The Luxus Group

Gerard Butler admitted to hospital after Mavericks surfing stunt went wrong

2011-12-20T10:26:00.000-08:00

Gerard Butler was rushed to hospital after escaping death in a surfing stunt, it was revealed yesterday.

Gerard Butler and (right) a surfer riding Mavericks in northern California Photo:

Getty Images/AP

9:14AM GMT 20 Dec 2011

The 42-year-old star was trapped underwater after being hit by a succession of waves while filming in California. He has been shooting 'Of Men and Mavericks' based on the true life story of a tragic young surfer Jay Moriarty. Butler has been training all summer on the coast to recover the six-pack physique he developed for 300.

The near fatal accident happened on at Maverick's, the infamous Northern California surf spot south of San Francisco. Butler who plays the role of champion surfer Rick "Frosty" Henson, was caught in a 12 foot swell when he was hit by a freak wave.

He was pulled from the water onto a jet ski and then brought to shore helped from the water and taken by ambulance to a nearby hospital. Eye witness surfer Fran Quirarte said: "Butler was held down for a solid two-waves and took four or five more waves on the head.

"He was then washed through the rocks on the inside before he was finally able to be plucked out.

"Even on small days the inside at Maverick's can push ten-foot plus and really tear you up.

"When they brought Butler in he had that 100-yard stare that surfers get after a two-wave hold [down] or near death experience.

"After almost 20 years at Mavericks I've seen a lot of it, but at least he was standing on his own two legs.

"He was then carted away in a waiting ambulance."

He was taken to Stanford Medical Center and detained for observation overnight, where yesterday there was no statement on his condition. Quirate said Butler and film crew were impatient after waiting several days to get in the water.

"With Maverick's and the entire Northern Hemisphere big-wave season off to a slow start surfers and the film crew were chomping at the bit to get a few days of surfing and filming in.

"Waves were running at 12ft, but some large ones had got through."

Quirate had turned for the beach, when sirens went off. "We could here the faint sounds of sirens in the distance. And as the sirens got closer they turned down the road and headed straight for us.

"One of the film crew's radio cracked and I heard they were "bringing Gerry (Butler) in."

"No sooner did I hear that transmission then a ski and Zodiac turned the corner at the Half Moon Bay harbour mouth and were coming in fast. I ran down to the dock, help tie off the Zodiac, and noticed Gerard on board."

It was the exact spot where almost eight months ago 35-year-old Hawaiian surfer Sion Milosky died in a near identical accident at Maverick's, a big wave haven 25 miles south of San Francisco.

Quirate, Water Operations Director of The Jay At Maverick's Big Wave Invitational surfing event, said yesterday: "Butler had no business near the bowl or taking a Maverick's set on the head."

POW Gloves Extends Partnership With GORE-TEX®

2011-11-27T11:33:00.000-08:00

By Kailee Bradstreet

POW Gloves extend the partnership with GORE-TEX® , and WINDSTOPPER® technologies to include the brands in the 2012 winter line. The company will feature GORE-TEX® gloves to the North, and South American market for the first time this upcoming season.
Read the official words from POW Gloves on the extended partnership.

Seattle, Wash (October 15, 2011) – POW Gloves is excited to announce a partnership with W.L. Gore & Associates to use GORE-TEX® and WINDSTOPPER® brand technologies worldwide with the launch of its 2012 winter lineup. GORE-TEX® product technology will be featured in many of POW’s models, including its popular Mega GTX® and Royal GTX® gloves, pictured below.

“This season we delivered GORE-TEX® gloves to our North American and Southern Hemisphere customers for the first time, and we’ve seen explosive growth,” explained POW Sales Director Maxx von Marbod. “We’re now ready to take the technology global; our distributors are hungry for the same quality and performance.” Graeme Fuller of Surf Sales – POW’s UK distributor – commented, “It is very good news that POW will feature the GORE-TEX® brand worldwide as GORE is recognized by UK riders as the premium membrane technology. Combined with the excellent fit and function of POW, these new gloves will provide riders with the quality required for the conditions that we tend to face in Europe.”

