Skateboarding is not just a sport, it’s a way of life. From the fashionable clothes skaters wear to the coolest designs on their decks, every aspect of the sport is an expression of individuality and style.
The deck is not only the foundation for all tricks and cruising, but it is also a canvas for self-expression and personal style. The graphics of these deck showcase skater’s personality and interests. So, you need a skateboard with a classy or funky design that suits your nature and riding style.
Here, we will be exploring some of the coolest skateboard decks of all time, and the stories behind their designs. These decks have become iconic with unique and fashionable graphics that have made an impact in the skateboarding world.
Blind and Powell Peralta make the most stylish decks that turn the heads of everyone.
Want to ride a top-of-the-line board? Check test-based reviews of the best skateboard decks to pick one that suits your riding style.
Skateboard graphics have evolved from simple designs to artistic creations that have become a canvas for artists to express themselves. The art beneath the deck can represent a brand, a skater, a message, or simply an artwork.
These designs aren’t just used for a make-over, they also shout out the rider’s character. Here are the ten coolest skateboard decks of all time that have caught turned heads in the skateboarding community:
1. Blind Jason Lee “Video Days” Deck
2. Alien Workshop Keith Haring “Radiant Child” Deck
3. Powell Peralta Steve Caballero “Ban This” Deck
4. Santa Cruz “Guzman Dine With Me” Deck
5. Girl Mike Carroll “Mouse” Deck
6. Element “Nyjah Crown” Deck
7. Birdhouse Tony Hawk “Birdman” Deck
8. Plan B Danny Way “The DC Video” Deck
9. Baker Andrew Reynolds “Logo” Deck
10. Powell Peralta Tony Hawk “Skull” Deck
Note: We chose these decks not just because of their cool looking designs, these decks are also durable and perform great.
Let’s explore the history behind each design and what does it represent.
1. Blind – Jason Lee Video Days Deck
A classic piece of skateboarding history.
Blind Skateboards was a new brand in the early ’90s that had gained recognition for its innovative designs and team of talented riders. One of those riders was Jason Lee, who landed a perfect kickflip in the now-famous “Video Days” video.
The trick was a game-changer and the deck design that accompanied it became just as famous.
The Jason Lee deck features a black and white photograph of Lee’s mid-kickflip, with the words “Blind” and “Video Days” above and below the image. The design is simple but effective, capturing the raw energy and excitement of skateboarding.
For many skateboarders, the Jason Lee “Video Days” deck represents a time of innovation and creativity, when skaters were pushing the boundaries of what was possible and creating a culture that would endure for decades.
And from there, the Brand took inspiration and started designing its decks with various artwork, representing uncontrollable riders.
2. Alien Workshop – Keith Haring Radiant Child Deck
When it comes to iconic skateboard brands, Alien Workshop is at the top of the list. And when it comes to their deck designs, the Keith Haring “Radiant Child” deck is one of the most memorable. This deck is not just a work of art, it’s a symbol of creativity.
The story behind the Keith Haring “Radiant Child” deck begins in the mid-’90s, when Alien Workshop approached Keith Haring (a renowned artist) with the idea of collaborating on a skateboard deck, and the result was the now-famous “Radiant Child” design – creative, daring, and unapologetically original.
For skaters like me who appreciate art and individuality, the Keith Haring “Radiant Child” deck is a must-have. It represents a time when skateboard companies were willing to take risks and collaborate with artists outside of the skateboarding world.
Powell Peralta’s “Ban This” Deck is a classic piece of skateboarding history that’s as badass as it sounds.
It was the late 80s when Powell Peralta, one of the leading skateboard companies of the era, released a new deck featuring the artwork of legendary skater Steve Caballero.
The deck, dubbed the “Ban This” deck, featured an image of a fierce dragon soaring through the air. It was a bold move for Powell Peralta, who knew that the provocative image would cause a stir among the more conservative members of the skateboarding community.
And boy, the deck “Ban This” quickly became a lightning rod for controversy, with some calling for it to be banned outright due to its “offensive” nature. But Caballero and Powell Peralta refused to back down, arguing that the deck was a reflection of the rebellious, counter-culture spirit of skateboarding.
In the end, the controversy only helped to cement the “Ban This” deck’s status as a classic piece of skateboarding history. The deck wasn’t just a middle finger to the establishment, it was also a celebration of Caballero’s incredible skill as a skater.
Intrusted in knowing the skateboarding history? Read who invented skateboard and how it evolved.
4. Santa Cruz – Guzman Dine With Me Skateboard Deck
This iconic skateboard by Santa Cruz is the stuff of legend, and it continues to inspire skateboarders and collectors alike to this day.
