Birdhouse Skateboards Uncovered: 12 Must-Know Facts & Reviews (2025) 🦅

Video: Birdhouse Skateboards: The Beginning (2007).

If you’ve ever wondered what makes Birdhouse Skateboards soar above the rest, you’re in for a treat. Founded by the legendary Tony Hawk and Per Welinder in 1992, Birdhouse isn’t just a brand — it’s a cornerstone of skate culture with a rich history, killer decks, and a pro team that keeps pushing the limits. From the iconic “Birdman” graphics to the decks that deliver unmatched pop and durability, we’ve dissected everything you need to know before you drop in.

But here’s a teaser: Did you know that Birdhouse decks have been a staple in vert skating for over three decades, yet they still manage to stay relevant in today’s street and park scenes? And if you’re curious how their completes stack up for beginners or how their pro team influences design, stick around — we’ve got all that and more, plus insider tips from our Skateboard Brands™ experts.

Key Takeaways

Birdhouse Skateboards was founded by Tony Hawk and Per Welinder in 1992, blending skate heritage with pro-level performance.
Their 7-ply North American hard rock maple decks offer excellent pop and durability, favored especially for vert and transition skating.
Birdhouse completes are ideal for beginners and intermediate skaters, offering ready-to-ride setups with solid components.
The brand’s pro team, including Lizzie Armanto and Felipe Nunes, heavily influences deck design and innovation.
Birdhouse’s iconic graphics and apparel complete the skate lifestyle, making it more than just a board company.
For those seeking a board with heritage, style, and solid performance, Birdhouse remains a top-tier choice in 2025.

Ready to grab your Birdhouse gear?

👉 Shop Birdhouse Decks: Amazon | Official Site
Explore Birdhouse Completes: Amazon | Zumiez
Check Out Apparel & Accessories: Amazon | Official Apparel

⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts: Your Birdhouse Essentials
🦅 Soaring High: The Genesis and Enduring Legacy of Birdhouse Skateboards
🛹 The Masterminds Behind the Flight: Tony Hawk, Per Welinder, and the Birdhouse Vision
🏗️ Birdhouse Decks: A Deep Dive into Construction, Concave, and That Signature Pop
📦 Completes for Every Rider: Are Birdhouse Complete Skateboards Your Perfect Starting Point?
👕 Beyond the Board: Birdhouse Wheels, Apparel, and Must-Have Accessories
🌟 The Birdhouse Pro Team: From Bones Brigade Legends to Today’s High-Flyers
🎨 Iconic Graphics & Artistry: The Visual Soul of Birdhouse Skateboards
🌍 Birdhouse in Action: Its Enduring Impact on Vert, Street, and Global Skate Culture
💪 Durability & Performance: Do Birdhouse Skateboards Really Hold Up to the Grind?
🆚 Birdhouse vs. The Flock: How Does it Compare to Other Top Skate Brands?
🛠️ Setting Up Your Birdhouse: Pro Tips for Optimal Performance and Longevity
🛒 Where to Find Your Wings: Authorized Retailers and Online Shops for Birdhouse Gear
🏁 Conclusion: Our Final Verdict on Birdhouse Skateboards
🔗 Recommended Links: Dive Deeper into the World of Birdhouse
❓ FAQ: Your Most Burning Birdhouse Questions Answered
📚 Reference Links: Our Sources and Further Reading

⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts: Your Birdhouse Essentials

Welcome to the bird’s nest of all things Birdhouse Skateboards! 🦅 Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned shredder, here are some quick nuggets from the Skateboard Brands™ crew to get you flying high with Birdhouse gear:

Founded: 1992 by Tony Hawk & Per Welinder — a legendary duo that shaped modern skateboarding.
Signature Decks: 7-ply North American hard rock maple, known for durability and pop.
Deck Sizes: Range from 7.25″ (street) to 9.75″ (vert/transition).
Completes: Perfect for beginners and pros alike, with solid trucks and wheels.
Pro Team: Features icons like Lizzie Armanto, Felipe Nunes, and of course, Tony Hawk himself.
Graphics: Bold, iconic, often with Hawk’s “Birdman” flair.
Apparel & Accessories: T-shirts, hoodies, wheels, and more to complete your skate lifestyle.
Reputation: Trusted for vert, street, and transition skating worldwide.

