Collection: Santa Cruz Skateboard

Santa Cruz Skateboard

The Santa Cruz Skateboard brand, is the oldest continuous skateboard company in the world, founded by Richard Novak, Doug Haut, and Jay Shuirman. At the start, it started as a surfboard business but was struggling to stay afloat because the low profit margins. Soon, a friend from a Hawaiian company challenged NHS to... Read More

Santa Cruz Skateboard

The Santa Cruz Skateboard brand, is the oldest continuous skateboard company in the world, founded by Richard Novak, Doug Haut, and Jay Shuirman. At the start, it started as a surfboard business but was struggling to stay afloat because the low profit margins. Soon, a friend from a Hawaiian company challenged NHS to make 500 skateboards. With the surplus of fiberglass lying around they decided to use the stocked materials to fulfill and make skateboards.

Their first Santa Cruz skateboard was produced in 1973. The batch of 500 skateboards sold quickly, and from there a demand of many more boards. It’s one of the most iconic brand names in skateboard history and would become a staple in the sport.

Santa Cruz Skateboards is one of the most iconic brands in skateboard history. Founded in 1973 in California, the company helped shape skate culture. Known for its bold graphics and innovative boards, Santa Cruz quickly became a mainstay in the early skate scene.

The brand emerged during a time when skateboarding was still finding its identity. Surf culture heavily influenced the sport, and many skaters also surfed. Santa Cruz, originally tied to NHS Inc., tapped into that crossover spirit. They brought a unique California vibe to the growing world of skateboarding.

In the late 1970s, skateboarding began evolving with new tricks and styles. Santa Cruz supported this change with high-quality decks and gear. They worked with skaters who pushed the boundaries of what was possible on four wheels. Their boards were designed for performance and durability, perfect for the rising demands of street and vert skating.

Santa Cruz made a name with its unforgettable graphics. The “Screaming Hand,” created by Jim Phillips in the 1980s, became a symbol of rebellion. This artwork wasn't just decoration—it became a visual identity for skaters around the world. The bold designs captured the wild energy and freedom of skating.

In addition to art, Santa Cruz skateboard played a key role in promoting skate events. They backed competitions and exhibitions that drew attention to the sport. Their involvement gave many unknown skaters a platform to shine. These events fostered community and helped legitimize skateboarding as more than just a passing trend.

Through the years, Santa Cruz stayed true to its roots while adapting to change. When street skating took off in the 1990s, they shifted focus without losing their edge. Their commitment to craftsmanship kept them relevant across generations of skaters.

The brand also supported skate teams that changed the game. Legends like Jason Jessee and Jeff Kendall rode under the Santa Cruz banner. These riders brought intensity, creativity, and attitude to their skating. They helped inspire a new wave of athletes who saw skateboarding as both sport and art.

Santa Cruz has never stopped innovating. Today, they offer a wide range of boards, apparel, and accessories. Their commitment to quality and creativity remains unwavering. Whether it's a reissue of a classic deck or a new school cruiser, the brand keeps pushing forward.

In recent years, the revival of 80s and 90s skate culture has brought renewed love for Santa Cruz. Collectors and young skaters alike seek their vintage designs and iconic shapes. Nostalgia plays a role, but so does the timeless appeal of well-crafted gear.

Santa Cruz Skateboards continues to influence pop culture. You’ll see their logos in music videos, art exhibits, and fashion collaborations. Their crossover into mainstream culture hasn’t dulled their core identity—they’re still proudly rooted in skating.

From the early days on California sidewalks to global recognition, Santa Cruz has left a mark. The brand’s legacy is built on passion, innovation, and authenticity. It’s more than a company—it’s part of skateboarding’s soul.

Today, when you see someone riding a Santa Cruz board, it’s a nod to history. It’s a celebration of freedom, expression, and the pure joy of skateboarding. Whether you're a seasoned rider or just starting out, Santa Cruz has a place in your journey. It's a name that carries weight, not because of hype, but because it earned it. Always rolling forward. Always staying true. Santa Cruz forever. 🛹