🛹 Cowtown Skateboards: The Soul of Arizona's Skate Scene

In the heart of Phoenix, Arizona, where the desert heat meets concrete dreams, Cowtown Skateboards has stood as a beacon for skaters since 1997. More than just a retail shop, Cowtown is a cultural cornerstone, a community hub, and a driving force behind the growth of skateboarding in the Southwest.

🌵 Origins: Built by Skaters, for Skaters

Cowtown Skateboards was founded by Trent Martin and Ed Cox Jr., two passionate skateboarders who saw a void in Phoenix’s skate scene. At the time, the city lacked a true core skate shop—one that didn’t just sell gear but nurtured the local community. Trent and Ed stepped in, and what they created was far more than a business. It was a clubhouse, a launchpad, and a sanctuary for skaters of all ages.

Their timing was serendipitous. That same year, Desert West Skatepark opened, giving Phoenix its first major public skatepark. Together, Cowtown and Desert West became the twin engines of a skateboarding renaissance in Arizona.

🎉 What They're Known For

Cowtown is best known for its deep commitment to the skateboarding community. Here’s what sets them apart:

• PHX AM Contest: Cowtown launched the now-iconic Phoenix Am (PHX AM), one of the most respected amateur skateboarding contests in the U.S. It’s a proving ground for up-and-coming talent and a celebration of skate culture.

• Community Engagement: From hosting local events to working with city officials on skatepark projects, Cowtown has always prioritized giving back.

• Cowtown S.K.A.T.E. Nonprofit: In 2018, they expanded their mission by launching a nonprofit to support youth development through skateboarding. Their Skateboard Angel program has donated thousands of complete skateboards to underserved kids across the country.

🛹 Sponsorships and Support

Cowtown has sponsored a range of talented skaters over the years, helping launch careers and elevate local talent. Their team includes names like Nick Papa and Danny Barrera, and they’ve collaborated with brands like Bones Wheels and New Balance Numeric to host events and produce skate content.

They also partner with other skate shops and nonprofits nationwide through their Skateboard Angel initiative, creating a network of support that extends far beyond Arizona.

🔥 What They're Up to Now

Cowtown is still going strong in 2025, with multiple locations across the Phoenix metro area and a vibrant calendar of events. Recent highlights include:

• PHX AM 2025: The contest continues to thrive, drawing skaters from around the world.

• Video Premieres and Local Events: From “Sci-Fi Sessions” to “Girls’ Splinter Premiere,” Cowtown keeps the scene alive with regular happenings.

• YouTube Channel: Their channel features skate edits, contest recaps, and team highlights, showcasing the raw talent and creativity of their crew.

CORE: Cowtown – The Story Behind Arizona’s Iconic Skate Shop and Contest PHX AM

Cowtown's Nike SB Too Cold To Hold signing

Cowtown's Union Hill Classic 2017 Presented by Dc Shoes