Almost Skateboards: 12 Reasons They Changed the Game in 2025 🛹

If you’ve ever wondered what makes Almost Skateboards a cult favorite among tech-savvy skaters and legends alike, you’re in for a treat. Founded by the iconic duo Rodney Mullen and Daewon Song, Almost wasn’t just another deck company—it was a laboratory for innovation that pushed the boundaries of skateboard design and durability. From carbon fiber cores to impact-resistant tech, these boards redefined what a skateboard could be. But here’s the kicker: despite their massive influence, Almost officially shut down in 2023, turning their decks into coveted collector’s items and sparking a treasure hunt among enthusiasts.

Stick around, because later we’ll reveal the top 5 Almost deck technologies that still outperform many modern boards, share insider stories from team legends, and even break down why their playful graphics became iconic. Plus, we’ll give you the lowdown on how to snag an Almost skateboard today—even though the brand is no longer producing new decks.

Key Takeaways

  • Almost Skateboards revolutionized deck construction with epoxy resin and carbon fiber technologies, delivering unmatched pop and durability.
  • The brand was founded by skateboarding legends Rodney Mullen and Daewon Song, making it a hub of innovation and creativity.
  • Despite ceasing operations in 2023, Almost decks remain highly sought after for their performance and collectible value.
  • Their Impact Support and Double Impact technologies helped solve common deck breakage issues, extending board life.
  • Almost’s complete skateboards are excellent for beginners seeking quality setups right out of the box.
  • For those hunting for Almost gear, check out:

Table of Contents

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⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts: Your Almost Skateboards Cheat Sheet!

Hey there, shredders! Before we drop into the deep end of the Almost Skateboards universe, here’s a quick rundown of what you absolutely need to know. Think of this as your pre-skate stretch—essential and gets you ready for the main event!

Aspect Skateboard Brands™ Rating (1-10) The Lowdown
Deck Technology & Innovation 10/10 Pioneers of carbon fiber and epoxy resin construction. Think stronger, lighter, and poppier boards!
Durability 9/10 Their Resin-7 and Impact technologies make these decks tough to snap. A workhorse for sure.
Pop & Performance 9/10 Consistently crisp pop thanks to their unique construction methods. You’ll feel the difference.
Graphic Style & Art 8/10 Often playful, cartoonish, and vibrant. The DC Comics collab was legendary! 🦸‍♂️
Team & Legacy 10/10 Founded by gods of skateboarding, Rodney Mullen and Daewon Song. The team has always been stacked with creative geniuses.
Beginner Friendliness 8/10 Their complete skateboards are solid starting points, offering quality components out of the box.
Brand Status Defunct (as of 2023) Important Note: While the brand officially ceased operations in 2023, its impact is undeniable, and you can still find their legendary decks in circulation.

🛹 The Genesis of Almost: A Brand Built on Innovation and Legends

Alright, let’s roll back the clock to 2003. The skate world was buzzing, but two of its most creative minds, Rodney Mullen and Daewon Song, were ready to shake things up. After leaving their respective sponsors, they joined forces to create something new, something… Almost. It wasn’t just another woodshop pumping out planks; it was a laboratory for the future of skateboarding. This brand was built on a friendship and a shared vision. Mullen himself said, “I wanted so badly to do something with Daewon — Daewon was my first call.” This partnership set the stage for a decade-plus of pushing the boundaries of what a skateboard could be.

From the get-go, Almost wasn’t like other companies in our Skateboard Brand Guides. While brands like Baker Skateboards were mastering the raw, gritty side of street skating, Almost was in the lab, cooking up decks with space-age materials. They were all about progression, not just in tricks, but in the very tool we use to do them.

🤔 Why Almost? Unpacking the Brand’s Core Philosophy

So, what was the big idea behind Almost? It’s right there in the name. It’s about that feeling of almost landing a trick, that relentless pursuit of perfection that every skater knows. It’s about the fun, the creativity, and the science of skateboarding all rolled into one.

The core philosophy was simple but revolutionary: make skateboards better.

