Active Ride Shop started as a small skateboard store in Chino and has evolved into an action sports powerhouse with 20 stores, including six in Orange County.

Shane Wallace of Active, left, with professional skateboarder
Kenny Anderson. Photo courtesy of Active.

 

The company’s stores are in interesting mix of skateboard shop and fashion boutique. Active is a major customer for Orange County skate brands including Etnies, Element and KRW3.

I checked in this week via e-mail with Shane Wallace, whose family owns the chain.

Question: Active is expanding rapidly. How big do you want to be?

Answer: As big as the performance of The Active Family will allow us to become, so the sky is the limit.

Question What are your areas of responsibility?

Answer: The vision, the culture, and the operations take up most of my time these days.

Question: Any more locations planned for OC?

Answer: For sure, we love OC!

Question: What is Active’s hottest shoe and hottest apparel brand right now?

Answer: Vans and RVCA are at the top of the charts right now.

Question: Any up-and-coming brands we should keep our eyes on?

Answer: Altamont and Supra are making some major moves in the rookie of the year category.

www.activemailorder.com