Re-Up: AA Pro BMX racer Nic Long starts IdolHand, a company focused on gloves. Read all about it.

Jul 09, 2015

Written by Bart de Jong

Read 10077 times

Name: Nic Long
Hometown: Lakeside, California
Company: IdolHand Gloves

What made you decide to start a company?
Nic: I have really been looking for a creative outlet for a long time and couldn't really find my niche. When I left Deft Family (due to some industry shifts) I decided I wanted to start my own glove company with the basis being Tattoo art with a heavy music

influence as well.

Why gloves?
Nic: Because I had always thought it'd be neat to have my personal hand tattoos on a set of gloves. Once that was in my mind I realized the possibilities of hand tattoos is endless, therefore the possibilities of glove designs are endless.

Is the focus on gloves or will it expand in a bigger range in the future?
Nic: The focus is the gloves, however I will bring some apparel to the game as well. But that's secondary for me. Also will possibly have some IdolHand bags of some sort designed and created locally by Tragen USA.

The designs are almost like hand tattoos on some of the models. What's your take on tattoos?
Nic: I'm a fan obviously, as I'm nearly covered. The craft and skill to design a piece of art on the human body is amazing to me.. The talent to make something work with your body shape or your skin type is unreal. Something I hope I can do someday but that's way down the road.

Do you focus on the BMX market with the gloves or are they made for anything from MTB, motocross, BMX freestyle, etc.?
Nic: Obviously my name is know primarily in BMX racing, so right now that's the target market I suppose. Though I also have many close friends in freestyle and some in MTB and Moto so the possibilities are there for sure. To any sport... If you like the gloves, buy 'em!

What have you learnt from doing the company to this point?
Nic: It's a lot of hard work and monies, and it's all about connections connections connections.

Do you have any help in the company?
Nic: It's just me and my graphic designer and friend AJ.. He also runs a complete custom design company and apparel printing business.. Check him out at UTIclothing.com

How is (international) distribution set up?
Nic: It's not yet really, I'm still waiting to put in my official order. After that I'll be working on all business details but I'd like to ship worldwide.. If you want them why wouldn't I be able to get them to you? I'll do my best!

Do you have any riders in mind to sponsor and represent Idol Hand Gloves?
Nic: I've got a few, and I'll also have a small team just to represent. Mostly close friends with rad style that I can post pics of... Cause we all know my terrible style.

2015 is going to be a big year for you with the start of the company and trying to qualify for the 2016 Olympics. Are you ready for both?
Nic: I'm always up for a challenge, it'll be a fun year.

Where can people get in touch with you if interested in the gloves, apparel, headwear and bags?
Nic: They can check out the IG @idolhandgloves or email me at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.