Blogs
THE HERSCHEL ISOLATED COLLECTION
This week, we're bringing you a rather different article than usual. Why mention this? Simply because a major brand at Homies has a complete collection dedicated to this type of product, and with summer and the nice weather coming, we could all use it. So today we're talking about Herschel Coolers. INSULATED PROGRAM Herschel's Insulated Program is a collection specifically designed for insulated bags perfect for summer. This collection includes lunchbox/cooler-style coolers, insulated backpacks, and even insulated tote bags! Available in a variety of sizes, the items in Herschel's Insulated Collection are also all made with recycled materials. These are the ideal insulated bags for all your summer projects: keep drinks and snacks cold all day in coolers, backpacks, and insulated tote bags. AT HOMIES As for Homies, we decided to stock coolers and tote bags. Why not backpacks? Because we thought you probably wouldn't want to buy a second backpack. Coolers and totes, on the other hand, are a sure thing! Our complete inventory is here by the way! THE COOLERS Herschel coolers come in a variety of sizes. Here's a quick overview of each size and their features! HERITAGE COOLER INSERT This is the smallest size. About the size of a small lunch box, the Cooler Insert can hold up to 6 cans. Plus, like the entire collection, it's made from 100% recycled materials. Finally, a bottle opener clip is attached to the mini cooler, allowing easy access to drinks on the go. POP QUIZ COOLER 12 PACK As for the size, it says it all in the name: it can hold up to 12 cans. It's also made from the same 100% recycled materials and comes with a built-in bottle opener. POP QUIZ COOLER 30 PACK There, I think you understand where we're going: you can fit 30 cans in this model, and you once again have the recycled materials and the bottle opener! TOTE BAGS Hershcel insulated totes offer the same benefits as coolers: made from recycled materials, insulated to keep drinks cold all day, and available in a variety of sizes. However, instead of a bottle opener, the tote bag comes with an insulated bottle sleeve that's perfect for keeping drinks cold longer. There, I see you coming with the famous question: why would I need an insulated tote bag? The answer might surprise you. Yes, all the products in the collection are insulated, but they're also all 100% waterproof. In addition to insulation, the coolers and totes have a waterproof lining and reinforced, waterproof seams. This makes them the perfect tool for carrying gear that might get wet at some point. For example: your beach towel, your wetsuit, your dirty hiking boots—in short, anything you want to separate from the rest of your belongings! There you have it! Now that you know everything there is to know about these useful and practical products, don't hesitate to find the model that interests you and suits you best! Shop Herschel insulated coolers and totes!
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UMA LANDSLEDS
A few weeks ago, we received our first order of decks from a company we wanted to tell you about today: UMA Landsleds. What is UMA Landsleds? UMA Landsleds is a skateboard brand created by none other than Evan Smith. It was by bringing his spontaneous and creative energy to Mesa Distribution that the brand was born and grew. Based in Los Angeles, California, UMA has quickly made a name for itself in the industry by offering quality and, above all, aesthetically appealing products. The company offers skateboards designed to meet the needs of beginners and professionals alike, and already offers a more than interesting range of boards. Design at UMA Landsleds Design is probably the aspect that most sets UMA apart from other skate brands. UMA offers unique and creative graphics on each of its boards. To achieve this, the brand often collaborates with talented artists to create eye-catching designs. To achieve this, UMA has chosen artists to lead their artistic direction, such as Thomas Campbell and Andy Jenkins, but also uses the art of Nathaniel Russell, who has now become the epicenter of UMA Landsleds' art. What else? In addition to their unique design, UMA also stands out for their commitment to sustainability and the environment. The company uses sustainable materials in the manufacture of their boards, such as responsibly sourced maple. They are also committed to reducing their environmental impact by using water-based inks and minimizing waste in their production process. The UMA Landsleds team That's all well and good, but the company also has a whole team to spread their products and their vision of skateboarding. At its helm is the legendary Evan Smith, of course, but many other names are among the list: Cody Smith, Maite Steenhoudt, and Roman Pabich. These skaters have really hit the mark with the first official UMA video: Punch a Hole in the Sky . If you haven't had the chance to see it yet, don't hesitate and go for it! Speaking of the UMA team, the company, in addition to having their own pro team, also encourages riders from all over the world. One of them is actually based here in Chicoutimi and you've probably seen him hundreds of times in our videos since the opening of our shop in 2010: Simon Gagnon. Well, yes, our Wallap is lucky enough to ride UMA Landsleds boards and you'll easily be able to spot him the next time you see him at the Bassin or in the streets of Saguenay! In short, don't hold back and come shop for your UMA board , online or in store!