POW Founder and CEO Dustin Goss commented, “The license extension is valued very highly within the walls of POW. Our team worked hard to plan, execute and deliver the implementation of GORE-TEX® brand technology into our latest offering, a technology that has become the leader in high performance durable waterproof technologies. Side-by-side with POW’s “Built to Last” mantra, these new GORE-TEX® gloves are the utmost in high-performance hand-wear.”
To view the entire 2012-13 POW Gloves line, visit Luxus Accessories - Pow Gloves Canada

About POW Gloves
Since 2002, POW Gloves has remained committed to producing the finest performing hand-wear for the activities we love. Based in Seattle, Washington, POW is a global glove-specific brand with products for winter sports, biking/cycling, and golf. POW is one of the fastest growing glove brands with distribution in over 37 countries worldwide. POW Gloves are “Built to Last”. For more information on POW Gloves, visit http://www.luxusaccessories.com/pow-gloves

About W. L. Gore & Associates, Inc
Gore is a leading manufacturer of thousands of advanced technology products for the electronics, fabrics, industrial and medical markets. Perhaps best known for its waterproof and breathable GORE-TEX®® fabric, the company’s portfolio features a diverse array of innovations, including everything from guitar strings to life-saving cardiovascular devices. Gore is headquartered in Newark, Del., posts annual sales of $2.6 billion, and employs 9,000 associates in 30 countries worldwide. It is one of a select few companies to appear on all of the U.S. “100 Best Companies to Work For” lists since the rankings were introduced in 1984. Visit www.gore.com to learn more.

GORE-TEX® is a trademark of W. L. Gore & Associates, Inc. ©2011 W. L. Gore & Associates, Inc., 295 Blue Ball Rd., Elkton, Maryland, 800-431-GORE, GORE-TEX®.com

Tribute to Jim McNeil

2011-11-13T14:09:00.000-08:00

Long time rider and well respected man inside freestyle motocross world, Jim Mcneil, recently crashed while practicing for an upcoming event, he was air lifted to hospital and later pronounced dead.

The event was one stop on the 2011 Boost Mobile FreestyleMX.com Worldwide Tour; McNeil had been a member of the Boost FMX team for the last nine years.

Jim took part in many events over the years including notable ones like the X Games, Dew Tour and Red Bull X-Fighters.

We wanted to post this tribute video to remember Jim ...

OGIO golf wins gold and silver awards in 2011 ‘Golf Digest’ Hot List

2011-09-01T19:26:00.000-07:00

Velocity Carry Bag Wins Gold; Sultan Cart Bag Wins Silver

SALT LAKE CITY (May 11, 2011) – OGIO, the designer of uniquely styled bags infused with intelligent design, is proud to announce a gold award for its Velocity UltraLite bag and a silver award for its Sultan cart bag in the 2011 Golf Digest Hot List. Included in the publication’s June 2011 issue, both bags received high marks for their light weight, design and strategically-placed features.

“We are extremely pleased with this recognition and achievement,” said Tom Gocke, vice president of golf, OGIO. “The Golf Digest Hot List is one of the most comprehensive guides for the best equipment in the sport. At OGIO we consistently strive to create stylish and innovative bags designed by golfers for golfers, so these accolades are a wonderful acknowledgement of fulfilling our mission.”

A part of the new UltraLite series, the Velocity bag weighs a mere 4.4 pounds, with straps included. Encompassing more technology and storage space than its predecessors, Velocity provides golfers with a seven-way Woode™ UltraLite Performance Top with full-length dividers, O-Shox™ suspension strap system and the AFS air flow system shoulder straps for maximum comfort on the course.

Featuring a 14-way diamond UltraLite Performance cart top, the Sultan offers dual magnetic side flip-up pockets, large insulated cooler pocket and an easy-to-use, magnetic ball pocket. Weighing in at 7.4 pounds, the Sultan also features four ergonomic handles to ensure easy lifting while riding a cart through 18 holes.

Check out the full line of Golf Gear at Ogio.com and in Canada at Luxus Accessories Ogio Golf - Click Here

Riding First Class with Ogio Travel Bags

2011-08-20T08:45:00.000-07:00

Ah... another boring, lifeless, black, boxy bag rolls down the conveyor belt onto the carousel at the airport luggage claim. Each one just like the next, mirrored by the equallt boring uptight business type shamefully heaving them to the ground. Oh, but not you, you've got style, and a swagger all your own. You're carrying OGIO luggage. Check it out here, OGIO Travel Bags

The Kikkor Story...

2011-08-08T19:47:00.000-07:00

For the low down on these awesome golf shoes we turned to the guys who can tell us best. Google. Only Kidding, Here is the low down on the coolest thing to happen to golf shoes since 1876 when Albert Spalding started a sporting goods company with $800. Manufacturing the 1st official: baseball, tennis ball, basketball, golf ball and football.

