Richard Mulder: A Skateboarding Icon with Style and Soul

Richard Mulder is one of those rare skateboarders whose influence stretches far beyond the tricks he landed. Known for his smooth style, technical precision, and deep roots in skate culture, Mulder carved out a legacy that still resonates today. Let’s dive into the story of this Southern California native and explore what made him such a standout figure in the skateboarding world.

🛹 Early Life and Skateboarding Origins

• Born: Around 1977 in San Dimas, California

• Started Skating: Late 1987, at age 10

• First Board: A swap meet special, later upgraded by trading G.I. Joe toys for a Steadham Sure Grip Intl' board

Mulder’s early skateboarding journey was shaped by financial limitations and raw passion. Inspired by local skaters like Tom Krauser and legends such as Lance Mountain and Steve Caballero, he honed his skills in the Inland Empire, eventually moving to Fontana where the skate scene was thriving.

🌟 Rise to Fame

• First Sponsor: Milk Skateboards, thanks to Christian Hosoi spotting him at the Encinitas YMCA

• Foundation Skateboards: Joined in 1992, filming his first video part in Cocktails

• World Industries: Recruited by Rodney Mullen, marking a pivotal moment in his career

• Chocolate Skateboards: Became a core team member, contributing to the brand’s golden era

Mulder’s early video parts showcased his clean style and technical finesse. His skating at Chaffey High School became legendary, and his friendships with Daewon Song and Daniel Castillo helped push his progression.

🎥 Iconic Video Parts

Richard Mulder’s video sections are etched into skateboarding history:

• Cocktails (Foundation) – His debut part

• Super Conductor Super Collider – Early Foundation footage

• Mouse (Chocolate) – A defining moment in his career

• The Chocolate Tour – Known for creative skits and stylish skating

These parts highlighted his mastery of ledge tricks, impeccable switch stance control, and effortless pop.

🔥 Signature Tricks

Mulder was known for:

• Switch kickflips – Crisp and controlled

• Inward heelflips – Inspired by Sean Sheffey

• Nollie flips and ledge lines – Executed with finesse

His skating was never about brute force—it was about precision, flow, and making hard tricks look easy.

🧢 Sponsors and Pro Model Decks

Throughout his career, Mulder rode for:

• Milk Skateboards

• Foundation

• World Industries

• Chocolate Skateboards

• DVS Shoes – A long-time shoe sponsor

He had several pro model decks under Chocolate, often featuring clean graphics that matched his understated style.

👕 Life After Pro Skating

After stepping back from professional skateboarding, Mulder didn’t disappear—he evolved.

• Heel Bruise: Founded his own clothing brand, blending skate culture with streetwear aesthetics

• Hosoi Skateboards: Re-emerged briefly as a pro rider

• Creative Direction: Focused on storytelling, design, and mentoring younger skaters

Mulder’s transition from pro skater to entrepreneur and creative mind reflects his thoughtful approach to life and skateboarding.

💬 Why People Still Love Richard Mulder

• Style icon: His skating was smooth, clean, and timeless

• Cultural contributor: Helped shape the aesthetic and vibe of 90s skateboarding

• Mentor and visionary: Continues to influence skateboarding through design and storytelling

Whether you’re watching Mouse for the hundredth time or rocking a Heel Bruise tee, Richard Mulder’s legacy is alive and well.

📍 What’s He Up to Now?

Today, Richard Mulder is focused on creative projects, family life, and continuing to build Heel Bruise. He occasionally pops up in interviews and retrospectives, offering insights into skateboarding’s evolution and his own journey. His story is a reminder that style, substance, and soul never go out of fashion.

Richard Mulder | The Nine Club With Chris Roberts - Episode 71

Richard Mulder - Mouse 1996

Richard Mulder | Toonami Interstitials | adult swim