What does 686 mean?

Well it has to do with two things 1.) It was a special date in June 1986 that relates back to Mikes grandmother and 2.) It was the age when Mike started the company, 6+8+6=20.

How do I start my own company like you started 686?

Mike: Well, I wouldn’t even start a company, cuz it’s too difficult!!!!! Nah,just kidd’n. At 686, we take the Do-IT-Yourself method to heart. When we started, we didn’t know jack. However; we had a few things going for us: a passion to listen and learn, a love of snowboarding and skateboarding, we like to create new things that have never been done, and we like to do it on our own terms. If you believe in any of the above, we recommend that you first try and learn from someone else’s dime, meaning get an internship or job actually doing it. Then make sure you do it for the right reason.  It shouldn’t be for the $, but because you like to design, shred, etc.

Where are your goods produced?

A few top-secret, non-descript locations across the ocean

How many people at 686 snowboard?  

It’s a requirement.  If you come to work here and don’t snowboard, you get sent to Mammoth for a crash-course.  You will also have to sleep in a snow cave and eat astronaut food for a week.  

How often do you get to ride?

Not as much as we’d all like, that’s for sure, but we do get out a decent amount.  Thanks to the good people at Mountain High and Bear Mountain, we can be on the hill in just a few hours.  

I’m a real talented MOFO and interested in working at 686. What do I do?

We keep our ship tight and it isn’t often that we have an opening (full time, part time or even internships). However, check our job listings and see if there’s a posting that suits you OR email us at jobs@686.com and tell us your story. You never know.  

I have something I’d like to promote or give you, where do I send it?

Unless it’s something so rad that we can re-sell it on E-Bay, please don’t send us anything. If you absolutely MUST pass it onto us, you can send to:  Westlife Distribution LLC c/o: Dope Stuff To Give You, 227 E. Compton Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90248 (BTW, if you do send something, don’t expect something in return, except for some good karma!)

How do I become an ACC (Artist Collaboration Conspiracy) Artist?  

You don’t.  We’ll come to you.

Can you send me free stickers?

Send us an email at info@686.com and let us know you need some stickers and how much you love our gear and we’ll hook you up.   If you order something or have a warranty, you’ll also get stickers. And…you can also go bug your local shop, tell them you know they have stickers hidden somewhere and you won’t leave until you get some.  

Do you have a warehouse store in California where I can buy gear directly?

Yes, we do have a warehouse at our office in Gardena, CA, however; it’s filled with lots of boxes and funny machines and a crazy person named Adam, so we’re not able to place orders for you or have you do a walk-through.  

How do I get sponsored by 686? Where do I send my Sponsor Me videos?

You may know Pat McCarthy as our killer team rider, but what you might not know is that he’s also our team manager. So if you think you’ve got what it takes to be a 686 rider and impress Pat, send an email with all your info and to info@westlifedistribution.com.

How can I start selling 686 in my store?

Simple, all you have to do is email sales@westlifedistribution.com to get the ball rolling.  Our friendly sales department will help you out.  

I see you don’t sell 686 in my country, how do I become a distributor?  

We’re always looking for new distributors, so send an email to sales@westlifedistribution.com and tell us all about your country, especially what sort of shredding there is so we can come visit you on a “scouting” trip.  

I lost my Smarty liner/broke my Toolbelt/my dog ate my zip-off hood – can you sell me a replacement piece?

NO.  Stop asking.  Seriously.