🌍 Planet Earth Skateboards: A Legacy of Style, Sustainability, and Innovation

In the ever-evolving world of skateboarding, few brands have left a mark as distinctive and forward-thinking as Planet Earth. Born from the vision of a legendary skater and shaped by a commitment to both style and sustainability, Planet Earth Skateboards carved out a unique identity in the skate industry. Let’s dive into the story behind the brand, its impact, and where it stands today.

🛹 Origins: A Skater’s Vision

Planet Earth Skateboards was founded in 1990 by Chris Miller, a celebrated vert skater from California. Miller had already made waves in the skate world riding for iconic brands like Santa Cruz, Gordon & Smith, and Schmitt Stix. But by the end of the '80s, he felt disillusioned with the direction of mainstream skateboarding and sought to create something different—something authentic.

The name “Planet Earth” came from a conversation with his young son, Zach, who simply said, “That’s a good name for a skateboard company.” And so it began.

Initially launched under a distribution agreement with H-Street, Planet Earth quickly evolved. By 1992, Miller had restructured the brand with help from his father-in-law, Jim Bahringer, and manufacturing support from Paul Schmitt. The company was officially reborn, with a new focus and a fresh approach.

🌱 Notable for Sustainability and Style

Planet Earth was one of the first skateboard companies to embrace environmental consciousness. Long before “eco-friendly” became a buzzword, Miller infused the brand with a sense of responsibility toward the planet. This ethos extended not just to materials, but to the brand’s overall aesthetic and messaging.

Beyond its green credentials, Planet Earth was also known for its high-quality apparel. Miller foresaw the shift from hardgoods (decks, trucks, wheels) to softgoods (clothing and shoes), much like what had happened in the surf industry. By the mid-1990s, Planet Earth had become a respected name in skate fashion, offering stylish, durable gear that resonated with skaters and streetwear enthusiasts alike.

🎥 Cultural Impact and Sponsorships

Planet Earth wasn’t just about products—it was about culture. The brand released the iconic skate video Now 'N' Later, which showcased its team’s talent and helped cement its place in skateboarding history.

While specific rider rosters are harder to pin down, Planet Earth did sponsor a team of skaters who represented the brand through its apparel line. This allowed the company to support riders who were affiliated with other deck brands, giving it flexibility and reach across the skateboarding community.

🧥 Transition to Apparel and Business Evolution

In 1997, Planet Earth was acquired by K2, a major player in the ski and snowboard industry. Miller continued to run the brand, steering it toward apparel and footwear. In 1998, he launched Adio Footwear, which quickly became one of the top skate shoe brands of the early 2000s.

By the early 2000s, Planet Earth had phased out its hardgoods division, focusing exclusively on clothing. This pivot allowed the brand to thrive in a saturated market, where deck graphics were often the only differentiator. Apparel, on the other hand, offered room for innovation, seasonal changes, and technical design—areas where Miller’s creative instincts could shine.

📍 Where Are They Now?

Today, Planet Earth exists primarily as an apparel brand. While its decks and wheels are no longer in production, its legacy lives on through its clothing and the influence it had on skate culture. Chris Miller remains active in the industry, serving as the chief creative director of NBC’s Alli Sports and still skating with style and power.

Planet Earth may not dominate the deck wall at your local skate shop anymore, but its impact is undeniable. It was a brand that dared to be different—rooted in authenticity, driven by design, and ahead of its time in sustainability.

Planet Earth - Now 'N' Later (FULL) 1991

Cat's Cradle - Planet Earth Skateboards 1994

Planet Earth "F.O.R.E. and Friends" (2001)