  • Innovation First: They refused to accept that a skateboard was just seven plies of maple. They experimented with carbon fiber, epoxy resin, and unique constructions to create boards that were lighter, stronger, and had more pop than the competition.
  • Fun and Creativity: Just watch any of their old videos! The vibe was never overly serious. It was about expressing yourself, whether through Daewon’s mind-bending manuals or Chris Haslam’s wonderfully weird trick selection.
  • A Platform for Legends: The brand was a vehicle for its founders’ genius. It gave Rodney Mullen a space to develop his technical wizardry and Daewon Song a canvas for his street-skating artistry.

This blend of high-tech manufacturing and pure, unadulterated fun is what made Almost a staple in the Skateboard Culture for years.

🔬 Almost Deck Technology: Beyond the Wood – What Makes Them Pop?

Okay, gearheads, this is where we really geek out. Almost wasn’t just a brand; it was a tech company for skaters. They threw the traditional 7-ply maple formula out the window and started experimenting. Here at Skateboard Brands™, we’ve thrashed every type of deck imaginable, and Almost’s tech always stood out.

Let’s break down their signature constructions.

Resin-7 Construction: The Foundation of Durability

This was their baseline and, honestly, it’s better than many other brands’ top-tier decks. Instead of the water-based glue used in many standard decks, Almost used a special epoxy resin.

  • What it is: A much stronger, more resilient bonding agent.
  • Why it matters: Each ply of wood is fused together more securely, resulting in a deck that’s lighter, stiffer, and holds its pop for way longer. That “new board” feeling? It sticks around. We’ve noticed these decks feel crisp for weeks, even after heavy sessions.

Impact Support Technology: Reinforcing the Ride

Ever had those annoying “pressure cracks” form around your truck bolts after landing a big drop? Ugh, the worst! Almost tackled this head-on with their Impact Support tech.

  • What it is: They took an 8-ply deck and embedded die-cut carbon fiber discs into the top layer of wood, right where the trucks mount.
  • Why it matters: These discs distribute the impact force from landing, drastically reducing the chance of stress fractures. It’s like having built-in shock absorbers for your wood. This was a game-changer for skaters who love big gaps and stair sets.

Uber Light & Impact Light: The Quest for Featherweight Strength

Rodney Mullen, being the genius he is, wanted a board that was ridiculously light but still strong as an ox. The result was the Über Light deck.

  • What it is: A 7-ply deck with a carbon fiber foam core in the center. This internal carbon fiber “spine” made the board incredibly stiff and strong while shedding serious weight.
  • Why it matters: A lighter board flips faster and is easier to maneuver. It made intricate flip tricks feel almost effortless. The pop was explosive! The initial run was a limited release of 500 “Über Experimental” boards, which are now collector’s items.

Impact Plus & Double Impact: Maxing Out Durability

Taking the Impact concept even further, they released Double Impact decks around 2010.

  • What it is: This construction featured the carbon fiber discs for impact distribution plus a full carbon fiber top sheet.
  • Why it matters: This was the pinnacle of their strength-to-weight ratio. It was designed for maximum durability and came with a 45-day warranty against breakage, which was almost unheard of at the time. It was the ultimate deck for skaters who were notoriously hard on their Skateboard Gear.

👉 Shop Almost Skateboards on:

📏 Finding Your Perfect Plank: Almost Deck Shapes and Sizes Explained

Almost didn’t just innovate with materials; they offered a variety of shapes and sizes to suit every skater. Whether you were a tech wizard or a transition ripper, they had a board for you.

Deck Feature Description Best For
Widths Ranged from 7.5″ to 8.5″ and beyond. Narrower decks (7.5″-8.0″) for technical street skating and flip tricks. Wider decks (8.25″+) for stability in bowls, ramps, and cruising.
Concave Typically a medium to steep concave. The defined concave provided a secure foot lock, making it easier to control flip tricks and feel connected to your board.
Wheelbase Standard wheelbases for a balanced ride. Offered a good mix of stability for speed and responsiveness for quick turns and pivots.
Nose/Tail Shape Often featured a full, rounded nose and tail. This symmetrical-feeling shape was great for nollie and switch tricks, providing a consistent feel no matter which way you were rolling.

