What Skateboard Did Tony Hawk First Use? 🛹 The Untold Story (2025)

Ever wondered what skateboard launched Tony Hawk’s legendary career? Spoiler alert: it wasn’t a flashy pro model or a custom deck—it was a humble, hand-me-down Bahne fiberglass board with a DIY twist that set the stage for skateboarding history. In this article, we peel back the layers on Tony’s very first skateboard, explore the brands and tech behind it, and reveal how that simple setup sparked a revolution in skate culture. Plus, we’ll share insider tips on choosing your own first board inspired by the Birdman himself. Ready to roll back in time and discover the roots of a skateboarding icon? Let’s dive in!

Did you know Tony’s first board now lives in the Smithsonian? But that’s just the beginning—keep reading to find out how his early modifications on that board foreshadowed decades of innovation and why his journey proves you don’t need the fanciest gear to start skating like a pro.

Key Takeaways

  • Tony Hawk’s first skateboard was a blue Bahne fiberglass board, gifted by his older brother, featuring red Stoker urethane wheels and basic trucks.
  • He innovated early by adding wooden risers to prevent wheel bite—a DIY hack that influenced skateboard design.
  • This board was the foundation for Tony’s rise from hyperactive kid to skateboarding legend and is now preserved at the Smithsonian.
  • Tony’s journey shows that passion and creativity matter more than expensive gear when starting out.
  • For beginners inspired by Tony, brands like Powell Peralta, Birdhouse, and Santa Cruz offer quality complete skateboards perfect for learning and progression.

👉 Shop Tony Hawk Inspired Skateboards:

Table of Contents

Here is the main body content for the blog post, “What Skateboard Did Tony Hawk First Use?”.

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

Hey, it’s the crew from Skateboard Brands™! Before we drop in on the full story, let’s grind through some fast facts about the board that started it all for the Birdman. Ever wonder what size board Tony Hawk uses now? We’ve got a whole guide on that! But what about the first one?

Here’s the lowdown:

  • It Was a Hand-Me-Down: Tony’s first skateboard wasn’t some fresh-out-the-box pro model. It was a blue Bahne fiberglass board that his older brother, Steve, gave him in 1977.
  • Not a Pro Setup (At First): The board featured some classic ’70s components, including red Stoker urethane wheels and basic metal trucks.
  • The Famous DIY Mod: Young Tony, ever the innovator, screwed wooden blocks between the trucks and the deck. Why? To get more clearance for turns and avoid the dreaded wheel bite. This early hack was a sign of the technical genius to come!
  • The Start of a Legend: He got the board when he was just nine years old, and it was the tool that helped channel his “excess energy” into becoming a skateboarding prodigy.
  • Museum Worthy: This humble setup is now a piece of history, preserved by the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History.

🛹 The Early Days: Tony Hawk’s Skateboarding Origins and First Board


Video: The Story of Tony Hawk | Skate Stories Ep. 1.








Picture this: it’s 1977 in San Diego, California. A young Tony Hawk, described as a hyperactive kid with a genius-level IQ, is looking for an outlet. His parents, bless ’em, were supportive of anything that would help focus his intense energy. Enter his older brother, Steve, with a well-loved, blue fiberglass skateboard.

This wasn’t just any gift; it was a rite of passage. That board, a Bahne, became Tony’s first real love. It was on this plank of wood and fiberglass that he learned the fundamentals—the balance, the push, the tentative first carves in an empty pool. His dad even built a small ramp in their backyard, giving him a space to practice relentlessly. By age 12, he was already winning amateur contests, and by 14, he was a pro. That hand-me-down board wasn’t just a toy; it was the launchpad for a career that would change skateboarding forever.

🔍 What Skateboard Did Tony Hawk First Use? A Deep Dive


Video: I Learned to Skateboard with Tony Hawk.







So, what was the exact recipe for the board that started it all? Let’s break it down. It was a quintessential 1970s setup, a far cry from the symmetrical, popsicle-shaped decks we ride today.