The Guzman Dine With Me Deck has a rich history that dates back to the early 1990s. The deck was designed by renowned skateboard artist Jim Phillips, who drew inspiration from the vibrant and eclectic skateboarding culture that was exploding in California at the time.
The design features a graphic of a skeleton sitting at a dinner table, surrounded by food and drink. The entire scene is rendered in bold, eye-catching colors that immediately grab your attention.
This iconic symbol of the deck represents both the rebellious spirit of the sport and the fun-loving attitude of its participants.
5. Girl – Mike Carroll Mouse Deck
It is a true funky skateboard deck that has been attracting graphic-loving skaters since the 1990s.
The Girlreleased the “Mouse” deck in 1996, which was a perfect example of the brand’s style and attitude. The deck featured an iconic graphic of a mouse.
The design on the deck represents the brand’s playful and irreverent approach to skateboarding. Who knew that this lighthearted approach of simple yet funky art would attract everyone?
6. Element – Nyjah Crown Deck
The Element Nyjah Crown deck is a skateboard fit for royalty, designed for one of the most dominant and celebrated skateboarders of all time, Nyjah Huston.
The graphic on the deck features a regal image of a lion wearing a crown, with the Elementlogo prominently displayed. The design was crafted by the talented artist, Chase Tafoya.
The lion symbolizes courage, leadership, and strength, while the crown represents royalty and sovereignty. These elements combine to create a bold and powerful image that represents Huston’s skating style and his dominance in the world of skateboarding.
To me, it’s not just a skateboard, it is a symbol of excellence in skateboarding. Nyjah Huston’s incredible talent and dedication to the sport have earned him numerous X Games gold medals and other accolades, making him one of the greatest skateboarders of all time. The Nyjah Crown deck is a testament to his legacy and the legacy of Element Skateboards.
7. Birdhouse – Tony Hawk Birdman Deck
The Birdhouse Tony Hawk “Birdman” deck is a legend, an icon, and a symbol of the great Tony Hawk’s legacy in the skateboarding world.
The “Birdman” deck was first released by Birdhouse Skateboards in 1992. It features a classic graphic of a winged skull wearing a top hat, which was designed by Sean Cliver. This graphic perfectly captures Tony Hawk’s bold and fearless style of skating, earning him the nickname “Birdman.”
The Tony Hawk “Birdman” deck is not just a skateboard, it’s a piece of history, a serious collector, and a tribute to the great Tony Hawk and his impact on skateboarding culture. This coolest skateboard deck represents the boldness, fearlessness, and innovation that Tony Hawk brought to the sport.
So, whether you are a fan of Tony Hawk or just appreciate high-quality skateboards, the “Birdman” deck is a must-have for any serious collector.
8. Plan B – Danny Way The DC Video Deck
The Plan B “The DC Video” deck represents the very best of skateboarding culture. It is a tribute to the incredible skills of one of the greatest skateboarders of all time, Danny Way.
The “The DC Video” deck was released in 2004. It either features an iconic graphic of Danny Way or the words “Danny Way” displayed.
The deck represents the true essence of skateboarding – pushing boundaries, taking risks, and achieving the impossible. It’s a symbol of the sport’s evolution and the dedication of skateboarders to constantly push themselves beyond what was once thought possible.
9. Baker – Andrew Reynolds Logo Deck
One classy looking deck and the true essence of skateboarding. It all started in 2000 when Reynolds, one of the most influential skateboarders of all time, founded Baker with fellow skater Jim Greco.
They wanted to create a brand that reflected their rebellious spirit and love for skateboarding, and thus, Baker was born and they made a “Logo” deck. The brand’s most iconic design, features a simple but bold graphic that perfectly captures the essence of the Baker brand.
This deck represents the raw, unapologetic nature of skateboarding that has made Baker such a beloved brand in the skating community. It’s a symbol of individuality, creativity, and the freedom to be yourself, both on and off the board.
10. Powell Peralta Tony Hawk Skull Deck
The Powell Peralta Tony Hawk Skull Deck is an icon in the world of skateboarding.
Powell Peralta released the Tony Hawk Skull Deck in 1986, featuring a menacing skull graphic designed by artist Vernon Courtlandt Johnson. The deck quickly became a best-seller and cemented Tony Hawk’s status as one of the most influential skateboarders of all time.
This deck represents the power and passion of skateboarding – the thrill of flying through the air and the satisfaction of landing the perfect trick. It’s a symbol of Hawk’s legacy in the sport and his continued dedication to pushing skateboarding to new heights.
