Manny Santiago: The Smile That Slays All 🛹

If skateboarding had a spirit animal, Manny Santiago might just be it. With his infectious smile, relentless positivity, and jaw-dropping skills, he's carved out a legacy that’s as inspiring as it is entertaining. Let’s dive into the life and career of the man known as “Manny Slays All.”

🌴 Early Life & Origins

• Full Name: Emanuel Santiago

• Born: September 10, 1985

• Birthplace: Cayey, Puerto Rico

• Raised in: Lowell, Massachusetts, USA

Manny’s journey began in Puerto Rico but truly took shape in Lowell, where skateboarding became his escape from the gang culture that surrounded him. At age 14, he stepped on a skateboard for the first time at the Boys & Girls Club near Roberto Clemente Skate Park—and never looked back.

🛹 Rise to Skateboarding Fame

Manny’s early contest appearances were electric. He dominated amateur competitions like:

• 2006 Damn Am Contest (Minneapolis): 1st place with tricks like kickflip backside 50-50 and varial heelflip backside boardslide.

• 2009 Zoo York’s AM Getting Paid (Montreal): 2nd place with laser heels and 360 shuvit lipslides.

• Black Box Crossroads Best Trick Contest: Took 1st place against pros like Nyjah Huston and Chris Cole.

These performances helped launch him into the professional scene, officially turning pro in 2010.

🔥 Signature Tricks & Style

Manny is known for his technical precision and creative flair. Some of his standout tricks include:

• Kickflip backside crooked grind

• Laser heel

• Bigspin backside boardslide

• Varial heelflip backside boardslide

But it’s not just the tricks—it’s the way he does them. His style is smooth, expressive, and always delivered with a smile (even with a missing tooth, which became part of his iconic look).

🧢 Sponsors & Pro Model Decks

Over the years, Manny has been backed by some major names:

• AMMO Skateboards: His first pro model deck was released here, under the guidance of Felix Arguelles.

• Ecko Unlimited

• Grizzly Griptape

• Famous Stars and Straps

• Rastaclat

He also launched his own brand, Manny Slays All (MSA), which includes hats, shirts, stickers, and accessories—all stamped with his signature positivity.

🎥 Video Sections & Media Presence

Manny’s video parts are a masterclass in street skating. While he’s appeared in numerous skate edits and contest recaps, his most memorable contributions include:

• Street League Skateboarding (SLS): He made history as the first Puerto Rican skateboarder to compete in SLS and won two stops in the Select Series (Brazil and Barcelona).

• X Games Barcelona (2012): Placed 3rd, becoming the first Puerto Rican street skater to podium at the X Games.

His YouTube channel and social media presence also showcase his travels, skate sessions, and lifestyle—always with that signature energy.

🌱 Lifestyle & Personal Tidbits

• Diet: Manny is a strict vegetarian and promotes healthy living.

• Philanthropy: He used his Dew Tour winnings to renovate a skate park in Puerto Rico and founded the annual Prince of Puerto Rico skate contest.

• Family: He has a son named Ocean, born in 2012.

📍 What’s Manny Up to Now?

As of 2025, Manny continues to skate, travel, and inspire. He’s active on social media, sharing clips, motivational messages, and updates from his brand. Whether he’s competing, mentoring younger skaters, or just vibing with fans, Manny remains a beacon of positivity in the skateboarding world.

Manny Santiago Welcome To Sandlot Times Skateboards

Manny Santiago's "Pound For Pound" part

Manny Santiago | The Nine Club With Chris Roberts - Episode 203