Kikkor Who?
Kikkor was started by 25 year old professional golfer James Lepp. James grew up in Abbotsford, British Columbia where he started golfing at the ripe age of 4 years old. He enjoyed much success both as an amateur player and professional, but in 2008 his passion for golf was slowly replaced for his passion as an entrepreneur. With the help of some friends and business consultants, the brand was officially launched in April of 2010.

What?
Kikkor is an alternative golf footwear brand targeting the younger players at heart. The shoes are built with comfort and style first in mind, without ignoring the important technical attributes, such as grip, stability, waterproofing, and durability.

When?
The brand concept was conceived late in 2008, and was officially launched April of 2010.

Where?
The roots are grounded on the West Coast of Canada, near Vancouver, BC; however, right now Kikkor products are readily available all over North America, and will soon be worldwide.

Why?

A few reasons why Kikkor is here:

1. It doesn’t matter what age you are, 10, 25, or 45, nobody truly wants to wear the same stuff as their dad.

2. The golf shoe industry consistently designs shoes that are targeted only for the older demographic, leaving younger players with very few options that match their personal style.

3. Do we really have to wear dress shoes on the golf course?

4. The need for really comfortable golf shoes.

Check out the full line of Kikkor Shoes Click the Link Below or check them out online www.kikkor.com

Kikkor Shoes shipped anywhere in Canada, Click Here

Ogio Layover Bag Review

2011-08-05T08:24:00.000-07:00

Traveling can be a big hassle for anyone, especially if you have crappy luggage. Making a solid, long term investment in travel bags usually isn’t a top priority for most folks. I mean, how often do you travel anyway? You can probably get by with the $20 rolling suitcase you picked up at Ross, right?

Well the thing is, crappy travel bags don’t reveal themselves right away. You’ll be on like three or four trips before disaster strikes. But when your cheap bag goes, it goes bad quick. A busted wheel. A broken zipper. It could be a simple, how-the-hell-did-that happen rip, but before the end of your trip, you’ll be cursing the fact that you took such a low budget approach to your travel needs.

We’ve all been there. So when we got our hands on an Ogio travel bag for review, we accepted gladly. I’ve had some pretty sorry luggage in my day, so I was curious to see what these guys had to offer. Ogio sent us one of their OGIO Layover travel bags, and we tested the thing out.

The first thing you notice is that the bag looks like it’d be in the closet of a BMX biker or professional Moto racer or something. There’s a reason for this. Here’s what Mark Kuryak, Vice President Global Action/Performance/Sport had to say:

“OGIO’s designs are inspired from the various sports that we actively participate. We seek the input of our athletes so that can design uniquely styled collections that are both rugged and intelligently designed with features that help them in their lifestyle. The layover is a prime example. While it is part of our travel collection,” Kuryak said, “the styling of this bag comes from our roots in Moto.”

We looked up this connection. It turns out that Ogio produced a motocross film called Global Addiction in 2002 that featured some of the biggest names in freestyle MX like Travis Pastrana, who continues to work with the brand. Ogio produces high performance bag gear for a variety of uses. When designing these gear bags, the company gets a ton of input from top athletes in moto, BMX, skate, snow and surf.

“Most of all our bag features and unique styling comes from our top athlete input,” Kuryak said. “They use OGIO products on daily basis thru toughest conditions which is our best testing ground for superior quality and inspiration for new features and designs.”

That input is evident when you put the Layover bag to the test. The thing just looks rugged and sporty, and those wheels aren’t going to crap out on you while you’re running through the airport.

“The lines are fast and unique,” Kuryak explained. “The materials that we use are tough to stand up to the most grueling conditions, the sled and wheel system is a reflection of the SLED system of our acclaimed 9800 Moto Gear bag. And the organization compartments allow our athletes to stay in control of their travels while they are on the road.”

That SLED system is legit. The Layover bag has these gliding, urethane wheels that rest on a heavy duty chassis. It doesn’t matter what kind of terrain you need to drag this thing through, those wheels can power through anything.

“The SLED technology feature is on many of our top selling gear bags came right from our athletes,” Kurayk told us. “They wanted the most durable/heavy duty wheeled bag that would survive all rider conditions – practice, race day, and travel.”

That’s the main take away from this Ogio operation. They design their gear for extreme use, but it’s the everyday utility and surefire functionality that appeals to average consumers.

