Neen Williams is more than just a pro skateboarder—he’s a symbol of transformation, resilience, and style. From the gritty streets of Chicago to the polished floors of fitness studios, Neen’s journey is one of evolution and inspiration. Let’s dive into the life and legacy of this skateboarding icon.
Born: December 13, 1985
Hometown: Chicago, Illinois
Upbringing: Neen grew up in a tough neighborhood, but it was rich with skate spots that helped shape his early style and grit.
First Exposure to Skateboarding: Like many skaters, Neen was drawn to the streets. His local environment became his training ground, and he quickly stood out for his fluid style and fearless approach.
Turned Pro: 2012, with Deathwish Skateboards
Breakout Moment: His section in Shake Junt’s Chicken Bone Nowison (2011) showcased his signature heelflips and earned him widespread acclaim.
Style: Known for his “ninja style”—a reference to his smooth, precise execution and explosive pop. His tricks often resemble those of Josh Kalis, especially his 360 flips.
Neen’s skating is defined by finesse and power. Some of his most notable tricks include:
Heelflips: Widely regarded as one of the best in the game
Varial Heelflips & Inward Heelflips: Often down massive stair sets
Nollie Heels: Including one landed after his board fell into a pool—he dried it off and still nailed the trick
Front Shove-Its & Crooked Grinds: Executed with style and precision
Neen’s talent and charisma have earned him a strong roster of sponsors:
Deathwish Skateboards
Thunder Trucks
Spitfire Wheels
Shake Junt
FP Footwear & FP Insoles
Urbn Water
Onnit
Ten Thousand
Stance
Uprise Skateshop
Neen has released several pro model decks through Deathwish, including:
Deck Name | Size | Notable Features |
---|---|---|
Over The Top | 8.25" | Art by Brian Romero, dipped finish |
Creeper | 8.5" | Classic graphics, 7-ply Canadian maple |
Quarter Century | 8.125" | Designed by Erik Foss, wider nose/tail |
Neen’s video parts are legendary. Some highlights include:
Chicken Bone Nowison (Shake Junt, 2011)
The Deathwish Video (2013)
Transworld’s Outliers (2014)
Deathwish – Uncrossed (2020)
FP Footwear – Sunset Tour (2024)
Baker Has a Deathwish Part 2 (2024)
Satori – We’ed Rather Be Skateboarding (2021)
Each part showcases his explosive style, technical mastery, and fearless approach to massive stair sets and rails.
After tearing his ACL at 28, Neen made a radical lifestyle shift:
Sobriety: He quit drinking and embraced a health-focused lifestyle
Fitness: Now a certified fitness coach, Neen trains six days a week, incorporating strength training, mobility work, and sumo deadlifts
Entrepreneurship: Co-founder of Not a Damn Chance Burgers, a smashburger joint in Fort Worth, Texas
Content Creator: His YouTube and Instagram channels feature workouts, recipes, skatepark reviews, and motivational content
Family Life: Married to Jess Vargas, Neen balances skating, business, and fatherhood with grace
Authenticity: He’s raw, real, and relatable
Style: His skating is both technical and beautiful
Resilience: From injury to reinvention, Neen proves you can evolve and thrive
Inspiration: He’s a role model for skaters, athletes, and anyone chasing growth
Neen Williams - Skate Forever | lululemon
Neen Williams - Purple Chicken Cruiser - Shake Junt
Neen Williams | The Nine Club - Episode 312
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