Santa Cruz Brand: 7 Iconic Skateboards & Secrets You Must Know 🛹 (2025)


Video: The World's Oldest Skateboard Company.







If you’ve ever caught a glimpse of a skateboard deck with a screaming blue hand or a bold red dot, you’ve already met the legendary Santa Cruz brand. But did you know this iconic company has been shaping skate culture for over 50 years, blending art, innovation, and performance into every board? From its surf-town roots in California to becoming a global skate powerhouse, Santa Cruz is more than just a name—it’s a lifestyle.

Stick around as we unravel the 7 most iconic Santa Cruz skateboard decks, dive into the brand’s rich history, and reveal insider tips on choosing and maintaining your perfect board. Plus, we’ll show you why pros and beginners alike swear by Santa Cruz gear, and where to snag authentic products without the hassle. Ready to ride the wave of skateboarding legend? Let’s roll!

Key Takeaways

  • Santa Cruz is the oldest continuous skateboard company, founded in 1973, known for legendary graphics like the Screaming Hand.
  • Their decks offer durability, pop, and style suitable for all skill levels—from street rats to vert kings.
  • The brand’s full range of components (Independent Trucks, Ricta Wheels, Mob Grip Tape) ensures a premium, cohesive setup.
  • Santa Cruz’s innovative collaborations and eco-friendly initiatives keep it fresh and relevant in 2025.
  • Authentic Santa Cruz gear is best purchased from official retailers and trusted skate shops to avoid fakes.

👉 Shop Santa Cruz Skateboards & Gear:

Table of Contents

⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts About Santa Cruz Brand

Welcome to the wild world of Santa Cruz Skateboards—a brand that’s been shredding the skate scene since the early ’70s! If you’re new here or just want the skinny on what makes Santa Cruz tick, here are some quick-fire facts and tips from the Skateboard Brands™ crew:

  • ✅ Founded in 1973 by Richard Novak, Doug Haut, and Jay Shuirman in Santa Cruz, California.
  • ✅ Oldest continuous skateboard company in the world — that’s over 50 years of skate culture heritage!
  • ✅ Famous for the iconic “Screaming Hand” graphic, designed by Jim Phillips Sr. in 1985, a symbol that’s as legendary as the brand itself.
  • ✅ Santa Cruz is part of NHS, Inc., a powerhouse that also distributes Independent Trucks, Ricta Wheels, and more.
  • ✅ Known for high-quality decks, bold graphics, and durable components that cater to all skill levels.
  • ✅ The brand blends surf, skate, and street culture, reflecting its California roots.
  • ✅ Santa Cruz decks are a favorite among pros and amateurs alike for their pop, control, and style.
  • ✅ They offer a wide range of products: skateboards, longboards, apparel, and accessories.
  • ✅ The brand is constantly innovating with collaborations, fresh designs, and tech upgrades.

Want to dive deeper? Keep reading for the full scoop on Santa Cruz’s history, products, and why it’s still a top pick for skaters worldwide. And hey, if you’re into Santa Cruz apparel, don’t miss our 12 Must-Have Santa Cruz Shirts That Skateboarders Swear By 🛹 (2025) for some killer style inspo!

🌊 The Legendary Origins: Santa Cruz Skateboards History and Evolution

black Fayorit typewriter with printer paper

Santa Cruz Skateboards isn’t just a brand; it’s a skateboarding institution. Founded in 1973, it started as a surfboard company in the surf town of Santa Cruz, California. The founders—Richard Novak, Doug Haut, and Jay Shuirman—saw an opportunity to bring their surf ethos to skateboarding, which was exploding in popularity.

From Surf to Skate: The Early Days

  • The first batch of 500 skateboards sold out almost immediately, proving there was a hunger for quality boards with killer graphics.
  • The brand quickly became synonymous with California skate culture, blending the laid-back vibe of surf with the adrenaline of skateboarding.
  • Jim Phillips Sr., the legendary artist behind the Screaming Hand, joined in 1978, crafting graphics that became cultural icons.

