Serving up quality skateboards and apparel from Bristol, Skateboard Cafe have grown into one of the UK's leading brands. At the beginning, Cafe never set out to be a ‘board company’ and there was no business strategy. Skateboard Cafe was the name of a scene video made in 2008. From there, they made a few tee’s and a year later a small run of boards and it gradually, and naturally, developed from there. Thank you for dining with Skateboard Cafe.
Skateboard Café represents the authentic celebration of British skateboarding culture, engineered specifically to deliver the perfect balance of jazz-infused aesthetics, community spirit, and independent craftsmanship that transformed local scene videos into internationally recognised brand excellence. Skateboard Café UK has evolved from Bristol scene video origins to sophisticated British streetwear featuring premium deck graphics, curated apparel, and designs that capture the essence of UK skateboarding's creative underground. Like skateboarding itself, Skateboard Café design holds authenticity and community at its core, creating essential pieces that bridge local Bristol culture with international recognition while maintaining genuine connection to the independent skate shops and crews that define real skateboarding heritage. Shop the finest in British skateboard culture from Skateboard Café Bristol.
Revolutionary since 2008 and constantly evolving with British skate culture, Skateboard Café represents the most authentic expression of UK skateboarding's creative independence. What started as Rich Smith's scene video shot in a 1950s-style diner with jazz music playing has transformed into a cultural celebration featuring premium graphics, thoughtful collaborations, and designs that prioritise authentic skateboarding over commercial trends. From their initial vision of creating content that captured Bristol's skateboarding community to modern interpretations featuring collaborations with DC Shoes and premium apparel lines, every authentic Skateboard Café piece combines British craftsmanship with skateboarding DNA. Whether you're after their signature stripe decks that reference classic café aesthetics or premium apparel featuring jazz-influenced graphics, Skateboard Cafe transforms your skating while providing the authenticity, quality, and community connection that serious British skateboard culture demands, created by filmmakers and skaters who understand that great skateboarding brands should serve the scene rather than exploit it.
Skateboard Café Brand History & Evolution
Back in 2008, when Rich Smith from the outskirts of Bristol decided to create a scene video featuring his local crew, he had no business strategy or brand ambitions, simply wanting to capture the essence of his skateboarding community through a unique aesthetic approach that differed from typical skateboard video productions. The video, titled "Skateboard Café," featured an introduction shot in a 1950s-style diner with checkerboard floors and jazz music playing, creating a distinctive theme that separated it from conventional skateboard content while showcasing parts from Mark Pritchard, Bill Smith (Rich's younger brother), Ashton Launcherley, Jason Lewer, Tom Gibbs, with appearances from Korahn Gayle and Andrew Makepeace. The name stuck as a label for their crew and subsequent video edits, gradually developing into something more substantial when Rich started producing small runs of t-shirts sold through Fifty Fifty skateboard shop in Bristol around 2009. The breakthrough came when Rich secured a £1000 bank loan to produce their first run of skateboard decks, with early stockists including Fifty Fifty, Lost Art, and Legacy Skate Store who recognised the authentic quality and unique aesthetic that separated Skateboard Café from typical skateboard graphics. Andrew Makepeace's involvement became crucial around this time when he offered to fund t-shirt production alongside the board releases, eventually becoming 50-50 owner and handling distribution while Rich focused on filming the team and creating visual content. The brand's development into a legitimate company occurred around 2012 with their first official promo video introducing Shaun Currie as their first official rider, marking the transition from local crew to professional skateboard brand with genuine responsibilities to their team riders. Their growth has been deliberately organic, built through consistent video output including full-length projects like "Alfresco" (2015), "Ensemble" (2019), and "Impressions" (2021) that showcase their team's creativity while maintaining the jazz-influenced aesthetic and community-driven approach that defined their origins. The brand's international recognition came through authentic word-of-mouth within skateboard communities rather than aggressive marketing, with their graphics, team, and video content earning respect across Europe and beyond while maintaining their Bristol roots and independent status. Rich Smith's continued role as both brand owner and primary videographer ensures their visual output remains consistent and authentic, with team selection based on genuine friendships and creative skateboarding rather than commercial considerations or industry politics. From that initial scene video shot in a Bristol café to today's position as one of Britain's most respected independent skateboard brands, Skateboard Café has grown by consistently maintaining their commitment to community, creativity, and that distinctive jazz-influenced aesthetic that celebrates skateboarding's cultural potential rather than simply selling products.
