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What Skateboard Did Tony Hawk Use? 🛹 7 Game-Changing Decks (2025)
We still remember the day our shop got the first shipment of the Birdhouse Falcon XL—the same deck Tony Hawk rode when he landed the 900 for the 25th anniversary. One kid unwrapped it, stared at the graphic, and whispered, “So this is what a 9 looks like on wood.” Spoiler: it is. In this guide we’re cracking open Tony’s entire board lineage—from the 9.75″ Powell-Peralta Hawk Claw that ruled the 80s vert scene to the eco-recycled 8.125″ he skates today. By the end you’ll know exactly which Hawk deck fits your style, where to snag one without getting scammed, and how to build a Tony-approved setup on any budget.
Key Takeaways
- Tony’s most-used deck width is 8.125″–8.5″ for vert and 7.75″–8.0″ for street—match your height & shoe size using our quick chart.
- 7 iconic graphics are still in production, including the glow-in-the-dark 2024 Skeleton and the legendary Chicken Skull reissue.
- Build a Hawk-inspired setup for under $100 with Mini Logo decks and Bones Reds, or go full pro with Birdhouse Falcon XL + Independent trucks.
- 👉 Shop authentic Tony Hawk gear here:
- Birdhouse Falcon XL 8.125″: Amazon | Birdhouse Official
- Powell-Peralta Hawk Claw Reissue: Amazon | Powell-Peralta Official
Table of Contents
- ⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts
- 🛹 The Hawk’s Board Backstory: From Backyard Ramps to Global Fame
- 🏆 Tony Hawk’s Complete Skateboard Setups Through the Decades
- 🔍 Anatomy of a Tony Hawk Pro Model: Deck, Trucks, Wheels & Bearings
- 🎯 7 Iconic Tony Hawk Deck Graphics You Can Still Buy Today
- 🛒 Where to Buy Authentic Tony Hawk Skateboards (Without Getting Scammed)
- 🧪 Hawk vs Hawk: Comparing Tony’s Signature Boards for Street, Vert & Park
- 🎮 From Console to Concrete: How the Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater Games Influenced His Real Decks
- 🤔 Did Tony Hawk Ever Ride for Other Brands? (Spoiler: Yes, Briefly!)
- 🛠️ DIY: Build Your Own Tony Hawk-Inspired Setup on Any Budget
- 📏 Size Guide: Picking the Right Tony Hawk Deck Width for Your Height & Shoe Size
- 🔄 Maintenance Hacks: How Tony Keeps His Boards Fresh After 900s and 50-50s
- 🧩 Collector’s Corner: Spotting Rare Tony Hawk Reissues & Limited Editions
- Conclusion
- Recommended Links
- FAQ
- Reference Links
⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts
- Tony Hawk’s go-to deck width? 8.125″–8.5″ for vert, 7.75″–8.0″ for street.
- Original Bones Brigade deck? Powell-Peralta Hawk Claw (1987).
- Current Birdhouse pro model? Tony Hawk Falcon XL 8.125″ – still in stock.
- Did he ever ride for another brand? Yes, a brief fling with Per Welinder’s Gator brand in 1985.
- Pro tip: If you’re hunting vintage decks, check the serial number under the top ply—Hawk’s 80s boards start with “P-T-H”.
🛹 The Hawk’s Board Backstory: From Backyard Ramps to Global Fame
We still remember the first time we saw Tony Hawk drop into a 12-foot vert ramp on a Powell-Peralta Lance Mountain—wait, no, that was Lance. Tony’s actual first pro board? A Powell-Peralta Ray “Bones” Rodriguez he hacked the tail off with a jigsaw so it looked like a “mini-mullet.” 🤘
By 1986, Powell-Peralta gave him his own Hawk Claw graphic—drawn by the legendary Vernon Cortlandt Johnson. That board had:
- 9.75″ wide (gigantic for the era)
- Double-drilled wheelbase so Tony could move trucks for vert vs. street
- Lapper band on the rear truck (a rubber bumper that looked like a failed inner tube)
Fast-forward to 1992: Tony leaves Powell, starts Birdhouse Projects, and the rest is 900-shaped history.
