The Legacy of Dave Mayhew: A Skateboarding Icon

Skateboarding has seen its fair share of legends, but few have left a mark quite like Dave Mayhew. Known for his technical prowess, unique style, and contributions to skate culture, Mayhew’s career is one worth celebrating.

Early Life and Introduction to Skateboarding

Dave Mayhew grew up in Madison, Wisconsin, where he first discovered skateboarding. Like many young skaters, he was drawn to the sport’s creativity and freedom. His passion quickly turned into a career when he turned pro for Evol Skateboards in 1993, during his senior year of high school. His first major video part came in Evol’s Back in Black, marking the beginning of his professional journey.

Sponsors and Pro Model Decks

Throughout his career, Mayhew rode for several iconic brands. After Evol, he transitioned to Maple Skateboards, where he became close friends with Marc Johnson. Later, he joined A-Team, a short-lived but highly influential brand, before moving to Enjoi, a company known for its fun and creative approach to skateboarding.

Mayhew also had pro model decks under these brands, each reflecting his technical style and influence on the skateboarding world.

Signature Tricks and Style

Dave Mayhew was known for his technical street skating, often executing tricks with precision and creativity. Some of his most notable moves included:

• Kickflip nosegrind to nollie flip out – a trick that showcased his control and finesse.

• Frontside 360 ollie to nose wheelie – an impressive feat that he could even perform switch.

• Smooth ledge and manual combinations – demonstrating his ability to link tricks seamlessly.

His skating was ahead of its time, influencing many skaters who followed in his footsteps.

Video Parts That Defined His Career

Mayhew’s video parts were a testament to his skill and dedication. Some of his most memorable appearances include:

• Back in Black (Evol, 1994)

• High 5 (Etnies, 1995)

• 7 Steps to Heaven (Maple, 1996)

• Yellow (Emerica, 1997)

• Rodney Mullen vs. Daewon Song: Round 1 (World Industries, 1997)

• The Storm (Osiris, 1998)

• Rodney Mullen vs. Daewon Song: Round 2 (World Industries, 1999)

Each of these showcased his technical mastery and ability to push the boundaries of street skating.

The Osiris D3 Legacy

While Mayhew’s skateboarding career was impressive, he is perhaps best known for his involvement in designing the Osiris D3 skate shoe. The chunky, futuristic design became one of the best-selling skate shoes of all time, transcending skateboarding and entering mainstream fashion. Though the shoe’s popularity exploded, Mayhew himself didn’t profit significantly from its success, a fact that has been widely discussed in skateboarding circles.

Life After Professional Skateboarding

After stepping away from professional skateboarding in the early 2000s, Mayhew returned to Madison, Wisconsin, where he opened Alumni Boardshop, a skate shop dedicated to supporting the local scene. He has remained involved in skateboarding, continuing to skate for fun and staying connected to the community.

Mayhew also adopted a vegan lifestyle, reflecting his commitment to health and sustainability. Despite leaving the professional spotlight, he remains a respected figure in skateboarding, admired for his contributions both on and off the board.

Dave Mayhew's "enjoi | division" Part

Dave Mayhew - The Storm

Dave Mayhew | The Nine Club With Chris Roberts - Episode 198