Everyone wants John Jackson to be their friend. Forget about the fact that he is one of the most bad ass riders out there. His style, his attitude, and well, the dreads solely bring him to another level. On top of that, he slays the backcountry like nobody's business, is the first snowboarder ever to score "Video Part of the Year" twice, and claimed "Rider of the Year" two years in a row.

After a long run with Forum, John J is swapping sides and moving over to the stacked team of Burton. Big news to the snowboard world This team and this rider are going to be unstoppable. Full press release and "Welcome John" video below:

BURLINGTON, VT (September 30, 2011) As the grand finale to Burton's annual fall meeting today, the company announced that pro snowboarder John Jackson will now ride for Burton, representing both hardgoods and softgoods. Burton employees, team riders and industry guests were the first to hear the news, breaking out in cheers and applause all around as John joined his fellow Burton pro riders on stage.

John is widely recognized as one of the most dynamic riders in the world and makes it look easy to dominate backcountry terrain. At this year's TransWorld Riders' Poll Awards, John became the first snowboarder in history to win 'Video Part of the Year' twice. And he didn't stop there. John also took home his second consecutive 'Rider of the Year' award. This year, John continues to blow minds with his part in the highly acclaimed movie, Art of Flight.

Now that he's riding for Burton, John will keep doing what he does best - snowboard and film video parts. Like all Burton team riders, John will also now play an instrumental role in developing and testing Burton product, including Burton's [ak] outerwear line, Custom series snowboards, SLX boots and Diode EST bindings.

"It's rad to be a part of such an insane company and team who've paved the way in snowboarding since the beginning," said John Jackson. "I can't wait for the snow to fly to test out some new gear and let 'er rip. It's an honor."

This weekend, John will be celebrating his news by joining the team and the entire company at the annual Fall Bash, hosted by Burton owners Jake and Donna Carpenter.

Welcome to Burton, John!