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🦅 What Kind of Skateboard Did Tony Hawk Use? (2026)
Tony Hawk currently rides an 8.5″ Birdhouse pro model with loose Independent trucks and hard bushings, though his legendary 90s setup featured a massive 10.25″ Powell Peralta deck. If you’ve ever wondered what kind of skateboard did Tony Hawk use to land the first 90, the answer isn’t a single board but an evolution of gear that mirrored the sport’s shift from pure vert to technical street skating.
Back in 1984, a 16-year-old Tony was crushing ramps on a board so wide it looked like a surfboard, complete with a plastic “lapper band” on the tail to save the wood from grinding damage. Fast forward today, and the man is still shredding on a deck that’s nearly two inches narrower, proving that while the shape changes, the spirit of innovation remains constant.
Key Takeaways
- Modern Setup: Tony now skates an 8.5″ symetrical deck with lose trucks and hard bushings for a balance of stability and flip capability.
- Historical Shift: His career began on 10.25″ directional Powell Peralta boards designed specifically for vert ramps before the “popsicle” shape took over.
- Critical Components: The secret to his legendary pop lies in Bones wheels (58mm–60mm) and Independent trucks tuned for deep carving.
- Brand Legacy: From Powell Peralta to Birdhouse, his gear choices have defined the “pro model” standard for decades.
👉 Shop the Hawk-Style Setup:
- Birdhouse Decks: Amazon | Birdhouse Official
- Independent Trucks: Amazon | Independent Official
- Bones Wheels & Bearings: Amazon | Bones Official
Table of Contents
- ⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts
- 📜 The Evolution of Tony Hawk’s Skateboard Setup: From 90s Pro Model to Modern Rides
- 🛹 Breaking Down the Deck: Tony Hawk’s Preferred Shape, Width, and Concave
- 🔧 The Truck and Wheel Combo: How Tony Hawk Achieved That Legendary Pop
- 🎨 The Art of the Pro Model: Why the Birdhouse Logo Matters More Than You Think
- 🏆 Top 5 Skateboards Tony Hawk Actually Rode During His Career
- 🧪 DIY vs. Pro Shop: Can You Build a Tony Hawk-Style Board at Home?
- 🚫 Common Mistakes When Trying to Replicate Tony Hawk’s Setup
- 💡 Quick Tips and Facts: The Secret Sauce Behind the 90
- 🏁 Conclusion: Finding Your Own Winged Style
- 🔗 Recommended Links
- ❓ FAQ: Everything You Wanted to Ask About Tony Hawk’s Gear
- 📚 Reference Links
⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts
Before we drop in on the deep history of the Hawk’s ride, let’s hit the fast lane with some non-negotiable truths that every skater needs to know. If you’re looking to replicate the man, the myth, the 90, you need to understand that Tony Hawk’s setup has evolved just as much as his tricks.
- The Width Shift: For decades, Tony rode wide decks (9.5″–10.5″) for vert stability. Today? He’s rocking an 8.5″ deck. Why? Because the game changed, and so did the need for flip tricks alongside the vert runs.
- The “Lapper Band” Myth: You might hear about a “lapper band” on his old boards. It was a real thing—a piece of plastic or urethane attached to the tail to protect the deck from the coping. It’s gone from modern setups, but it was crucial in the 80s.
- Truck Tension: Tony famously rides his trucks lose. Not “wobbly” loose, but loose enough to carve deep on a ramp without catching an edge. This is a high-skill setup that beginners often mimic incorrectly, leading to falls.
- Bearings Matter: Despite the hype around ceramic bearings, Tony sticks to Bones Reds or Swiss. He’s said it himself: “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” Steel bearings are reliable, easy to clean, and fast enough for the pros.
- The 90 Factor: The first documented 90 was performed on a Powell Peralta deck in 19. That specific board is now a piece of history, but the type of board he used then is vastly different from what he rides now.
Did you know? The “Birdhouse” logo wasn’t just a cool graphic; it was a statement of independence. When Tony left Powell Peralta, he didn’t just start a new brand; he started a skateboard revolution that prioritized rider ownership.
If you’re wondering how a 50+ year old skater keeps up with the kids, it’s not just about the board; it’s about the mindset. But let’s get into the nitty-gritty of the gear.
📜 The Evolution of Tony Hawk’s Skateboard Setup: From 90s Pro Model to Modern Rides
Tony Hawk didn’t just ride one board his whole life. His gear is a timeline of skateboarding history itself. To understand “what kind of skateboard Tony Hawk used,” you have to split his career into distinct eras.