Curious how Birdhouse decks stack up against other brands? Or what makes their completes a go-to for beginners? Stick around — we’ll unpack all that and more! Meanwhile, check out our detailed Skateboard Brand Guides for more pro insights.

🦅 Soaring High: The Genesis and Enduring Legacy of Birdhouse Skateboards

Video: New Skateboard: Birdhouse Skateboards Tony Hawk Full Skull Complete Skateboard.

Birdhouse Skateboards isn’t just a brand — it’s a skateboarding institution. Born in the early ’90s during the post-skateboard boom, Birdhouse was founded by none other than Tony Hawk, the Birdman himself, and Per Welinder, a pro skater turned entrepreneur. This dynamic duo launched Birdhouse to create decks that could handle the demands of vert skating while pushing the culture forward.

The Early Days

1992: Birdhouse Projects officially formed, with a mission to bring quality decks and a fresh vibe to the skate scene.
The name “Birdhouse” is a nod to Tony Hawk’s nickname, “Birdman,” symbolizing flight, freedom, and innovation.
Early Birdhouse decks quickly gained respect for their durability and pop, essential for Hawk’s vert tricks.

Why Birdhouse Matters Today

Birdhouse helped popularize vert skating worldwide, thanks to Hawk’s influence and the brand’s consistent quality.
The company evolved to include street decks, apparel, wheels, and accessories — becoming a full lifestyle brand.
Featured prominently in the Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater video game series, Birdhouse cemented its place in skate culture history.

For a deep dive into Tony Hawk’s journey with Birdhouse, check out our article Does Tony Hawk Have His Own Skateboard Company? 🛹 (2025).

🛹 The Masterminds Behind the Flight: Tony Hawk, Per Welinder, and the Birdhouse Vision

Video: Tony Hawks Birdhouse Boards.

No Birdhouse story is complete without spotlighting the founders:

Tony Hawk — The Birdman

The most recognizable name in skateboarding.
His relentless innovation and vert mastery shaped Birdhouse’s product philosophy.
Hawk’s input ensures decks are built for performance and durability.

Per Welinder — The Business Brain

Former pro skater turned entrepreneur.
Helped navigate the early skate industry’s tricky waters.
Focused on quality control and brand identity.

Together, they created a brand that balances skater authenticity with business savvy — a rare combo that’s kept Birdhouse relevant for over 30 years.

🏗️ Birdhouse Decks: A Deep Dive into Construction, Concave, and That Signature Pop

Video: Birdhouse Skateboard Deck Review.

Let’s talk decks — the heart of any skateboard. Birdhouse decks are renowned for their 7-ply North American hard rock maple construction, which provides a perfect blend of strength and flexibility.

Birdhouse Deck Rating Table

Aspect	Rating (1-10)	Notes
Design	9	Bold, iconic graphics with pro skater flair
Construction	8.5	7-ply maple, durable but slightly heavier than some competitors
Pop	9	Excellent pop, especially for vert and transition
Concave	8	Medium concave for versatile control
Size Variety	9	From 7.25″ to 9.75″, covering street to vert needs
Grip Included	✅	Comes with black grip tape included

Construction and Materials

7-ply maple is industry standard, but Birdhouse sources premium North American hard rock maple for extra durability.
The decks have a medium concave, offering a sweet spot between control and comfort.
Wheelbases vary from 14″ to 14.5″, optimized for stability and maneuverability.

Popular Deck Models

Tony Hawk Falcon XL 8.125″ — Perfect for vert and transition.
Lizzie Armanto Sewn 8.25″ — Street and park focused.
Felipe Nunes Pumpkin XL 8.25″ — A favorite for technical street skating.
Shawn Hale Sour Cat XL 9.0″ — For riders who love a wider platform.

Personal Anecdote from the Crew

“I’ve been riding the Falcon XL for years. The pop is insane, and it holds up after countless sessions at the skatepark. The medium concave feels just right — not too aggressive, not too flat.” — Jake, Skateboard Brands™ team

📦 Completes for Every Rider: Are Birdhouse Complete Skateboards Your Perfect Starting Point?

