🛹 The Story of Evol Skateboards: From Street Roots to Constant Evolution

In the vibrant world of skateboarding, few brands have carved out a legacy quite like Evol. Born in the 1990s, Evol emerged during a golden era of street skating, blending raw creativity with a rebellious spirit that resonated with skaters across the globe. While the brand may not dominate headlines today, its impact on skate culture is undeniable.

🌟 Origins: Where It All Began

Evol Skateboards was founded in the early 1990s in the United States, during a time when skateboarding was undergoing a gritty renaissance. The brand was the brainchild of Tony Magnusson and his partners at Alias Distribution, a group deeply embedded in the skate and snowboard industries. Evol was envisioned as a dual-force brand—producing both skateboards and snowboards—with a focus on edgy design and authentic rider culture.

Their first major video release, Back in Black (1994), showcased the brand’s underground ethos and featured raw street skating that captured the imagination of the skate community. This was followed by Still Life in 1996, a cult classic that solidified Evol’s place in skateboarding history.

🧢 What Made Evol Stand Out

Evol wasn’t just another deck company. It was notable for:

• Bold graphics and streetwise design that reflected the gritty aesthetic of 90s skateboarding.

• A strong video presence, with releases that became underground favorites.

• A crossover into footwear, launching Evol skate shoes in 1995—an ambitious move that showed their intent to expand influence across skate culture.

• Authentic rider connection, with a team that lived and breathed the lifestyle.

🛹 Sponsorships and Team Riders

Evol sponsored a number of skaters during its heyday, although the exact roster has faded into skateboarding lore. Riders like Marcelle Johnson were featured in early videos, and the brand was known for supporting up-and-coming talent rather than chasing big-name pros. Their sponsorship approach leaned more toward cultivating a tight-knit crew than building a mega-team.

The shoe program, while initially successful, ran into challenges. Conflicts arose when Evol-sponsored shoe riders were also affiliated with rival board companies, leading to a strategic pivot. Eventually, the shoe line was spun off into what became Osiris Shoes—now a major name in skate footwear.

🔄 Where Are They Now?

Today, Evol continues to exist as a niche brand producing skateboards and snowboards. Their modern offerings include cruisers, artist series decks, and apparel, often spotlighted in grassroots videos and events. The brand maintains a presence on platforms like YouTube, where they showcase team edits and collaborations with Snowboy Productions and other creative collectives.

Evol skateboards - Still Life (full video)

Evol Skateboards - Back In Black (1994)