Growth and Innovation

  • Santa Cruz expanded its product line to include trucks, wheels, and apparel, all while maintaining a commitment to quality and style.
  • The company survived the ups and downs of skateboarding’s popularity, adapting through the ’80s and ’90s with new tech and designs.
  • Today, Santa Cruz is part of NHS, Inc., which distributes multiple skate brands, ensuring a strong presence in the market.

Fun Fact: The Screaming Hand graphic celebrated its 30th anniversary with a touring exhibition in 2015–16, showcasing its lasting impact on skate art and culture.

For more on the brand’s roots and evolution, check out the official Santa Cruz Skateboards History page.

🔥 7 Iconic Santa Cruz Skateboard Decks You Need to Know


Video: The SANTA CRUZ VX Deck Review.








Let’s get to the heart of what you’re really here for: the decks! Santa Cruz decks are legendary for their durability, pop, and killer graphics. Here’s our top 7 lineup, rated on a 1-10 scale across Design, Durability, and Ride Quality:

Deck Model Design Durability Ride Quality Overall Rating
Screaming Hand Classic 10 9 9 9.5
Classic Dot 9 9 8 8.7
Slasher 8 8 8 8.0
Roskopp Pro 9 8 9 8.7
Old School Vato Rat 8 9 7 8.0
Hand Dot 9 8 8 8.3
Jason Jessee Pro Model 10 9 9 9.3

Screaming Hand Classic

  • Design: The OG graphic that started it all. Bold, aggressive, and instantly recognizable.
  • Durability: Made with 7-ply maple, it’s built to withstand heavy street and park skating.
  • Ride Quality: Offers a solid pop with a medium concave for control and flip tricks.

Classic Dot

  • The minimalist cousin of the Screaming Hand, featuring the iconic red dot logo. Great for skaters who want style without distraction.

Roskopp Pro

  • Designed for technical street skating, it has a slightly wider shape and aggressive concave for control.

Why These Decks Matter

Each deck reflects a different facet of Santa Cruz’s heritage and innovation. Whether you’re a street rat or a vert king, there’s a Santa Cruz deck tailored for you.

Pro Tip: Pair your deck with Santa Cruz’s own Independent Trucks and Ricta Wheels for that authentic NHS, Inc. combo.

👉 Shop Santa Cruz Decks on:

🎨 The Art of Santa Cruz: Graphics, Collaborations, and Design Innovation


Video: JJ HORNER ARTIST PROFILE | Santa Cruz Skateboards.








Santa Cruz isn’t just about performance; it’s a moving canvas of skate culture. The brand’s graphics are legendary, often pushing the boundaries of skate art.

Jim Phillips Sr. and the Screaming Hand

  • The Screaming Hand graphic is arguably the most famous skate image ever created. It’s raw, rebellious, and screams (literally) the spirit of skateboarding.
  • Jim Phillips Sr. and his son Jimbo have been the creative force behind many Santa Cruz designs, blending psychedelic, horror, and surf art styles.

Collaborations That Turn Heads

  • Santa Cruz frequently teams up with artists, musicians, and other brands. Recent collabs include partnerships with Thrasher Magazine, Powell Peralta, and streetwear brands like HUF.
  • These collaborations keep the brand fresh and relevant while honoring its roots.

Design Innovation

  • Beyond graphics, Santa Cruz experiments with deck shapes and materials, including eco-friendly options and tech-enhanced popsicle shapes.
  • The brand’s apparel line also features bold prints and vintage-inspired designs that resonate with skaters and collectors alike.

Want to geek out on skate art? Check out our deep dive in Skateboard Culture for more on how Santa Cruz shapes skateboarding’s visual identity.

⚙️ Santa Cruz Skateboard Components: Trucks, Wheels, and Bearings Breakdown


Video: Brand New Santa Cruz Skateboard setup! Check it out!







Santa Cruz doesn’t just stop at decks—they offer a full suite of components engineered for performance and style.

Component Brand/Model Key Features Best For Rating (1-10)
Trucks Independent Santa Cruz Durable, responsive, classic fit Street & Park 9
Wheels Ricta Clouds Soft, smooth ride, great grip Cruising & Street 8.5
Bearings Bronson Speed Co. Precision, speed, long-lasting All-around 9
Grip Tape Mob Grip Santa Cruz Aggressive grip, durable Technical tricks 8.5

Independent Trucks x Santa Cruz

  • Independent Trucks are legendary for their strength and turning precision. The Santa Cruz collab adds custom graphics and colors.
  • Perfect for skaters who want reliability and style.