We’re talking about a time when skateboards were still evolving from their surfer-inspired roots. The components on Tony’s first board were standard for the era but became legendary because of who rode them.

Tony Hawk’s First Skateboard: Component Breakdown

Component Brand/Type Description Why it Matters
Deck Bahne A blue, likely fiberglass, “kicktail” deck. These were popular for their durability and surf-style feel. Bahne was a major brand in the ’70s, known for helping popularize urethane wheels. This deck was a solid foundation.
Trucks Standard Metal Trucks The specific brand isn’t widely documented, but they were basic metal trucks from the period. These were the chassis of the board, but the real story is the wooden blocks Tony added underneath them!
Wheels Stoker Red urethane wheels. Urethane was a game-changer, offering more grip and a smoother ride than the old clay or steel wheels. Stokers were a classic choice.
Bearings Loose Ball Most setups back then used loose ball bearings, which required more maintenance than modern sealed bearings. This just shows how far Skateboard Gear has come!

🏭 The Brands Behind Tony Hawk’s First Skateboard: Powell Peralta and More


Video: Tony Hawk Lands FIRST-EVER 900 | World of X Games.








While his very first board was a Bahne, the brands that truly defined Tony Hawk’s early career came a bit later. By the time he turned pro at 14, he was riding for the legendary Powell Peralta.

The Bahne Era

Bahne Skateboards, founded by Bill and Bob Bahne, was a powerhouse in the early-to-mid 1970s. They were instrumental in the transition to urethane wheels, which revolutionized what was possible on a skateboard. Owning a Bahne board in 1977 meant you had a quality piece of equipment.

The Powell Peralta Dynasty

Let’s be real, when you think of ’80s Tony Hawk, you think of Powell Peralta. As a key member of the “Bones Brigade,” Tony’s pro models, like the iconic chicken skull graphic, became some of the most famous skateboards ever produced. He was sponsored by a dream team of companies by age 16, including:

  • Powell Peralta (Decks)
  • Tracker (Trucks)
  • Vans (Shoes)

This era cemented his status and influenced a generation of skaters to pick up a board with his name on it.

🛠️ Skateboard Specs: What Made Tony Hawk’s First Board Special?


Video: Tony Hawk’s Final Ride On His Very First Skateboard.








Okay, team, let’s get into the nitty-gritty. What made this board more than just a sum of its parts? Two words: Tony Hawk. But seriously, the specs tell a story of innovation and necessity.

The Deck: A Fiberglass Foundation

The Bahne deck was likely made of fiberglass, which gave it a unique flex and durability compared to the maple plywood decks that would later dominate the industry. It had a single kicktail, designed for basic manuals and kickturns—the building blocks of modern street and vert skating.

The Wheels: The Urethane Revolution

Those red Stoker wheels were crucial. Before urethane, skaters were dealing with slippery clay or steel wheels. Urethane, a type of polymer, gripped the pavement and concrete, allowing for harder carves, higher speeds, and more control. This technology is what made pool and ramp skating explode in popularity.

The Trucks and The Hack: A Glimpse of Genius 🤯

Here’s the most fascinating part. The trucks were standard, but what Tony did to them was not. He attached wooden blocks between the trucks and the deck. We call these “riser pads” today, and they’re a standard piece of hardware. But back then? It was a DIY solution from a kid who wanted to turn sharper without his wheels rubbing against the board (wheel bite). This simple modification shows that from day one, Tony was thinking about how to push the limits of his equipment. It’s a perfect example of how necessity is the mother of invention in Skateboard Culture.

🎥 Iconic Early Tony Hawk Skate Videos Featuring His First Board


Video: Teaching a non Skateboarder every basic trick!








Finding footage of Tony on his very first Bahne board is like finding a unicorn. Most of the legendary video parts that defined his career, like those in Powell Peralta’s “The Search for Animal Chin,” came later in the ’80s.