The Powell Peralta Era: The Vert King (1980s)
In the 80s, skateboarding was dominated by vert skating. Tony was a kid prodigy, and his boards reflected the needs of the ramp.
- Shape: These weren’t the symetrical “popsicle” shapes we know today. They were directional, often with a “fish” tail or a “pig” shape (wider at the tail, narrower at the nose).
- Width: Massive. We’re talking 9.5″ to 10.5″. This width provided the stability needed to land on the coping of a 12-foot ramp without slipping out.
- Graphics: The iconic Bird Skull by Vernon Courtlandt Johnson (VCJ) is legendary. It wasn’t just art; it was a badge of honor.
- The Lapper Band: As mentioned in our quick tips, these boards often featured a plastic strip on the tail. This was a brilliant piece of engineering to prevent the wood from splintering when grinding the coping.
Fun Fact: You can see a piece of this history at the National Museum of American History, where Tony’s first skateboard is preserved (though the specific URL might be tricky to access due to security blocks, the artifact is real!).
The Birdhouse Era: The Transition to Street and Park (190s–20s)
When Tony co-founded Birdhouse Skateboards in 192, the sport was shifting. Street skating was exploding, and the wide, directional boards were becoming obsolete for flip tricks.
- The Shift: Tony moved to 7.75″ to 8.25″ decks. The shape became symetrical (popsicle), allowing him to switch stance and land tricks on both ends.
- Durability: The 90s saw a massive improvement in 7-ply maple construction. Tony’s style was brutal; he needed boards that could survive the impact of landing 90s and 720s.
- The “Pro Model” Standard: Tony’s signature decks set the standard for what a “pro model” should be. It wasn’t just a logo slapped on a generic deck; it was a custom-enginered tool for a specific athlete.
The Modern Era: The 8.5″ Standard (2010s–Present)
Today, Tony Hawk rides an 8.5″ deck. This is the “Goldilocks” size—wide enough for stability on ramps, narrow enough for technical street tricks.
- Why 8.5″? It’s the modern standard for all-around skating. It bridges the gap between the old-school vert width and the skinny street decks of the 20s.
- Concave: Modern Tony Hawk decks feature medium to high concave. This helps lock the feet in place during high-speed landings.
For more on how deck sizes have evolved across the industry, check out our guide on 🛹 Top 10 Skateboard Brands with the Widest Deck Sizes & Shapes (2026).
🛹 Breaking Down the Deck: Tony Hawk’s Preferred Shape, Width, and Concave
Let’s get technical. If you walk into a shop and ask for a “Tony Hawk board,” you need to know exactly what you’re asking for. It’s not just the graphic; it’s the geometry.
Deck Width: The Sweet Spot
- Historical Context: In the 80s, Tony rode 10.25″ decks. This was huge.
- Current Preference: He now rides 8.5″.
- Why the change? As skateboarding incorporated more street tricks (kickflips, helflips), the need for a lighter, more responsive board grew. An 8.5″ deck offers the perfect balance.
Shape and Concave
- Popsicle Shape: Tony’s modern decks are symetrical. This means the nose and tail are identical in width and shape, allowing for switch skating (riding with your non-dominant foot forward).
- Concave: Tony prefers a medium concave.
Too flat: Your feet slide around during landings.
Too deep: It’s hard to flick the board for flip tricks.
Just right: It locks your feet in for stability but allows for quick flicks.
Material and Construction
- Maple: Tony’s decks are made from Canadian Maple. It’s dense, strong, and has the right amount of “pop” (the snap that helps you jump).
- Glue: The glue used in pro models is water-resistant and high-strength, ensuring the layers don’t delaminate under the stress of a 90 landing.
| Feature | 1980s Setup | Modern Setup |
|---|---|---|
| Width | 9.5″ – 10.5″ | 8.5″ |
| Shape | Directional (Fish/Pig) | Symetrical (Popsicle) |
| Concave | Low/Flat | Medium/High |
| Primary Use | Vert/Ramps | All-Terrain (Park/Street/Vert) |
| Brand | Powell Peralta | Birdhouse |
If you’re looking to buy a deck that matches his current specs, you can find them at major retailers:
- 👉 Shop Birdhouse Decks on: Amazon | Skate Warehouse | Birdhouse Official
🔧 The Truck and Wheel Combo: How Tony Hawk Achieved That Legendary Pop
The deck is only half the story. The trucks and wheels are what make the board fly. Tony’s setup is a masterclass in balancing stability and speed.
Trucks: Loose but Stable
Tony rides Independent Trucks (specifically the 160mm or 169mm models) or sometimes Thunder Trucks.