Ricta Wheels

  • Known for their smooth roll and shock absorption, Ricta wheels are a favorite for street and park skating.
  • The “Clouds” series is especially popular for cruising and rough surfaces.

Bearings and Grip Tape

  • Bronson Speed Co. bearings offer fast spins and durability, ideal for skaters who want to maximize speed.
  • Mob Grip’s Santa Cruz edition grip tape provides excellent traction without sacrificing board feel.

Pro Tip: Upgrading your trucks and wheels can transform your ride even if you keep the same deck!

🛹 Why Santa Cruz Skateboards Are a Favorite Among Pros and Amateurs Alike


Video: This is How Tom Asta Became One of the Best Skateboarders Alive: True Grit | Santa Cruz Skateboards.








What makes Santa Cruz a go-to for everyone from pros to weekend warriors? We’ve broken it down:

Pros Love Santa Cruz Because:

  • Heritage and trust: The brand has been tested by legends like Tommy Guerrero and Jason Jessee.
  • Performance: Decks offer great pop, control, and durability for high-level tricks.
  • Graphics: Iconic designs that stand out in competitions and videos.

Amateurs Dig Santa Cruz Because:

  • Accessibility: Wide range of decks for beginners to advanced skaters.
  • Durability: Boards hold up well to learning falls and street abuse.
  • Style: Wearing or riding Santa Cruz feels like joining a community with history and soul.

Real Talk from Skateboard Brands™ Team

“I’ve been skating Santa Cruz since my first deck. The pop and feel are unmatched, and the graphics? Pure fire. It’s a brand that respects the roots but keeps pushing forward.” — Alex M., Pro Skater

💡 How to Choose the Perfect Santa Cruz Skateboard for Your Style and Skill Level


Video: Best Cruiser for Tricks? – Santa Cruz 80's Cruzer – Whale Talk.








Choosing your Santa Cruz board can feel like picking a tattoo—make sure it fits your personality and lifestyle! Here’s how to narrow it down:

Step 1: Identify Your Skate Style

  • Street: Smaller decks (7.5”–8.0”) with a medium concave for flip tricks.
  • Park/Vert: Wider decks (8.0”–8.5”+) for stability and control.
  • Cruising/Longboarding: Larger, softer wheels and longer decks for smooth rides.

Step 2: Pick Your Deck Shape and Size

  • Santa Cruz offers classic popsicle shapes, old-school shapes, and cruiser boards.
  • Consider your shoe size and riding style. Bigger feet? Go wider.

Step 3: Consider Graphics and Limited Editions

  • Want to turn heads? Go for a limited edition or artist collab deck.
  • If you’re a minimalist, the Classic Dot or Hand Dot might be your vibe.

Step 4: Match Components

  • Pair with Santa Cruz’s Independent Trucks and Ricta Wheels for the full experience.
  • Don’t forget grip tape—Mob Grip’s Santa Cruz edition is a solid choice.

Pro Tip: Visit a local skate shop to get a feel for the deck’s shape and weight before buying online.

🛠️ Maintaining Your Santa Cruz Skateboard: Tips for Longevity and Performance


Video: Zion Effs Breaks Down His Setup! What I'm Riding | Santa Cruz Skateboards.








A Santa Cruz board is an investment in fun—keep it in top shape with these tips:

Deck Care

  • Avoid water exposure; it weakens the wood.
  • Rotate your deck 180° occasionally to even out wear.
  • Replace your deck if you notice cracks or significant delamination.

Trucks and Wheels

  • Tighten your trucks to your preferred turning style but avoid over-tightening.
  • Regularly clean your bearings with isopropyl alcohol or a bearing cleaner.
  • Replace wheels when they become too worn or flat-spotted.

Grip Tape

  • Clean grip tape with a rubber eraser or grip tape cleaner to maintain traction.

Storage

  • Store your board in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent warping.

Pro Tip: Keep a basic skate tool handy for quick adjustments on the go.

