Did you know that there are over 1,000 skateboard manufacturers worldwide? That’s right, the global skate scene is booming, fueled by a growing passion for the sport and a thriving industry. Remember those days when finding a decent board meant scouring a handful of local shops? Now, a diverse range of manufacturers, from iconic brands to independent upstarts, are crafting high-quality skateboards for every rider.
Feeling overwhelmed by all the choices? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. This comprehensive guide will be your one-stop shop for navigating the exciting world of skateboard manufacturers. We’ll break down the different types, introduce you to some amazing brands, and help you find the perfect manufacturer for your next board. So grab your helmet (virtually, for now), and let’s dive in!
A Look at Worldwide Skateboard Manufacturers
Now comes the fun part – exploring the diverse world of skateboard manufacturers! We’ve chosen to categorize them by region to give you a taste of the incredible talent spread across the globe.
North America
This region is a skateboarding powerhouse, boasting some of the industry’s biggest names alongside innovative independent makers. Here are a few to get you started:
- Established Brands:
- Element Skateboards (USA, 1992): Known for their classic graphics and focus on street skating.
- Powell-Peralta (USA, 1978): A legendary brand with a rich history and a commitment to high-performance decks.
- Vans (USA, 1966): Not just footwear! Vans offers a full line of skateboards, perfect for those who love the brand’s signature style.
- Independent Makers:
- Blind Skateboards (USA, 1989): A core brand known for their team riders’ aggressive style and high-quality decks.
- Habitat Skateboards (Canada, 1999): Canadian shredders rejoice! Habitat offers street-focused boards with a unique artistic flair.
- DGK Skateboards (USA, 2000): Pushing the boundaries of street skating, DGK is a favorite among many young riders.
Europe
European manufacturers bring a distinct style and innovative technology to the table. Here are some European heavyweights:
- Established Brands:
- Jart Skateboards (Spain, 1977): A European staple, Jart offers a wide range of boards for all skill levels.
- Globe International (Australia, 1984): Though Australian, Globe has a strong European presence, offering complete skateboards and apparel.
- Starving Artists (UK, 2003): A British brand known for their bold graphics and commitment to the UK skate scene.
- Independent Makers:
- Palace Skateboards (UK, 2010): A cult favorite, Palace combines high-quality boards with a streetwear-inspired aesthetic.
- Deathwish Skateboards (France, 2008): This French brand caters to hardcore street skaters with their durable decks and edgy graphics.
- Black Kobra (Sweden, 2001): Swedish style meets technical prowess – Black Kobra offers high-performance decks for all types of terrain.
This is just a glimpse into the vast world of skateboard manufacturers! In the next section, we’ll explore brands from Asia and beyond, providing you with even more options to find your perfect board. Remember, this list is just a starting point – don’t hesitate to delve deeper and discover hidden gems within the global skate scene!
Shredding Across Continents: More Worldwide Skateboard Manufacturers
Our exploration of skateboard manufacturers continues! Buckle up as we venture into the vibrant skate cultures of Asia and beyond:
Asia
The Asian skateboarding scene is exploding, with homegrown brands offering high-quality boards and unique aesthetics. Let’s check out some key players:
- Established Brands:
- Element Skateboards Japan (Japan, 1998): A branch of the renowned American brand, Element Japan caters to the specific tastes of Japanese skaters.
- China Bone (China, 2003): A major player in the Chinese market, China Bone offers a wide range of skateboards at accessible price points.
- Almost Skateboards (South Korea, 2009): This South Korean brand is known for its technical decks and its focus on progressive street skating.
- Independent Makers:
- Death From Above Skateboards (Indonesia, 2008): Indonesian shredders, rejoice! Death From Above offers high-quality decks with a distinct Southeast Asian vibe.
- Slappy (Philippines, 2012): This Filipino brand is making waves with its innovative deck shapes and commitment to the local skate community.
- Loco (India, 2017): Bringing skateboarding to the forefront in India, Loco offers complete setups perfect for beginner and intermediate riders.
