Deathwish Skateboards: The Cult Brand That Shook Up Skate Culture

If skateboarding had a punk rock band, Deathwish Skateboards would be it. Gritty, raw, and unapologetically bold, Deathwish has carved out a legacy that’s as much about attitude as it is about technical prowess. Let’s dive into the story of this iconic brand—from its rebellious roots to its current reign.

🛹 Origins: Born from Baker’s Chaos

Deathwish Skateboards was founded in 2008 by pro skaters Jim Greco and Erik Ellington. Both were integral members of the Baker Skateboards crew, known for their wild style and rebellious energy. After years of pushing boundaries with Baker, they launched Deathwish as a sister brand under the Baker Boys Distribution umbrella.

The name “Deathwish” was inspired by the cult vigilante film series starring Charles Bronson. Even the brand’s logo—a stylized gang sign—was lifted from “Deathwish 3.” From the start, Deathwish was more than just a company; it was a statement.

🎥 Making Noise: Videos That Defined a Generation

Deathwish didn’t tiptoe into the scene—it exploded with the release of Baker Has a Deathwish, a gritty, hour-long video that introduced the brand to the world. It featured the Baker crew and the emerging Deathwish team, instantly cementing its place in skateboarding lore.

Later came The Deathwish Video (2016), a standalone masterpiece showcasing the talents of riders like Jon Dickson, Neen Williams, Moose, and Furby. These videos weren’t just skate edits—they were cultural events.

🧨 Notable Riders and Sponsorships

Deathwish has always had a stacked team, and its roster reads like a who's who of street skating:

• Lizard King – Known for his chaotic style and fearless approach.

• Antwuan Dixon – A prodigy with effortless style, whose career was both meteoric and turbulent.

• Jon Dickson – Delivered standout parts that helped define the brand’s aesthetic.

• Jamie Foy – One of the most technically gifted skaters of his generation.

• Pedro Delfino, Neen Williams, Taylor Kirby, Jake Hayes – All continue to push the brand forward with their unique styles and heavy-hitting parts.

Deathwish has also welcomed new talent like Julian Davidson, formerly of Element, and recently added Florida skaters Noah Pollard and Sean O’Connor to the team.

🎨 Aesthetic and Innovation

Deathwish decks are known for their bold, often gritty graphics. In 2016, they paid homage to their cinematic roots with the “VHS Wasteland” series—decks styled like old-school movie posters. The typography and design work, often done by Mark Foster (aka “Foss”), helped solidify the brand’s visual identity.

Their boards are crafted from high-quality maple and are praised for durability and pop, making them a favorite among serious skaters.

🔥 What’s Happening Now?

Deathwish is still going strong. They continue to release new decks, apparel, and accessories that reflect their rebellious spirit. The team is active in filming, touring, and dropping fresh content—like Baker Has a Deathwish Part 2, which hit in 2024 and reignited the brand’s legacy.

They’ve also been featured regularly in Thrasher Magazine, with videos like Uncrossed showcasing hill bombs, kinked rails, and next-level tricks that push the boundaries of what’s possible.

The Deathwish Video

Deathwish Skateboards' "UNCROSSED" Full Length Video