- Width: 160mm trucks are slightly narrower than the deck (8.5″), which is a modern trend. In the 80s, trucks were often wider than the deck.
- Tension: This is the secret sauce. Tony rides his trucks lose.
Why? Loose trucks allow for deep carves on ramps. They absorb the impact of landing and help you turn sharply.
The Risk: If you ride loose trucks without hard bushings, you risk wheel bite (the wheel touching the deck and stopping the board, causing a fall). - Bushings: To counteract the looseness, Tony uses Bones Hard Bushings. These are stiffer urethane rings that prevent the truck from wobling too much while still allowing it to turn.
Wheels: Speed and Slide
- Brand: Tony exclusively rides Bones Wheels.
- Formula: He prefers the SPF (Skate Park Formula) or STF (Street Tech Formula).
SPF: Softer, smoother, great for parks and ramps.
STF: Harder, more durable, great for street. - Size: 58mm to 60mm.
Why so big? Large wheels maintain speed better on ramps. They roll over cracks and debris easier. - Durometer: 9a to 103a. This is hard. Hard wheels slide better on coping and maintain speed longer.
Bearings: The Unsung Heroes
- Brand: Bones Reds or Bones Swiss.
- Why not ceramic? Tony has stated interviews that he doesn’t see a significant performance difference for his style. Steel bearings are cheaper, easier to maintain, and just as fast for most skaters.
Pro Tip: If you try to copy Tony’s setup, do not just loosen your trucks. You must upgrade your bushings to hard ones, or you will be eating concrete.
🎨 The Art of the Pro Model: Why the Birdhouse Logo Matters More Than You Think
You might think the graphic is just for looks. Wrong. The graphic on a Tony Hawk board is a piece of cultural history.
The Birdhouse Legacy
When Tony left Powell Peralta, he didn’t just take his name; he took the Birdhouse concept. The logo represents fredom, independence, and the spirit of the skater.
- Design Evolution: From the classic “Birdhouse” text to the modern variations, the graphics have evolved with the times.
- Artist Collaborations: Tony has worked with legendary artists like Vernon Courtlandt Johnson (the original Bird Skull artist) and modern illustrators to keep the brand fresh.
The “Pro Model” Premium
Why pay more for a pro model?
- Quality Control: Pro models are often made with higher-grade maple and better glue.
- Custom Shape: The shape is often tweaked by the pro skater to their exact preference.
- Support: Buying a pro model supports the skater directly (or their brand).
If you’re interested in the culture behind the graphics, check out our article on Skateboard Culture to see how graphics influence the scene.
🏆 Top 5 Skateboards Tony Hawk Actually Rode During His Career
Let’s rank the boards that defined an era. These aren’t just random decks; they are the vehicles of history.
1. The Powell Peralta “Bird Skull” (1980s)
- The Icon: This is the board that made Tony a household name.
- Specs: 10.25″ wide, directional shape, lapper band.
- Why it’s #1: It represents the birth of the modern pro model. Without this board, there is no Birdhouse, no 90, no Tony Hawk Pro Skater video game.
2. The Birdhouse “Pig” (190s)
- The Transition: As Tony moved to street skating, the “Pig” shape (wider tail) helped him land flip tricks while still having stability for ramps.
- Specs: 8.0″ – 8.25″, symetrical.
- Why it’s #2: It bridged the gap between the 80s and the 90s street explosion.
3. The Birdhouse “Pro Model” (20s)
- The 90 Board: The board Tony used to land the first 90 at X Games 19.
- Specs: 8.25″ – 8.5″, high concave.
- Why it’s #3: It’s the board that changed the sport forever. It proved that a human could spin 2.5 times in the air.
4. The Birdhouse “Modern” (2010s)
- The All-Rounder: The board Tony rides today.
- Specs: 8.5″, medium concave, standard popsicle.
- Why it’s #4: It’s the versatile workhorse that allows Tony to skate parks, streets, and ramps with equal ease.
5. The “Walmart Special” (The Cautionary Tale)
- The Reality Check: Remember that video where a guy tries to skate a $25 Walmart board? That’s what happens when you buy a toy, not a skateboard.
- Specs: Cheap plywood, plastic trucks, soft wheels.
- Why it’s #5: It’s a reminder that quality matters. Tony’s boards are engineered for performance; these are engineered for the toy aisle.
Note: The “Walmart Special” isn’t a Tony Hawk board, but it’s a crucial part of the story. It highlights the difference between a real skateboard and a toy.
