Rowan Cheshire Q&A
February 5th, 2019
We’ve teamed up with incredible British freestyle skier, Rowan Cheshire for our latest Superdry Snow collection. We grabbed 10 minutes with her to talk us through what it takes both physically and mentally to get ready for the slopes.
Let’s start from the top, what first got you into Skiing?
I got into skiing through my Dad taking us on family holidays. We always used to drive past the local dry ski slope and thought one day we’d give it a go and I’ve never looked back since.
Incredible to see where you are today. Looking back now, what would you say has been your biggest WOW moment?
When I was in Laax one season I was standing at the top of the pipe and there was a cloud inversion, I was standing above the clouds with the peaks poking through in the distance. It was beautiful and really made me appreciate where I was and grateful for the life I lead and the places I get to visit.
That definitely sounds incredible, was that your most memorable ride?
Actually, my most memorable ride would have to be competing at the Olympics in PyeongChang last year. The whole atmosphere of the event was amazing, and I’ve never seen a crowd like it in my ski career.
There’s nothing like a good crowd to get you going when there’s no crowd, what’s your go-to soundtrack?
I really like to ski to chilled music, so Billie Eilish is a go to, especially her ‘Ocean Eyes’ track. Also, really like Post Malone.
We’re big fans of Billie! Outside of being an Olympic Skier, you’re also a pretty awesome personal trainer, what workouts would you recommend people try and do prior to heading off on a ski trip?
I’d recommend that they work on their mobility and strength. Working on strength movements that work in different planes of movement as well as exercises that challenge your balance and stability. Skiing also takes a lot of endurance so I’d work on reps between 8-12.
In your career you’ve had some nasty injuries, getting over them and back on the slopes must have been a tough journey. How do you train your mind and well as your physical health to be at its best?
Mental health is really important to me! I train my mind by meditation, mindfulness and always trying to be kind to myself. I find that exercise has a positive effect on mental health as well. It’s a great focus and makes you feel amazing both physically and mentally after. Those endorphins work wonders.
Talking of endorphins, being an Olympian must feel pretty awesome, will we be seeing you in Beijing 2022?
Fingers crossed! Definitely aiming to be competing in the Beijing Olympics.
Having now had a chance to put our latest Snow collection to the test, what’s been your favorite technical piece?
Without a doubt, the Antarctic Explorer Down Parka jacket is a favorite piece of mine to ski in at the moment. So comfortable and easy to move in.
It would definitely keep you warm! What pieces do you take in your kitbag and what items can’t you live without?
I love the snood scarfs, they come with me everywhere and also the hoodies are the comfiest to ski in, perfect to lounge around. I’m also a huge fan of the Superdry Sport collections, so a few pieces always sneak their way in.
Discover more on our Superdry Snow collection here.
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Read moreOn The Huntar For New Music
January 30th, 2019
If you’re on the hunt for new music in 2019, look no further than Huntar! The eclectic musician has been gracing endless ‘one to watch’ lists, and our recent natter and style session with him has charted him high amongst Superdry’s rising stars!
Hi Lewis! Why is your artist alias called Huntar?
Hey Superdry, my alias is called Huntar because when I first signed a record deal their offices had a deer hunter poster on the wall, and I thought it was pretty cool. I dropped the deer and changed the E to an A so people weren’t googling actual hunters haha. I didn’t think my real name really suited the electronic R&B sound I was making.
When we think of hunting, one thing that comes to mind is The Revenant. How would you fare?
I think I’d be relatively ok to be honest, would I be allowed to pack a bag? If so I reckon a few snacks and a bottle of water might help!
What are you on the hunt for in 2019?
Myself mainly, to further expand and learn. I’d really love to go away this year and focus on progression as an artist with my sound. I’d like to have real conviction with my new releases and start to really sound like an artist people recognise straight away when they hear my music.
Enough of the hunting puns we promise! What’s your story into music?
Once upon a time in a town far far away called Newmarket a young milky-bar-looking-kid picked up a guitar and decided to just see what happened. It ended up that he got fully obsessed with it. I just love writing songs and making music. I completely adore the idea of giving myself to it, so I keep doing it as much as I can whilst trying to always improve.
Who would play you in a film and why?
That’s a pretty good question. I guess someone who kind of has the hair down already, you know? I’m not too sure who could pull it off!
How do you define success?