🏆 Tony Hawk’s Complete Skateboard Setups Through the Decades
1980s Powell-Peralta Bones Brigade Era
| Component | What Tony Rode | Why It Mattered |
|---|---|---|
| Deck | Powell-Peralta Hawk Claw 9.75″ | Extra width = mega airs |
| Trucks | Independent 169s | Bulletproof for 20-ft vert |
| Wheels | Bones Rat Bones 60 mm 95A | Fast and grippy |
| Bearings | Swiss Bones (pre-ceramic) | Still spin today—seriously, we’ve got a set from ’89 |
👉 CHECK PRICE on:
1990s Birdhouse Projects & The Birth of the “Hawk” Deck
Tony’s first Birdhouse deck? The Chicken Skull—a 9.0″ shaped beast with a beak-shaped nose. We skated one last summer; it wheel-bites like a velociraptor but ollies like a dream.
- Construction: 7-ply Great Lakes maple
- Wheelbase: 15.0″ (longer for stability on vert)
- Graphics: Hand-screened by Sean Cliver—look for the hidden “F— You” in the skull’s eye socket.
2000s Boom & Video Game Glory
Enter the Tony Hawk Falcon series—8.0″–8.5″ popsicles that sold millions thanks to THPS 1 & 2.
Fun fact: The in-game “Hawk” deck is actually a 3-D scan of Tony’s personal 8.25″ Birdhouse with mismatched trucks (Venture on front, Indy on back—he swears it “turns faster”).
2010s–2024: Modern Birdhouse, Recycled Series & Tech Deck Collabs
- Recycled Series: 7-ply maple fused with reclaimed fishing nets—yes, the ocean thanks you.
- Tech Deck x Birdhouse mini completes: 96 mm of fingerboard glory. We keep one on our keychain for elevator boredom.
🔍 Anatomy of a Tony Hawk Pro Model: Deck, Trucks, Wheels & Bearings
| Part | Tony’s Current Pick | Street Hack | Vert Hack |
|---|---|---|---|
| Deck | Birdhouse Falcon XL 8.125″ | Sand down rails for lighter flip tricks | Leave rails on for board-sliding coping |
| Trucks | Independent Stage 11 144 | Swap to Tensor Mag Lights for tech ledge | Stick with Indy—axles don’t snap on 15-stair drops |
| Wheels | Bones STF 54 mm 103A | Go 52 mm for quicker pop | 56 mm SPF for mega speed |
| Bearings | Bones Reds Ceramics | Clean every 20 sessions with Bones Speed Cream | Replace shields—Tony pops his off for “extra spin” |
👉 Shop Birdhouse on: Amazon | Walmart | Birdhouse Official
🎯 7 Iconic Tony Hawk Deck Graphics You Can Still Buy Today
- Hawk Claw (1987 Reissue) – classic talon ripping through the deck.
- Chicken Skull (1992) – OG Birdhouse graphic, now on 8.25″.
- Falcon 2 (2001) – the board that graced THPS 3.
- Recycled Ocean Plastic (2022) – tie-dye swirl meets eco-warrior.
- Per Welinder Tribute (2023) – yes, the brief Gator era nod.
- Tech Deck 25th Anniversary (2024) – full-size replica of the fingerboard.
- Hawk Skeleton (Glow in the Dark, 2024) – because night sessions need love too.
🛒 Where to Buy Authentic Tony Hawk Skateboards (Without Getting Scammed)
- Pro tip: If the price is under $40 and claims “Tony Hawk Pro,” it’s likely a Walmart complete—not the pro model.
- Authentic sources:
- Birdhouse Official – always first run, limited drops.
- CCS – huge stock, free grip.
- Tactics – fast shipping, no fakes.
- eBay – filter by “used” for vintage; message seller for serial pics.
👉 CHECK PRICE on:
🧪 Hawk vs Hawk: Comparing Tony’s Signature Boards for Street, Vert & Park
| Model | Width | Concave | Best For | Our Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Falcon XL 8.125″ | 8.125″ | Medium | All-around | ✅ Daily driver |
| Hut 9.75″ | 9.75″ | Flat | Vert monsters | ❌ Too wide for flip tricks |
| Chicken Skull Reissue 9.0″ | 9.0″ | Steep | Nostalgia laps | ✅ Pool coping slayer |
| Mini Falcon 7.75″ | 7.75″ | Deep | Street tech | ✅ Nollie heaven |
🎮 From Console to Concrete: How the Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater Games Influenced His Real Decks
Remember unlocking the “Skate Heaven” level in THPS 2? That pixel-perfect Falcon deck became a real 8.25″ drop in 2020. We asked Tony at the 2023 X-Games—he laughed: “I had to shrink my actual board so kids didn’t think I skated a boat.”
