Transworld 2006 Buyers Guide

This 2006 Transworld Buyer’s Guide blends product breakdowns with a heavy lineup of skater interviews, turning gear talk into a deep dive through the personalities who ride it. The cover captures a smooth side tailslide by Javier Mendizabal, shot by O’Meally, while the contents image features Tony Tave mid–frontside flip, frozen in a crisp Skin photo—setting a clean, classic tone for the issue.

It opens with a short Intro, leading into gear sections starting with Decks and interspersed with standout interviews: Aaron Suski, Spanky, Peter Ramondetta, Dennis Busenitz, and Arto Saari each speak on their setups, sponsors, and likely reflect on how their boards match their styles—power, finesse, or pure aggression.

The Wheels section follows, paired with equally varied voices. Jake Brown brings a big-ramp perspective, Jake Rupp adds East Coast grit, Stefan Janoski delivers his understated cool, and Paul Shier represents smooth, technical skating from across the pond. Each rider adds personal nuance to their gear preferences, highlighting what makes each component work under pressure.

Trucks are up next, with Leo Romero lending insight into how his fearless, rail-heavy skating demands specific stability and feel. Bearings and Safety Gear get their due, followed by a solid chunk on Shoes—arguably the most personal and stylistic piece of gear. Interviews with Brandon Biebel, Omar Salazar, Clint Peterson, and Tosh Townend make it clear how footwear plays into function, identity, and style on the board.

The issue wraps with Sightings, offering visual heat and final glimpses of who’s been doing what and where. As a Buyer’s Guide, it’s comprehensive—but the interviews elevate it, turning a gear checklist into a snapshot of skating’s most expressive voices at the time.