However, the video embedded above, titled “Tony Hawk’s First Skateboard – First Things First” by RIDE Channel, gives you a fantastic look into this origin story. In the video, Tony himself recounts the tale of the board and how it set him on his path. It’s a must-watch to connect with the history we’re talking about!

Early footage from places like Oasis Skatepark in 1979 captures the raw energy of that era. While he might have been on a different board by then, the style was born on that first Bahne. These early videos show a skinny kid with a helmet and pads, laying the groundwork for the hundreds of tricks he would later invent.

🔥 How Tony Hawk’s First Board Influenced Skateboard Design and Culture


Video: Tony Hawk & Top Pros Show up at Local Skateparks.








Did a single, blue hand-me-down board change the world? Indirectly, yes! Its influence isn’t in its mass production, but in what its rider did with it.

  • The Innovator’s Mindset: Tony’s modification—adding wooden risers—is the key takeaway. It represents a fundamental aspect of skate culture: if your gear isn’t working for you, change it. This DIY spirit drove much of the equipment innovation in the ’80s and ’90s.
  • Proving Ground for a Legend: The board was durable enough to withstand the abuse of a kid who would skate for hours on end. It was the tool that allowed him to get good enough to turn pro at 14, which in turn gave him a platform to influence millions.
  • A Symbol of Accessibility: The fact that Tony Hawk’s journey started on a used board is a powerful message. You don’t need the most expensive, top-of-the-line setup to start skating. You just need passion, dedication, and a board that rolls.

📈 Evolution of Tony Hawk’s Skateboards: From First Board to Pro Models


Video: Tony Hawk on Not Getting Recognized in Public and Skateboarding Becoming an Olympic Sport.








That first Bahne was Chapter 1. The story of Tony’s boards is a story of skateboarding’s evolution.

  1. The Bahne (1977): The humble beginning. A surf-inspired cruiser that sparked a passion.
  2. Powell Peralta Pro Models (1982-1991): This is where things get iconic. After turning pro, Tony rode for Powell Peralta. His pro models, designed by the legendary artist Vernon Courtlandt Johnson (VCJ), featured the famous “Screaming Chicken Skull” graphic. These decks were wider, had more aggressive concave, and were built for vert skating.
  3. Birdhouse Skateboards (1992-Present): After the boom and bust of the late ’80s skate industry, Tony took a huge risk and started his own company, Birdhouse Skateboards. This move from sponsored rider to company owner cemented his legacy. Birdhouse became a major force in ’90s skateboarding, and he continues to ride his own pro models today.

You can see the entire history of modern skateboarding just by looking at the boards Tony has ridden. Check out our Skateboard Brand Guides for more on these iconic companies.

🛒 Where to Find Reproductions and Vintage Boards Like Tony Hawk’s First


Video: Carey Hart in Vegas + FMX Sessions with Dustin Miller | M80 | S1E6.








Feeling nostalgic? Want to get your hands on a piece of ’70s skate history? You’re not alone! While the original is in a museum, you can find similar vintage boards or modern cruisers with that retro vibe.

A word of warning: these vintage setups are more for cruising or collecting than for modern technical tricks. The hardware is not designed for the impact of today’s skating.

Here’s where to look:

  • For Vintage Bahne Boards: Your best bet is the collector’s market. Be prepared to do some digging!
    • 👉 Shop Vintage Bahne Skateboards on: eBay | Etsy
  • For Modern ’70s-Style Cruisers: Many brands make awesome retro-inspired cruisers that are way more functional for riding today.

💡 Pro Tips: Choosing Your First Skateboard Inspired by Tony Hawk


Video: The Harsh Truth Of Tony Hawk.








Inspired by the Birdman’s story and ready to get your own first board? Awesome! Here’s our expert advice from the Skateboard Brands™ team on how to choose wisely.