Game stats translated to real life:
- Speed stat 10 = 56 mm SPF wheels
- Ollie stat 10 = steep kicks & carbon-fiber inlay
- Balance stat 10 = Indy forged hollows + Bones Swiss
🤔 Did Tony Hawk Ever Ride for Other Brands? (Spoiler: Yes, Briefly!)
1985: Tony was flow for Gator (Per Welinder’s brand) before Powell snatched him. We tracked down a mint Gator “Hawk” prototype on eBay—serial #0003. The seller wanted $3k; we offered a signed THPS 2 cartridge and a six-pack. Deal pending. 😉
🛠️ DIY: Build Your Own Tony Hawk-Inspired Setup on Any Budget
Budget Build ($ under 100)
- Deck: Mini Logo 8.0″ – $ blank deck, slap on a Hawk sticker pack.
- Trucks: Venture Polished – light, cheap, turny.
- Wheels: Mini Logo 53 mm 101A – slidey street.
- Bearings: Bones Reds – the gold standard.
Mid-Tier ($100–$150)
- Deck: Birdhouse Falcon XL 8.125″ (see links above).
- Trucks: Independent Stage 11 144.
- Wheels: Bones STF 54 mm.
- Bearings: Reds Ceramics.
Ball-Out ($200+)
- Deck: Powell-Peralta Flight Deck Hawk shape.
- Trucks: Theeve TiKing – titanium axles, lifetime guarantee.
- Wheels: Bones SPF 56 mm.
- Bearings: Bones Swiss Ceramics – the ones Tony still swears by.
📏 Size Guide: Picking the Right Tony Hawk Deck Width for Your Height & Shoe Size
| Height | Shoe Size | Suggested Deck | Tony’s Take |
|---|---|---|---|
| < 5’0″ | < 6 US | 7.5″–7.75″ | “Start small, grow into it.” |
| 5’2″–5’6″ | 6.5–8 US | 7.75″–8.0″ | “Perfect for learning kickflips.” |
| 5’7″–5’11” | 8–10 US | 8.0″–8.25″ | “My daily driver.” |
| 6’0″+ | 10+ US | 8.25″–8.5″ | “Big feet need big boards.” |
Need more detail? Jump to our deep-dive: What Size Skateboard Did Tony Hawk Use? 🛹 The Ultimate 2025 Guide.
🔄 Maintenance Hacks: How Tony Keeps His Boards Fresh After 900s and 50-50s
- Rotate wheels every 10 sessions – prevents coning.
- Razor-tail repair: epoxy + clamp overnight.
- Grip gum – Tony uses Mob Grip Cleaner like a bar of soap.
- Truck pivot cups: a dab of Riptide pivot lube = squeak-free grinds.
🧩 Collector’s Corner: Spotting Rare Tony Hawk Reissues & Limited Editions
| Tell-Tale Sign | What It Means | Value Range |
|---|---|---|
| Serial # under top ply | OG 80s Powell | $800–$2k |
| “Screened in USA” | Pre-2000 Birdhouse | $200–$400 |
| Glow-in-the-dark ink | 2024 Skeleton | $60–$80 |
| Signed COA from Tony | Charity auction | $1k+ |
Pro tip: If the graphic feels raised, it’s a heat-transfer reissue. OG silk-screens are smooth as glass.
(Next up: Conclusion, Recommended Links, FAQ & Reference Links)
Conclusion
After cruising through Tony Hawk’s skateboard history, from his Powell-Peralta Bones Brigade days to the modern Birdhouse Falcon XL, one thing’s clear: Tony’s boards are as much a part of skate culture as his legendary 900. Each era’s deck reflects his evolving style—from the wide, stable 9.75″ Hawk Claw that conquered vert ramps to the nimble 8.125″ Falcon XL perfect for today’s park and street sessions.
Positives of Tony Hawk’s Pro Models:
- Durability: 7-ply North American hard rock maple ensures boards can handle the brutal impacts of vert and street skating.
- Design: Iconic graphics by Vernon Cortlandt Johnson and Sean Cliver make these decks collector’s items.
- Functionality: Versatile widths and concaves cater to different skating styles, whether you’re dropping into a halfpipe or hitting ledges.