When asked about other athlete-inspired features, Kurayk mentioned all the compartments the bag has. These “intelligently designed compartments” were crafted for “organization of all gear – from helmets, gloves, goggles, lenses, apparel, and now neck brace compartments for easy access,” Kuryak said.

“Each pocket is specialized to protect their valuable equipment.”

So in addition to the sleek styling, you get extreme usability and convenient storage features. Not bad for a bag that retails for $199.99. You probably won’t need to pack for the X Games or some other extreme sports event, but if your bag can handle the needs of top extreme athletes, it’s going to work just fine for your weekend trip to Vegas.

Brand Bio: MyPakage

2011-03-21T22:01:00.000-07:00

KnowShow Blog
Monday, March 21, 2011

MyPakage began in July 2009 as a casual conversation between Dez Price and Dustin Bigney, two good friends lamenting over the lack of men’s underwear that was well-made, supportive and, above all, super cool.

While the women’s underwear market was constantly getting reinvented, Dez and Dustin quickly realized the big boys were getting left behind.

Taking their issue to heart, the two spent months designing a prototype. Using soft, no-pill fabrics that breathed better than cotton, and washed well without any shrinkage, both their patented “Comfort Keyhole Technology” and three-dimensional pouch were finally perfected and ready for the world.

The Vancouver 2010 Olympics proved to be huge for MyPakage, as they handed out pairs to snowboard athletes at events and parties. Distributors like Rampion began to express interest, their first order came by late summer and, as NHL hockey players and other athletes became loyal fans, their entourage of brand ambassadors was born.

In January 2011—after many meetings and a few hockey games—MyPakage joined forces with one of the top design and development firms in Vancouver. Our new partners have worked with the top brands in the industry including Lulu Lemon, Arc’teryx, Polo RLX, and Aether. We are moving into the vertical world of design, development, sourcing of fabric, and apparel manufacturing, giving us total control. We get to be a part of the entire process, sharing MyPakage’s values in sustainable practice. The partnership was the ideal fit.

With the new year in full swing, MyPakage shows no signs of kicking back. Outdoor recreation, sporting goods, men’s fashion and pretty much anything below the waist are categories they look to conquer. To them, it’s all about breaking down retail and marketing barriers, creating and innovating, while always being rad, and well regarded.

MyPakage is always going to be dedicated to giving back to the sports we love. Watch for an epic launch at the Whistler Ski and Snowboard Festival in April, as well as in major cities across the United States later this year.

OGIO 180 Moto Stand Review and Tested in Kelowna BC

2010-07-04T23:39:00.000-07:00

The 180 stand is pretty simple. Ride/Push your bike through the stand and it rolls to automatically to lift the bike with no need to use your post moto weak and shaky arms to lift it.

Unlike previous stands that made you dead lift the back of the bike and shove it over onto the stand, the OGIO 180™ does the lifting for you. As the front tire rolls through the framework, the stand rotates 180™ degrees to engage and lift the bike. When you’re ready to ride, simply pull the bike back and the OGIO 180™ will reverse the motion. Now you’re ready to roll.

Check it out, Ogio 180 Ramp

A dusty ride in Kelowna BC! What beautiful views!

Vancouver Canucks in LA Rocking their OGIO Bags

2010-06-03T11:50:00.000-07:00

Great pictures of the Vancouver Canucks loving their OGIO travel bags.

They were put to good use during their first round playoff run with the LA Kings.

(Above) A couple of shots of Mason Raymond #21 and Alex Burrows #14 using their OGIO Layover bag and an mystery hand pulling the new OGIO Bus bag.

Check out the Full Ogio Travel Collection at www.Luxusaccessories.com

OGIO'S and FRED COUPLES Create Magic.

2010-04-26T23:22:00.000-07:00

OGIO'S FRED COUPLES LINE OF BAGS DELIVERS AFFORDABLE, CLASSIC LUXURY

- PGA.com

BLUFFDALE, Utah -- Whether on or off the course, Fred Couples is widely known for being both smooth and stylish. The 1992 Masters Champion and 2009 Presidents Cup captain has perfected fluidity of motion for more than three decades. This year, he's teamed with tech-savvy gear bag manufacturer OGIO to craft a signature travel line that reflects his easy, classic and technically gifted style.

Each of the six bags is sleek and luxurious, while still enveloping high-performance components.

"The golf community deserves luxurious, affordable travel gear that, like Fred Couples, is both effortless and stylish at once," said Ogio Global Vice President of Golf Tom Gocke. "We worked with Fred personally to bring his cool and easygoing nature to a line that lives up to his exceptional standards for craftsmanship."