Beyond Borders
The passion for skateboarding transcends borders, with incredible manufacturers popping up all over the globe:
- Established Brands:
- Globe International (Brazil, 2006): Globe expands its reach to Brazil, offering a taste of their signature style to South American skaters.
- Blind Skateboards (South Africa, 2003): Blind brings its core identity to South Africa, providing top-notch decks for aggressive riding.
- Independent Makers:
- Sk8mafia (Australia, 2010): This Aussie brand injects a healthy dose of punk rock attitude into their high-performance decks.
- Zero Skateboards (New Zealand, 1998): Zero brings its legacy of hardcore street skating to New Zealand, offering boards built to take a beating.
Remember, this list represents just a fraction of the amazing skateboard manufacturers worldwide! We encourage you to explore further, discover brands from your own region, and support the companies that resonate with you. The next legendary skateboard manufacturer might just be waiting to be discovered!
Skateboard Manufacturers List from Canada
Canada has a rich history in skateboarding and is home to several reputable skateboard manufacturers. Let’s take a look at some of them:
| Manufacturer | Founding Year | Founders | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Woodchuck | 1996 | Max Dufour | Oceanside, California |
| Control MFG | 1995 | Carl Savard | Saint-Nicolas (Québec) |
Skateboard Manufacturers List from USA
The United States is known for being the birthplace of skateboarding, and it’s no surprise that many prominent skateboard manufacturers are based there. Here are some of the notable brands:
| Manufacturer | Founding Year | Founders | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dwindle / DSM | 2003 | Steve Rocco, Rodney Mullen | El Segundo, California |
| Chapman | 1991 | Gregg Chapman | Deer Park, NY |
| NHS Inc | 1973 | Doug Haut, Jay Shuirman, Richard Novak | Santa Cruz, CA |
| Watson Laminates | 1975 | Charles Watson | San Diego, CA |
| Skate One | 1976 | George Powell | Santa Barbara, CA |
| South Central | 1992 | Chris Atchinson | ELMORE, AL |
| Pennswood | 1996 | OIL CITY, PA | |
| BBS | 1996 | Grant Burns | San Diego |
Skateboard Manufacturers List from Mexico
Mexico also has its fair share of skateboard manufacturers. One notable brand is PS Stix, founded by Paul Schmitt and based in Tijuana, Mexico.
Skateboard Manufacturers List from Europe
Europe has a thriving skateboarding scene, and there are several skateboard manufacturers based in different countries. Here’s a list of some notable European brands:
| Manufacturer | Founding Year | Founders | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| HLC DISTRIBUTION | 2000 | Igor Iraola | Irún (Gipuzkoa) |
Skateboard Manufacturers List from China
China has emerged as a major player in the skateboard manufacturing industry. Here are some skateboard manufacturers from China:
| Manufacturer | Founding Year | Founders | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| JEEPING | 2000 | Zhongshan, Guangdong | |
| CHOP CHOP | 2002 | Huizhou, Guangdong | |
| EXCEL | 2004 | Huizhou, Guangdong | |
| FYSboard Factory | 1997 | Shaoyan, Hunan |
While some skateboard enthusiasts may have concerns about the quality of skateboards produced outside of America, it’s important to note that the development of manufacturing techniques and equipment has made it possible to source high-quality skateboards and longboards worldwide. Manufacturers from different countries are using various materials and techniques to produce skateboards that meet the requirements of both professional and beginner skaters.
Materials Used in Skateboard Manufacturing
The choice of material plays a crucial role in the quality and performance of a skateboard deck. While Canadian maple from the great lakes region is considered the best choice, the increasing demand for skateboards and the slow growth of maple trees have led to the use of alternative materials. Bamboo, maple from other areas, and birch are some of the substitutes that manufacturers have turned to.
In addition to traditional materials, manufacturers have also introduced other materials such as fiberglass and carbon fiber to enhance the strength of the deck. These materials are particularly favored by professional skaters who require high-performance boards. Beginners, on the other hand, have more options available to them due to advancements in production methods.
