Does Tony Hawk Have His Own Skateboard Company? 🛹 (2025)

a black bird sitting on top of a satellite dish

Ever wondered if the legendary Tony Hawk actually owns his own skateboard company or if his name is just a branding magic trick? Spoiler alert: he does — but the story behind it is way more interesting than you might think. From founding Birdhouse Skateboards in the early ’90s to launching his own signature series, Tony Hawk’s influence runs deep in the skate world. But how does his company stack up against the competition? And what role did his iconic video games play in building his brand empire? Stick around, because we’re about to unravel the full truth, share insider insights, and help you decide if a Tony Hawk board is the right fit for your next ride.

Here’s a little teaser: Did you know Tony Hawk’s company isn’t just about selling decks? It’s a legacy, a culture, and a global movement all rolled into one. Keep reading to discover how Birdhouse Skateboards rose, evolved, and continues to shape skateboarding today — plus, our expert tips on choosing the perfect Tony Hawk board for you.

Key Takeaways

  • Tony Hawk co-founded Birdhouse Skateboards in 1992, which remains a respected and authentic brand in skateboarding.
  • His Tony Hawk Signature Series offers beginner-friendly complete skateboards, perfect for those just starting out.
  • Birdhouse decks are made from 7-ply North American maple, known for durability and classic design.
  • Tony’s video game franchise massively boosted his brand’s visibility, introducing skateboarding to millions worldwide.
  • While Birdhouse excels in heritage and community, it faces tough competition from brands like Element and Plan B in innovation.
  • Choosing a Tony Hawk skateboard means riding with a piece of skate history and culture.

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Table of Contents

⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts About Tony Hawk’s Skateboard Company

If you’ve ever wondered, “Does Tony Hawk have his own skateboard company?”, you’re not alone! As skateboarders at Skateboard Brands™, we’ve dug deep into the facts and myths surrounding Tony Hawk’s business ventures. Here’s a quick rundown before we dive in:

Aspect Rating (1-10) Notes
Brand Recognition 10 Tony Hawk is a household name in skateboarding worldwide.
Product Quality 8 Birdhouse decks are solid, made with 7-ply North American maple, but not top-tier pro.
Innovation & Design 7 Classic designs, some signature decks, but not the most cutting-edge tech.
Accessibility for Beginners 9 Tony Hawk Signature Series offers great entry-level completes with no assembly needed.
Cultural Impact 10 Huge influence via video games, philanthropy, and skate culture.

Quick fact: Tony Hawk’s skateboard company is called Birdhouse Skateboards, founded in 1992, and it’s still going strong! But there’s more to the story than just owning a brand — Tony’s influence stretches far beyond decks.

Curious how Birdhouse stacks up against other brands? Or how Tony’s video game empire boosted his skateboard company? Stick with us — we’re about to spill all the secrets! 🛹

🛹 Tony Hawk’s Skateboarding Legacy: More Than Just Tricks

Before we get into the business side, let’s talk legacy. Tony Hawk isn’t just a skateboarder; he’s the skateboarder. With a career spanning over four decades, he’s the guy who landed the first documented 900 — a mind-boggling two-and-a-half mid-air spins — back in 1999. This feat alone cemented his legendary status.

Why Tony Hawk’s Legacy Matters to His Brand

  • Authenticity: When you buy a Birdhouse deck, you’re buying a piece of skate history.
  • Credibility: Tony’s name opens doors, attracts sponsorships, and builds trust.
  • Culture: He helped bring skateboarding into mainstream culture through video games and philanthropy.

For more on Tony’s impact on skate culture, check out our Skateboard Culture articles.

🏢 Does Tony Hawk Own His Own Skateboard Company? The Real Story

Short answer: ✅ Yes, Tony Hawk does own a skateboard company — Birdhouse Skateboards — but it’s more nuanced than just “his company.”

  • Birdhouse Skateboards was founded by Tony Hawk and Per Welinder in 1992.
  • Tony is the face and co-owner, heavily involved in design and marketing.
  • The company operates independently but benefits from Tony’s global fame.
  • Tony also has a signature series of skateboards under his own name, sold separately from Birdhouse.

Fun fact: Tony Hawk’s Signature Series boards are made by 180 Skateboards, a different company, showing his reach extends beyond just Birdhouse.

Want to see the latest Tony Hawk Signature Series decks? Head over to Tony Hawk Signature Series on Amazon.

1. The Rise and Fall of Birdhouse Skateboards: Tony Hawk’s Flagship Brand

Birdhouse Skateboards is the brand most associated with Tony Hawk. Here’s the lowdown:

Feature Details
Founded 1992
Founders Tony Hawk & Per Welinder
Deck Material 7-ply North American Hard Rock Maple
Popular Deck Sizes 8.25″ to 8.75″ widths
Notable Pro Skaters Tony Hawk, Andrew Reynolds, Lizzie Armanto
Product Range Decks, completes, apparel, accessories

The Good

  • Durability: 7-ply maple decks hold up well for street and vert skating.
  • Designs: Classic Hawk graphics and pro models.
  • Community: Birdhouse supports many pro skaters and events.