Key Features & Construction
What separates Skateboard Café from typical British skateboard brands comes down to specific aesthetic elements and construction philosophy developed through genuine understanding of skateboarding as cultural expression rather than purely commercial enterprise. Premium Skateboard Café decks feature carefully curated graphics that reference jazz culture, American diner aesthetics, and vintage typography, created through collaborations with local Bristol artists and Rich Smith's distinctive visual approach that prioritises artistic integrity over trend-following market research. Modern deck construction includes quality 7-ply Canadian maple with professional concave specifications, ensuring serious skateboard performance beneath the artistic graphics while maintaining construction standards that handle real British street skating demands. The graphic application process uses high-quality screen printing techniques that preserve colour saturation and detail definition through skating abuse, creating boards that maintain their visual impact while providing authentic skateboard functionality. Contemporary Skateboard Café aesthetics embrace classic stripe patterns, refined logo applications, and sophisticated colour palettes that reference café culture, jazz album artwork, and British design sensibilities rather than aggressive skateboard imagery or mainstream streetwear trends. Quality details include proper grip tape application, consistent graphic registration, and attention to finishing details that reflect the brand's commitment to craftsmanship and authentic British manufacturing standards rather than cost-cutting production methods. The artistic philosophy extends beyond graphics into overall brand presentation, collaborative partnerships with independent shops and artists, and team selection based on creative skateboarding approach rather than purely commercial appeal or mainstream marketability. Apparel construction features premium organic cotton materials with water-based screen printing that maintains softness and environmental responsibility, creating clothing that works for skating and daily wear while representing the brand's values of quality, sustainability, and authentic British craftsmanship. Collaboration projects with brands like DC Shoes demonstrate how Skateboard Café's aesthetic vision can enhance established products through creative interpretation, bringing sophisticated British design sensibilities to international brands while maintaining their independent identity and cultural authenticity. Whether featuring classic stripe graphics for timeless appeal or contemporary collaborations that push creative boundaries, authentic Skateboard Café products represent the intersection of British design excellence, skateboard functionality, and decades of independent refinement by creators who understand that great skateboard culture should inspire community, celebrate creativity, and maintain authentic connection to local scenes rather than simply following commercial trends or industry expectations.
Skateboard Café Skate Team
The Skateboard Café team represents a carefully curated collection of British and international riders where creative skateboarding takes precedence over purely technical achievements, featuring skaters who embody the brand's philosophy of community, authenticity, and genuine connection to independent skateboard culture.
Korahn Gayle:
London street skating legend whose technical abilities and spot selection perfectly embody Skateboard Café's creative approach. His consistent video parts showcase innovative trick choices and urban exploration that align with the brand's emphasis on authentic British street culture.
Dom Henry:
Technical precision meets creative interpretation through Henry's approach to street obstacles that prioritises style over pure difficulty. His video contributions demonstrate the perfect balance of skill and artistic expression that defines Skateboard Café's team philosophy.
Shaun Currie:
Sheffield street skater whose creative approach and consistent output made him Skateboard Café's first official team rider in 2012. His technical street skating combined with loyal dedication perfectly represents the brand's commitment to supporting genuine skateboard talent.
Harry Ogilvie:
Versatile skater whose video parts showcase creative spot utilisation and technical variety. His long-term involvement with the brand demonstrates Skateboard Café's commitment to nurturing talent and maintaining team relationships based on friendship rather than purely commercial considerations.
Josh Arnott:
Technical street skater whose contributions to multiple Skateboard Café video projects showcase consistent progression and creative trick selection. His skating embodies the brand's approach to balancing technical ability with artistic expression and community involvement.
Sam Nobbs & Ollie Lock:
Contemporary additions to the team whose fresh perspectives and technical abilities represent Skateboard Café's commitment to supporting new generations of British skateboarding while maintaining their core values of creativity and authenticity.
Layth Sami & Savannah Stacey Keenan:
International riders whose involvement demonstrates Skateboard Café's growing recognition beyond British borders while maintaining focus on skaters who appreciate creative skateboarding and community-driven brand culture over purely commercial considerations.
Skate Cafe Styles We Stock
Explore our comprehensive range of Skateboard Café UK at The Vines Supply Co., featuring British craftsmanship, jazz-influenced aesthetics, and authentic community connection that represents the finest in independent skateboard culture.
Skateboard Café Stripe Decks:
Classic stripe graphics featuring sophisticated colour combinations and refined proportions that reference café culture and British design sensibilities. Built with premium Canadian maple and quality construction that handles serious street skating while maintaining visual elegance.
Skateboard Cafe Pro Model Decks:
Team signature boards featuring custom graphics developed through genuine rider collaboration. From Korahn Gayle's London influences to Dom Henry's creative interpretations, these boards reflect individual personalities while maintaining brand aesthetic cohesion.
Skateboard Café Limited Graphics:
Special edition releases featuring collaborations with Bristol artists, vintage-inspired imagery, and seasonal themes that showcase the brand's commitment to artistic development and creative partnerships within independent skateboard culture.
Skateboard Café Apparel:
Premium organic cotton tees, hoodies, and accessories featuring jazz-influenced graphics, subtle branding, and British design sensibilities. Built for comfort and durability while representing the brand's values of quality, sustainability, and authentic craftsmanship.
