About Nate Sherwood - Pro Skateboarder Profile, Biography and History

🛹 Nate Sherwood: The Pressure Flip Philosopher of Skateboarding

Nate Sherwood is one of skateboarding’s most distinctive personalities—known not just for his tricks, but for his outspoken views, unique style, and deep love for the culture. Born in the late 1970s and raised in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Nate’s journey into skateboarding began at the age of eight. He was captivated by older kids doing handstands on boards down his street, and from that moment, skateboarding became his passion—not for fame or sponsorship, but for fun and self-expression.

🎯 Signature Tricks & Style

Nate Sherwood is most famously associated with pressure flips, a trick that was once a staple in the early '90s but later fell out of favor. Nate, however, never abandoned it. He became a kind of ambassador for pressure flips, refining them and incorporating them into his own skate language. His style is raw, expressive, and unapologetically individualistic.

🏁 Sponsors & Pro Models

Nate rode for Capitol Skateboards, where he had pro model decks. He also had a stint with Airspeed Shoes, though that relationship ended in conflict after he spoke out about pay cuts. Nate’s honesty and refusal to play the industry game often made him a polarizing figure—but also earned him respect among skaters who value authenticity.

🎬 Video Appearances

One of Nate’s most memorable moments was his cameo in Girl Skateboards’ “Yeah Right”, a legendary video in skateboarding history. He’s also been featured in interviews and podcasts, including The Nine Club, where he shared stories about his coma-inducing injury in P.E. class, his hip surgery, and his philosophical approach to skating.

🧠 Challenges & Triumphs

Diagnosed with Tourette syndrome and dyslexia at age eleven, Nate found skateboarding to be a therapeutic outlet. His resilience and creativity helped him navigate a world that didn’t always understand him. He’s known for competing against himself rather than others, and for respecting the trailblazers who came before him.

🏪 What’s Nate Up to Now?

Nate now runs Eduskate Skateshop in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. He’s built a community hub where skaters can come not just to buy gear, but to talk, learn, and share ideas. He’s vocal about not carrying brands like Nike or Adidas, preferring to support independent skate companies. Nate continues to advocate for the soul of skateboarding—emphasizing fun, creativity, and integrity over commercialism.

👟 Vans Skate Footwear: From Deck Shoes to Cultural Icons

Vans is more than just a shoe company—it’s a cornerstone of skateboarding culture. Founded on March 16, 1966, in Anaheim, California, by Paul Van Doren, James Van Doren, and Gordon C. Lee, the brand began as The Van Doren Rubber Company, selling shoes directly to customers from their factory-store hybrid.

🏄 Origins & Evolution

Originally designed as deck shoes for surfers, Vans quickly caught the attention of skateboarders for their grippy soles and durable canvas construction. By the mid-1970s, Vans had become synonymous with skateboarding, especially after releasing the Era (Style #95), co-designed by skate legends Tony Alva and Stacy Peralta.

🔥 Iconic Styles

• Old Skool (Style #36): Introduced in 1977, featuring the now-famous Jazz Stripe.

• Sk8-Hi (Style #38): Added ankle protection for pool and vert skating.

• Slip-On (Style #98): Became a cultural icon after appearing in Fast Times at Ridgemont High.

🛹 Sponsorships & Collaborations

Vans has sponsored countless legendary skaters, including:

• Steve Caballero (first signature shoe)

• Geoff Rowley

• Anthony Van Engelen (AVE)

• Elissa Steamer

• Chima Ferguson

• Lizzie Armanto

They’ve also collaborated with artists, designers, and franchises—from The Simpsons and Star Wars to Karl Lagerfeld and Marc Jacobs.

🏠 House of Vans & Cultural Impact

Vans created the House of Vans, a venue for music, art, and skateboarding, reinforcing their commitment to creative communities. Their slogan, “Off the Wall,” captures the rebellious spirit of skateboarding and self-expression.

🌍 What Are They Doing Now?

Today, Vans is a global brand producing over 60 million pairs of shoes annually. They continue to innovate with technologies like WAFFLECUP™, blending boardfeel with durability. Vans remains deeply embedded in skate culture, sponsoring events, supporting grassroots scenes, and pushing sustainability and customization for the future.

Nate Sherwood | The Nine Club #361

Nate Sherwood RDS Part

Nate Sherwood at the forefront of skateboarding growth in Cedar Rapids