MERGE4’s First Year at EXPOSURE: A Contest Rooted in Purpose, Progression & Community

MERGE4’s First Year at EXPOSURE

This year marked MERGE4’s very first time attending EXPOSURE, and we couldn’t have asked for a better introduction. EXPOSURE isn’t just a gathering — it’s one of the most impactful contests in skateboarding, built to uplift women and girls in the sport while raising support for survivors of domestic violence.

As a woman-founded, purpose-driven company, standing behind an event like this feels exactly right.

MERGE4 x EXPOSURE: First-Year Partnership

We were honored to create the official EXPOSURE socks for 2025. And seeing Jess Robledo, EXPOSURE’s co-founder, proudly wearing hers throughout the weekend meant everything.

This year was about showing up, supporting, and laying the groundwork for what’s ahead.

MERGE4 Ambassadors: Chika Konoa & Dani Rae

Two of the best surprises of the weekend?

Meeting Chika Konoa and Dani Rae in person — both incredibly talented, genuine humans who are now officially part of the MERGE4 ambassador family. Their energy and kindness fit perfectly with what we stand for.

Standout Moments That Made the Weekend

Bones Brigade & a $20,000 Moment

A defining highlight: three icons of the Bones Brigade — Steve Caballero, Lance Mountain, and Mike McGill — took the deck to present EXPOSURE with a $20,000 donation on behalf of Powell Peralta.

Seeing Steve, part of the MERGE4 family, standing beside fellow legends while supporting women’s skateboarding made the moment hit even harder.

Christian Hosoi & the Hosoi Team

We also loved seeing past MERGE4 collaborator Christian Hosoi and his Hosoi team out there. Christian is a huge advocate for women’s skateboarding, and his presence always brings heart, history, and support to the space.

Tony Hawk at the YEPA Booth

Another unforgettable moment — seeing Tony Hawk signing autographs with YEPA. Kids, families, and skaters lined up nonstop. The energy around the booth was electric.

And we’re grateful that Tony included MERGE4 in Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4!

Vans Nail-Painting Booth

The Vans nail-painting booth added a fun, creative splash that kept a steady crowd all day. It was a great example of the festival-style energy that surrounded a very real, very competitive contest.

Athletes We Loved Having in the Mix

• Minna Stess — stopped by even though she wasn’t competing, always bringing warmth and inspiration wherever she shows up
• Jordan Santana — winner of Longest Grind, skating with power and confidence
• Anna Shea — one of the most exciting skaters to watch; full commitment every drop-in

EXPOSURE blends multiple generations and styles, and it shows on every deck and every ramp.

Why the Event Resonates with MERGE4

Supporting women’s sports is not a tagline for us — it’s who we are. As a woman-founded brand, we believe deeply in:

• Creating opportunity
• Elevating underrepresented communities
• Supporting purpose-driven events
• Standing behind skaters and advocates who are building something bigger

EXPOSURE embodies all of that.

A Few Heartfelt Thank-Yous

Huge gratitude to:

• Amelia Brodka — for building an event that pushes skateboarding and community forward
• Jess Robledo, co-founder — for welcoming us in our first year and for wearing MERGE4 proudly
• Kate, volunteer — for having my back during quick breaks and keeping the day seamless

Looking Ahead

This was just the beginning. MERGE4 is proud to support EXPOSURE and the incredible athletes and advocates behind it. We left inspired, energized, and grateful — and we can’t wait to be back.

Thank you, EXPOSURE — see you next year.