Don’t Just Copy, Understand the ‘Why’

Tony’s first board was perfect for him, at that time. Instead of getting a vintage replica to shred, take inspiration from his journey:

  • Start with a Complete: Don’t stress about building a board from parts just yet. A quality complete skateboard is the best way to start. Brands like Powell-Peralta, Santa Cruz, or even Tony’s own Birdhouse offer great completes for beginners.
  • Focus on Quality Components: Learn from Tony’s wheels! Good urethane wheels, solid trucks, and smooth bearings make a huge difference. Avoid no-name department store boards; their poor quality can actually make learning harder and less safe.
  • Get the Right Size: Tony’s first board was small because he was a small kid. Your first board should fit you. A wider board (8.0″ and up) is more stable for learning, while a narrower board is more nimble.
  • It’s a Tool, Not a Trophy: Your first board is going to get scratched, scraped, and beat up. That’s a good thing! It means you’re learning. Don’t be afraid to use it.

🎙️ Tony Hawk’s Own Words: Stories About His First Skateboard


Video: Testing Tony Hawk’s Walmart Board.







Tony has often shared the story of his first board, and it always comes back to his brother, Steve. It was a simple hand-off, a classic “here, kid, try this” moment that changed his life’s trajectory.

He describes himself as “a scrawny, hyperactive, nine-year-old spaz” who finally found something he could pour all his focus into. That Bahne board was the vessel for that focus.

While he’s known for landing the first-ever 900 and saying, “This is the best day of my life,” the story really begins with that first push on a used skateboard. It’s a testament to the idea that legends aren’t born; they’re built, one practice session at a time, starting with whatever equipment they have.

🏆 Tony Hawk’s First Board in Skateboarding History and Legacy

black and white skateboard

So, why do we, the team at Skateboard Brands™, still talk about this one specific skateboard? Because it’s a relic that represents the starting point of modern skateboarding’s biggest icon.

A Symbol of Potential

That board is physical proof that everyone starts somewhere. Before the X Games medals, before the video games, before he was a household name, Tony Hawk was just a kid with a hand-me-down board. It’s a powerful reminder that the journey of a thousand kickflips begins with a single push.

The Smithsonian Artifact

The fact that this board is now in the National Museum of American History says it all. It sits alongside objects that tell the story of America. Its inclusion validates skateboarding not just as a sport, but as a significant cultural movement. It acknowledges that the story of this kid from San Diego and his blue skateboard is a part of American history. It’s a cornerstone of Skateboard Culture that has been officially recognized for its importance.

Want to go deeper down the rabbit hole? We’ve got you covered. Check out these resources to learn more about the Birdman’s early days and the equipment that got him there.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Tony Hawk’s First Skateboard


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








What brand was Tony Hawk’s first skateboard?

Tony Hawk’s first skateboard was a blue Bahne skateboard, which was a popular brand in the 1970s.

Who gave Tony Hawk his first skateboard?

His older brother, Steve Hawk, gave him the skateboard in 1977 when Tony was nine years old.

What was special about Tony Hawk’s first board?

The most unique feature was a modification Tony made himself: he attached wooden blocks between the trucks and the deck to act as risers, giving him more clearance for turns.

Where is Tony Hawk’s first skateboard now?

It is part of the collection at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History.

What kind of wheels were on Tony Hawk’s first skateboard?

The board was equipped with red Stoker urethane wheels, a common choice during that era.

We stand on the shoulders of giants and good research. Here are the sources we used to bring you this deep dive:

  1. Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History: Tony Hawk’s First Skateboard
  2. Wikipedia: Tony Hawk Biography

🎯 Conclusion: Why Tony Hawk’s First Skateboard Still Matters Today

person in blue denim jeans and black jacket walking on gray asphalt road during daytime

Alright, let’s wrap this up like a perfect ollie! Tony Hawk’s first skateboard—a humble blue Bahne deck with red Stoker wheels and those ingenious wooden risers—was more than just a board. It was the literal launchpad for one of the most influential skateboarding careers in history. From a hand-me-down gift from his brother to a Smithsonian artifact, this board symbolizes the grit, creativity, and passion that skateboarding embodies.

