🛹 Assault Skateboards: A Gritty Legacy in the Skate World

Assault Skateboards isn’t just another name in the skateboarding industry—it’s a brand that embodies underground grit, Midwest roots, and a fiercely independent spirit. Let’s dive into the story of this raw and rebellious company.

🌟 Origins: Where It All Began

Assault Skateboards was founded around 1989 by Ned Hadden, a skater originally from Vista, California. Ned was a close friend of legendary skater Matt Hensley, and his journey took him from California to Dayton, Ohio. There, he ran Assault out of Cow Skates or Surf Ohio, right around the same time Chris “Sarge” Carter was launching Alien Workshop. This convergence of creative energy in the Midwest helped shape a unique era in skateboarding history.

🔥 What Made Assault Stand Out

Assault Skateboards carved its niche by embracing a raw, DIY ethos. They weren’t chasing mainstream appeal—they were building a brand for skaters who lived for the streets, curbs, and backyard ramps. Their decks often featured bold, subversive graphics and were pressed to meet high-performance standards. The brand’s slogan “Lay Down Your Weapons” captured their rebellious spirit perfectly.

They also released several underground skate videos, including The Assault Video (2012) and F.O.N.O. promo (Friends Of No One), showcasing their riders and the gritty aesthetic of their skating style.

🧑🎤 Sponsored Riders and Collaborators

Assault Skateboards has supported a tight-knit crew of riders over the years. Some of the names associated with the brand include:

• Greg Harbour – Known for his distinctive style and featured in Assault’s pro model lineup.

• Ace Pelka – A curb-skating wizard who brought creativity and flair to the team.

• Shonn Oquendo – Featured in promo videos and known for his aggressive street skating.

• Tiger Jones, Mike Bricke, Garrett Lekas, Brooks Bushman, Riley Kozerski – All part of the extended Assault family, contributing to the brand’s underground legacy.

📺 Media and Cultural Impact

Assault Skateboards has maintained a presence through its YouTube channel, where they’ve dropped raw edits, team promos, and teasers that reflect their no-frills approach to skateboarding. Their videos aren’t polished Hollywood productions—they’re gritty, authentic, and full of heart.

🛍️ What They’re Up to Now

Today, Assault Skateboards continues to operate with the same underground ethos. Their products—including decks, grip tape, wheels, and apparel—are available through niche skate retailers like Heritage SKTBDS in Oceanside, California. They’re still pressing decks, releasing gear, and supporting riders who embody the spirit of independent skateboarding.

They’ve also embraced limited-edition drops and collaborations, staying true to their roots while adapting to the evolving skate culture. Whether it’s a new pro model or a fresh batch of grip tape, Assault remains committed to quality and authenticity

Assault Skateboards F.O.N.O. promo 2017 FRIENDS OF NO ONE

Assault Skateboards - 2015

Local Produce w/ Matt Moose (Assault Skateboards)