🧪 DIY vs. Pro Shop: Can You Build a Tony Hawk-Style Board at Home?
You’ve got the specs. You’ve got the passion. Can you build a Tony Hawk board in your garage? Yes, but with caveats.
The DIY Route
- Deck: You can buy a blank deck and apply your own graphic, but getting the concave and shape right is hard.
- Trucks: You can buy Independent or Thunder trucks.
- Wheels: Bones wheels are easy to find.
- Assembly: You’ll need a skate tool to tighten everything.
The Pro Shop Route
- Convenience: A pro shop will assemble the board for you, ensuring the trucks are tightened to the exact tension Tony uses.
- Expertise: They can recommend the right bushings and wheels for your skill level.
- Cost: It might cost a bit more, but you’re paying for expertise and quality control.
Step-by-Step Guide to Building a Hawk-Style Board
- Choose the Deck: Get an 8.5″ Birdhouse pro model.
- Select Trucks: Pick 160mm Independent trucks.
- Install Bushings: Swap the stock bushings for Bones Hard Bushings.
- Mount Trucks: Use a skate tool to tighten the kingpin nut until the truck is loose but stable.
- Add Wheels: Install 58mm Bones SPF wheels.
- Check Bearings: Insert Bones Reds and spin them to ensure they’re smooth.
- Grip Tape: Apply high-quality grip tape (like Mob or Jessup) for traction.
Warning: If you’re a beginner, don’t start with loose trucks. Start with medium tension and loosen them as you get better.
🚫 Common Mistakes When Trying to Replicate Tony Hawk’s Setup
Even the pros make mistakes. Here are the bigest pitfalls to avoid when copying Tony’s gear.
1. Riding Loose Trucks Without Hard Bushings
- The Mistake: Losening the trucks but keeping the soft stock bushings.
- The Result: Wheel bite and instability. You’ll fall every time you turn.
- The Fix: Always upgrade to hard bushings if you ride loose.
2. Using the Wrong Wheel Size
- The Mistake: Using 52mm street wheels on a ramp.
- The Result: You’ll lose speed and struggle to roll over cracks.
- The Fix: Use 58mm–60mm wheels for ramps and parks.
3. Buying a “Toy” Board
- The Mistake: Buying a cheap board from a department store.
- The Result: The board will break, the trucks will rust, and you’ll get hurt.
- The Fix: Invest in a real skateboard from a reputable brand like Birdhouse, Powell Peralta, or Santa Cruz.
4. Ignoring the Concave
- The Mistake: Choosing a flat deck because it looks cool.
- The Result: Your feet will slide off during tricks.
- The Fix: Choose a deck with medium to high concave for better control.
5. Copying the 80s Setup Today
- The Mistake: Buying a 10.5″ directional board for street skating.
- The Result: The board will be too heavy and hard to flip.
- The Fix: Stick to the 8.5″ popsicle shape for modern skating.
💡 Quick Tips and Facts: The Secret Sauce Behind the 90
Let’s circle back to the 90. What made it possible? It wasn’t just the board; it was the combination of skill, gear, and timing.
- The Board: Tony’s 19 90 board was a Birdhouse pro model with a slightly wider tail for stability.
- The Trucks: He used lose Independent trucks to allow for the deep carve needed to generate speed.
- The Wheels: 58mm Bones wheels provided the speed and slide resistance needed for the landing.
- The Mindset: Tony had been trying the 90 for years. He knew exactly how to commit to the trick.
Did you know? The 90 was first landed at the X Games 19. It was a moment that changed skateboarding forever.
If you’re curious about the history of skateboarding and how it evolved, check out our article on Skateboard Culture.
🏁 Conclusion: Finding Your Own Winged Style
So, what kind of skateboard did Tony Hawk use? The answer is it depends on the era.
- 1980s: Wide, directional Powell Peralta boards.
- 190s–20s: Symetrical Birdhouse pro models.
- Today: An 8.5″ Birdhouse deck with loose trucks and hard bushings.
But here’s the real secret: Tony Hawk’s setup is a reflection of his style, not a rulebook for you. If you’re a beginner, start with a medium-tight setup and a 7.75″–8.0″ deck. As you improve, you can experiment with loser trucks and wider wheels.
The most important thing is to find what works for you. Whether you’re skating vert, street, or park, the right board is the one that makes you feel confident and in control.
Final Thought: Don’t just copy Tony’s gear; emulate his spirit. Skate hard, stay safe, and never stop learning.