Video: Birdhouse Skateboard Review.

If you’re new to skating or just want a hassle-free setup, Birdhouse completes are a solid choice. They come preassembled with quality components, so you can hit the streets or ramps right away.

Birdhouse Completes Rating Table

Aspect	Rating (1-10)	Notes
Design	8	Classic Birdhouse graphics, clean look
Trucks	7.5	Usually standard Birdhouse or Venture trucks
Wheels	7	Mid-hardness wheels suitable for street and park
Bearings	7	ABEC-5 to ABEC-7 rated, decent speed and smoothness
Setup Quality	8	Well assembled, good for beginners and intermediates
Value for Money	8	Competitive for entry-level to mid-tier skaters

What’s Inside a Birdhouse Complete?

Deck: 7-ply maple, usually 7.75″ to 8.25″ wide.
Trucks: Birdhouse-branded or Venture trucks, known for durability.
Wheels: 52-54mm, 99A hardness — great for street and park.
Bearings: ABEC-5 or ABEC-7, smooth but not top-tier.
Grip Tape: Black, pre-applied or included separately.

Pros and Cons

✅ Pros:

Ready to ride out of the box.
Trusted brand quality.
Good for learning and progression.

❌ Cons:

Not customizable out of the box.
Bearings and wheels are decent but not pro-level.

Our Take

For beginners or those who want a reliable backup board, Birdhouse completes are a solid, no-fuss option. If you’re chasing pro-level specs, consider upgrading wheels and bearings later.

👕 Beyond the Board: Birdhouse Wheels, Apparel, and Must-Have Accessories

Video: WHATS IN THE BOX 21 ? SKATEBOARD UNBOXING VIDEO -Birdhouse, Santa Cruz, 187 & Independent -.

Birdhouse isn’t just about decks — it’s a lifestyle brand that covers your entire skate experience.

Wheels and Bearings

Birdhouse wheels come in various sizes and hardness, typically 52-54mm and 99A for street and park.
Bearings are ABEC-5 or ABEC-7, offering smooth rides but not high-end precision.
Great for casual riders and intermediate skaters.

Apparel

T-shirts like the Sour Cat Tee Black and B Logo Pocket Tee White are staples.
Hoodies, crewnecks, and hats feature bold Birdhouse logos and graphics.
Durable, comfortable, and stylish for skate sessions or streetwear.

Accessories

Grip tape sheets included with decks.
Stickers, backpacks, and hardware kits.
Perfect for personalizing your setup or showing off your Birdhouse pride.

For the latest gear, check out the official Birdhouse apparel and accessories page.

🌟 The Birdhouse Pro Team: From Bones Brigade Legends to Today’s High-Flyers

Video: Bones Brigade: An Autobiography (FULL MOVIE) Tony Hawk, Stacy Peralta, skateboarding, skateboard.

Birdhouse’s team reads like a who’s who of skateboarding royalty and rising stars:

Skater	Specialty	Notable Facts
Tony Hawk	Vert Legend	Founder, 900 inventor, skate icon
Lizzie Armanto	Street & Vert	First female to land a 540 McTwist
Felipe Nunes	Street	Known for technical tricks and style
Shawn Hale	Vert & Transition	Powerful style, consistent contest presence
David Loy	Vert	Smooth style, Birdhouse staple
Aaron Homoki	Big Air	“Jaws,” known for massive gaps and drops

Why Team Matters

Pro skaters influence deck shapes, graphics, and tech.
Their feedback ensures Birdhouse stays at the cutting edge.
Team riders inspire the community and keep the brand authentic.

🎨 Iconic Graphics & Artistry: The Visual Soul of Birdhouse Skateboards

Video: Tony Hawk Skates First Downward Spiral Loop – BTS.

Birdhouse decks are as much about art as performance. The graphics often feature:

Hawk’s “Birdman” logo — a symbol of flight and freedom.
Bold, colorful designs reflecting each pro’s personality.
Collaborations with artists and designers to keep visuals fresh.

Why Graphics Matter

They express identity and culture.
Collectors seek limited editions for their unique art.
They add style points when you’re cruising or hitting the park.

