The first of a series of exclusive web interviews we’ve conducted for the Native Blog features Girl Skateboards, Fourstar Clothing and Lakai Shoes pro skater Guy Mariano. Check out what Guy has to say below…
1) You have been Lakai for a while now, and since then the team has introduced a few new riders to the roster, does this have much impact on the team dynamic? How do new folk get introduced to the rest of the team?
All of the new riders have really solid heads on their shoulders so the impact on the team as a whole is positive. We’re really excited to have these kids carry on the brand name and traditions. New folk usually jump on a couple sessions at home then we take them on a trip to get an overall vibe to see what they stand for and if they’re compatible with the rest of the team.
2) Being one of the most influential skateboarders around, you must have inspired the way many skate, who do you think has had the biggest impact on the way you skate? Do you think the younger generations influence your tricks at all?
Growing up Mark Gonzalez. In my prime Eric Koston. Now Marc Johnson. I definitely get inspired by the younger generation with all of the new tricks they’re doing. I also get inspired by skaters like Andrew Reynolds. He seems to only get better and better over time.
3)With Lakai being run by a tight knit group of your close friends, do you get to work closely with the design and production process? How much input do you get with your shoes?
I was lucky enough to travel and work on Fully Flared with Scott Johnston and build a relationship with him. He is now the creative director at Lakai. He was in my shoes not too long ago working with designers on his signature shoes, trying to get something that skates good/ feels good and marketable as well which is not easy. Working with him has been a blessing. Scott is really good at translating our input into something that sells.
4) To you, what combination of details contribute to making the perfect skate shoe?
No paneling. More detail in the mid to back of the shoe. Thin cupsole and eyelets that sit further back so you don’t break your laces as easily…and of course a big fat flair on there.
5)What would you say is your favourite feature of riding for Lakai? What makes it the ‘brand for you’?
I could rattle off a bunch of reasons but ultimately it’s riding for Rick and Mike. Lakai allows you to be you.
6)With some of the most highly regarded video parts in skateboarding to date and your Fully Flared part be awarded ‘Best Video Part’ at the Transworld Skateboarding Awards 2007, do you feel pressure to raise the bar in future video parts, for example the new Chocolate/Girl film?
Without a doubt. That pressure comes mostly from myself. Skateboarders are always trying to achieve their personal best. I don’t know if I’m going to raise the bar but hopefully people will watch and know that I still give a shit.
7)Can you recall the hardest you have ever had to work for a trick? As time goes on do you feel tricks still come as easily as they used to?
There’s tricks from the 90′s that I’m still working on. You could get better with age if you stay hungry. Bigger stuff hurts more now that I’m older, not that I ever went that big; but I do take better care of my body and mind now which helps tremendously.
8)Who’s footage are you anticipating the most in the Girl/Chocolate film? Do you think any of the new guys will produce some big surprises?
Vincent. Raven. Stevie. Corey. I think Stevie will be the biggest surprise because people haven’t seen as much of him as the other guys. I’ve taken a couple of trips with him and he’s blown me away. His style is great. he gets tech. He goes big. He’s the real deal.
9) Skateboarding has taken you to many different parts of the world , where has left the most positive impression on you? Is there anywhere you would like to visit you haven’t already?
I love China for the spots and the spas/massages. Spain for the food and warm hospitality. I always have a great time in London. It’s great when you get to spend enough time somewhere and get to know the local skaters and go back see some familiar faces. Haven’t been to Greece and would love to go. I’ve heard there’s amazing skating and beaches out there.
10)On your many tours, who do you enjoying rooming with the most? Who is the most extravagant character you have ever shared a room with?
I usually room with Marc we have a lot in common and we both smoke. Biebel is the most extravagant. He’s the type of person that will set up a gold course in the room. Always a good time with him.
11) Other than the highly anticipated Girl/Chocolate Video, what else do you have in store for the future? Is there any projects or trips you are in the process of or looking forward to?
I’m planning to spend some more time working on Fourstar and growing the brand. Maybe something video related. I think we have one of the best teams out there. It would be cool to bring together everyone in some sort of project.
12) On a final note, can we in the UK expect to see you visit again anytime soon?
Pretty soon…prettysweet premiere.
Thank’s for that Guy! Hope to see you over here soon.
Check out Guy’s section in Lakai’s Fully Flared Video below.
Don’t forget to check out Guy’s Sponsor’s Fourstar, Girl Skateboards, Spitfire Wheels and Lakai Footwear.
Keep your eye’s on the blog for more interviews coming soon!