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XCEL WETSUITS
With the beautiful weather just around the corner, we thought it was time to talk a little more about summer sports. You may have noticed it in-store or on our website, but a new company is joining Boutique Homies this season. It's called Xcel Wetsuits, and we decided to introduce them to you! THE COMPANY Xcel Wetsuits is a company specializing in the design and manufacture of watersports wetsuits. Founded in 1982 by Ed D'Ascoli, who was working from his bedroom in Sunset Beach, Hawaii, the company quickly gained popularity across America. Initially focused on surfing, the brand has expanded its horizons to offer quality products to anyone who plays in the cold ocean water; today, Xcel Wetsuits offers wetsuits for anyone who surfs, paddleboards, kayaks, and even scuba dives. In short, Xcel is a brand that cares deeply about the industry it inhabits. It remains close to the fundamentals of surfing and wetsuit design, but it is still proud of the very important role that research and development play within the company. Their goal: to create and offer high-quality products with constant innovation. They have also been voted "Wetsuits of the Year" by the Surf Industry Manufacturer's Association (SIMA) four times, in 2007, 2008, 2010 and 2020. SOME TECHNOLOGIES Neoprene Limestone: Xcel uses mined limestone to replace petroleum-based products and other processed chemicals, reducing the company's dependence on oil. Recycled Polyester: A wide selection of Xcel fabrics are knitted with polyester yarns made from recycled plastic bottles. This helps reduce waste and material consumption at the same time. Thermo Dry Celliant: The brand uses reflective particles to retain body heat. Xcel Infiniti: This is a seamless construction to improve the flexibility and comfort of the wetsuits offered by the company. ECO-RESPONSIBILITY Xcel Wetsuits is also known for its commitment to the environment. The company uses eco-friendly or recycled materials whenever possible, such as recycled neoprene. The company also works to continually reduce its carbon footprint and promote sustainable practices. IN SUMMARY In short, Xcel Wetsuits is a globally recognized company in the wetsuit industry. The company stands out for its high-quality products, constant innovation, and commitment to the environment. Look no further; Xcel probably has the perfect wetsuit for you!
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HOMIES PREMIUM COLLECTION
Today, we're talking about a collection we've had for a few years now. We decided to take the time to introduce it to you in more depth, because we love this collection and find it very useful! We're talking about the Homies Premium collection here! It's what? Homies Premium is a collection of basics always available in-store and online. No frills, no extravagance, just the pieces you need in your wardrobe. What does it include? The line includes a t-shirt available in black and white, a longsleeve in the same colors, and a crew neck in black and heather gray. These are quality pieces, all-purpose and blank, so no designs or large prints on the back or chest. Why Homies Premium? We chose this name because, as we already mentioned, we're talking about quality clothing. All the t-shirts and long sleeves are made of organic material. This means high-quality cotton, grown without herbicides or pesticides. The material is GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) certified cotton, a global standard for ecology and social responsibility in the organic textile industry. So, by purchasing Homies Premium, you're ensuring you're getting a quality sweater that respects the environment and global textile quality standards. For whom? The Homies Premium collection is truly made for everyone. Looking for a clean sweater for Friday night out? Why not a white long sleeve for a classy, laid-back look? You work in a restaurant and need a black t-shirt, but all the ones you have don't last or are all faded: come get a Homies Premium one! You wear shirts for work: you probably need a comfortable white t-shirt to wear underneath! In short, that's what the Homies Premium collection is for. So, the next time you're looking for a sure thing and don't want to search too long, remember that the Homies Premium has been around for a few years now and is still available on our shelves!