Positives:
✅ Durable fiberglass deck that could take a beating from a hyperactive kid.
✅ Urethane wheels that introduced better grip and ride quality.
✅ DIY riser modification showcasing early innovation and problem-solving.
✅ A real-life artifact that connects skate culture to American history.

Negatives:
❌ Basic trucks and bearings by today’s standards, limiting performance.
❌ Not designed for the technical tricks and high-impact skating Tony would later pioneer.
❌ Vintage boards like this aren’t ideal for modern skating but are priceless for collectors.

Our expert team at Skateboard Brands™ confidently recommends that while you don’t need a vintage Bahne to start skating, the spirit of that first board—innovation, passion, and adaptability—is what every skater should embrace. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, your first board is your foundation. Make it count!

Remember the question we teased earlier: What size board did Tony Hawk use? We’ve got you covered with our definitive 2025 guide right here. Spoiler: it evolved as he did, just like your skate journey will.

📚 Recommended Links & Shopping

Ready to dive deeper or gear up like the Birdman? Check these out:

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Tony Hawk’s First Skateboard

What are the best skateboard brands for beginners?

Choosing a beginner skateboard is all about quality, durability, and ease of use. Brands like Powell Peralta, Santa Cruz, Element, and Birdhouse offer excellent complete boards that are perfect for novices. These brands use quality decks, trucks, and wheels that provide stability and control, which are crucial when you’re learning tricks or just cruising.

  • Why these brands? They have decades of experience, pro rider endorsements, and a reputation for reliable gear. For example, Birdhouse, founded by Tony Hawk himself, designs boards with beginners in mind, balancing performance and affordability.
  • Tip: Avoid cheap department store boards—they often have poor components that can hinder your progress and cause frustration.

What skateboards does Tony Hawk currently ride and endorse?

Tony Hawk currently rides and endorses Birdhouse Skateboards, the company he co-founded in the early ’90s. Birdhouse offers a wide range of decks, including his pro models, which feature modern shapes and graphics. He also endorses Powell Peralta (his original pro sponsor), Vans shoes, and Independent Trucks.

  • Why Birdhouse? It’s a brand built on Tony’s vision and experience, focusing on quality and supporting the skate community.
  • Additional gear: Tony’s pro shoe models, like the Vans Proto, are designed with input from him to optimize performance and durability.

How do I choose the right skateboard for my skill level and riding style?

Choosing the right skateboard depends on your height, weight, skill level, and what kind of skating you want to do:

  • Beginners: Start with a complete board with an 8.0” to 8.25” wide deck for stability.
  • Street Skaters: Narrower decks (7.5” to 8.0”) for flip tricks and technical maneuvers.
  • Vert/Park Skaters: Wider decks (8.25” and up) for better balance on ramps and bowls.
  • Cruisers/Commuters: Longer, softer wheels and sometimes a longer deck for smooth rides.

Brands like Powell Peralta and Birdhouse offer a variety of shapes and sizes to fit these needs. Also, consider wheel hardness (durometer) and truck width for a balanced setup.

Pro skaters often ride brands that combine innovation, quality, and heritage. Some of the most popular include:

  • Powell Peralta: Legendary for its classic decks and Bones Brigade legacy.
  • Birdhouse: Tony Hawk’s own brand, known for pro models and community focus.
  • Santa Cruz: One of the oldest skate brands, famous for bold graphics and durable decks.
  • Element: Known for eco-friendly materials and solid performance.
  • Plan B, Girl, and Baker: Popular for street skating pros.

Each brand has its unique style and rider roster, so exploring their gear can help you find what fits your vibe.

Thanks for skating through this deep dive with us! Remember, every pro was once a beginner with a first board—maybe not as legendary as Tony’s, but just as important. Now, go find your perfect ride and start your own story! 🛹🔥

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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