POSTCARD FROM HAYLIE POWELL in USA

After a rough year of injuries, Haylie Powell decided to jump on a plane to hit the skateparks in the US of A. Probably the best idea ever. At least her socials definitely makes the fomo very real - so, we checked in with Haylie to ask what’s up over there in the land of opportunity.

All photos provided by Haylie

Hi Haylie, how are you? We know you’re in the States but where exactly are you hanging out?

- Yeah, awesome. I’m hanging out at Huntington Beach right now, near the outdoor Vans Park.

Rad. How long are you overseas for?

- I’m staying out here for two weeks.

Sounds so good. Are you traveling alone or do you have anyone with you?

- My Uber driver came with me… lol. I’m traveling with Mum, she is super chilled and an excellent driver on the wrong side of the road and car. Dad had to stay at home and work and look after our two dogs.

Your mum’s the best! Besides her, you have your coach and long-time legend Tommy Fynn over there as well. Who else have you been hanging with?

- Yes pretty stoked to have my coach here. Sneaking in a few coaching sessions, which has been good. I have caught up with a few of my American friends, Steven Vasquez and Jake Brenner and some of the Etnies Pro Team. Will catch up with Ruby Lilly tomorrow. Have also some Aussie mates here, Noah and Jett.

Sounds like a pretty darn good crew. Now, are you going to any comps while over there?

- No competitions while I’m here. This trip is like a reboot after a horrid 12 months with injuries and recovery.

Totally get it. Sounds like the perfect reboot trip too. So, what are you up to - any fun or exciting skate stuff going down?

- Im pretty excited to meet up with the Manager of Etnies tomorrow. We will be discussing future plans and skate trips/parts. I’ve been hanging with the Team Manger since being here and he is super supportive.

Amazing. Supportive sponsors are everything. You’re also on Volcom, right?

- Yeah, I have some awesome sponsors. Actually, today I spent the day doing all things Volcom. I got a tour of Volcom’s headquarters and then they let me shop and I got to skate the indoor park as well and head out for a fun session at the outdoor park.

So sick! It really sounds like the best trip. Now, we always hear so much about skateboarding in the States. What is it about it? What makes it so good?

- I have found the community/culture is basically the same. So much support and people definitely start talking more to you once they hear the accent.
And the parks, well they are just awesome and so many of them. Also more street spots here to explore. I’m hoping to hit the streets again before I come home. I especially love coming here as I get to catch up with my friends. Skate Mates are the best.

They sure are! All that skateboarding, that’s cool and all. But what else is rad about traveling in USA?

- This is my third trip here and this trip is the first time I did something that wasn’t skate related. I went to a basketball game. It was so good! Poor mum though, as much as she loved the game I know she would love to see more of California than skateparks. Hopefully next trip mum ❤️🇺🇸