🛹 The Story of ATM Skateboards: A Brand That Rides for Fun

In the world of skateboarding, some brands chase fame, others chase fortune—but ATM Click Skateboards has always chased something more authentic: the pure joy of skating. From its rebellious roots in the early '90s to its vibrant presence today, ATM has carved out a unique lane in skate culture. Let’s dive into the story of this iconic brand.

🌟 Origins: Born from Street Skating Royalty

ATM Click Skateboards was founded in 1992 by two influential figures in the skateboarding world: Mark Gonzales, often hailed as the godfather of modern street skating, and John Falahee. Gonzales had already made waves with Blind Skateboards and was known for his creative, boundary-pushing style. ATM was his next venture—a brand that didn’t aim to dominate the industry but to celebrate the spirit of skating itself.

The company was born in California, a hotbed of skateboarding innovation, and quickly gained traction for its laid-back ethos and rider-first mentality.

🎨 What Made ATM Stand Out

ATM wasn’t just another deck company—it had a vibe. Here’s what set it apart:

• Deck Design: Known for their steep concave and rounded nose/tail, ATM decks offered excellent pop and control.

• Graphics: Their art was loud, funky, and fun—think smiley faces, hippies, skulls, and musical instruments.

• Durability: Built with 7-ply Canadian maple, ATM boards were tough enough for hardcore tricks and street abuse.

• Beginner-Friendly: While they catered to technical skaters, ATM also offered great starter boards for newcomers.

ATM’s gear wasn’t just functional—it was expressive. Their wheels featured a unique urethane formula that resisted wear, and their stainless steel trucks gave riders precision and balance.

🧢 Sponsorships and Team Riders

ATM has always had a knack for spotting raw talent. Over the years, they’ve sponsored a variety of riders who embodied the brand’s ethos of creativity and fun. Some notable names include:

• Jeff Fowler, who dropped a standout part in 2024 showcasing Midwest style and technical finesse.

• Donovan Rice, whose pro model decks feature artwork by skate legend Lance Mountain.

• Chris “Crusty” Weissmann, known for his psychedelic deck graphics and crusty street style.

• Wrex Cook, with his old-school shaped pro model deck.

These riders weren’t just team members—they were ambassadors of ATM’s philosophy: skate hard, have fun, and stay weird.

🔥 What ATM Is Up to Now

Today, ATM Click is owned by SOP Distribution, a major player in the skateboarding industry. The brand continues to thrive, offering a wide range of decks, wheels, trucks, and apparel. Their current lineup includes:

• Signature pro model decks with bold graphics

• High-performance wheels under the Acid Chemical Co. label

• Apparel like graphic tees and hoodies for skaters who want to rep the brand off the board

ATM maintains an active presence on social media and YouTube, regularly dropping skate edits, rider highlights, and throwback footage from the '90s. They’re still all about the ride—not the hype.

ATM - FLICK (1995)

ATM - Come Together (1995)

ATM Skateboards 411vm #15 industry (1995)