Each of the six bags in OGIO's Fred Couples signature travel collection is sleek and luxurious, while still enveloping high-performance components. Built with a combination of 1680 ballistic nylon and constructed leather, the all-black line includes:

--Monster Golf Travel Bag (suggested retail $340): Designed to carry everything from stand bags to Tour golf bags, the Monster offers helmet-like protection with the aid of SLED (Structural Load Equalizing Deck) technology surrounding the bag's base. Oversized wheels facilitate easy maneuvering, as padded ballistic nylon and tarpaulin exterior reinforce the bag's contents. It measures 52" x 17" x 15".

--9800 Rolling Duffel Bag (suggested retail $280.00): The supersized 9800 combines oversized, off-road wheels; a retractable Pullman handle; and huge, padded compartments to facilitate safe and organized packing. The signature 9800 also offers added protection using OGIO's SLED system and measures 34" x 16" x 16".

--Terminal Rolling Duffel Bag (suggested retail: $250): The OGIO Terminal is an organized wonder featuring two oversized packing panels, interior mesh dividers, suit straps, and neoprene lining -- all of which can be maneuvered with a retractable Pullman handle. It measures 29" x 16" x 13".

--Layover Carry On Size Rolling Bag (suggested retail: $190): Compact and perfectly sized to fit overhead bins, the Layover includes a two-stage Pullman handle and smooth urethane wheels for optimum navigation. The Layover delivers plenty of space for shoes and other necessities with the aid of two low-profile external pockets and a 3" expansion zipper. It measures 22" x 14" x 10".

--Street City Corp Messenger Bag (suggested retail: $110): This streamlined personal organizer manages and protects laptops, phones, power cords, files and work/travel necessities, identified with iconic symbols to promote maximum storage. It measures 12.5" x 17.5" x 6".

--Epic Backpack (suggested retail: $120): Designed to accommodate most 17" laptops, the Epic 2500 cubic-inch pack offers side-entry padded laptop protection, front strap cell phone pocket, plenty of file dividers and pencil sleeves, two side insulated water bottle sleeves with leak ports, and loads of other ergonomic and digital-friendly features. Measures 20" x 13" x 10".

All the pieces in the new Fred Couples signature collection will be available beginning in April.

OGIO Expands Hybrid Golf Bag Collection

2010-02-16T22:49:00.000-08:00

All of OGIO’s new hybrid bags, which range in size and performance, are designed to perform the work of at least two separate golf bags, at half the price.

“You take our current economic climate and combine it with the growing use of push and electronic carts, and you find a ‘perfect storm’ of events demanding multi-function gear,” explains OGIO VP of Global Golf Tom Gocke. “We’ve found that walkers now want the ability to secure their carry bags to carts. Likewise, many electronic cart users want or need a carry bag when the situation, or regulations, warrants one. We’ve answered with some of our most cleverly designed offerings to satisfy this need for expanded functionality.”

In the Cart Hybrid category, OGIO has revealed two new bags, each loaded with significant player-friendly components found on traditional cart bags, plus additional details such as rubber-coated to prevent twisting on the cart, and deluxe shoulder straps.

OGIO’s 2010 Cart Hybrid bags include:

- Syncro: A remix of last year’s popular hybrid bag, the Syncro delivers clubs via a 10” Uniter 15-club top with individual full-length dividers; a Zipperless Ball Pocket; an internal “isolation chamber” wet/dry pocket; OGIO’s Torq stabilizing strap; plus 13 pockets. The new Syncro is available in Black Plaid, Juice, Navy, Sherlock Plaid, and a limited-edition Prizmata design.

- Spry: The lightest of the hybrid cart bags, the Spry weighs in at just 6.2 lbs. while still offering a 10”, 14-way top with full-length dividers; an insulated cooler pocket; plus nine zippered pockets. The Spry is available Black, Ladapus, Red, and Sherlock Plaid.
OGIO’s new Stand Hybrid bag – the updated Grom – likewise offer many of the company’s most popular components, at a lighter weight. Each bag also is configured with forward-facing pockets, making them easily accessible from a cart. Features include:

- Grom Now in its fifth year, the best-selling Grom returns as a hybrid with a 9” Woode top (v 4.0) with its integrated top handle; the catch-free Arc Lite leg stand system; a Torq stabilizing strap; plus a walking-accessible water bottle holster. The 2010 Grom is available in Black Plaid, Blackwatch Plaid, Hoth, Juice and Stealth.