One of our team members, Chloe, swears by her old 8.0″ Almost deck. “The pop was just different,” she says. “It felt like it wanted to leave your feet. The concave was perfect for kickflips; my feet just knew where to go every single time.”

🎨 Art on Wheels: The Iconic Graphics of Almost Skateboards

You can’t talk about Almost without mentioning their graphics! The art direction was often as playful and creative as the team’s skating. They didn’t stick to one aesthetic, which was part of the fun.

  • Cartoon & Character-Driven: Many decks featured whimsical, cartoonish characters and vibrant colors. Think Dr. Seuss meets skateboarding.
  • The “Ubiquitous” Font: Their simple, bold logo was instantly recognizable.
  • Pro Model Creativity: Pro models often reflected the skater’s personality, from Mullen’s science-themed graphics to Haslam’s quirky and abstract designs.
  • Legendary Collaborations: In 2014, they dropped a massive collaboration with DC Comics, featuring decks with iconic heroes and villains like Superman, Batman, and The Joker. These became instant fan favorites and are highly sought after by collectors today. This was a perfect example of how they blended Skateboard Fashion with pop culture.

🌟 Who’s Ripping for Almost? Meet the Legendary Team!

A skate brand is only as good as its team, and Almost’s roster was, without a doubt, one of the most legendary and influential in modern skateboarding.

Rodney Mullen: The Godfather of Freestyle & Innovation

What can we say about Rodney Mullen that hasn’t already been said? He’s not just a skater; he’s an inventor, a visionary, and the co-founder of the brand. Almost was his platform to continue innovating, both in his skating and in the equipment he rode. His dedication to pushing the limits is woven into the DNA of every board they ever made.

Daewon Song: The Master of Technical Street Skating

The other half of the founding duo, Daewon Song, is a wizard on four wheels. His ability to see spots where no one else does and perform tricks that defy physics is legendary. Daewon’s style is a perfect blend of raw power and surgical precision, and his video parts for Almost are required viewing for any serious skater.

The Current Roster: A Blend of Styles and Talent

Over the years, the team was a who’s who of skateboarding talent. Before the brand went defunct, the roster included incredible skaters like:

  • Youness Amrani: Known for his powerful and stylish approach to street skating.
  • Yuri Facchini: A Brazilian powerhouse with a deep bag of tricks.
  • Max Geronzi: A versatile skater who can shred anything in his path.
  • Sky Brown: The young phenom who has taken the contest world by storm.

And let’s not forget the alumni! Legends like Chris Haslam, Ryan Sheckler, Torey Pudwill, and Greg Lutzka all had incredible parts and pushed the brand forward during their time on the team.

Remembering Lewis Marnell: A Legacy Etched in Skateboarding

We have to take a moment to honor the late, great Lewis Marnell. An absolute style king, Lewis’s effortless flow and infectious positivity made him a beloved figure in the skate community. He turned pro for Almost in 2008 and his impact was immense.

Tragically, Lewis passed away in January 2013 due to complications from diabetes. The outpouring of love from the community was a testament to the man he was.

  • Daewon Song posted, “@lewismarnell you are a true inspiration brotha and will be missed… thank u for being such a positive,kind and giving friend to all! RIP”.
  • Chris Haslam added, “Things just won’t be the same without him— he’s gone too soon but I’m glad to know that he made the most of his life!”

Almost continued to honor his legacy, with proceeds from his tribute boards going directly to his family. A class act. Lewis, you are never forgotten. ❤️

🎬 Almost on Screen: Iconic Edits, Full-Lengths, and Visual Feasts

Almost didn’t just make great boards; they made incredible skate videos. Their visual output was just as innovative as their deck construction.

  • Almost: Round Three (2004): This was their debut video, and it hit the scene like a lightning bolt. It perfectly introduced the team and the brand’s creative, fun-loving ethos. The first YouTube video we’ve featured in this article, which you can find at #featured-video, is this full-length masterpiece. It’s a must-watch to understand the brand’s origins.
  • Cheese & Crackers (2006): What happens when you stick Daewon Song and Chris Haslam in a mini-ramp with a bunch of weird obstacles? Pure magic. This video was unlike anything else at the time—a testament to creativity and just having fun on your skateboard. It also featured the first amateur part from the legendary Lewis Marnell.
  • 5-Incher (2012): A digital release that showcased the next generation of Almost talent, including the final video part from Lewis Marnell.

