingers warm, even in the most extreme conditions. Howl Down Mitt – Exceptional warmth, down insulation and a rugged design to tackle the coldest mountain days 5. Goggles and helmet: visibility and safety above all To ride safely and fully enjoy the scenery, you need glasses that adapt to changing light and a well-fitting helmet. Smith 4D Mag – An ultra-wide field of vision with interchangeable lenses for all conditions. Smith Rodeo Mips – Lightweight, well-ventilated, and compatible with most goggles. Pro tip: If your mask fogs up often, make sure it's well ventilated and clean the inside of the lenses regularly. 6. Essential accessories: the little details that make the difference Don't underestimate the importance of accessories to maximize your comfort on the slopes. Balaclava: The North Face Base Balaclava – A must-have to protect your face from icy winds. Socks: Thirty Two W Jones Merino Sock – Designed to stay in place and wick away moisture all day long. Compact bag: Herschel All Season Backpack 29L : Invest in a compact bag to carry your stuff, a water bottle, and a multi-tool. 7. Extras for a perfect day For a smooth day, consider these often-forgotten little details: Sunscreen – The sun in the mountains can be surprising, even if you’re cold! Adjustment Tools – Compact and ultra-practical for adjusting your bindings in the field. Whether you're looking for a new coat, comfortable boots, or accessories, come see us in store, we have everything you need! 🏂
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Get ready for the season: your simple guide to arriving ready on the slopes
Snowboard season is coming up fast, and if you're like us, you can't wait to get your board out (if you haven't already) and send some big descents. But before you head to the mountains, prepare your body to avoid ending up scrapped after two runs. No need to become an athlete, just a few moves to make you stronger, more agile, and ready to take on anything. Here are our best practical tips that are easy to incorporate into your routine, inspired by pro riders and validated by amateurs. 1. Strengthen your legs to handle descents Snowboarding is tough on the legs. To keep up on the slopes, focus on exercises that target your quads, hamstrings, and calves: Squats : classic, but super effective. If you're motivated, add a jump. Lunges : Perfect for working on your balance at the same time. Step-ups : Step onto a box or bench to strengthen your entire lower body. No need for fancy equipment. You can do these exercises at home or at the gym. 2. Improve your balance (it makes all the difference) Your balance is your best friend on a board. If you want to stay in control, focus on exercises that strengthen your core: Plank : In classic or lateral version, it's perfect for stabilizing your body. Balance ball : useful for simulating snowboarding movements. Rotations with a light weight : this helps you manage the twists you make while riding. Working on your balance is what will transform your hesitant turns into stylish carves. 3. Become more flexible (less pain, more fun) Snowboarding requires unusual movements. To avoid injury or pain, work on your flexibility: Stretch your hips , hamstrings and back . Try mobility exercises , such as deep squats or ankle rotations. Add a touch of yoga : poses like warrior or downward dog are perfect for you. A flexible body is a body that rides better, period. 4. Prepare your cardio to last all day When you're spending a full day on the slopes, you need endurance. Here's how: Do HIIT sessions : quick and effective to improve your breathing. If you have a skateboard or a bike, use them to keep your cardio active. Otherwise, run on trails with climbs – it mimics the effort you do in the mountains. The goal? To be the one who's still running at the end of the day, not the one who falls asleep on the chairlift after lunch. 5. Strengthen your joints (save your knees and wrists) Knees, wrists, and ankles pay dearly when snowboarding. Protect them now: Work with resistance bands to stabilize your knees. Do push-ups or wrist rotations with a light weight. And if you know you're taking risks, wear appropriate protection. Riding smart means riding for a long time! 6. Eat well!!! Your energy comes from what you put on your plate. Focus on carbohydrates like sweet potatoes or brown rice and add protein to help you recover. And even if it's cold, don't forget to drink water - even in winter, dehydration is real. 7. Repeat the sensations before the snow arrives If your season hasn't started yet, try sports like skateboarding, surfing, or even trampolining. These activities allow you to keep your balance and coordination in shape while having fun. Bottom line: A successful season starts before the snow Good preparation isn't just a formality. It's what allows you to fully enjoy each run, progress faster, and reduce your risk of injury. There's no need to overdo it or follow impossible routines: a few well-chosen exercises are enough to make all the difference. Let's go, see you on the slopes!
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686 is coming to Homies!
If you're a snowboarding enthusiast like us, you know how much having the right gear can make all the difference. This season, we have a new arrival that deserves your full attention: 686 (check it out here ), a brand that exudes snow, style, and commitment. 686 is coming to Homies, and we can already tell it's going to make people happy on the snow this season! Led by a new team and a visionary designer, 686 takes style to the slopes a notch above. The story of 686 is that of Michael Akira West, who, in the 90s, wanted to merge LA skateboarding with the adrenaline rush of snowboarding. Today, 686 hasn't lost any of its edge; quite the opposite: with a team of stylish riders and a rock-solid commitment to sustainability, they continue to make their mark. Certified B Corp, they're doing their part for the planet, and you're riding in style! Sick, right? A breath of fresh air with Team 686 At 686 , community spirit isn't just words. They have a team of talented riders and artists who bring fresh ideas. For example, we're talking about the new Dojo Collection by Forest Bailey, one of our favorite riders with a unique style – a big favorite at Homies! We're also loving the collaboration with Welcome, which adds a bold touch that doesn't go unnoticed. With talents like Tommy Gesme, Katie Kennedy, Robby Meehan, and Cooper Whittier, Team 686 embodies everything we love: passion, style, and vision. They live snowboarding, they inspire it, and they redefine what it stands for. Why do we love 686? Here are some reasons why we're fans of 686 : An urban and snow style : Jackets and pants that can be worn in the city as well as in the mountains. Innovation and comfort : Their pieces are ultra-technical. But above all, they guarantee you warmth and freedom of movement, perfect for the slopes. Sustainability : Choosing 686 also means supporting a brand that is committed to reducing waste and producing responsibly. What you will find in store: Here are some pieces you won't want to miss, available online or directly in store: 686 Jacket : For those who don't let the weather ruin their day on the slopes. Ultra-waterproof, warm, and a style we love! 686 Snow Pants : Whether you're trying a new trick or just enjoying a leisurely descent, they're designed to move with you. SEE MORE See you on the slopes! With their new designer and a growing team of enthusiasts, 686 continues to revitalize their identity without ever forgetting their roots. It's great to see new voices and fresh designs that seamlessly blend functionality and style. In short, if you're looking to upgrade your snow wardrobe, 686 is here for you. See you in store, or on the slopes!