For more information about OGIO’s new hybrid golf bag collection, visit www.facebook.com/ogiogolf or www.ogio.com.

Shop and view the Ogio Product line at http://www.luxusaccessories.com
Shop Ogio Products in Canada

The History of POW Gloves

2009-12-16T16:18:00.001-08:00

POW was started 7 years ago because we couldn’t find gloves that fit right, worked well and looked good without spending a ton of cash on some “big brand name”. After six years of progression and design innovation, POW gloves are some of the best on the market. We are sold in over 32 countries and the quality of our product is unmatched. POW Gloves are truly built to last.

Located in the heart of Seattle, our office is cozy basement just across from the best sandwich shop on the west coast. If you ever come by, don’t let the barkin dogs scare you, they don’t bite....we’ll get lunch at PASEO, grab a beer at the Buckaroo and keep the buzz rollin downhill to Norms for a 40.

These days there are 5 of us in the office; Dustin, Dan, Goody, Jeff, Kaiser and the Ambitious Interns, Rinker and Hoover. We all work hard and rally harder. Dustin runs the factory, Dan designs, Goody sells, Jeff excels, Kaiser gives away free shit and the interns, well … they do what they’re told. Buddah, Cali, Jake and GG keep us smiling and keep the bums outta the back alley.

Check out the Full POW Lineup in Canada at Luxus Accessories www.luxusaccessories.com or http://luxusaccessories.com/vmchk/POW-Gloves.html

Ashbury X Berrics ?

2009-11-03T01:36:00.000-08:00

Steve Berra wears a Berrics version of the Daytripper glass from Ashbury. Who know’s how limited it will be if and when it drops? Is there a Ashbury United Nations in the works? Is Steve going to be a new addition to the team? Too many questions. Looks like Ashbury is up to some great things though.

Mick Fanning Claims 2009 Rip Curl Pro Search

2009-11-03T01:19:00.000-08:00

Solidifies Lead in ASP Title Race

For more on this story and the Rip Curl Pro Search from Peniche Portugal, please log onto http://live.ripcurl.com

Mick Fanning (AUS), 28, former ASP World Champion (2007) and current ASP World No. 1, has claimed the 2009 Rip Curl Pro Search at Supertubos in Portugal, defeating fellow Finalist Bede Durbidge (AUS), 26, and cementing his lead in the now two-horse race for the 2009 ASP World Title.

Event No. 9 of 10 on the 2009 ASP World Tour, the Rip Curl Pro Search ran a gamut of conditions and venues ranging from two-foot righthand wedges at Molhe Leste, four-foot offshore lefthanders at Lagido, punchy four-foot peaks at Belgas and death-defying six-to-eight foot barrels at Supertubos yesterday before culminating a dramatic end to competition.

Fanning, who won the inaugural Rip Curl Pro Search at Reunion Island (2005) and was a standout in yesterday’s massive barrels, readjusted to today’s smaller conditions and was dominant in his Final against Durbidge. With conditions deteriorating, Fanning lacerated the punchy wedges on his forehand to net a solid 6.67 and a 6.00 that would prove unbeatable for his opponent.

“Yesterday was one of the best days of competition I’ve ever seen and we all showed up today and had to adjust our frame of mind to deal with the drop in size and quality,” Fanning said. “I’ve been surfing conditions like this all summer at home so I knew what I had to do out there. I was able to pick off a couple of good scores at the start and then I basically had to sit on Bede (Durbidge) so he didn’t get any back on me.”

A true student of focus and adaptability, Fanning was a fitting champion of the Rip Curl Pro Search, and navigating the changing venues and conditions with aplomb and panache.

“The Search lived up to its name – we searched everywhere,” Fanning said. “We surfed four different waves for the event and even yesterday, I wanted to go and surf down at the wall, but we ran here and it ended up being one of the best days of the year. Congratulations to Rip Curl and all the staff who put in some really tough work all week with all the moves – it’s been a pretty amazing effort.”

The Rip Curl Pro Search narrowed down the field of potential contenders for the 2009 ASP World Title from 10 to two throughout the course of the event, with the final event of the year at the Banzai Pipeline playing the decider.

“That’s what you always dream of as a kid (competing for an ASP World Title at Pipeline),” Fanning said. “I’m super pumped. I’m going to go home and relax for a couple of weeks and get ready for Pipe. Hopefully we get some big barrels like we did here and we have a real showdown.”