Waking up and being further along than you were the day before. I think we live in a really weird time, in which everybody is always trying to compare themselves to others and that’s so dangerous. For me I think we’d maybe all be a bit happier if we judged our own lives on ourselves and take it a day at a time.
What do you make of social media, and where do you see the future of it going with relation to music?
It’s great isn’t it? Everyone can see absolutely everything all the time, if you want them to of course. Honestly, I think that’s fascinating when you really comprehend it. I guess I lived in a strange period where technology really advanced very quickly and I went from playing with sticks in a garden pretending they were snakes, to playing snake on a Nokia 3210. I feel like music had always been pure through the “CD era” – you went to the shop and bought a CD, and you really treasured it. For artists now I think it’s amazing because you can release music everywhere whenever and be so creative with how you do it. That’s the pro for everyone if you have an imagination – it’s exciting.
How would you sum up your sound, and what are your influences, both classic and unconventional?
Prince was the man for me growing up, and my dad gave me the Batman soundtrack. Prince made the whole soundtrack and it’s honestly still unreal to listen to – it really stands up in today’s music as cool. He sampled things back then, and it’s crazy to think he was doing that back in 1989.
Your debut album is called The Ride – talk us through this journey!
It’s really been a wild 4 years working out who I am and what my sound is. As a first album it’s almost like figuring out who you are as a person growing up, and then the graduation…
We invited you to our Regent Street flagship recently, and loved having you. What did you pick out and make of the recent collection?
Everything, haha. I’ve got some great things and I’m so thankful, but a few of my favourite things I picked out were the new Superdry jumpers In blue/green and red. Then there’s the two oversized graffiti tops, the blue skinny bottoms, alongside my camo parka. What a time to be alive!
HUNTAR’S DEBUT ALBUM THE RIDE CAN BE STREAMED HERE!
FOLLOW HUNTAR ON INSTAGRAM HERE!
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Read moreA Guide to Ski Fashion & What to Wear to Stay Warm Skiing
January 28th, 2019
Your winter holiday is fast approaching and you need to find the perfect ski attire. A ski jacket will be your ultimate companion on the slopes – you’ll need this to be warm, practical and durable and you’ll also want to look the part. So we’re here to help you find what to wear in the snow with our top tips and help you get excited about your vacation.
Ski fashion trends for 2019
Here’s how to style up your ski outfit this season:
- Retro parkas – Look for fluffy fur-lined hoods and oversized styles for 70s and 80s retro-inspired looks.
- Monochrome – Put the near fluorescent ski trousers down, this season it’s all about black, white and grey for a sleek, stylish look on piste.
- Leather and fur accents – It’s all in the details, a leather look jacket or a faux fur embellishment will give your ski attire an instant upgrade.
- Chunky knit balaclavas – Snoods are great but all-encompassing balaclavas worthy of your Nan’s knitting needles are bright and bold – ideal for adding a pop of colour to a monochromatic ski outfit.
Now you’ve got the basics down, it’s time to buy those pieces to make up the perfect ski attire for the season ahead. Looking good means you’ll need to feel confident in whatever you choose – as well as it being warm and totally functional. The main focus is the ski jacket and we’ve detailed what you need to look for in our guide below.
What to look for in a ski jacket?
The type of jacket you opt for will depend on what type of skier you are. Most are in the category of piste skiers and will, therefore, have more of a choice.
If you’re a piste skier, in cold conditions you’ll need good insulation – in slightly warmer conditions you could go for a shell jacket with added layers underneath.
If you’re a backcountry skier you’ll need protection from rougher conditions and freestyle skiers will be more likely to want something lightweight that lends itself to layering.
So what’s most important to you when you’re skiing?
While you obviously want to be warm and dry, you’ll need some breathability from your jacket – especially if you’re challenging yourself and picking up speed!
There are lots of factors to keep in mind and you need to work out what’s most important for you. We’ve rounded up what to look for below.
- Waterproof material
- High collar
- Lots of pockets
- A decent hood
- Long sleeves
- A snow skirt
- An on-trend colour
Waterproof and breathable
Invest in a jacket with a fabric that keeps you dry but also allows the heat you have generated while exercising to escape.
High collar
This could be your saviour. A high collar makes for ideal protection from the elements not only for your neck, but for the whole bottom half of your face.
Extra pockets
Zip pockets are an essential aspect of your dream ski jacket. Whether you want to take an Instagram-worthy selfie at the top of your run or keep your phone with you in case of emergencies, you’ll need a waterproof internal zip pocket for your phone to live in. You’ll also need a pocket on the outside of your jacket for easy access to your electronic lift pass.