Skateboard Manufacturing Techniques
There are various techniques used in skateboard manufacturing, with each method offering its own advantages and disadvantages. Cold pressing is considered the best pressing technology as it produces the highest quality decks. However, it is a time-consuming and energy-intensive process. Hot pressing is the most popular method due to its efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
It’s worth noting that some brands claim to use cold pressing but sell their decks at a lower price. It’s important to understand that there is always a balance between quality and price, and there are no mysteries or shortcuts in skateboard manufacturing. Reputable brands often choose manufacturers that employ the most suitable techniques for their specific requirements.
Customization and OEM Production
While not all skateboard brands have their own direct factory, many arrange for OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) production. This means that they partner with manufacturers to produce skateboards according to their specifications. Customization is a popular option for skateboard decks, allowing individuals and businesses to create boards with their own graphics and logos.
If you’re interested in customizing your own skateboard deck, there are several options available. Manufacturers offer different deck molds, concave options, materials, and printing techniques. Whether you’re looking for a standard skateboard, longboard, cruiser, or surfskate deck, you can find a manufacturer that can bring your vision to life.
FYS Board Factory: Bamboo Skateboard Manufacturer
One notable skateboard manufacturer that stands out is FYS Board Factory. They have taken a unique approach to skateboard manufacturing by replacing traditional maple wood with eco-friendly bamboo material. Bamboo is a sustainable alternative that grows much faster than Canadian maple, taking only five years compared to maple’s fifty years to reach maturity.
FYS Board Factory specializes in producing standard street popsicle skateboard decks using bamboo. They have found that bamboo decks offer exceptional strength and pop, making them a popular choice among skateboarders. To see the performance of their bamboo decks in action, you can watch a video on their website.
FYS Factory: Custom Surfskate Decks and Completes
Surfskating has gained popularity among beginners and experienced skaters alike. FYS Factory is capable of building high-quality surfskate decks using various materials, including bamboo, maple, fiberglass, carbon fiber, and even plastic PC. They also supply high-performance surfskate trucks, wheels, bearings, and more.
Whether you’re looking for a complete surfskate setup or individual components, FYS Factory can cater to your needs. Their wide range of options allows skaters to find the perfect combination for their riding style and preferences.
Conclusion: Finding Your Perfect Ride
The vast and ever-evolving world of skateboard manufacturers can feel overwhelming at first. But with this guide as your starting point, you’re well on your way to finding the perfect board for your shredding style and budget.
Here are some key takeaways to remember:
- Diversity is key: From established giants to independent upstarts, there’s a manufacturer out there for everyone. Explore different brands to discover unique styles, specializations, and stories behind each company.
- Consider your needs: Think about your riding style (street, vert, cruising), skill level, and budget when making your choice. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different brands to find the perfect fit.
- Support the scene: The skateboarding industry thrives on passionate individuals and companies. Consider supporting local manufacturers or brands that align with your values.
Wrapping Up (Optional)
We hope this comprehensive guide has equipped you with the knowledge and resources to navigate the exciting world of skateboard manufacturers. From established giants to hidden gems, there’s a perfect board out there waiting to be discovered. Remember, skateboarding is a journey of self-expression, pushing boundaries, and having a blast. So, with the right board under your feet, shred with confidence and keep the stoke alive!
FAQ’s
What company manufactures skateboards?
There are actually tons of companies that make skateboards! Big brands like Element and Powell-Mullen are well-known, but there’s a whole world of smaller, independent companies creating awesome decks too. It’s like picking your favorite pizza place – there are so many great options to explore!
How many brands of skateboards are there?
There are tons of skateboard brands out there, from big household names to independent makers. It’s hard to say exactly how many because the skateboarding scene is full of creative folks who start their own brands all the time! But one thing’s for sure, you have lots of choices to find the perfect board to shred with.
What brands are under dwindle distribution?
As of April 2021, Dwindle Distribution carries some popular skateboard brands like Almost, Blind, Tensor Trucks, and Darkstar. They’ve also been known for distributing brands like Enjoi and Madness in the past. Dwindle is a one-stop shop for skateboarders to get their gear!
Where are passport boards made?
Passport Skateboards are actually an Australian brand. They don’t make the boards themselves, but they likely partner with factories in China or other countries known for skateboard production. This is pretty common for many skateboard companies.