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VANS CLASSIC AND VANS SKATE COLLECTIONS
It's well known that Vans and Homies have always been important allies. A few years after the opening of our Chicoutimi store, Vans began filling our shelves and slowly demonstrating the importance the brand holds for skaters in Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean. However, did you know that Homies offers two very distinct Vans collections? In both our Chicoutimi and Alma stores, we stock classic Vans and, of course, Vans Skate. Now, you're probably wondering what the difference is between the two? Read on and everything will become clear! The main difference between the Vans Classic collection and the Skate models is their design and function. Vans Classic The Classic Collection, which includes models such as the Authentic, Old Skool, and Slip-On, is designed for everyday wear and is appreciated for its comfort and durability. These models are known for their classic, legendary, and timeless style. Vans Skate The Skate collection models are specially designed to meet the needs of both amateur and professional skateboarders. These models are equipped with advanced technologies and features to offer superior performance on the board. The shoes are generally reinforced for better durability, with abrasion-resistant materials and reinforced stitching to resist wear and tear from grip tape on the shoe. In addition, they also have a padded insole to provide additional support and comfort. The Vans Skate collection therefore offers more durable and comfortable models so skaters can get more for their money! Pro Model Additionally, Vans Skate shoes are sometimes designed in collaboration with professional skateboarders to meet their specific needs and preferences. Skate collection models often come in unique colors and designs that reflect the style and personality of the skaters who wear them. For example, we can see the latest Pro Skate model released this month and available now in our Alma and Chicoutimi stores: the Vans Zahba. Inspired by Vans team rider Zion Wright, the Zahba is a brand-new silhouette that offers one of the best ratios of impact protection and board feel! This model, like many others, was designed and developed in collaboration with the professional skateboarder. These shoes from the Skate collection are the ideal tools for all skaters in Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean. With Vans shoes, you'll be ready to take your skating to the next level!
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BETTER UNDERSTANDING SNOWBOARD SHAPES
If you've ever shopped for a snowboard without the help of one of our consultants, you know how easy it is to get lost once you start looking at all the different types of shapes out there. Today, we want to shed some light on the different snowboard shapes, and we want you to be able to understand what rocker, camber, taper, directional boards, and everything else are used for. TRUE TWIN A twin board is a board that's 100% identical on each side. If you find the center of the board and measure each end, they'll have the same length, width, and curvature. This is often the type of board given to beginners because it's easier to start snowboarding with two equal ends. This is also the ideal type of board for park rats. A true twin board is perfect for people who do a lot of jibs or street riding. You can ride on your natural side or even switch, the board is the same! So, if you always play on the metal when you snowboard, a true twin is probably what you want! DIRECTIONAL Here, it says it in the name, the board is made to be ridden in a single direction. A directional board always has a longer front than a longer tail, and the shape is often different on the nose and tail. Sometimes the front of the board, in addition to being longer, is also wider than the tail. The idea behind this is to make the front of your board float on the snow and thus allow you to float more easily on big powder days. Why choose a directional board? Because it's the type of snowboard that's made to be ridden all over the mountain: it lets you float in soft snow, but also allows you to carve beautifully on the standard slope. DIRECTIONAL TWIN This is where it starts to get complicated. A directional twin board is really a mix between the other two types. The goal of this board is to allow you to have the feeling of a twin board, but still have a slightly longer nose. The difference in length between the nose and the tail is much less significant than with a directional board: it's often less than an inch of difference. The board, when riding inside the contact points, therefore gives a twin feeling, but outside the contact points, the nose is a little longer! It also happens that the tail is made stiffer than the front, allowing the board to have pop and help with landing. Since the difference between the nose and the tail is minimal, it is possible to ride switch with this type of snowboard. The directional twin board is made this way in order to offer a balance between steering and switch riding, and this is what has made this type of board so popular with all-mountain freestyle riders! CAMBER A camber board is a board that has 4 contact points near the tips. The center, between the bindings, arches upward. This principle allows you to put more pressure on the board's natural contact points, and thus have a better grip when turning on snow. The camber also gives your board more pop, since the board is, in a way, already in tension against the pop. This is the ideal type for going fast and doing big carving! ROCKER Rocker is the opposite. The center of the board touches the ground, and the two ends rise upward. Rocker boards are often thought of