The first time Vans BMX's Dakota Roche had the opportunity to ride Philly was 13 years ago and since then, it’s held a special place in his heart. Although Dak grew up on the west coast, he has always had a love and fascination with the style of spots on the east coast.
Whether experiencing a place for the very first time or revisiting a cherished city and its memory-triggering landmarks, the act of traveling often conjures a distinct emotional response (and perhaps even more so during a pandemic year that has halted most travel). For Dakota Roche, that city is Philadelphia, and those landmarks— both discreet and iconic—were a welcomed breath of fresh air after being homebound for most of 2020.
Together with Vans, Dakota made his way back to the City of Brotherly Love after an eight-year hiatus, and spent some time re-learning the ins and outs of spots that have held a special place in his heart since his pilgrimage there nearly 13 years ago. In Vans’ latest BMX edit by Calvin Kosovich, Seeking
After doing a BMX 'zine for ten years (1987 - 1996) FATBMX made it on the internet. The year was 1998. Here to stay.