Rick Blackhart: The Rebel Who Shaped Skateboarding

Rick Blackhart is not just a name in skateboarding history—he’s a legend, a pioneer, and a rebel who helped shape the sport into what it is today. From his early days skating the streets of San Jose, California, to his contributions to skateboard design and culture, Blackhart’s influence is undeniable.

The Early Years

Born and raised in San Jose, California, Rick Blackhart first stepped onto a skateboard in 1969, riding a Black Knight board with metal wheels. Like many skaters of his era, he was drawn to the thrill of carving pavement and pushing the limits of what was possible on four wheels. But Blackhart wasn’t just another skater—he had a raw, rebellious energy that set him apart.

Turning Pro and Making Waves

By 1975, Blackhart had turned professional, riding for Tunnel Skateboards. His aggressive style and fearless approach to skating quickly earned him a reputation. He was one of the first to dominate the Bombora full pipe and the Los Altos pool, proving that skateboarding wasn’t just about cruising sidewalks—it was about conquering terrain in ways no one had imagined before.

In 1976, he won the first-ever pool contest at Carmichael Boogie Bowl, a groundbreaking event that predated the famous Hester Series. Around this time, Blackhart was already experimenting with skateboard design, crafting his own decks from hardwood with natural concave—years before laminated concave decks became the industry standard.

The Birth of Independent Trucks

One of Blackhart’s most significant contributions to skateboarding came in 1978, when he played a pivotal role in the creation of Independent Trucks. When Fausto Vitello and Rich Novak sought his input on designing a better skateboard truck, Blackhart suggested combining the quick-turning geometry of a Bennett truck with the strength of a Tracker. The result? Independent Trucks—one of the most iconic and widely used skateboard trucks in history.

Blackhart Wheels and Thrasher Magazine

Blackhart didn’t stop at trucks—he also designed the Blackhart Wheels, a rock-hard, double-conical wheel that developed a cult following among skaters. His influence extended beyond hardware and into media when he helped launch Thrasher Magazine in 1981. For years, he wrote the advice column “Ask the Doctor”, offering wisdom, wit, and unfiltered opinions to the skateboarding community.

The Later Years

By 1986, Blackhart had shifted gears—literally—into Formula V car racing. Though he eventually left racing behind, he remained involved in skateboarding, working as the Independent Trucks team manager and later becoming a custom carpenter for NHS, where he built trade show booths and retail shops.

Today, Blackhart enjoys restoring vintage Schwinn Sting Ray bicycles, proving that his passion for craftsmanship and innovation never faded.

The Legacy of a Skateboarding Icon

Rick Blackhart’s story is one of rebellion, creativity, and influence. Whether it was designing better skateboard trucks, winning historic contests, or shaping the culture through Thrasher Magazine, his impact on skateboarding is undeniable. He wasn’t just a skater—he was a force of nature, pushing boundaries and leaving a lasting mark on the sport.

For those who love skateboarding, Blackhart’s legacy is a reminder that the sport thrives on innovation, attitude, and a willingness to break the rules. And if there’s one thing Rick Blackhart did best, it was breaking the rules in the most spectacular way possible.

RICK BLACKHART- 1970's ERA 2 INDUCTEE- 2020

Rick Blackhart Skateboarding Pipa Grande 1989

Rick Blackhart!!!