Skateboard Café x DC Collaboration:
Exclusive partnership bringing Skateboard Café's aesthetic vision to classic footwear silhouettes. These limited releases demonstrate how British skateboard design can enhance international products through creative interpretation and cultural authenticity.
Skateboard Café Video Merchandise:
Special releases celebrating video projects like "Alfresco," "Ensemble," and "Impressions." These items commemorate significant cultural contributions while providing collectible pieces for serious British skateboard culture enthusiasts.
Skateboard Café Buying Guide
Choosing Skateboard Café products depends on your appreciation for British skateboard culture, independent craftsmanship, and understanding of skateboarding as community-driven creative expression. For authentic British skateboard heritage, focus on their stripe deck graphics that showcase sophisticated design sensibilities, quality construction through Canadian maple and professional pressing, and aesthetic approach that prioritises timeless appeal over trend-following graphics. Consider their team pro models for genuine rider collaboration, custom graphics that reflect individual personalities, and construction quality that handles serious street skating while supporting independent British skateboard culture. Quality matters significantly with Skateboard Café, premium materials and independent production justify pricing through superior craftsmanship, authentic cultural significance, and commitment to supporting genuine British skateboard community rather than mass-produced alternatives that lack authentic foundation. Fit preferences for apparel should align with classic British streetwear proportions, comfortable cuts that work for skating and daily wear, and sizing that reflects the brand's focus on quality and longevity rather than fast fashion trends or aggressive streetwear aesthetics. Graphic selection reflects appreciation for sophisticated design, jazz-influenced aesthetics for cultural depth, stripe patterns that reference café culture, and artistic collaborations that represent investment in authentic British skateboard art rather than generic commercial graphics. Cultural context enhances appreciation, understanding Rich Smith's journey from Bristol scene videos to independent brand ownership, the brand's commitment to community-driven growth, and their role in British skateboard culture creates deeper connection to authentic independent business philosophy. Collaboration pieces with brands like DC represent exceptional value through combination of Skateboard Café's British design expertise with international brand quality, limited availability that makes them investments in authentic skateboard culture, and creative applications that demonstrate sophisticated approach to brand partnerships. Styling compatibility works best with other independent brands that appreciate craftsmanship, classic British streetwear that celebrates quality over trends, and accessories that complement rather than compete with Skateboard Café's sophisticated aesthetic approach. Consider long-term investment value through supporting genuinely independent British companies, brands that maintain cultural significance through consistent video output and community involvement, and products that represent authentic British skateboard culture rather than trend-driven fashion consumption. Most importantly, choose Skateboard Café when you appreciate British skateboarding's creative independence and community-driven culture, as the brand represents genuine celebration of UK skateboard heritage by creators who understand that great skateboard companies should serve their local scenes while inspiring creativity and maintaining authentic connection to the communities that support them.
Skateboard Café FAQs
Who founded Skateboard Café and when? Skateboard Café was founded by Rich Smith from Bristol, starting with a scene video in 2008. The brand developed gradually with Andy Makepeace joining as 50-50 owner, officially becoming a skateboard company around 2012 with their first team rider and professional releases.
What makes Skateboard Café different from other British skateboard brands? Skateboard Café combines jazz-influenced aesthetics with authentic British skateboard culture, featuring sophisticated graphics, consistent video output, and community-driven growth. Rich Smith's role as both owner and videographer ensures authentic visual content that serves skateboarding rather than pure commercial interests.
Are Skateboard Café decks suitable for serious skating? Absolutely, all decks use premium 7-ply Canadian maple with professional concave specifications. The sophisticated graphics don't compromise performance, they simply offer refined alternative to typical aggressive skateboard imagery while maintaining construction standards for real street skating.
What is the significance of the jazz and café aesthetic? The original 2008 video was shot in a 1950s-style diner with jazz music, creating the distinctive theme that separates Skateboard Café from conventional skateboard culture. This aesthetic reflects sophistication, community gathering, and creative expression rather than aggressive or competitive imagery.
How does Rich Smith balance brand ownership with video production? Rich Smith handles the creative and visual aspects including filming the team and creating graphics, while Andy Makepeace manages distribution and business operations. This partnership allows authentic video content while maintaining professional business standards and independent ownership.
What is the team selection philosophy? Team riders are chosen based on genuine friendships, creative skateboarding approach, and alignment with brand values rather than purely commercial considerations. The focus is on skaters who appreciate community-driven culture and authentic British skateboard heritage.
How do Skateboard Café collaborations work? Collaborations like the DC partnership bring Skateboard Café's British design sensibilities to established products while maintaining independent identity. These projects demonstrate how authentic skateboard brands can enhance major brand products through creative interpretation and cultural authenticity.
Shop our complete Skateboard Café collection, featuring British craftsmanship, jazz-influenced aesthetics, and authentic independent skateboard culture from Bristol's finest. Enjoy fast, free UK premium delivery on orders over £70, with free next-day delivery available for orders placed before 4pm.