Durbidge, who now moves to ASP World No. 4 heading into the final event of the season, was a standout throughout the Rip Curl Pro Search, likening the conditions to his home break of North Stradbroke Island on Australia’s Gold Coast. The well-built natural-footer secured an impressive come-from-behind win in his Semifinal today before being stopped by Fanning in the Final.

“Definitely the top guys of the event were in the top four,” Durbidge said. “It was unfortunate that Owen (Wright) couldn’t be in his Semifinal. Mick (Fanning) has been in incredible form the past eight weeks and he’s on fire. The 10 that Joel (Parkinson) got yesterday was phenomenal, and in our heat this morning, he had me on the ropes until the end.”

The Runner-Up finish marks Durbidge’s second of the season (collecting his first in France), and is a welcome change in momentum from a tough start to 2009. A former winner at the Billabong Pipeline Masters (2007) as well as a former Vans Triple Crown Champion (2007), Durbidge will look to finish the year strong in Hawaii.

“I’m stoked to get second but you always want to win,” Durbidge said. “I have that little bit of disappointment. It was a great event for me and I won some really big heats so the confidence is really high. I love Hawaii and I haven’t had my win this season yet so I’m definitely keen to put one away during the final event.”

Owen Wright (AUS), 19, wildcard into the Rip Curl Pro Search and current No. 3 on the ASP World Qualifying Series (WQS), was a standout in Portugal, eliminating 2009 ASP Dream Tour rookie Kekoa Bacalso (HAW), 24, nine-time ASP World Champion, Kelly Slater (USA), 37, Californian new school leader Dane Reynolds (USA), 24, and current ASP World No. 9 Damien Hobgood (USA), 30, en route to his Semifinals berth against Fanning.

However, tragedy would strike during his Quarterfinal win over Hobgood yesterday as the phenomenal goofy-footer suffered a horrific wipeout, rupturing his eardrum and injuring his neck. Although prepared to don a helmet this morning and take on the current ASP World No. 1, event physicians instructed the young Australian against competing.

”I had the injury checked out last night – there’s no real bone or structural damage,” Wright said. “I just feel it through the neck, shoulder, knee and my ear is a bit messed up. We did some tests this morning and we all decided it was better off me not competing as I don’t really have much range in my neck movement. But, it’s all good – it is all fixable. I will be getting worked on twice a day and I will take a bit of time to relax. I will still go to Hawaii and hopefully get some barrels. I love it there so hopefully we get a good season.”

Although Wright was unable to surf on the final day of competition, he emphatically made his presence felt amongst the world’s best and will be a force to be reckoned with on the 2010 ASP World Tour.

“I’m definitely disappointed but stoked to see Mick (Fanning) win,” Wright said. “Stoked he got another win. I would have loved to have surfed against him, it would have been great, but I’m really happy with my performance in Portugal. It was a great experience and gave me a lot of confidence heading into next year.”

Parkinson, who experienced what many considered to be an unbeatable start to the 2009 ASP Dream Tour season, witnessed his stranglehold on the ratings chipped away at following three, consecutive Equal 17ths sustained in California, France and Spain. Despite missing out on a Final’s berth, Parkinson’s Equal 3rd place finish is a welcome return to form.

“I am a little bit disappointed but overall I am pretty happy,” Parkinson said. “Third still keeps me up there and in contention for the title. I’m a little bit disappointed in myself, I made one error that changed the whole heat and they are the little things that you find hard sleeping on."

Generally guarded when discussing the 2009 ASP World Title race, Parkinson is one of two contenders remaining this season, and, as the defending Vans Triple Crown Champion, will be a major player in the final event of the year.

“In a few days when all the dust settles I’ll look back and see that I have come off the ankle injury and a few bad results, so just to get a third and back into form is a huge confidence boost,” Parkinson said. “There is not a great deal of points between me and Mick (Fanning) coming into Pipe so it’s still anybody’s to win.”

The 2009 ASP World Title has now become a two-horse race between Fanning and Parkinson and will conclude at the final event of the season, the Billabong Pipeline Masters. The scenarios for the 2009 ASP World Title are as follows:

- Fanning finishes 33rd through a 9th at Pipeline, Parkinson needs a 3rd or better to overtake.

- Fanning finishes 5th at Pipeline, Parkinson needs a 2nd or better to overtake.

- Fanning finishes 3rd at Pipeline, Parkinson needs win the event to overtake.

- Fanning finishes 2nd or better at Pipeline, he will clinch the 2009 ASP World Title.