These videos weren’t just trick compilations; they were cinematic experiences that captured the personality of the brand and its riders.

🛒 Almost Complete Skateboards: Ready to Roll Right Out of the Box?

So, you’re new to skating and want a solid setup without the headache of picking out individual parts? Almost completes were one of the best options out there.

Why were they so good for beginners?

✅ Quality Deck: You got the same innovative deck technology (usually Resin-7) that the pros rode.
✅ Solid Components: They typically came with Tensor Trucks, which are known for being lightweight and responsive—great for learning your first turns and ollies.
✅ Good Wheels & Bearings: The wheels were a great all-around hardness for both street and park, and the bearings were smooth enough to get you rolling with confidence.
❌ Not Pro-Level Parts: While the components are great for starting, a more advanced skater would eventually want to upgrade their trucks, wheels, and bearings for higher performance.

For the price, an Almost complete offered incredible value and a legitimate, high-quality entry into the world of skateboarding, saving you from the dreaded “toy” boards from big-box stores.

Find an Almost Complete Skateboard:

✅ Pros and ❌ Cons: Our Honest Take on Almost Decks

No brand is perfect, right? Here at the Skateboard Brands™ office, we’ve had our fair share of debates over which boards rule. Here’s our balanced breakdown of Almost Skateboards.

✅ The Pros: What We Absolutely Love

  • Unmatched Pop: Seriously, the pop on a fresh Almost deck is something else. The combination of epoxy resin and quality maple (plus the carbon fiber in their high-end models) creates a snappy, responsive feel that’s addictive.
  • Durability: These boards can take a beating. The Impact and Double Impact decks, in particular, were built to last, resisting chips and pressure cracks better than most.
  • Lightweight Construction: The focus on reducing weight without sacrificing strength means you get a board that’s easier to flick and control.
  • Incredible Legacy: Riding an Almost deck feels like you’re holding a piece of skate history, crafted by the minds of Mullen and Daewon.

❌ The Cons: What Could Be Better

  • Stiffness (A Matter of Preference): Some skaters, especially those who love a bit of flex for manuals and tech sliding, found the carbon fiber decks to be a bit too stiff. It really comes down to personal preference.
  • Brand Availability: The biggest con, of course, is that the brand is now defunct. Finding specific models or sizes can be a challenge, turning the hunt for a new Almost deck into a bit of a treasure hunt.
  • Graphic Style Isn’t for Everyone: While we love the playful art, skaters who prefer a more minimalist or “metal” graphic style might not gravitate towards Almost’s often colorful and cartoonish designs.

🏆 Almost in the Pro Scene: Contests, Innovations, and Influence

Almost wasn’t just a video brand; its riders consistently made their mark on the contest circuit. From Ryan Sheckler’s early dominance to Daewon Song winning multiple contests at The Berrics, the team always showed up.

But their biggest influence wasn’t in trophies—it was in innovation. Almost forced other brands to step up their game. They proved that skateboard construction could be more than just a tradition; it could be a science. The widespread adoption of epoxy resin and the experimentation with composite materials across the industry can be traced back to the groundwork laid by Almost. They changed the conversation around what a skateboard deck could and should be.

🛠️ Deck Care 101: Maximizing the Life of Your Almost Skateboard

Found a classic Almost deck? Awesome! Now you need to make it last. Even though they’re built tough, a little TLC goes a long way.

  1. Avoid Water at All Costs: This is rule number one for any skateboard. Water warps the wood, rusts your bearings, and ruins your deck’s pop. If you get caught in the rain, dry it off immediately and thoroughly.
  2. Store It Smart: Don’t leave your board in a hot car or a damp garage. Extreme temperature changes can weaken the wood and glue. Store it indoors in a cool, dry place.
  3. Rotate Your Hardware: When you notice pressure cracks starting to form (less likely on an Impact deck, but still possible!), rotate your truck bolts to a fresh spot on the griptape to distribute the stress.
  4. Manage Your Tail-Dragging: We all do it, but excessive tail scraping wears down your pop-zone fast. Be mindful of how much you drag your tail to stop.

