Jessup Griptape-D.Wainwright Blue Glitch

Jessup Griptape – D. Wainwright Blue Glitch

Take your setup to the next level with the Jessup Griptape D. Wainwright Blue Glitch edition — where performance meets bold, modern design. Featuring a striking “Blue Glitch” graphic by D. Wainwright, this griptape brings a digital-inspired aesthetic to your deck while delivering the trusted quality skaters have relied on for decades.

Engineered with a premium silicon carbide grit, Jessup griptape provides superior grip and consistent board control, whether you're locking into tricks at the park or cruising the streets. Its durable, bubble-free adhesive ensures a smooth, hassle-free application and long-lasting performance session after session.

The Blue Glitch design stands out with its vibrant, distorted pattern, giving your board a unique edge without compromising functionality. Perfect for skaters who want both style and reliability under their feet.

Key Features:

• High-quality silicon carbide grit for maximum traction
• Bubble-free adhesive backing for easy application
• Durable construction built to withstand heavy use
• Eye-catching D. Wainwright Blue Glitch graphic
• Suitable for all skateboard decks

Grip it, shred it, and stand out — Jessup keeps you locked in.

Who are Jessup.

The History and Impact of Jessup in Skateboarding

Origins: Before Skateboarding (1956–1970s)

Jessup’s story begins long before it became a staple in skate shops. The company was founded in 1956 as Jessup Manufacturing in McHenry, Illinois, originally producing coated materials and industrial adhesives rather than skate products.

At the time, skateboarding itself was still evolving, and early boards didn’t even use griptape—riders relied on bare wood or rudimentary surfaces for traction.

Jessup’s expertise in adhesive-backed materials would later prove crucial. By the mid-1970s, as skateboarding surged in popularity, the company pivoted toward the emerging market and introduced one of the most important innovations in skate hardware: silicon carbide griptape.

This marked a turning point—not just for Jessup, but for skateboarding itself.

The Rise of Modern Griptape (1975–1990s)

In 1975, Jessup officially entered the skate industry with what became known as “Jessup The Original®” griptape.

At a time when skateboarding was rapidly progressing—especially in street and vert disciplines—reliable grip became essential. Jessup’s silicon carbide formula provided:

• Consistent traction
• Durable wear over time
• A balanced “feel” that didn’t destroy shoes too quickly

This balance made Jessup stand out. While some later competitors focused on ultra-aggressive grip, Jessup carved out a reputation for control and board feel, which appealed to technical street skaters.

By the 1980s and 90s, as skateboarding shifted toward street skating and technical tricks, griptape became a core part of performance. Jessup was no longer just a manufacturer—it was part of the foundation of modern skateboarding.

Industry Leadership and Authenticity (1990s–2010s)

One of Jessup’s defining traits is that it remained deeply rooted in manufacturing. Unlike many brands that outsource production, Jessup is known as one of the few companies that both manufactures and sells its own griptape, maintaining control over quality and consistency.

This commitment helped solidify its reputation across generations of skaters.

The brand also became embedded in skate culture through sponsorships and team riders. Influential professionals like PJ Ladd, Mark Suciu, and Eric Koston have all ridden Jessup, reinforcing its credibility at the highest level of the sport.

Jessup’s presence wasn’t flashy—it was dependable. In a culture that values authenticity, that mattered.

Innovation Without Losing Identity (2010s–Present)

Rather than constantly reinventing itself, Jessup focused on refining its formula and expanding options. Products like ULTRAGRIP introduced a more aggressive texture for skaters who wanted extra traction, while still maintaining the original line for those who preferred classic feel.

At the same time, griptape evolved into a creative medium. What was once purely functional became a canvas for graphics, branding, and self-expression—something Jessup embraced through printed designs and collaborations.

Despite changes in skateboarding—from VHS-era street skating to digital global culture—Jessup has remained consistent: performance-first, skater-approved, and rooted in manufacturing expertise.

Cultural Impact on Skateboarding

Jessup’s influence goes beyond just making griptape. Its impact can be seen in three key ways:

• Standardizing Performance
  Jessup helped define what good griptape should feel like—creating a benchmark that other brands followed.
• Supporting Progression
  From early vert skating to modern technical street skating, reliable grip enabled skaters to push tricks further and with more precision.
• Quiet Legacy in Skate Culture
  Jessup isn’t the loudest brand—but it’s one of the most trusted. For decades, it has been a constant in a culture that constantly changes.

Conclusion

From industrial beginnings in 1956 to becoming a cornerstone of skateboard hardware, Jessup’s journey mirrors the evolution of skateboarding itself.

It didn’t just follow the scene—it helped shape how skaters connect with their boards.

And in a culture built on feel, control, and style, that’s a legacy that sticks.