The Not-So-Good

  • Innovation: Birdhouse tends to stick to traditional deck shapes and tech.
  • Market Share: Faces stiff competition from brands like Element, Plan B, and Baker.

Our personal take? Birdhouse is a solid choice for skaters who value heritage and consistency. It’s not the flashiest, but it’s reliable.

2. Collaborations and Signature Decks: Hawk’s Influence in the Skate Industry

Tony Hawk’s name on a deck is a big deal. His signature decks often feature:

  • Classic Hawk graphics with iconic logos.
  • Pro skater models like the Falcon 2 Gunmetal 8.5” — a favorite for vert skating.
  • Collaborations with artists and other brands.

Here’s a quick comparison of popular Birdhouse decks:

Deck Model Width Wheelbase Material Best For
Falcon 2 Gunmetal 8.5 8.5″ 14.5″ 7-ply North American Maple Vert & street skating
Lizzie Armanto Chain 8.25 8.25″ 14.5″ 7-ply North American Maple Street skating
Tate Carew Red Shift 8.475 8.475″ 14.5″ 7-ply North American Maple Versatile

Pro tip: If you’re looking for a beginner-friendly deck, Tony Hawk’s Signature Series 180 completes are a great start — no assembly needed and solid components.

3. How Tony Hawk’s Brand Compares to Other Skateboard Companies

Let’s break down how Birdhouse and Tony Hawk Signature Series stack up against other big names:

Brand Heritage Innovation Pro Team Strength Accessibility Price Range Our Rating (1-10)
Birdhouse (Tony Hawk) High Moderate Strong Beginner to Pro Mid 8
Element High High Very Strong Beginner to Pro Mid-High 9
Plan B Moderate High Very Strong Intermediate to Pro Mid-High 8.5
Baker Moderate Moderate Strong Beginner to Pro Mid 8
180 Skateboards (Tony Hawk Signature) Newer Moderate Moderate Beginner to Intermediate Mid 7.5

Insight: Birdhouse shines in heritage and pro team loyalty but lags a bit in tech innovation compared to Element or Plan B.

4. The Impact of Video Games on Tony Hawk’s Brand and Skateboarding Culture

You can’t talk about Tony Hawk without mentioning his legendary video game series, Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater. These games:

  • Introduced millions to skateboarding culture.
  • Boosted Tony’s brand visibility exponentially.
  • Created a new revenue stream that funded his business ventures.

Did you know? The first Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater game came out in 1999, the same year he landed the 900. Talk about timing!

The games helped Birdhouse and Tony Hawk Signature Series reach a global audience, especially younger skaters who might not have discovered skateboarding otherwise.

5. What Makes a Skateboard Company Successful? Lessons from Tony Hawk’s Ventures

From our experience at Skateboard Brands™, here’s what Tony Hawk’s journey teaches us about running a skateboard company:

  • Authenticity is king: Tony’s genuine passion and history give Birdhouse credibility.
  • Diversify your offerings: From decks to apparel to protective gear, variety keeps customers engaged.
  • Leverage media: Video games, social media, and sponsorships expand your reach.
  • Support the community: Tony’s foundation work and pro team support build loyalty.
  • Stay relevant: Innovate without losing your roots.

🛠️ Behind the Scenes: Manufacturing and Design of Tony Hawk’s Skateboards

Birdhouse decks are crafted with 7-ply North American Hard Rock Maple, a standard in quality skateboards. Here’s what that means:

  • 7-ply construction: Layers of maple wood pressed together for strength and flexibility.
  • Wheelbase: Typically 14.5 inches, balancing stability and maneuverability.
  • Grip tape: Usually comes pre-applied on completes, like the Tony Hawk Signature Series.

Tony Hawk’s Signature Series boards, made by 180 Skateboards, focus on complete setups with no assembly needed — perfect for beginners or casual riders.

🌍 Tony Hawk’s Influence on Global Skateboarding and Brand Expansion

Tony Hawk’s influence isn’t just American — it’s global. Through Birdhouse and his other ventures:

  • Skateparks funded by the Tony Hawk Foundation have popped up worldwide.
  • His brand is sold internationally, reaching Europe, Asia, and beyond.
  • Collaborations with international skaters like Lizzie Armanto show a commitment to diversity.

This global reach helps keep Birdhouse and Tony Hawk’s products relevant in a crowded market.

💡 Quick Tips for Choosing a Tony Hawk Skateboard Deck

Choosing the right deck can be overwhelming, but here’s what we recommend:

  • Width matters:
    • 7.5″ to 8.0″ for street skating and technical tricks.
    • 8.0″ and above for vert, cruising, or stability.
  • Deck shape: Look for a shape that matches your skating style — Birdhouse offers classic popsicle shapes great for all-around skating.
  • Graphics: Pick a design that inspires you! Tony Hawk’s decks often feature iconic bird logos and pro skater art.
  • Complete vs. Deck-only: Beginners should consider Tony Hawk Signature Series completes — no assembly hassle.

