Bobby Puleo: The Underground Skateboarding Icon

Early Life and Introduction to Skateboarding

Bobby Puleo was born on October 2, 1974, in Clifton, New Jersey. Like many skateboarders of his generation, Puleo discovered skateboarding at a young age. His first board was the Skull and Sword Powell Peralta, which he received as a Christmas gift in 1984. By the time he was 10 years old, he was already hooked on the sport, spending hours honing his skills on the streets of New Jersey.

At 16, Puleo started venturing into New York City, skating legendary spots like the Brooklyn Banks. The raw energy of the city and its street skating scene deeply influenced his style, making him one of the most recognizable figures in underground skateboarding.

Skateboarding Style and Signature Tricks

Puleo is known for his technical street skating, often choosing unconventional spots that others might overlook. His skating is marked by a deep appreciation for architecture, finding creative ways to skate objects that most would ignore. He became famous for his cellar door skating, a unique approach where he would use slanted metal doors as ramps for tricks.

His skating style is precise, stylish, and deeply rooted in East Coast street skating. He has a knack for manual tricks, wall rides, and creative lines, making his approach to skateboarding feel more like an art form than a sport.

Sponsors and Pro Model Decks

Throughout his career, Puleo rode for several well-known brands. His first major sponsor was Mad Circle, where he turned pro and received his first pro model deck. Before Mad Circle, he had brief stints with Metropolitan and Stereo Skateboards. Later, he rode for Zoo York, Infamous, and even had a short-lived connection with Enjoi Skateboards.

His decks often featured artistic and thought-provoking graphics, reflecting his deep interest in art and culture. His influence extended beyond just skateboarding—his artistic sensibilities shaped the way his sponsors marketed his boards.

Video Sections and Skateboarding Legacy

Puleo has appeared in numerous skate videos, each showcasing his unique approach to street skating. Some of his most notable video parts include:

• FTC – Penal Code 100A (1996)

• Mad Circle – 5ive Flavors (1998)

• Zoo York – Peep This (1999)

• Static II: The Invisibles (2004)

• Traffic – Moving in Traffic (2008)

• Traffic – Tokyo Transfer (2009)

• The Secret Basement (2013)

His video parts are celebrated for their raw, unfiltered street skating, often featuring obscure spots that only he could make look skateable.

What Is Bobby Puleo Up to Now?

In recent years, Puleo has shifted his focus toward art and photography, building upon his lifelong interest in collecting found objects. His work often consists of collages and assemblages, reflecting his unique perspective on urban landscapes. He has exhibited his art in various galleries, including a solo show titled "Flat Earth" in New York City.

While he may not be skating professionally anymore, Puleo remains an influential figure in skateboarding culture, inspiring a new generation of skaters to think outside the box and approach the streets with creativity.

Bobby Puleo’s legacy is one of individuality, creativity, and authenticity—a true underground legend who has left an indelible mark on skateboarding. Whether through his skating or his art, Puleo continues to challenge perceptions and redefine what it means to be a skateboarder.

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