🌍 Birdhouse in Action: Its Enduring Impact on Vert, Street, and Global Skate Culture

Video: How I Build my PBA Luci Doubles Arsenal | Beef and Barnzy Show.

Birdhouse’s influence spans decades and continents:

Vert skating: Pioneered by Hawk’s legendary runs and Birdhouse deck tech.
Street skating: Expanded with pro riders like Lizzie Armanto and Felipe Nunes.
Global reach: Birdhouse decks and gear are sold worldwide, inspiring skaters everywhere.
Featured in video games like Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater, spreading skate culture digitally.

Our crew’s experience? Birdhouse gear performs well in all terrains — from backyard ramps to urban plazas.

💪 Durability & Performance: Do Birdhouse Skateboards Really Hold Up to the Grind?

Video: Birdhouse Skateboards: The Rise, Fall and Rise Again…

Durability Rating Table

Component	Durability Rating (1-10)	Notes
Deck	8.5	Strong maple, resists chipping
Trucks	8	Sturdy, but can wear with heavy use
Wheels	7.5	Good grip, moderate wear rate
Bearings	7	Smooth but upgradeable
Grip Tape	8	Durable, good traction

Real-World Testing

Our team has logged hundreds of hours on Birdhouse decks — pop and control remain solid even after heavy use.
Trucks handle grinds well but may need bushings replaced after extended sessions.
Wheels wear evenly but upgrading to higher-end urethane can boost speed and slide control.

🆚 Birdhouse vs. The Flock: How Does it Compare to Other Top Skate Brands?

Video: Birdhouse Skateboards (Tony Hawk): Things You DIDN'T Know!

Brand	Deck Construction	Pro Team Strength	Price Range	Style Focus	Our Take
Birdhouse	7-ply maple	Strong	Mid-range	Vert & Street	Great for vert, solid street decks
Element	7-ply maple + tech	Very strong	Mid-high	Eco-friendly, street	More tech innovation, eco focus
Baker	7-ply maple	Very strong	Mid-range	Street	Raw, street-centric, bold graphics
Plan B	7-ply maple	Elite	High	Street & park	High performance, pro-level gear
Santa Cruz	7-ply maple	Strong	Mid-range	Classic, street	Iconic graphics, solid decks

Why Choose Birdhouse?

If you love vert skating or want a brand with deep roots in skate history, Birdhouse is a top pick.
For pure street tech or eco-conscious builds, Element or Plan B might edge ahead.
Birdhouse balances heritage, performance, and style uniquely.

🛠️ Setting Up Your Birdhouse: Pro Tips for Optimal Performance and Longevity

Video: Birdhouse Skateboard Build Overview For Over 30s Beginner Skateboarders.

Getting the most out of your Birdhouse setup? Here’s how:

Step 1: Choose the Right Deck Size

Street skaters: 7.5″–8.0″ wide for flip tricks and technical moves.
Vert/transition: 8.25″ and up for stability and control.
Our favorite: Tony Hawk Falcon XL 8.125″ for versatility.

Step 2: Pick Quality Trucks and Wheels

Trucks should match deck width (e.g., 8.0″ deck = 8.0″ trucks).
Upgrade wheels based on terrain: softer (78A-87A) for rough surfaces, harder (99A+) for smooth parks.

Step 3: Grip Tape Application

Birdhouse decks come with grip tape, but if you replace it, apply slowly to avoid bubbles.
Use a razor blade to trim edges cleanly.

Step 4: Bearings and Maintenance

Clean and lubricate bearings regularly.
Consider upgrading to Bones Reds or Bronson Speed Co. for smoother rides.

Step 5: Hardware Check

Tighten bolts and nuts before every session.
Replace stripped hardware to avoid accidents.

🛒 Where to Find Your Wings: Authorized Retailers and Online Shops for Birdhouse Gear

Video: How to Buy Your First Skateboard.

Ready to grab your Birdhouse setup? Here’s where to look:

Official Birdhouse Website: birdhouseskateboards.com — full catalog, latest releases, and exclusive gear.
Amazon: Wide selection of decks, completes, and apparel.
Skate shops: Local shops often stock Birdhouse decks and gear — support your community!
Specialty retailers: Zumiez, CCS, and Tactics usually carry Birdhouse completes and apparel.