For more gear tips, check out our Skateboard Gear guides.

🎥 Tony Hawk’s Media Presence and Its Effect on His Skateboard Company

Tony Hawk is a media powerhouse:

  • Star of multiple documentaries and films like Lords of Dogtown.
  • His video game franchise is a cultural icon.
  • Active on social media, engaging with fans and promoting skateboarding.

This media presence keeps his skateboard brands in the spotlight, driving sales and inspiring new generations.

What’s next for Tony Hawk’s skateboard empire? Here’s what we foresee:

  • Sustainability: Expect more eco-friendly materials as the industry moves green.
  • Tech integration: Smart skateboards or enhanced deck materials could be on the horizon.
  • Expanded collaborations: More partnerships with artists and pro skaters worldwide.
  • Digital engagement: Virtual skateparks or augmented reality experiences tied to Tony Hawk’s brand.

If history is any guide, Tony Hawk’s brand will keep evolving while honoring its roots.

🔚 Conclusion: Does Tony Hawk’s Skateboard Company Still Rule the Streets?

So, does Tony Hawk have his own skateboard company? ✅ Absolutely! Tony Hawk co-founded Birdhouse Skateboards back in 1992, and it remains a respected name in the skateboarding world today. Alongside Birdhouse, Tony also endorses and designs the Tony Hawk Signature Series of skateboards, offering complete setups perfect for beginners and intermediate skaters.

Positives:

  • Heritage & Credibility: Birdhouse carries Tony’s legendary skateboarding legacy.
  • Quality Construction: 7-ply North American maple decks provide durability and performance.
  • Wide Appeal: From pro-level decks to beginner-friendly completes, there’s something for everyone.
  • Cultural Impact: Tony’s media presence and philanthropy keep the brand relevant and respected.

Negatives:

  • Innovation: Birdhouse tends to favor classic designs over cutting-edge tech.
  • Competition: Faces fierce competition from brands like Element and Plan B, which push more innovation.

Our recommendation? If you’re looking for a skateboard brand with authentic roots and solid quality, Birdhouse and Tony Hawk Signature Series are excellent choices. Whether you’re a seasoned vert skater or just starting out, Tony’s brands offer reliable gear that honors skateboarding’s rich culture.

Remember that Tony Hawk’s influence extends beyond just selling boards — his video games, foundation work, and media presence have helped grow skateboarding worldwide. So when you ride a Birdhouse deck, you’re riding with a piece of skate history beneath your feet. 🛹✨

Ready to grab your own Tony Hawk skateboard gear? Check these out:

❓ FAQ: Everything You Wanted to Know About Tony Hawk’s Skateboard Company

What is the name of Tony Hawk’s skateboard company?

Tony Hawk co-founded Birdhouse Skateboards in 1992, which is his primary skateboard company. Birdhouse produces decks, completes, and apparel, and is well-known in the skateboarding community. Additionally, Tony endorses the Tony Hawk Signature Series, a line of complete skateboards made by 180 Skateboards, offering beginner-friendly setups.

✅ Yes! Birdhouse is a respected brand with strong ties to skateboarding history. It’s especially popular among fans of vert skating and those who appreciate Tony Hawk’s legacy. While it may not be the most innovative brand on the market, Birdhouse decks are durable and reliable, and the company supports a solid pro team including skaters like Lizzie Armanto and Andrew Reynolds.

What are some of the best skateboard brands for beginners and professionals?

  • Beginners: Tony Hawk Signature Series (complete boards), Element, and Enjoi offer great starter kits with no assembly required.
  • Intermediate to Pro: Birdhouse, Plan B, Baker, and Girl Skateboards provide high-quality decks and pro-level gear.
  • Innovation Leaders: Element and Plan B push the envelope with new materials and designs.

For more detailed brand guides, visit our Skateboard Brand Guides.

Does Tony Hawk still own and operate his skateboard company, Birdhouse?

Tony Hawk remains a co-owner and the public face of Birdhouse Skateboards, but day-to-day operations are handled by a dedicated management team. Tony is actively involved in design and marketing, but his influence also extends through his signature series and philanthropic efforts. Birdhouse benefits greatly from his ongoing involvement and legendary status.

How did Tony Hawk’s video games affect his skateboard company?

Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater video game series revolutionized skateboarding culture, introducing millions to the sport and Tony’s brand. The games boosted Birdhouse’s visibility and helped fund Tony’s business ventures. The synergy between gaming and skateboarding made Tony Hawk a household name far beyond the skate parks.

Ready to roll with Tony Hawk’s legacy? Whether you pick up a Birdhouse deck or a Tony Hawk Signature complete, you’re joining a worldwide community inspired by one of skateboarding’s greatest icons. Keep shredding! 🛹🔥

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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