As in a lot of cases these days, the odd is becoming the ordinary and the alternative is becoming the mainstream.

Clothing designed for the thrashers on the skateboard and snow-board scene is no exception.

The baggy, oversized look sported by both participants and spectators alike can now be seen on window mannequins at fine department stores.

But what keeps these clothes and accessories fresh and cutting edge is not by whom or where they are worn, but rather who designs them.

“First thing is they have to be functional,” owner and designer of DVS Shoe Company Kevin Dunlap said. “Soft, gummy, grippy soles to grip the skateboard.

“They have to be 10 times as strong as your Nike shoe. They go through a lot. Second is cosmetics.”

The 27-year-old Dunlap started his business two years ago with practical knowledge about skating (he skates) and retail experience.

Now, he has seven full-time employees and three part-time who take orders for his shoes across the country.

He also has a team of ten pro-riders that helps design the shoes and promote the company on the skate tour circuit.

Dunlap said the youth of his workers and team riders is key to the energy of designing such an ever- changing product.

Youth is no stranger to Counter Culture. Designers and owners Mike Schillmoellen and Pat Fraley said their focus is on “the youth.”

The company that makes skate, snow-board and surf clothes sponsors not only athletes but musicians such as Rage Against Machine.

Ezekiel clothing, the 4-year-old company based out of Orange County, Calif. (which seems to have the monopoly on skate fashion,) has become a leader of the “skate look.”

“We started designing what is now the trend in skateboard clothing. I design with high fashion as my influence,” Alex De LaPena, designer and president said.

“I like the looks of Polo and [Tommy] Hilfiger. Just not as expensive.”

Where many companies design for skate/ski/surf fans, Ezekiel remains loyal to the skateboarders.

“Out here (California), surfers don’t like what skateboarders are wearing, skateboarders don’t like what snow-boarders are wearing…” he explained.

“Some companies target all three. We don’t.”

De LaPena, 24, said a key ingredient in designing is “go from experience.”

Like Dunlap, De LaPena is a skater himself, but admitted the corporate world has a tangle hold on his time.

“Being young helps [with the designs.]” he said.

“I enjoy getting out there and skating and hanging with my friends, but I don’t have time anymore.”

He added hip-hop music plays a role in the looks he designs and the current rage on the thrasher stage is twill cargo pants and loose, baggy denim.

But don’t blink, it’s sure to change soon.