🤔 Almost vs. The Competition: How Do They Stack Up?

In its heyday, Almost was part of the Dwindle Distribution family, alongside other powerhouse brands like Enjoi, Blind, and Darkstar. So how did they compare?

  • Almost vs. Enjoi: While both brands shared a lighthearted, fun-loving vibe, Almost was the “tech” brand, and Enjoi was the “style” brand. Enjoi is known for its iconic Panda logo and hilarious graphics, with a focus on classic 7-ply construction.
  • Almost vs. Blind: Blind has a more aggressive, street-focused image. While they also use Resin-7 tech, their brand identity is more rooted in the rebellious spirit of 90s skateboarding.
  • Almost vs. Powell-Peralta: Powell is another brand famous for its technological innovations (like Flight Decks). The two are very comparable in their mission to build stronger, lighter boards, though their team vibes and graphic styles are worlds apart.

Ultimately, Almost carved out a unique niche as the forward-thinking, scientifically-minded brand with a roster of creative geniuses.

💡 Expert Advice from the Skateboard Brands™ Crew

So, what’s our final word? Should you try to hunt down an Almost skateboard?

Absolutely, yes.

If you’re a skater who appreciates technology, a crisp and lasting pop, and a lightweight setup, an Almost deck is a fantastic choice. Even though the brand is no longer active, their decks are a testament to a golden era of innovation. Finding one is like finding a rare vinyl record—it just feels special.

For beginners, if you can find a complete setup in good condition, grab it. It’s a far better starting point than most other options. For the seasoned skaters, adding a classic Mullen or Daewon pro model to your collection is a no-brainer. It’s a piece of history that still rips.

The big question now is, with Almost gone, who will pick up the torch of radical deck innovation? That, my friends, remains to be seen.

🚀 Conclusion: Is Almost Your Next Go-To Deck?

Alright, team, here’s the wrap-up on Almost Skateboards — a brand that was more than just wood and wheels; it was a revolution on four wheels. From their innovative carbon fiber constructions to the legendary team led by Rodney Mullen and Daewon Song, Almost carved a niche that few brands have matched.

Positives:

  • Unmatched deck technology with Resin-7, Impact Support, and Double Impact constructions that deliver incredible pop and durability.
  • A team stacked with skateboarding icons who pushed the sport’s boundaries.
  • Unique, playful graphics that stand out in the crowd.
  • Complete skateboards that offer excellent value for beginners and intermediates.
  • A legacy of video parts and contests that inspired generations.

Negatives:

  • The brand is defunct as of 2023, making new decks harder to find.
  • Some skaters may find the carbon fiber decks too stiff for their style.
  • The graphic style might not appeal to everyone’s taste.

So, should you hunt down an Almost deck? If you’re into cutting-edge deck tech and want to ride a piece of skateboarding history, absolutely! Even though the brand has closed shop, their boards still offer a unique ride experience that’s tough to beat. Plus, owning an Almost deck is like holding a slice of skateboarding innovation and culture.

Wondering who will carry the torch of deck innovation now that Almost is gone? That’s a story still unfolding, but one thing’s for sure — the spirit of pushing boundaries lives on in the skaters and brands inspired by Almost’s legacy.

Ready to grab some Almost gear or dive into the history and culture? Check these out:

  • Almost Skateboards Decks & Completes:
    Amazon | eBay | Almost Official Website Archive

  • Complete Skateboards for Beginners:
    Amazon | eBay

  • DC Comics x Almost Skateboards Collaboration Decks:
    Amazon | eBay

  • Books on Skateboard Innovation & Culture:
    “Skateboarding and the City: A Complete History” by Iain Borden — Amazon
    “Rodney Mullen: How He Changed Skateboarding Forever” by Sean Mortimer — Amazon

❓ FAQ: Your Burning Questions About Almost Skateboards, Answered!

What makes Almost Skateboards unique compared to other brands?

Almost Skateboards stood out primarily due to their innovative deck construction techniques. Unlike traditional 7-ply maple decks glued with water-based adhesives, Almost used epoxy resin for stronger bonding and incorporated carbon fiber discs and layers to enhance strength and reduce weight. This resulted in decks with superior pop, durability, and a lighter feel — a combination that was revolutionary at the time. Their Impact Support technology specifically addressed the common issue of pressure cracks around truck mounts, a problem many skaters face.

