Alien Workshop – the brand that’s been turning heads in the skateboarding world for over three decades. With its iconic “Alien logo” and a team of talented riders, Alien Workshop has become a favorite name in the skating community. But the question remains: are their skateboards actually any good?
As an experienced skateboarder myself, I’m here to give you the lowdown on Alien Workshop skateboard reviews. So, let’s start by knowing the history and honest feedback of its products to see if they are worth the investment.
Alien Workshop (AWS) was founded in 1990 in Dayton, Ohio, by Chris Carter, Mike Hill, and Neil Blender. The brand started as a small independent company, but quickly gained recognition in the skateboarding world for its best quality skateboards and unique graphics.
Throughout the 90s, the brand established itself as a major player in the skateboard industry, producing some of the most innovative decks and graphics of the time. In 1995, the band released their iconic “Mind Field” video, which cemented their reputation as one of the most progressive and creative companies in skateboarding.
In the early 2000s, Alien Workshop continued to push the boundaries with its designs, collaborating with artists such as Andy Warhol and Keith Haring. They also expanded their product line to include wheels, bearings, and other skateboard accessories.
The Alien Workshop has also been ranked as one of the best skateboard brands in the world.
Alien Workshop Logo
The alien head has become synonymous with the brand. The logo features a simple, stylized alien head with two big, black eyes and a wide, toothy grin. It’s been displayed on countless decks, t-shirts, stickers, and other merchandise over the years.
But what does it all mean? Well, that’s the beauty of the Alien Workshop logo – it’s open to interpretation. Some people think the alien represents the brand’s focus on innovation and pushing boundaries, while others see it as a symbol of the skateboarding community’s rebellious spirit.
Product Line
Here are some of the products that the Alien Workshop skateboard brand offers:
Skateboards Decks
Wheels
Bearings
Grip Tape
Hardware
Clothing (t-shirts, hoodies, hats, etc.)
Accessories (stickers, patches, etc.)
Alien Workshop also offers a variety of pre-built skateboards, which are complete setups that include a deck, trucks, wheels, bearings, and grip tape. These pre-built skateboardsare a great option for beginners or anyone looking for a convenient, ready-to-ride setup.
Alien Workshop Skateboard Reviews
These boards are no joke. The brand has built a reputation for producing high-quality complete skateboards that can stand up to even the most punishing skate sessions.
A quality to discuss is their construction. The brand uses a variety of quality materials, including Canadian maple, to ensure their decks are strong, durable, and can handle whatever tricks you throw at them.
Plus, their decks come in a wide range of shapes and sizes, so you are sure to find something that suits your riding style.
But the real standout feature of Alien Workshop boards, in my opinion, is their performance. These decks are incredibly responsive and offer plenty of pop, making them ideal for pulling off all sorts of tricks and maneuvers.
Now, let’s be real – some riders might find the decks a bit too stiff or too heavy. And experienced skateboarders may need to swap the wheels and bearings for personal preference.
Let’s start with the basics. Alien Workshop decks are typically made from seven-ply maple, which makes for a sturdy yet lightweight board that’s perfect for cruising around town or hitting the skatepark.
The low concave on Alien Workshop decks is also worth noting – it’s not too shallow or too deep, which gives you just the right amount of grip and control.
Of course, the real test of any skateboard deck is how it performs, and in that regard, Alien Workshop decks definitely deliver. These boards are incredibly responsive and offer plenty of pop, making them ideal for pulling off all sorts of tricks and maneuvers.
However, the deck does get soggy if you leave it in the car for long when it’s hot outside. And another downside to consider after consulting some friends was that the deck can be prone to snapping, although I’ve personally never experienced this issue.
Alien Workshop Wheels
These little guys are often overlooked, but they are an essential part of your ride. Alien Workshop wheels ensure a smooth ride and excellent grip. They come in various sizes and shapes, which means you can find the perfect wheel for your riding style.
The wheels are made of urethane, making them durable for almost every terrain. They have a range of durometers, which means you can choose the perfect hardness for your riding style. If you are a street skater, you might want to go for a harder wheel, while if you are more into cruising, a softer wheel might be your preference.
One thing I love about Alien Workshop wheels is that they are well balanced and have a great weight distribution, which makes them perfect for all types of skateboarding. They are also easy to install and replace, so you won’t have to worry about any technical difficulties.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Good quality materials
Unique and creative designs
Durable and long-lasting
Great for advanced riders
Well-known and respected brand in the skateboarding community
Cons:
Higher price point compared to some other brands
Limited options for beginners
Not as widely available in stores compared to other brands
Are Alien Workshop Skateboards Good
Yes, Alien Workshop skateboards are definitely a solid choice for anyone in the market for a new board. The brand’s team puts a lot of time and effort into designing and testing their boards, ensuring that they can handle even the toughest of skateboarding tricks.
That being said, no skateboard is perfect, and Alien Workshop is no exception. Some people might find the price point a little steep, but in my opinion, you really do get what you pay for.
And while the decks themselves are great, some people might prefer different trucks or wheels depending on their personal preferences.
Alien Workshop Team
Here are the names of some of the professional skateboarders who have been a part of the Alien Workshop team at some point:
After digging deep into the history, product line, and customer reviews of Alien Workshop skateboards, we’ve come to the burning question – is the brand good enough? Well, the answer isn’t a simple “yes” or “no.” It’s more like a “heck yeah!”
Sure, there are some cons like the higher price point and potential durability issues, but the pros outweigh the cons. From the unique and stylish graphics to the high-quality materials and performance on the streets, Alien Workshop skateboards are definitely worth the investment for any skateboarder looking to up their game.
So if you are looking for a skateboard brand that truly embodies the skateboarding culture, look no further than Alien Workshop. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced rider, their product line has something for everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Alien Workshop decks have good pop?
Yes, Alien Workshop decks are known for their exceptional pop, which allows riders to perform tricks with ease.
Who makes Alien Workshop skateboards?
Alien Workshop skateboards are currently produced and distributed by Tum Yeto Inc., a skateboarding company based in San Diego, California.
Where are Alien Workshop skateboards made?
Alien Workshop skateboards are manufactured in China, where they are built to high standards of quality and durability.
What skateboards do pros ride?
Professional skateboarders typically ride decks and equipment that are tailored to their individual preferences and riding styles.
I got inspired by my father after watching him performing heroic tricks on a skateboard. Started at the age of 8 and performed in multiple competitions, now I coach professionals for tournaments. It's not just a sport for me - more like a passion and meditation! After years of experience with different skateboarding products, here are my reviews about Best Skateboard Brands and Best Skateboard for Beginners. It's an era of technology, you can also check unbiased reviews of Best Electric Skateboards. You can also read Benefits of Skateboarding.