Although the men’s event has concluded, the ASP Top 17 will have their crack at the many waves of Portugal for the Rip Curl Women’s Pro Search, event No. 4 of 7 on the 2009 ASP Women’s World Tour, which will commence this afternoon.

Surfline, official forecasters for the 2009 Rip Curl Pro Search, are calling for the current surf to drop slightly over the next 24 hours before another swell is expected to hit the region.

The Wire Story Today: Top Golf Pros have switched to OGIO Travel on the PGA TOUR

2009-07-16T14:16:00.000-07:00

OGIO's new Travel line has become the preferred travel gear to nearly a third of the PGA lineup - OGIO melds high-performance protection with high-wattage style, making the new an instant staple in some of the nation's finest retail outlets, LuxusAccessories.com being THE finest. Yes my opinion may be a little biased, but check it out.

Among the PGA Players that have requested and received OGIO's travel bags this year on tour, including luggage and golf travel pieces, are:

* Alex Cejka
* Brad Adamonis
* Brett Quigley

* Chad Campbell
* Cliff Kresge
* Frank Lickliter II
* Fred Couples
* Garrett Willis
* James Oh
* Jay Williamson
* John Huston
* John Rollins
* Johnson Wagner
* Jonathan Kaye
* Josh Svendsen
* JP Hayes
* Matt Bettencourt
* Mike Weir
* Notah Begay
* Paul Stankowski
* Rory Sabattini
* Shaun Micheel
* Skip Kendall
* Steve Lowery

OGIO Golf Tech

2009-06-04T00:25:00.000-07:00

There are golf bags and Golf Bags, OGIO makes the latter.

Wedge Top

The Wedge top features 10 separate compartments for variety of club configurations. The entire woods section is elevated and isolated to either side – think of it as stadium seating for your woods. Hybrids and wedges are also isolated from each other to provide easy access to more frequently used clubs and reduce club head and shaft damage.

ZBP (Zipperless Ball Pocket)

Utilizing similar technology to the Hoode where a hingeless tension rod provides one-handed access to the pocket’s contents. The simple motion allows easy access to the interior and automatically springs back into place after a ball is removed.

2 of the many features on the new OGIO golf bags at http://www.luxusaccessories.com/GOLF-BAGS.html

New Rip Curl Detroit

2009-06-01T21:26:00.001-07:00

From the depths of our creative watch department emerges the latest show-stopper in Rip Curl time-telling development. Suitable for everyday use, depth tested for your daily surf, and eye-catching enough for your nightlife escapades, these are undoubtedly go-to pieces.

Constructed with 316L stainless steel, the highest grade of stainless steel for a marine environment, this line dawns a classic look, while boasting 100m depth-tested rating. Of course, Rip Curl watches are not "batch tested " . Each piece is separately tested for depth, pressure, and temperature to ensure top shelf Rip Curl quality. http://www.luxusaccessories.com/Rip-Curl/WATCHES/Rip-Curl-Detroit.html

The Worlds First Heated Wetsuit

2009-05-18T16:27:00.000-07:00

Rip Curl has launched the new H-Bomb, one word Sick.

The idea is straight-forward good surf can come with cold weather, lets make a suit with a heater. seems simple right?

Took the boys and Girls at Rip Curl 3 Years. They built it and Mick Fanning tested it. In some wilds spots I might add.

Look For it soon at www.luxusaccessories.com or pre-order with and email today at info@luxusaccessories.com

http://www.ripcurl.com/index.php?hbomb

Is that ice in the water? No Prob, Better turn on my suit.

Luxus Accessories teams up with POW Gloves

2009-01-25T14:30:00.000-08:00

These gloves will pull chicks. So if you are debating which glove to get, ask yourself if you want to pull chicks or not.

http://www.luxusaccessories.com/vmchk/pow-gloves/view-all-products.html

POW Gloves are functionally designed for high performance output. POW has developed many snow models all with slight variances for an array of uses. Wheather you work live or play in the snow, we have the glove that fits.

MISSION:

We began making gloves for a simple reason,we are prisoners of winter, we need better gloves.
It is POW’s mission to innovate and revolutionize sport gloves. With our expert design and construction techniques, and a desire for perfection, POW Gloves is fully dedicated to bringing the most functional performance handwear to the action sports market. POW guarantees comfort regardless of the hand mother nature deals you.

2009-01-10T16:16:00.000-08:00

Luxus Accessories would like to introduce the Luxus Blog. Please feel free to post any new break out lines.