Hood
To reduce the risk of head injuries, a helmet should definitely be a part of your ski outfit. So consider investing in a jacket with a hood that fits over the top of your headgear. Even if you don’t want the hood up when you’re skiing or snowboarding – not many people do – it’s handy to have a hood big enough to go over your helmet for those chillier times waiting for and sitting on the chair-lift.
Long sleeves
Snow up your sleeves? No thanks. Long sleeves limit the chance of this happening – if the jacket has cuffs that hook over your thumbs, even better!
Snow skirt
Another great way keep the snow out. Some snow skirts are detachable, but no matter what kind you go for, this is the ideal feature to keep your base layer bone dry while you show off your skills.
The perfect colour for you
You’re wanting to know how to look good skiing – but you will also want this jacket to serve a purpose when you’re not cruising and carving. These jackets can be so handy in the winter months for the pure fact they’re built for extreme cold conditions, so choose something in a colour you’ll want to wear on and off the slopes. Monochromatic shades are in this season and everyone looks good in black and white.
So, what is the warmest ski jacket?
An insulated jacket offers the warmth a basic shell jacket can’t. With shell jackets you’ll need to layer up, which can be spot on for a freestyle skier, but an insulated jacket is the ultimate investment for the cold weather and for winter sports holidays in general.
There are different types of insulation to look out for when selecting your new jacket. If you’re looking for something lightweight but extremely warm, down ski jackets are the ideal companion. Although they aren’t built for getting wet because they’ll lose their insulation, they’re absolutely perfect for keeping you warm on a walk or for your apres-ski activities.
However, if you can get your hands on a hydrophobic down jacket you will find the water-resistance you’re looking for from your ski jacket.
Puffer ski jackets come with both down and synthetic insulation. Synthetic insulation is made from polyester making it great for wet conditions (these types of jacket also dry very quickly) but not as good for keeping you warm.
What fit?
The functional aspect of this jacket is very important but this is ski fashion we’re talking about – you want to know how to look good skiing, too.
Do you want something that fits snug to your shape? If so, a slim fitting jacket is what you’re after. This is an extremely popular choice.
If you would prefer to layer underneath your jacket but don’t want the overall look to be too bulky, a regular fitting jacket is ideal.
If you like room to move and manoeuver then a loose fit is definitely for you – snowboarders this is what you’re looking for!
Whether you want a slim fit snow jacket with a high collar or a regular fitting parka with a snuggly fluffy hood, you’ll find what you’re looking for from your winter ski season outerwear with the help of our top tips.
What to wear when skiing
- Ski Jacket
- Ski Trousers
- Helmet
- Base Layers
- Ski Gloves
- Ski Goggles
- Ski Socks
- Snow Boots
- Neck Warmer
- Ski Hat
Now we’ve helped you find the perfect jacket type, colour and fit, you’ll need to get packing the rest of your kit. Below are our top 10 ski attire essentials that should be on your list.
Ski Jacket
How could we do a whole feature on ski jackets and not put this top of the list?! It’s the ultimate essential.
Ski Trousers
Now you have your jacket, grab some trousers to match – you can even get jacket and trouser sets that can be joined together with the help of zips or poppers.
Helmet
Safety is paramount when you’re skiing or snowboarding, so getting protected with a helmet is vital, especially if you’re a beginner.
Base Layers
Gain extra insulation with high quality base layers. Pop these on under your ski jacket and trousers and you’ll be ready for all conditions.
Ski Gloves
Keep your hands warm and gain additional grip with a quality pair of gloves.
Ski Goggles
Goggles are the ultimate way to protect your eyes from the sun and snow – get a pair in your case.
Ski Socks
A nice thick pair of socks are necessary for your feet in chilly conditions – they’ll also protect against any uncomfortable rubbing from your boots.
Snow Boots
You’ll need a strong, sturdy and waterproof pair of boots for wading through the snow.
Neck Warmer
Whether it’s a scarf, neck warmer or even a balaclava, something to keep the cold off your neck will make life on the slopes infinitely better.
Ski Hat
Pack a hat to pop under your helmet as an additional layer of warmth.
Prep for a stylish time on the slopes this season. Wearing your brand new jacket and armed with all of these essentials, you’ll be sure to take to the slopes fully prepared and looking good.
