The skateboarding world is currently obsessed with pants. From debates about the cost of “Big Boys” to predictions of a return to tighter fits, it seems everyone is talking about skate pants. This focus on legwear has intensified recently, with pants arguably becoming the most discussed element of a skater’s outfit.
Fashion trends are indeed cyclical, and the resurgence of 90s clothing was inevitable. However, John Shanahan accelerated this trend around 2017 by sporting baggy denim and swishy pants, perfectly complemented by his reissued DCs. Shanahan’s influence on the skate pant conversation is undeniable. Early in 2021, his brand, Pangea Jeans, launched, and the pants sold out almost immediately. We caught up with John to discuss his new promo part for Pangea and his thoughts on the ongoing pants debate.
Do you think Pangaea had any good skate spots back in the day?
There must have been some skateable rock formations. Maybe some volcanoes.
Why did you start a denim company instead of an easier venture like a griptape or hardware company?
I launched a clothing company because I genuinely enjoy clothing design. It’s been a passion of mine for a while. A few years ago, I was sewing my own pants and making unique pieces. It was demanding and difficult to keep up with, especially as my skate career gained momentum. However, I didn’t want to give it up because I loved it so much. So I sought a different, less time-consuming approach (or so I thought). It made perfect sense to merge my two loves—skateboarding and clothing—into a single project. Starting this brand has motivated me to skate more than ever.
Pangea 2
Who is the lead designer for Pangea? Are you designing, or do you have a friend following your direction?
I develop all the designs and concepts for the graphics, and my friend, Jayson Chacon, is the graphic designer. My design background comes from thrift stores, old skate videos, and just being out on the streets. I draw inspiration from many places. As a hands-on learner, visiting thrift stores and antique shops is very inspiring. You see such a diverse array of clothing and get to feel the materials and scrutinize the details. Vintage skate videos and magazines are also filled with inspiration. Additionally, being out in the street skating all day exposes you to various interesting things and styles.
Pangea 1
How do you plan to compete with the Big Boy craze?
I’m not trying to compete with other brands. This is simply a creative outlet for me, and I’m enjoying the process. If people like it, that’s great. If not, that’s okay too! My primary goal is to create quality clothing that I’m passionate about and that reflects my style. I’m focusing on the design and the overall experience, not just trying to chase trends.
Does having a clothing sponsor like Bronze conflict with Pangea?
Bronze is a hardware company! It’s all love over there. Everyone at DC has also been incredibly supportive of Pangea, they’re family! I see the brands as complementary rather than conflicting. Bronze focuses on skate hardware, while Pangea allows me to explore my passion for clothing design.
Pangea 5
Is the brand name a reference to the prehistoric look of these pants?
[Laughs] No, I never really thought of it that way. The name Pangea came from the idea of a supercontinent, a single landmass before the world divided. I liked the idea of unity and bringing things together.Are pants the most important part of a skater’s outfit?
When you’re watching someone skate, your focus often goes to the board, shoes, and pants. So, yes, I’d say they’re definitely a key part of the overall look. They contribute significantly to the skater’s style and presence on the board.
What do you say to skaters who claim baggy pants and big shoes are just a rip-off of the 90s?
I would say, maybe it is a rip-off of the 90s! But maybe it’s also just a classic style and reference to the most genuine and influential era in skateboarding. Fashion often draws inspiration from the past, and it’s natural for trends to resurface. What matters is how you interpret and incorporate those influences into your own style. I see it more as a homage to a golden age of skating rather than a simple copy.
Video by: Matt Andersen
Intro: Larry Lanza
Q&A by: James Lee