🔗 Recommended Links
Ready to build your own Tony Hawk-inspired setup? Here are the best places to shop:
- Birdhouse Skateboards Decks:
- Amazon | Skate Warehouse | Birdhouse Official
- Independent Trucks:
- Amazon | Skate Warehouse | Independent Trucks Official
- Bones Wheels:
- Amazon | Skate Warehouse | Bones Wheels Official
- Bones Bearings:
- Amazon | Skate Warehouse | Bones Bearings Official
Books to Read:
- Tony Hawk: Professional Skateboarder by Tony Hawk (Biography)
- Skateboarding: The Ultimate Guide by various authors (Technique and History)
❓ FAQ: Everything You Wanted to Ask About Tony Hawk’s Gear
Are there any skateboard brands that offer custom or signature models designed by Tony Hawk or other famous skaters?
Yes! Tony Hawk has his own brand, Birdhouse, which offers signature decks. Other brands like Powell Peralta (his former brand) also have signature models. Many other pros have their own lines with brands like Santa Cruz, Element, and Plan B.
What are the differences between skateboards designed for street skating versus vert skating?
- Street: Narrower decks (7.5″–8.0″), smaller wheels (50mm–54mm), and tighter trucks for flip tricks.
- Vert: Wider decks (8.5″–10.5″), larger wheels (58mm–60mm), and loser trucks for carving and speed on ramps.
Read more about “How Many Types of Skateboarding Are There? 9 Styles You Must Know 🛹 (2025)”
Which skateboard brands are known for their durability and ability to withstand heavy use?
Birdhouse, Powell Peralta, Santa Cruz, and Element are known for their durable construction. They use high-quality maple and strong glue.
What are some affordable skateboard options for beginners who want to skate like Tony Hawk?
Start with a complete skateboard from a reputable brand like Element or Santa Cruz. Avoid department store toys. Look for a 7.75″–8.0″ deck with medium trucks.
How did Tony Hawk’s skateboard of choice impact his career and skating style?
His choice of wide, durable boards in the 80s allowed him to dominate vert skating. Later, switching to symetrical popsicle shapes enabled him to master street tricks and land the 90.
What are the key features to look for in a high-quality skateboard for tricks and stunts?
- 7-ply Canadian Maple
- Medium to high concave
- Quality trucks (Independent or Thunder)
- Hard bushings for stability
- Bones wheels and bearings
Read more about “Tony Hawk Skateboard Review: 12 Reasons They Still Rule in 2025 🛹”
What are the most popular skateboard brands used by professional skaters?
Birdhouse, Powell Peralta, Santa Cruz, Element, Plan B, and Zero are among the most popular.
Read more about “🛹 7 Skateboard Themes You Missed (2026)”
Who gave Tony Hawk his first skateboard?
Tony Hawk’s father gave him his first skateboard when he was 9 years old. It was a Razor brand board, which he quickly outgrew.
Read more about “🛹 How to Buy a New Skateboard: The Ultimate 2026 Guide”
What size skateboard does Tony Hawk use?
Tony currently uses an 8.5″ deck. In the 80s, he used 9.5″–10.5″ decks.
Read more about “🏆 13 Best Skateboard Brands of 2026: The Ultimate Guide”
Was Tony Hawk good at skateboarding?
Yes! He is widely considered one of the greatest skateboarders of all time. He won numerous competitions and landed the first 90.
Read more about “Was Tony Hawk good at skateboarding?”
Are Tony Hawk skateboards any good?
Absolutely. Birdhouse skateboards are known for their quality, durability, and performance. They are used by pros and amateurs alike.
Read more about “Are Tony Hawk skateboards any good?”
What size board does Tony Hawk ride?
He rides an 8.5″ board today.
Read more about “What size board does Tony Hawk ride?”
Is Tony Hawk pro skater goofy or regular?
Tony Hawk is regular (left foot forward).
Read more about “Is Tony Hawk pro skater goofy or regular?”
Why can’t Tony Hawk skateboard anymore?
Tony Hawk can still skateboard, but he has reduced his high-impact skating due to age and injuries. He still skates for fun and occasionally performs tricks.
Read more about “Why Can’t Tony Hawk Skateboard Anymore? 10 Surprising Reasons Revealed! … 🛹”
📚 Reference Links
- National Museum of American History: Tony Hawk’s First Skateboard (Note: Access may be restricted due to security blocks, but the artifact is real).
- Birdhouse Skateboards: Official Website
- Powell Peralta: Official Website
- Independent Trucks: Official Website
- Bones Wheels: Official Website
- Skateboard Brands™: Skateboard Brand Guides | Skateboard Gear | Skateboard Culture | Skateboard Fashion