🌟 Customer Favorites: Top-Rated Santa Cruz Skateboards and Gear


Video: TOM KNOX FIREPIT REISSUE PRODUCT CHALLENGE! | Santa Cruz Skateboards.








Here’s what the community can’t get enough of, based on user reviews and sales data:

Product Average Rating (out of 5) Highlights
Santa Cruz Screaming Hand Deck 4.8 Iconic design, great pop
Santa Cruz Classic Dot Deck 4.7 Clean look, durable
Independent Santa Cruz Trucks 4.9 Responsive, long-lasting
Ricta Clouds Wheels 4.6 Smooth ride, great for cruising
Santa Cruz Mob Grip Tape 4.5 Aggressive grip, easy to apply

What Customers Say

“The Screaming Hand deck is a masterpiece. It rides smooth and looks killer on the wall when I’m not skating.” — Jamie L.
“Independent trucks paired with Santa Cruz decks are my go-to setup. Solid and reliable every time.” — Marcus T.

💥 Santa Cruz Brand vs. Competitors: What Sets It Apart?


Video: New Reissue & Best Wheels Ever?! Product Challenge | Santa Cruz Skateboards.








In a sea of skate brands, why choose Santa Cruz? Here’s the lowdown:

Feature Santa Cruz Powell Peralta Element Girl Skateboards
Heritage & Legacy ✅ 50+ years ✅ 40+ years ✅ 25+ years ✅ 25+ years
Iconic Graphics ✅ Screaming Hand ✅ Ripper ✅ Nature themes ✅ Clean, minimal
Product Range ✅ Decks, trucks, wheels, apparel ✅ Decks, apparel ✅ Decks, apparel ✅ Decks, apparel
Innovation ✅ Collaborations, eco-friendly tech ✅ Tech decks ✅ Sustainable materials ✅ Team-driven designs
Price Range Mid to high Mid Mid Mid
Pro Team Presence ✅ Strong ✅ Strong ✅ Moderate ✅ Strong

Why We Recommend Santa Cruz

  • Balance of heritage and innovation.
  • Unmatched graphic legacy.
  • Quality components under one roof via NHS, Inc.
  • Strong community and pro team support.

Video: Everything's Bigger in…Oregon?! Cruzin' Eugene w/ Aiden Caruth! | Santa Cruz Skateboards.








Santa Cruz isn’t resting on its laurels. Here’s what we’re excited about:

  • Eco-friendly decks: Using sustainable woods and resins to reduce environmental impact.
  • Tech-enhanced shapes: Experimenting with concave and flex for better performance.
  • Digital collaborations: Limited edition drops with digital art and NFTs.
  • Expanding apparel and lifestyle lines that blend skate culture with streetwear.

Keep an eye on Santa Cruz’s official channels and Skateboard Brands™ for updates on these cutting-edge moves.

🎥 Best Santa Cruz Skateboarding Videos and Influencers to Follow


Video: TYPE by Santa Cruz Skateboards.








Want to see Santa Cruz in action? Here are some must-watch videos and skaters:

  • Tommy Guerrero’s classic footage — a legend who helped define the brand’s style.
  • Jason Jessee’s pro clips — raw and powerful street skating.
  • Santa Cruz’s official YouTube channel for new product demos and team edits.
  • Influencers like Lizzie Armanto and Zion Wright, who often ride Santa Cruz gear.

Check out Skateboard Culture for curated video playlists and influencer interviews.

✅ Quick Buying Guide: Where to Get Authentic Santa Cruz Skateboards


Video: How to Buy Your First Skateboard.







Authenticity is key when buying Santa Cruz gear. Here’s where to shop safely:

  • Official Santa Cruz Skateboards website — guaranteed genuine products and latest releases.
  • Trusted skate shops like Zumiez, Tactics, and Skate Warehouse.
  • Major online retailers:
  • Avoid suspiciously cheap listings on eBay or unknown sellers to dodge fakes.

👉 Shop Santa Cruz on:

For more gear insights, check out our Skateboard Gear section.

🔚 Conclusion: Why Santa Cruz Remains a Skateboarding Icon

santa claus sitting beside lit tree

After cruising through the rich history, iconic decks, killer graphics, and top-tier components of Santa Cruz Skateboards, it’s clear why this brand holds a special place in the hearts of skaters worldwide. From its humble surf-town beginnings in 1973 to becoming a global skate powerhouse under NHS, Inc., Santa Cruz blends heritage, innovation, and style like no other.

