The History and Origins of Vintage Skateboards

So you’ve decided to take the plunge into the world of vintage skateboard collecting. Congratulations – you’re in for an exciting ride. Vintage skateboards represent the rebellious spirit of skate culture’s early days. There’s something thrilling about holding a skateboard that first rolled under the feet of skate legends like Tony Alva or Jay Adams in the 1970s. Beyond the nostalgia factor, vintage skateboards have become seriously collectible. As skateboarding gains mainstream popularity and acceptance as an Olympic sport, vintage skateboards provide a tangible link to the sport’s countercultural roots. If you’re willing to put in the time to hunt for the rare, iconic boards, vintage skateboard collecting can be a rewarding hobby – and investment. In this article, we’ll explore what makes vintage skateboards so alluring to collectors and share some tips to help you start your own vintage skateboard collection. The golden age of skateboarding lives on through these vintage relics of skate history.

The Thrill of the Hunt: Finding Rare Vintage Skateboards

Vintage skateboards represent the roots of skate culture and give you a glimpse into the evolution of skateboard design. Early skateboards from the 1950s were more like scooters, with metal wheels and a pole for steering. Once urethane wheels were introduced in the 1970s, skateboarding took off.

Skateparks started popping up, and skateboard companies launched to meet the growing demand. Vision Skateboards, Powell Peralta, and Zorlac dominated the 80s scene with iconic graphics and pro models. If you come across one of these in good condition today, you’ve found a real gem. 

The shapes and sizes of skateboards have changed a lot over the decades. Wider decks with more concave, kicktails, and noseguards are common now, but older boards were typically narrow with little concave. The components have improved too, from rudimentary steel axles and wheels to high-tech trucks, bearings and urethane wheels designed specifically for skateboarding. 

Collecting vintage skateboards is a way to own a piece of skate history and culture. You can find rare, highly sought-after models from legendary skate brands, or rescue a board that was a kid’s first ride back in the day. Best of all, vintage skateboards become more valuable over time, so you can enjoy them now and possibly turn a profit later if you decide to sell.

Skateboarding has come a long way in a short time, but vintage skateboards take us back to where it all began. They represent creativity, innovation, and the rebellious spirit of skate culture that lives on today.

Displaying Your Collection: Ideas for Showcasing Vintage Skateboards

The thrill of tracking down a rare, vintage skateboard is like no other for collectors. There’s something exciting about the hunt and finding a gem that has stood the test of time.

Scouring Local Listings

Check sites like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and garage sale listings in your area. You never know when a classic board from the 70s or 80s will pop up, maybe stashed away in someone’s garage for decades.  Offer to meet in person to inspect the board for condition and authenticity. With some luck, you might score an original Dogtown or Powell Peralta deck for a steal.

Visiting Vintage Shops

Vintage clothing and sports shops are also prime spots for uncovering vintage skateboard gold. Strike up a conversation with the shop owner, as they may have leads on people looking to sell classic boards or know of any for sale.  Check places where skate culture was prominent like Southern California, New York and London. You’re more likely to discover mint-condition vintage boards in areas where skating popularity soared during the sport’s early days.

The thrill of finding a rare, iconic board that you’ve been hunting for is incredibly rewarding. While it may take time and patience, uncovering a piece of skateboarding history is well worth the effort for any vintage collector. Keep searching, follow your leads, and don’t get discouraged.  With some determination, you’ll soon be riding the wave of scoring an epic find to add to your collection.