K2 is the shit, i love them. But think about this, some core companies still have ties to bigger companies because its hard for them to survive in a relatively small market. like armada has elan make its skis, its just a financial thing. But just because you buy core doesnt necessarly mean that bigger companies arent getting your money. there are some core companies that do all their stuff independently, though.
~MidwesT AlliancE~
RIP RICK JAMES