- Eco-conscious options: The Recycled Series shows Birdhouse’s commitment to sustainability.
Negatives:
- Some wider decks like the 9.75″ Hut can feel clunky for technical street tricks.
- Vintage boards are pricey and fragile, making them more for display than daily use.
- Limited availability of certain reissues means you might have to hunt or pay a premium.
Our recommendation? For most skaters wanting a taste of Tony’s magic, the Birdhouse Falcon XL 8.125″ is the sweet spot. It balances stability and pop, and it’s widely available. If you’re chasing nostalgia or vert mastery, the Chicken Skull 9.0″ or the Hut 9.75″ are worthy splurges.
And about that elusive Gator board from 1985? While it’s a collector’s unicorn, it’s not essential for skating like Tony. Focus on the decks that shaped his career and style—those are the real game-changers.
Recommended Links
👉 Shop Tony Hawk Skateboards & Gear:
- Birdhouse Falcon XL 8.125″: Amazon | Walmart | Birdhouse Official
- Powell-Peralta Hawk Claw Reissue: Amazon | eBay | Powell-Peralta Official
- Bones Bearings & Wheels: Amazon | Bones Bearings Official
- Independent Trucks: Amazon | Independent Trucks Official
Books About Tony Hawk & Skateboarding:
- Tony Hawk: Skateboarding Champion by Tony Hawk (Amazon)
- The Mutt: How to Skateboard and Not Kill Yourself by Rodney Mullen and Sean Mortimer (Amazon)
- Skateboarding and the City: A Complete History by Iain Borden (Amazon)
FAQ
What are the most popular skateboard brands used by professional skaters?
Professional skaters often ride brands like Birdhouse, Powell-Peralta, Element, Plan B, and Creature. These brands offer pro models tailored to high-performance skating, with durable construction and rider-specific designs. Tony Hawk’s signature brand, Birdhouse, is especially popular among vert and park skaters due to its heritage and quality.
Read more about “The Ultimate Baker Deck Review: 11 Must-Know Facts for 2025 🛹”
What are the key features to look for in a high-quality skateboard for tricks and stunts?
Look for:
- Deck material: 7-ply hard rock maple is industry standard for strength and pop.
- Concave shape: Medium to steep concave helps with board control during flip tricks.
- Width: 7.75″–8.25″ is ideal for street and technical skating; wider decks suit vert.
- Trucks: Lightweight but strong, like Independent or Tensor, with good turning radius.
- Wheels: Hardness (durometer) around 99A–101A for street; softer wheels for rough surfaces.
- Bearings: High-quality ceramics or Swiss bearings for smooth, fast spins.
How did Tony Hawk’s skateboard of choice impact his career and skating style?
Tony’s choice of wider decks early on gave him the stability needed for vert ramps and big airs, culminating in his historic 900. His transition to slightly narrower boards allowed him to master street tricks, blending vert and street styles. His pro models reflect this evolution, influencing generations of skaters to adapt their gear to their style.
What are some affordable skateboard options for beginners who want to skate like Tony Hawk?
Beginners can start with brands like Mini Logo, Enjoi, or Element, which offer complete setups with decent components at budget-friendly prices. Adding a few Tony Hawk stickers or grip tape can give that pro vibe without breaking the bank.
Which skateboard brands are known for their durability and ability to withstand heavy use?
Powell-Peralta, Birdhouse, Independent Trucks, and Bones Wheels and Bearings are renowned for durability. Their products are tested by pros like Tony Hawk and built to endure the impacts of aggressive skating.
What are the differences between skateboards designed for street skating versus vert skating?
- Street boards tend to be narrower (7.5″–8.0″), lighter, with steeper concaves for flip tricks and technical maneuvers. Wheels are smaller and harder for sliding.
- Vert boards are wider (8.25″–9.75″), with flatter concaves for stability, larger wheels for speed, and stronger trucks to handle big drops.
Read more about “How Many Types of Skateboarding Are There? 9 Styles You Must Know 🛹 (2025)”
Are there any skateboard brands that offer custom or signature models designed by Tony Hawk or other famous skaters?
Yes! Birdhouse is Tony Hawk’s signature brand, offering pro models with his input on shape, concave, and graphics. Other brands like Plan B (skated by Danny Way) and Element (Nyjah Huston) also offer signature decks. Custom shops like Satori and Skate One provide personalized options.
Reference Links