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Gramicci at Boutiques Homies
Gramicci arrives at Boutiques Homies in Chicoutimi: Yo, family! Big news in the streetwear game in Chicoutimi. Boutiques Homies, the go-to spot for streetwear fans, welcomes the legendary brand Gramicci. Gramicci isn't just a brand, it's a revolution in the world of climbing and outdoor trends, and now, it's happening at Homies. Why a brand that has no connection to the skate, snow or surf scene? Adopting a brand that isn't directly tied to the skate, snowboard, or surf scene might seem odd for a shop like Homies, known for focusing its energies on the world around it. So why bring Gramicci into our fold? Uno is a strategic move that reflects a deep understanding of urban culture and evolving trends. Second, we're only human, and sometimes the heart wins over reason. Gramicci: The Legend of Rocks and Streets Gramicci, founded in 1982, creates functional outdoor clothing that combines movement and style. Starting out in a garage in Ventura, California, the brand drew inspiration from the Stonemasters, a generation of 1970s climbers in Yosemite, to design clothing suited to fast, stylish climbing. Founder Mike Graham pioneered the first climbing shorts, offering maximum flexibility thanks to a diamond-shaped gusset and a one-handed adjustable nylon waistband. The name "Gramicci" comes from an iconic climb in Yosemite, leading to the development of the G-Pants, which gained popularity among climbers, surfers, and skateboarders, recognizable by their "running man" logo. Popular as far away as Tokyo, Gramicci has evolved while remaining true to its roots, symbolizing robust, functional clothing designed for movement 40 years later.
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March Madness
Snowboarding March Madness: When Nature Offers Its Best Every year, as winter begins to give way to spring, snowboarders around the world eagerly anticipate "March Madness." Far from being a sporting event, this period is synonymous with abundant snowfall. An Expected Natural Phenomenon In snowboarding circles, "March Madness" describes the large accumulations of snow that often occur in March and April, just before the end of the season. This period is particularly popular with snowboarders for several reasons. First, the days are generally longer and sunnier compared to the heart of winter, allowing for longer periods of time on the slopes. Second, the snow, often softer, creates ideal conditions for memorable days. March Madness Challenges Be prepared, March Madness can also present challenges. The weather can be unpredictable, with sudden snowstorms or, conversely, heavy rain. In addition, the abundance of fresh snow and rising temperatures increase the risk of avalanches in some areas. Snowboarders should therefore stay informed of local conditions and take extra precautions when exploring off-piste areas. Good for the wallet March Madness isn't just about the best possible snow conditions; it's also a prime time for snowboarders looking for bargains. In March, Homies start thinking about the next season, offering significant discounts on the current year's gear. Shop our March Madess sale.
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Skateshop Day
Celebrate Skateshop Day in Saguenay-Lac-St-Jean: An ode to skateboard culture and homie shops. In the world of skateboarding, there is a special day dedicated to celebrating the very essence of this urban culture: Skateshop Day. This day, which brings together skateboard enthusiasts, is a unique opportunity to pay tribute to the local shops that serve as hubs for the skate community. In Chicoutimi and Alma, in the beautiful Saguenay-Lac-St-Jean region, this day takes on special significance, highlighting the importance of skate shops in the social fabric of the city. Skateshop Day was created by DLX Distribution, which brings together several well-known skate brands, including Real, Krooked , Spitfire , Thunder , and Anti-Hero . The event was first launched in 2013 to celebrate and support independent skate shops around the world. The goal was to raise awareness among skaters and skateboard enthusiasts about the importance of local shops in skateboard culture and to promote support for these independent businesses, which are often at the heart of skateboarding communities. Located in the heart of Saguenay, Chicoutimi is a city where the passion for skateboarding is strong. With its steep hills and unique spots, the city offers the perfect playground. But beyond the streets and skate parks, it's the Homies boutiques, the Saguenay snowboard and skateboard school, and the VERSA screw brand that bring Chicoutimi's skateboarding scene to life. Homies shops, these small independent businesses run by enthusiasts, are the true pillars of skateboard culture in Chicoutimi. They don't just sell boards and accessories; they are places for the community to meet, exchange, and share. Ultimately, Skateshop Day is more than just a day to buy boards and accessories. It's a celebration of skateboard culture in all its diversity, showcasing independent shops and the community that supports them. So, whether you're a pro or simply curious about the culture, Skateshop Day is the perfect opportunity to dive into the world of skateboarding and celebrate everything it stands for together. Alexathomies :)
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