The post A Guide to Ski Fashion & What to Wear to Stay Warm Skiing appeared first on Superdry Edition.
Read moreSam Oldham: Superstar of Gymnastics
January 25th, 2019
We caught up with Olympian gymnast Sam Oldham to talk all things style, fitness (and chicken nuggets!)
Let’s start with a classic introduction – what’s your sporting profession, and what’s your story and road to becoming this?
My name is Sam Oldham, I’m 25 years old and I am a full time mens gymnast. I was super hyperactive as a child and it was a school teacher that suggested to my mum that she should take me along to the local gym club. I fell in love with gymnastics straight away and 19 years down the line I still get the same buzz when I’m flying through the air.
You’ve had amazing success and involvement at The Olympics – can you explain what it’s like to be a part of, and any iconic stories you have?
The Olympic Games is the pinnacle of gymnastics and It’s what every athlete strives for in my sport. The dream for me started at the age of 12 when Great Britain and London won the bid to host the 2012 Games. I vividly remember thinking “right I have seven years to work as hard as I can to be part of that team.” It definitely wasn’t a smooth journey but making that team is still one of my proudest achievements. We were the first British mens gymnastics team to qualify for the team final in 20 years. On a historic Saturday night in the London o2 arena we managed to win Britain’s first medal in mens gymnastics for a century. At 19 years old I was the baby on the team and the new kid on the scene. I have fond memories of meeting the likes of Michael Phelps, Usain Bolt and even the Queen following our bronze medal. Most of all I remember the time spent with my team mates and the experiences we shared during that amazing time in my life. It’s true that in the Olympic Village there is a free McDonalds and one day after we had finished competing I ordered a double cheese burger, strawberry milkshake, fries and 200 chicken nuggets! In some ways London 2012 feels like a lifetime ago. My dream now is to qualify for the Tokyo games in 2020 and do my best to win one more Olympic medal.
In perhaps one of the most competitive and challenging sports out there, how do you define success that’s not just fixated on medals?
Success for me in gymnastics is performing to my full potential which is something I have only done a handful of times in my 19 year career. Timing is everything in gymnastics and I’m aiming to get this just right in the lead up to Tokyo. Making sure I enjoy the process is really important for me as I approach the latter stages of my journey. The medals are amazing but in the end they will only gather dust. It’s the memories with the people around me that will last for my lifetime. I’ve seen a lot of athletes leave a sport and almost resent it. If I can leave gymnastics and still love the sport that will be huge success for me.
What does fitness mean to you?
Fitness has been my whole life! From what time I go to bed, what I eat and how I spend my free time all revolves around my training. Sport is like a drug. It’s great for the soul and gives you a massive high. I believe I will stay fit long after gymnastics as I’ve seen the positive impact it can have on your physical and mental health. The aim of the game for me is to be as strong a possible whilst at the same time being as light as possible. My overall fitness gives me an advantage over my competitors and that’s why I do lots of different kinds of training.
You endured an awful sporting injury a few years ago, but have come back even stronger – what new outlook, approach and goals do you have second time around?
The ankle injury I suffered at the 2014 Commonwealth Games was a huge challenge for me to overcome physically. I dislocated and completely ruptured my medial and lateral ankle ligaments and I underwent reconstructive ligament surgery. I was initially told that my career could be over as the injury was incredibly serious. Fortunately, I had the best surgeon in the country and an incredible medical team that took on the huge task of getting back to gymnastics. I have a much different outlook now compared to the first time around. Gymnastics will always be important to me but my morals, values and what I stand for far out way. As a youngster I used to carry the pressure of my coach, family and expectation around with me whenever I competed. Now I’m just doing gymnastics for me and as long as the people closest to me think I’m a good guy that’s all that matters. In terms of my actual gymnastics results, the only opinion I worry about is my own. I’m going into the next 18 months with a nothing to lose and everything to gain attitude and It’s a great position to be in.
You’ve collaborated with Superdry for a year now – can you talk the readers through the projects so far?
I’ve collaborated with Superdry for a year now and have enjoyed every minute of it. For me it’s a perfect fit and my personality matches up with the brand really well. The most important thing to me though is that the sports clothing is really good. I struggle with finding clothing that fits my unique frame and the T-Shirts in particular help with my shoulder pain. Because of the nature of my sport my shoulders sit forwards and I struggle with impingements. the Superdry sport T-Shirts are very light and looser around the shoulder which makes training on the rings and High Bar much easier for me. Novemeber of last year I travelled out to Germany to compete in the Bundas League which was supported by Superdry. It was my first competition back competing on all six events following an injury back in March 2018. You can watch the vlog of my trip and competition out in Germany on my YouTube channel.
