Metzger Brand Crew in Full Effect at the Navy Moto-X Finals
This past weekend at the Navy Moto-X Finals in San Diego, the Metzger Brand crew were out in full effect representin. Mike was on the mic doing some commentary and interviewing riders. Metzger Brand CFO, Brandon Roberts AKA BrotherB was making the rounds and pumping the brand. As for me, I was behind the camera capturing all the action of the entire weekend. For results and photos, visit my website at jakeashcraftphoto.com/blog.
Mike on the Mic

Mike on the Mic

Metz interviewing Ricky Carmichael

Metz interviewing Ronnie Renner

Metz catching up with Blake Williams (Bilko)

Brandon Roberts AKA BrotherB

Mike doing some EXPN action.

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EXPN.com
http://expn.go.com/expn/slideshow?id=3342287§ion=2008.mxwc&count=7
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The Godfather of Fabrics
The Godfather of Fabrics
April 10, 2008, 3:03 PM
Ryan Leyba
Metzger-vision engaged — 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 — BLAST OFF!
Now in a new chapter of his life, Mike Metzger has announced the release of his new artistic apparel line, labeled as Metzger Brand. I know what you may be thinking, "oh great, another clothing company from Southern California". It seems like everyone from riders to rock star's is looking to start a "different and cool" clothing company, but you know what? Not everyone is a talented artist like Mike Metzger. I was talking with Brandon Roberts of Metzger Brand just the other day and he was telling me the unique approach that the company is taking and I have to say its got me excited. With Mike Metzger's direct involvement with design, cutting edge printing techniques and high-quality garments, this new line is sure to turn some heads.
Pin Rocked — part of the Canvas Series by Metzger Brand
Many people know Mike "The Godfather of FMX" Metzger as the pioneer the sport of Freestyle Motocross. What many people may not know is that he is an artist to the core and to say that his art is unique is an understatement. The main goal of Metzger Brand is to produce art based apparel that is original in design and original to the market. It's not so much that Metz is banking on his massive name to sell the shirts, but more than anything, he wants people to be into his garments because of how dope they are — not because they are associated with his iconic name. The initial line is composed of T-shirts, hats and accessories with plans for denim and custom cut and sew garments. Just now in the sample phase, the "canvas series" is expected to be released mid-summer 2008 and will feature Mike's favorite paintings transpired onto hi-end garments. "This is a natural extension of my passion as an artist", says Metzger. "It's exciting to see years of my art journals and paintings transformed into apparel and I think people will appreciate the unique designs that we are producing". For the coinsurers that are more into looking at Metz's fine art, rather than wearing it, Metzger Brand is also offering a limited edition series of original prints by the Godfather of FMX himself.
"The cool thing about this situation with Metzger Brand is that we have all of the components to produce a really sick brand", states Brandon Roberts of Metzger Brand/Side Creative. "I've spent several years operating several different businesses and that has taught me how to successfully operate start up brands like this one efficiently. Mike on the other hand is an excellent face man and has endless marketing capabilities. Our other partner, Jake Ashcraft is a sick photographer, graphic designer and web developer, so the components are all there and it's all about sticking to the plan that we have been working on to really make this baby move we are all very confident and really excited", explains Roberts.
The Kook — part of the Canvas Series by Metzger Brand
What makes Metzger Brand different than the rest of the other gazillion clothing companies that exist is the fact that it's art-based, yet still action sports/moto related. "The days of machine guns and brass knuckles on T-shirts are over", states Robertson. "I see the trend shifting to a higher end clean cut, art-based feel. We want to bridge the gap between moto and hi-end right out of the gate. Our ultimate goal with Metzger Brand is to sell in shops like Active, Tilly's, Hanger 94, Industrial Rideshop, Buckle, Zumiez, as well as boutiques like Tangerine (Temecula), but still be able to sell to the local bike shops", explains Roberts.
I have been a fan of Metzger's art since way back in the day and to see his paintings finally being utilized in this manner really stokes me out. I'm sure there are going to be tons of people that buy Metzger Brand strictly because of the fact that Metzger's name is on the tag, but I can truly see someone rolling into a store in LA and simply being stoked on the art itself, rather than the name associated with it. I wish Metzger, Roberston and Ascraft the best of luck, because you know what? Metzger is so multi-talented that I think it's about time he gets recognition for being more than just that crazy dude who pulled back-to-back backflips at X Games in 2002. To see the current collection, visit metzgerbrand.com and if you like the canvas series (I shirts I posted photos of), be sure to bookmark his site and check back around summertime so you can get your hands on this ish before it's gone.
Also, for all you Metzger fans out there, be sure to check out the Motocross World Championship TV times to catch Metz in action as he shreds his SuperMoto bike around at the Qualicomm stadium, in attempt to add another medal to his already massive collection.
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