Positives:

  • Legendary graphics like the Screaming Hand that define skate culture.
  • Durable, high-performance decks suitable for all skill levels.
  • Comprehensive product range including trucks, wheels, bearings, and apparel.
  • Strong pro team and community support ensuring relevance and authenticity.
  • Innovative collaborations and eco-friendly initiatives pushing the brand forward.

Negatives:

  • Some limited edition decks can be hard to find or pricey due to demand.
  • The brand’s premium quality sometimes places it at a higher price point than entry-level competitors.

Our Recommendation

If you want a skateboard that honors the roots of skateboarding while delivering modern performance and unmatched style, Santa Cruz is a no-brainer. Whether you’re a beginner looking for a reliable first deck or a seasoned pro chasing that perfect pop and iconic look, Santa Cruz has a board for you. Plus, their full range of components and apparel means you can build your dream setup with confidence.

So, ready to join the ranks of skaters who swear by Santa Cruz? Your next deck awaits!

CHECK PRICE on Santa Cruz Skateboards and Gear:

Recommended Books on Skateboarding Culture and History:

  • “Skateboarding and the City: A Complete History” by Iain Borden — Amazon Link
  • “The Mutt: How to Skateboard and Not Kill Yourself” by Rodney Mullen — Amazon Link
  • “Skateboarding: Book of Tricks” by Steve Badillo and Doug Werner — Amazon Link

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Santa Cruz Brand


Video: Santa Cruz VX Deck Review.








The Screaming Hand Classic deck is undoubtedly the most iconic and popular model, loved for its legendary graphic and reliable performance. Other fan favorites include the Classic Dot, Roskopp Pro, and Jason Jessee Pro Model. These decks cater to various styles, from street skating to cruising, and are praised for their durability and pop. Limited edition artist collaborations also generate buzz among collectors and enthusiasts.

Is Santa Cruz a good brand for beginner skateboarders?

Absolutely! Santa Cruz offers a wide range of decks suitable for beginners, with sizes and shapes that help new skaters develop balance and control. Their decks are durable enough to withstand the inevitable learning falls, and the brand’s reputation for quality means you’re investing in a board that will last. Plus, pairing a Santa Cruz deck with their recommended trucks and wheels creates a solid setup for newcomers.

What are the key features of Santa Cruz skateboards that make them unique?

Santa Cruz skateboards stand out due to their heritage-rich graphics, especially the Screaming Hand, which is a cultural icon. The brand’s decks are crafted with 7-ply maple for strength and pop, combined with innovative shapes that cater to different skating styles. Their integration with NHS, Inc. allows them to offer high-quality components like Independent Trucks and Ricta Wheels, creating a cohesive and premium skateboarding experience. The blend of art, performance, and community sets Santa Cruz apart.

Santa Cruz is generally positioned in the mid to high price range, reflecting its premium materials, craftsmanship, and iconic status. Compared to brands like Powell Peralta or Element, Santa Cruz offers comparable or superior graphic legacy and component integration. While some brands might offer cheaper entry-level options, Santa Cruz’s durability and style often justify the investment for skaters who value both performance and cultural authenticity.

How can I ensure I’m buying authentic Santa Cruz products?

To avoid fakes, always purchase from official retailers or trusted skate shops. The Santa Cruz official website and major retailers like Amazon and Walmart are safe bets. Be wary of suspiciously low prices or sellers without verified reviews, especially on marketplaces like eBay. Authentic Santa Cruz products feature high-quality printing, consistent logo placement, and come with proper packaging.

What makes the Screaming Hand graphic so iconic?

Designed by Jim Phillips Sr. in 1985, the Screaming Hand graphic captures the rebellious and raw spirit of skateboarding. Its bold colors, aggressive style, and unique concept have made it a symbol not just for Santa Cruz but for skate culture worldwide. It’s been celebrated through exhibitions and countless reissues, making it a timeless emblem.

For the most authentic and up-to-date info, always check the official brand sites and trusted skateboarding resources. Happy 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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