For me, it’s a must-have for any skater who wants to pay tribute to the legends who came before them and paved the way for modern skateboarding.
When it comes to skateboarding, your deck is your canvas. It’s the one part of your setup that you can really make your own, and express your unique style and personality.
That’s why choosing the right skateboard brand is so important – you want a brand that produces the coolest, most stylish decks that can match your vibe and make you stand out from the crowd.
Powell Peralta
Santa Cruz
Girl Skateboards
Baker Skateboards
Element Skateboards
Blind Skateboards
Enjoi Skateboards
Deathwish Skateboards
Almost Skateboards
Zero Skateboards
Most Popular Skateboard Deck Brands by Graphics
Skateboard decks have become an art form in their own right, with unique and creative graphics that have become just as important as the performance of the board itself.
Some of the most popular skateboard decks by graphics include:
Santa Cruz Screaming Hand
Powell Peralta Ripper
Alien Workshop OG Logo
Baker Skateboards Logo
Girl Skateboards Logo
Plan B Danny Way “The DC Video” Deck
Toy Machine Monster Face
Zero Skateboards Skull
Flip Skateboards HKD
Deathwish Skateboards Logo
Fashionable and Modern Skateboard Decks
Skateboard decks have become more than just a tool for riding. They are now a fashion statement and a way to express oneself.
Some of the fashionable and modern skateboard decks:
Supreme – Mike Hill “Last Supper” Deck
Palace – “Palace Pro” Deck
HUF – “HUF x Cleon Peterson” Deck
Bronze – “56k” Deck
Stylish and Classy Skateboard Decks
Skateboard decks have also become a way to showcase art and style.
Here are some stylish and classy skateboard decks:
The coolest skateboard decks are more than just pieces of wood and plastic – they’re works of art that tell a story and inspire a generation of skaters.
From the classic Blind Jason Lee Deck to the funkiest Powell Peralta Tony Hawk Skull Deck, the skateboarding industry has produced some truly unique and stylish deck graphics over the years. These decks have become cultural icons, representing the passion, creativity, and rebellious spirit of the skateboarding community.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the coolest skateboard?
Well, that’s a tough one. I can tell you that the coolest skateboard is the one that makes you feel the most confident, reflects your personal style and makes you stand out from the crowd.
For me, it’s all about the graphic design and the overall aesthetic of the deck. I’ve had a few favorites over the years, including the classic Santa Cruz Screaming Hand and the edgy Deathwish Skateboards Logo.
Which deck is best for skateboard?
The best skateboard deck is the one that meets your specific needs as a skater. Personally, I prefer a lightweight and responsive deck that’s easy to maneuver and control.
I’ve had great experiences with brands like Element Skateboards and Plan B, which offer a wide range of decks to choose from. But at the end of the day, it’s all about finding the deck that works best for your style and skill level.
What is the world’s strongest skateboard deck?
The world’s strongest skateboard deck is the Flight Deck by Powell Peralta. Made from a unique composite material that combines layers of fiberglass and epoxy resin, the Flight Deck is incredibly strong and durable while still being lightweight and flexible.
This innovative technology allows the deck to withstand more abuse and impact than traditional decks, making it a favorite among pro skaters and hardcore riders.
What decks do pro skaters use?
Pro skaters use a wide variety of decks from different brands, depending on their personal preferences and endorsements. I’ve seen many pro skaters riding decks from popular brands like Powell Peralta, Baker, Girl, and Zero Skateboards, etc.
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.
Blind Skateboards was a new brand in the early ’90s that had gained recognition for its innovative designs and team of talented riders. One of those riders was Jason Lee, who landed a perfect kickflip in the now-famous “Video Days” video.
When it comes to iconic skateboard brands, Alien Workshop is at the top of the list. And when it comes to their deck designs, the Keith Haring “Radiant Child” deck is one of the most memorable. This deck is not just a work of art, it’s a symbol of creativity.
This iconic skateboard by Santa Cruz is the stuff of legend, and it continues to inspire skateboarders and collectors alike to this day.
The Element Nyjah Crown deck is a skateboard fit for royalty, designed for one of the most dominant and celebrated skateboarders of all time, Nyjah Huston.
The Birdhouse Tony Hawk “Birdman” deck is a legend, an icon, and a symbol of the great Tony Hawk’s legacy in the skateboarding world.
The Plan B “The DC Video” deck represents the very best of skateboarding culture. It is a tribute to the incredible skills of one of the greatest skateboarders of all time, Danny Way.
One classy looking deck and the true essence of skateboarding. It all started in 2000 when Reynolds, one of the most influential skateboarders of all time, founded Baker with fellow skater Jim Greco.