as bananas. This type of board provides a smoother, less aggressive ride. Rocker also floats more easily in the snow, since the tips of the board are oriented upwards. Again, this is the ideal choice for those who are just starting out in snowboarding and for those who mostly jib! ROCKER/CAMBER MIX Many snowboard models also opt for a mix between rocker and camber. For example, you often see a classic camber between the bindings, then the nose and tail oriented upwards like a rocker. This mixture provides grip and bite in turns, just like classic camber, but with its tips rising upwards, the board will float better in powder. It's the same for directional boards that have a camber from the tail to the front binding, then a rocker for the nose which is longer. The same idea is behind this mixture: grip and aggressiveness in turns, but increased flotation in powder! SOME INTERESTING TECHNOLOGIES Uprise fenders Arbor offers this technology, which involves raising the edges of the board at the contact points by a few degrees. These fenders allow two things: Raise the edge at the contact points and give the board a smoother feel, while removing the bite from the edges when you go straight down (flat-based) For wider boards, Uprise fenders make edge-to-edge transitions easier. Grip tech Still at Arbor, grip tech is contact points that are added along the board. For a rocker board that tends to be smoother, grip tech therefore allows for added road holding and therefore offers better adhesion to the track despite the board's rocker. 3D Contour Bases Jones Snowboards offers 3D contour. This technology involves curving the tips of their snowboards, thereby raising the contact points on each side. Imagine a spoon; this is the kind of shape that 3D contour gives to the noses and tails of boards. All of this makes for a smoother and more dynamic ride. In addition, 3D contour allows you to float better in powder because the snow is naturally evacuated thanks to the curvature of the tips. So you can ride faster and float better!
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HOW TO DRESS IN THE MOUNTAINS: THE THREE-LAYER SYSTEM
When practicing a winter sport like snowboarding, you need to know how to dress properly to protect yourself from the elements like snow and wind. You also need to be able to manage the perspiration caused by the physical exertion of practicing your sport. The three-layer system is the best method for staying dry and warm: A layer to manage and wick away perspiration, an insulating layer to provide warmth, and finally, an outer layer to protect against the elements. 1st breathable layer to manage perspiration When we exercise, our body temperature rises and we sweat. If your shirt gets wet from this sweat, you'll feel cold as soon as you stop exercising because the water stays in contact with your skin. The first step is to avoid wearing a shirt that absorbs sweat. For example, you should avoid wearing a cotton sweater at all costs, because this fabric is very absorbent and takes a long time to dry. Your choice of sweater should therefore lean towards synthetic fabrics, such as polyester or polyamide. These fabrics do not absorb water. Therefore, when sweating, moisture is expelled outside the garment and is no longer in contact with the skin. Wearing a technical fabric made of synthetic material therefore helps eliminate water and moisture, and you will no longer feel cold when you stop exercising. Another interesting choice for the first layer: merino wool. This wool, even when wet, retains warmth and limits odors. It is a wool that can absorb a lot of water and thus remove sweat from your skin, again with the aim of not creating a cold. You don't even have to wash merino wool after each use, so it's perfect if you want to ride all weekend without having to worry about washing! By the way, if you want an interesting first layer and have some extra style, think about the famous Ninja Suits from AirBlaster! Shop Ninja Suits! 2nd insulating layer for extra warmth The second layer is to protect you from the cold and retain the heat produced by the body. The quality of a garment's insulation is measured by its ability to trap air within its fibers. There are several types of insulation, so you can adapt your second layer according to the temperature: Hot outside temperature or sustained activity: In this case, the second layer can be left aside. However, you can carry an insulating layer in your bag to withstand the cold when you stop exercising, such as when climbing a splitboard, for example. Cold temperature: In colder conditions, a fleece jacket is ideal for providing the necessary warmth. Alternatively, synthetic down jackets are a good choice, as they are warm, compressible, and easily washable. Synthetic insulation is often preferred because it manages moisture better. Natural down, while warmer, tends to absorb water and thus loses its insulating power. 3rd waterproof and windproof layer The third layer is the famous shell. This is the layer you put on top of everything else to protect yourself from snow, wind, or water. Most of the time, all the seams of this type of layer are waterproof and taped. This prevents water from penetrating the jacket. Some coats also have ventilation, in the form of a zip, to allow perspiration to escape. When we think of the third layer, we quickly think of Gore-Tex, which offers very good waterproofing. However, this final layer can be chosen according to your own needs, and many different options exist. Finally, some snowboard jackets sometimes combine insulation and protection from the elements ( 2nd and 3rd layer). So, if you think you don't need to manage all the different layers because you're more of a mountain rider, these jackets are for you!