Conclusion: Our Final Verdict on Birdhouse Skateboards

After soaring through the history, tech specs, team lineup, and real-world performance of Birdhouse Skateboards, here’s the lowdown from your Skateboard Brands™ crew:

Positives ✅

Heritage and Authenticity: Founded by Tony Hawk and Per Welinder, Birdhouse carries decades of skate culture credibility.
Deck Quality: 7-ply North American hard rock maple delivers excellent pop, durability, and a versatile medium concave.
Pro Team Influence: Skaters like Lizzie Armanto and Felipe Nunes keep the brand fresh and performance-driven.
Completes: Great entry point for beginners and intermediates, ready to ride out of the box.
Graphics & Style: Bold, iconic designs that stand out at the park or on the street.
Lifestyle Brand: Apparel and accessories complement the skate gear for a full skate lifestyle.

Negatives ❌

Weight: Slightly heavier decks compared to some competitors, which might affect flip trick speed for some street skaters.
Components in Completes: Bearings and wheels are decent but may need upgrading for advanced riders.
Limited Tech Innovations: Compared to brands like Element or Plan B, Birdhouse focuses more on heritage than cutting-edge materials or eco-friendly tech.

Our Recommendation

If you’re passionate about skateboarding’s roots and want a reliable, performance-driven board with a legendary pedigree, Birdhouse is a top-tier choice. It excels especially for vert and transition riders but also offers solid street options. Beginners will appreciate the completes, while pros will value the pro team-backed decks.

Wondering if Birdhouse is right for you? If you crave a board with history, style, and solid performance, grab a Birdhouse deck or complete and join the flock! 🦅

FAQ: Your Most Burning Birdhouse Questions Answered

What are the most popular Birdhouse Skateboards decks for beginners?

Top Picks for Beginners

Tony Hawk Falcon 6 Blue Deck (7.25″) — Smaller width ideal for street tricks and learning balance.
Lizzie Armanto Sewn Deck (8.25″) — Versatile size for street and park skating.
Felipe Nunes Pumpkin XL (8.25″) — Great for technical street skating with a stable platform.

These decks come with 7-ply maple construction and included grip tape, providing durability and control for newcomers. The medium concave offers a comfortable feel without being too aggressive, helping beginners build confidence.

Are Birdhouse Skateboards suitable for professional skaters and competitions?

Absolutely! Birdhouse decks are trusted by pros like Tony Hawk, Lizzie Armanto, and Felipe Nunes who compete at the highest levels. The brand’s focus on vert and transition skating makes it a favorite among vert pros, while their street decks hold up well in contests.

That said, some pros may customize components like bearings and wheels for peak performance. Birdhouse’s solid construction and pro team input ensure their decks meet competition standards.

Birdhouse stands out for its heritage and vert skateboarding focus, while Baker and Blind lean more heavily into street skating culture and raw street style.

Feature	Birdhouse	Baker	Blind
Heritage	Founded by Tony Hawk, vert roots	Street-centric, bold graphics	Street and park focus, innovative graphics
Deck Construction	7-ply North American maple	7-ply maple	7-ply maple
Pro Team	Vert legends + street stars	Street pros	Street and park pros
Style	Iconic, clean, bold	Raw, gritty	Artistic, edgy
Innovation	Traditional, durable	Street tech focus	Graphic innovation

If you want a board with deep vert roots and a legendary founder, Birdhouse is unmatched. For street skating with a rebellious edge, Baker or Blind might be your jam.

What are some of the unique features and technologies used in Birdhouse Skateboards that set them apart from other brands?

Birdhouse’s signature features include:

7-ply North American hard rock maple for consistent pop and durability.
Medium concave decks that balance control and comfort, ideal for vert and street.
Pro team-driven designs that reflect real skater input.
Classic “Birdman” branding that symbolizes freedom and innovation.
Completes that are beginner-friendly but built with quality components.

While Birdhouse doesn’t focus heavily on exotic materials or eco-friendly tech like some brands, their commitment to quality, heritage, and rider feedback keeps them a trusted name.