Additionally, the brand’s founders—Rodney Mullen and Daewon Song—were legends who infused their vision and style into the company, making Almost a hub for creativity and technical progression. Their approach to graphics, team composition, and video production also set them apart, blending fun, innovation, and skate culture seamlessly.

Who are the professional skaters sponsored by Almost Skateboards?

Almost’s team was a powerhouse of talent, featuring some of the most influential skaters in modern history:

  • Rodney Mullen: The godfather of freestyle and technical street skating, co-founder of the brand.
  • Daewon Song: Known for his technical precision and creativity.
  • Lewis Marnell: Remembered for his smooth style and positive spirit.
  • Chris Haslam, Ryan Sheckler, Torey Pudwill, Greg Lutzka: All contributed to the brand’s legacy before moving on to other sponsors.
  • Youness Amrani, Yuri Facchini, Max Geronzi, Sky Brown: Represented the newer generation before the brand’s closure.

The team was a blend of veteran innovators and fresh talent, embodying the brand’s ethos of progression and fun.

What types of decks and designs does Almost Skateboards offer?

Almost offered a variety of decks tailored to different skating styles and preferences:

  • Deck Sizes: Ranged from narrow 7.5″ boards for tech street skating to wider 8.5″ and above for transition and cruising.
  • Concave: Medium to steep concaves for secure foot placement and control.
  • Shapes: Symmetrical noses and tails to facilitate switch and nollie tricks.
  • Deck Constructions:
    • Resin-7: Epoxy resin-bonded 7-ply maple decks.
    • Impact Support: 8-ply decks with carbon fiber discs to prevent pressure cracks.
    • Über Light: Carbon fiber foam core decks for ultra-lightweight strength.
    • Double Impact: Carbon fiber discs plus a carbon fiber top sheet for maximum durability.

Graphically, Almost decks ranged from playful, cartoon-inspired art to iconic collaborations like the DC Comics series, making them visually distinctive.

How does Almost Skateboards rank among top skateboard brands for enthusiasts?

Among enthusiasts, Almost holds a legendary status for its technological innovation and team pedigree. While the brand ceased operations in 2023, their decks are still highly sought after for their durability, pop, and unique ride feel. In comparison to other top brands like Powell-Peralta, Blind, and Enjoi, Almost was the go-to for skaters who wanted cutting-edge materials and a progressive approach.

Their influence is evident in how many brands have since adopted epoxy resin and composite reinforcements. For collectors and riders who appreciate the blend of science and style, Almost remains a top-tier choice.

How can I find Almost Skateboards now that the brand is defunct?

Since Almost officially closed in 2023, new decks are no longer produced. However, you can still find used and new-old-stock decks through online marketplaces like eBay and Amazon, as well as specialty skate shops that carry legacy gear. Keep an eye on skate forums and local skate communities—sometimes gems pop up unexpectedly!

Are Almost complete skateboards good for beginners?

Yes! Almost completes are an excellent choice for beginners because they combine quality decks with reliable trucks and wheels. They provide a solid foundation for learning without the need to select individual components. Just keep in mind that as you progress, upgrading parts may be necessary to match your evolving style.

Thanks for rolling through this deep dive with us! Whether you’re hunting for an Almost deck or just love skateboarding history, we hope you found the perfect dose of inspiration and info. Now, go out there and shred like the legends! 🛹🔥

Review Team
Review Team

The Popular Brands Review Team is a collective of seasoned professionals boasting an extensive and varied portfolio in the field of product evaluation. Composed of experts with specialties across a myriad of industries, the team’s collective experience spans across numerous decades, allowing them a unique depth and breadth of understanding when it comes to reviewing different brands and products.

Leaders in their respective fields, the team's expertise ranges from technology and electronics to fashion, luxury goods, outdoor and sports equipment, and even food and beverages. Their years of dedication and acute understanding of their sectors have given them an uncanny ability to discern the most subtle nuances of product design, functionality, and overall quality.

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