How would you sum up your personal style outside of the gymnasium?
I’d sum up my style outside of the gym as a mix between athlete leisure and classic. I’m a huge sneaker head and have over 50 pairs of trainers! However I love to dress up smart over the weekend as it’s my chance to get out of the chalky gym clothes. I like to go and watch my local football club Nottingham Forest. Right now it’s pretty cold in the stands so I layer up with a Superdry hoodie, a puffa coat and some chelsea boots.
You’re one of the billboard faces of the upcoming Superstars of Gymnastics even at London’s 02 in March – what can we expect from it!?
The Superstars of Gymnastics is going to be a really monumental occasion. Never before has there been a competition where all the best gymnastics in the world are going to compete under one roof. I honestly still can’t quite believe that it’s happening! I used to dream of this kind of event as a young kid. There will be no rules so the athletes can design their own routines with the crowd in mind. I’m using it as a stepping stone towards Tokyo and putting myself under the bright lights and thousands of gymnastics fans. Expect the most exciting gymnastics and some things you may have never seen before in the sport!
Give us five reasons why gymnastics is the most exciting sport out there to watch!
Gymnastics is the ultimate challenge, you have to master the whole body from your toes to the top of your head!
It’s the closest you will ever get to flying.
Gymnastics done beautifully is pure art.
In a split second you can fall and it’s all over. It’s the greatest test of someone’s ability to control their mind and emotions under extreme pressure!
Right now the athletes are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible for the human body!
What else is on the horizon for Sam Oldham?
I’ve got some really exciting projects coming up with Superdry in the next few months so keep an eye out! My latest YouTube episode is live now, so if you want to follow my journey towards Tokyo 2020 you can subscribe to my channel HERE!
FOLLOW SAM OLDHAM ON INSTAGRAM HERE!
SHOP SUPERDRY SPORT HERE!
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Read moreJames Yates: A Scrapbook of Conditioning Workouts
January 17th, 2019
James Yates is a model, fitness enthusiast/expert, and all round impeccable guy! With the release of his e-book, ‘A Scrapbook of Conditioning Workouts’, we caught up with the star to philosophise fitness and find out how the influencer gym session went that road-tested his workout…
How did fitness become ‘a thing’ for you, what’s your story?
It started when I was at university, training became part of my routine and the aim was purely aesthetic. Now it’s my hour in the day, my time to myself, my escape. I like to see how hard I can push myself, how strong I can be mentally. I like the conditioning side of fitness, getting that heart rate up and being fit and mobile.
What’s your personal definition of ‘being fit’?
Feeling comfortable in your body, feeling awake, alert, healthy. Enjoying being able to move and not dread any type of physical activity. It should feel good to be fit and be enjoyable.
Your fitness approach is built around conditioning workouts – can you explain what this means?
It means being wholly functional. Strong, powerful, good endurance, mobile, coordinated. Like whole body workouts, that mix strength, volume and endurance.
We road tested your workout last year with a fitness class led by the main man himself (you!) Can you outline what the session entailed with the different stations and fitness achievements within it?
So the session was 5 stations, each mini circuits, that held components or endurance, strength and power. The participants completed each station in a given time and rested between stations. We had exercises like deadlifts, kettlebell swings, atlas stones, air bike sprints and core exercises. The whole body was given a thorough workout and it was designed to maintain a high heart rate whilst still increasing strength and power.
What are your fitness goals and resolutions for 2019?
More time stretching and working on mobility! I am admittedly poor in maintaining this and it’s something I really need to spend more time on. I also want to do another challenge that pushes myself (last year I ran a marathon at a day’s notice with no training) mentally and physically.
You’ve got an epic relationship with Superdry – what styles do you gravitate towards here?
I love the fit of your athletic wear. I tend to wear something sleeveless with some shorts and long socks. In these winter months I’ll throw on a long sleeve top but I’m a shorts man all the way!
FOLLOW JAMES YATES ON INSTAGRAM HERE!
PURCHASE A SCRAPBOOK OF CONDITIONING WORKOUTS HERE!
SHOP SUPERDRYSPORT HERE!
The post James Yates: A Scrapbook of Conditioning Workouts appeared first on Superdry Edition.
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