Santa Cruz Skateboards 50th Anniversary! Fifty Years of Radness
In the world of skateboarding, Santa Cruz stands as a legendary name, synonymous with innovation, quality, and style. As they celebrate their 50th anniversary, it's the perfect time to dive deep into the rich history of Santa Cruz Skateboards, exploring its roots in surfing, biking, and its iconic contribution to the skateboarding culture. Join us on this exhilarating journey through half a century of radical decks, shredding moments, and the people who made it all possible.
Before the wheels started rolling, Santa Cruz had already established itself as a hub for alternative sports. Surfing and biking enthusiasts flocked to this Californian coastal town, seeking adventure in the waves and the mountains. It was here that Santa Cruz Skateboards found its inspiration.
In the late 1960s, Santa Cruz was at the forefront of the surfing scene. Rich Novak and Doug Haut, two passionate surfers, founded Santa Cruz Surf Shop in 1969. The shop quickly became a gathering place for surf aficionados, fostering a community that would later embrace skateboarding.
As the drought season hit the waves, skateboarders looked for alternative thrills. Sensing the opportunity, Rich Novak and Doug Haut expanded their horizons by founding NHS, Inc. in 1973, which would later become Santa Cruz Skateboards. They introduced their first skateboard decks, bearing the iconic "Screaming Hand" logo designed by Jim Phillips.
The 1970s and 1980s marked the meteoric rise of Santa Cruz Skateboards. The brand revolutionised the skateboarding world and established itself as an industry powerhouse. Jim Phillips' "Screaming Hand" logo became an iconic symbol of rebellion and individualism. This hand, ripped out of its socket, holding a towering eyeball, spoke to the essence of skateboarding – freedom, creativity, and raw expression.
Santa Cruz assembled an impressive roster of riders, including skateboard legends like Steve Olson, Tom Knox, and Jason Jessee. Their unique styles and contributions to skateboarding played a pivotal role in the brand's success.
The '90s brought new challenges and opportunities for Santa Cruz Skateboards. The skateboarding industry underwent transformations, but Santa Cruz remained a steadfast presence. As street skateboarding gained popularity, Santa Cruz adapted to the changing landscape. Their deck designs and graphics evolved to reflect the emerging trends, staying relevant and edgy.
Beyond skateboarding, Santa Cruz expanded its reach to include other alternative sports. Independent Trucks, OJ Wheels, and Creature Skateboards became part of the Santa Cruz brand family, creating a network of companies that catered to various aspects of skateboarding culture.
In the 21st century, Santa Cruz Skateboards continues to evolve while staying true to its roots. The brand remains at the forefront of skateboarding culture, pushing boundaries and inspiring new generations of riders. Santa Cruz consistently explores innovative skateboard technologies, such as the VX deck construction, to enhance board durability and performance. This commitment to improvement keeps the brand relevant and exciting.
Santa Cruz Skateboards actively supports the skateboarding community by sponsoring events, riders, and promoting inclusivity in the sport. They also prioritize environmental sustainability in their manufacturing processes, contributing to a greener future for skateboarding.
2023 marks the 50th anniversary of Santa Cruz Skateboards, and the celebrations are bound to be epic. To commemorate this milestone, Santa Cruz is releasing limited edition decks featuring iconic graphics from the past 50 years. Collectors and riders alike are eager to get their hands on these unique pieces of skateboarding history, keep an eye out for the super hyped Santa Cruz x Pokemon colab!
The anniversary celebrations will bring together some of the most influential skateboarders from Santa Cruz's history. Expect legendary sessions, demos, and perhaps a few surprises from these icons of the sport. Santa Cruz is also planning community events in skateparks and skate shops around the world. These events will celebrate skateboarding's rich culture and the role Santa Cruz has played in shaping it.
As we reflect on Santa Cruz Skateboards' remarkable journey, it's clear that this brand has left an indelible mark on skateboarding, surfing, biking, and alternative sports culture. Their commitment to creativity, authenticity, and community has fuelled their success for half a century.
Santa Cruz Skateboards' enduring legacy continues to inspire new generations of riders to embrace the rebellious spirit of skateboarding. As long as there are skaters seeking adventure and self-expression, Santa Cruz Skateboards will have a place in the heart of the skateboarding world.
Santa Cruz Skateboards' 50th anniversary is not just a celebration of the past; it's a testament to the enduring spirit of skateboarding and the Santa Cruz brand. From its humble beginnings in a surf shop to becoming an industry giant, Santa Cruz has remained true to its core values, making it an essential part of skateboarding history. As we look forward to the next 50 years, one thing is certain: Santa Cruz Skateboards will continue to shape the future of skateboarding and inspire riders to shred with passion and style. Here's to 50 more years of epic rides and radical skateboarding!