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WHAT IS A SPLITBOARD
Homies shops equip you for the backcountry and allow you to try out splitboard -style snowboards for your next adventures! WHAT IS A SPLITBOARD? Basically, the principle of a splitboard is to divide your board in two for the ascent and remake it into a single piece for the descent. It perfectly meets the needs of all-terrain enthusiasts, and it's the perfect tool for exploring Quebec's mountains and off-resort glades. A splitboard often sports an ideal shape for off-piste riding, with a longer nose and camber underfoot. Its dynamism will definitely make you happy in the glades. The box construction with a wood core and fiberglass layers ensures lightness and durability. A splitboard is the ideal tool for exploring the unmarked slopes that Quebec is full of. HOW DOES SPLITBOARD RENTAL WORK? First of all, whether you're from anywhere in Saguenay, our splitboard equipment rentals are available in our Chicoutimi and Alma stores. Each store has its own rental lot, and a simple phone call will let you learn everything about our equipment. BOARDS AVAILABLE FOR RENTAL CHICOUTIMI: Salomon Highpath Splitboard 156 cm - Ideal board for the average man. Salomon Highpath Splitboard 159 cm - Ideal board for taller or heavier men. Salomon Pillow Talk Splitboard 151 cm – Ideal board for women. Salomon Bellevue Splitboard 152 cm – Ideal board for women. ALMA: Salomon Highpath Splitboard 159 cm – for men. Salomon Bellevue Splitboard 148 cm – for women. RENTAL INCLUDES: The fixings: Of course, all our rental boards come with bindings. The majority of our splitboards are equipped with Union Explorer bindings. These bindings offer a very snowboard-like feel and allow the two tips to be firmly glued together when it comes time to join your board for the descent. A simple twist, then we lock everything together and it's done! We also have a board equipped with Burton Hitchhicker bindings. Equipped with the Burton Spark base and straps, you have everything you need for quick assembly and optimal comfort once attached. Backpack: Homies has you covered with the explorer's kit! Hiking poles, a binding adjustment kit, and a screwdriver. You've got everything you need once you're out and about! All this in backpacks designed for splitboarding and carrying gear in the backcountry . They'll allow you to carry safety gear, water, a few accessories, and a change of clothes. Perfect for long days outdoors and unpredictable weather! Who knows, maybe you'll even head out overnight ! That's why we're offering two 30-liter bags; for those who are going on big trips! Ascension Skins: This is what you put under your splitboard to make your ascent. It grips when you go up and slides when you go down! It's simple as that! Once at the top of the mountain, or the Côte du Parasol (we don't judge you), you put them in your backpack and you're ready for a well-deserved splitboarding ride ! There are several types of skins, some more flexible and lightweight, perfect for days in the refuge and others more robust for hardened snow and climbing trails. Don't worry about that: if you have any questions, our team will be happy to give you a little 101 course on skins before your departure. To quickly summarize, if you want to rent a splitboard set, all you need is your outerwear and your snow boots. We'll take care of the rest! TERMS We should also warn you about the small conditions for renting a splitboard. : The rental amount is $64.95 per day. You will pick up the split equipment the day before your first rental day and must return everything before the store closes on your last rental day. For example, if you rent equipment for a Saturday outing, you can pick it up at the store on Friday evening and return it on Saturday before closing. A $500 deposit must be taken on a credit card. This amount serves as security in case of theft, and this amount will be returned to you upon return of the board. You need to make sure you already have snowboard boots and goggles, a helmet, and adequate outerwear to keep you warm. For everything else, the Homies technician will give you a short course and some tips on how to use it before you leave!
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WINTER 2022/2023 EVENTS
Here's a summary of our 2022/2023 events calendar. Here's everything you need to know about the key winter dates so you don't miss out on the chance to have fun with us!
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