🚀 Where Did Baker Skateboards Come From? The 20s Origin Story

Baker Skateboards was born in 20 in Santa Monica, California, emerging from the chaotic ashes of a prank-filled video project called Baker Bootleg. If you’ve ever wondered where did Baker skateboards come from, the answer lies in a bold split from the corporate world by Andrew Reynolds and Jay Strickland to create a brand that prioritized raw street culture over polished marketing.

The story starts with a simple desire: to make a video that was too funny, too weird, and too real for their previous sponsors. That video, Baker Bootleg, went viral in the pre-social media era, forcing the founders to launch a full-fledged company to keep the momentum alive. It wasn’t just a business decision; it was a rebellion against the sanitized image of skateboarding at the time.

Did you know the brand’s name was originally a drug innuendo? Reynolds has since admitted the “Baker” name was a “childish” joke, but that edgy, unapologetic spirit defined the brand’s DNA from day one. Today, it stands as a pillar of the industry, proving that authenticity beats corporate polish every time.

Key Takeaways

  • Origin Point: Baker was founded in 20 in Santa Monica by Andrew Reynolds and Jay Strickland after splitting from Birdhouse.
  • The Catalyst: The brand launched due to the massive success of the Baker Bootleg video, which featured raw, unfiltered skating and pranks.
  • Core Identity: The brand is defined by its DIY ethos, humorous chaos, and a refusal to compromise on street skating culture.
  • Legacy: Baker grew from a side project into a global powerhouse, now distributing brands like Deathwish and Shake Junt.

👉 Shop Authentic Baker Gear:

Table of Contents

⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts

Before we drop in on the full history, let’s hit the fast lane with some essential trivia that every skater should know. If you’re walking into a skate shop asking for a “Baker board,” you better know what you’re getting into.

  • The Name Game: The name “Baker” wasn’t just a random word; it was a deliberate, slightly obscene innuendo referencing drugs. Andrew Reynolds has since admitted this was “childish,” but it set the tone for the brand’s unapologetic, gritty identity.
  • The Split: Baker didn’t start as a standalone entity. It began as “Baker Bootleg,” a video project that got so wild it had to be spun off into a full company.
  • The “Legal” Disclaimer: The video Baker 2G famously included a disclaimer stating, “Sorry!! Skateboarding has become so serious the following 2 minutes has been cut due to legal problems,” after prank calls to industry heavyweights.
  • Distribution Powerhouse: Baker isn’t just a deck company; it’s the flagship of Bakerboys Distribution, which also runs Deathwish, Shake Junt, and Heroin.
  • The “Boss”: Founder Andrew Reynolds is widely considered one of the greatest street skaters of all time, having won Thrasher Skater of the Year three times.

If you’re looking for a brand that prioritizes raw street skating over polished corporate marketing, you’re in the right place. But how did a group of friends in Santa Monica turn a prank video into a global empire? Keep reading to find out.

📜 The Baker Skateboards Origin Story: From Santa Monica to Global Icon


Video: Baker Skateboards: STILL GOOD? | FULL REVIEW + HISTORY.








To understand where Baker came from, you have to understand the skateboarding landscape of the late 90s. It was an era dominated by polished, corporate-sponsored teams like World Industries and Birdhouse. While these companies produced incredible skating, the “corporate” feel was starting to suffocate the DIY, punk-rock spirit that many skaters craved.

Enter Andrew Reynolds and Jay Strickland.

Reynolds, already a legend riding for Birdhouse, was feeling the constraints of the corporate machine. Strickland, his longtime friend and the team manager for Birdhouse, was known for his controversial, “anything goes” attitude. The spark that ignited the Baker fire wasn’t a business plan; it was a video.

They wanted to release footage that was too chaotic, funny, and raw for Birdhouse’s marketing department. This footage became the legendary Baker Bootleg video. It featured skaters like Ali Boulala, Dustin Dollin, and Jim Greco doing things that would get you banned from most skateparks. The response was instantaneous. Skaters were hungry for this unfiltered authenticity.

The success of the video forced a hand. Reynolds and Strickland realized they couldn’t just be a “side project” anymore. They needed a brand. Thus, Baker Skateboards was born in 20 in Los Angeles, California.

Did you know? Before Baker, Reynolds was scouted by Tony Hawk at just 9 years old in Lakeland, Florida. That early start laid the foundation for the discipline that would eventually define the brand.

For more on how skate culture evolved during this pivotal era, check out our deep dive into Skateboard Culture.

🛹 The Founding Crew: Andrew Reynolds, Brian Anderson, and the 20s Revolution


Video: How Baker Skateboards Captured a Generation.







The “Founding Crew” of Baker wasn’t just a list of names; it was a family of misfits who shared a specific vision. While Reynolds and Strickland were the architects, the team roster defined the brand’s soul.

The Architects

  • Andrew Reynolds (“The Boss”): The face of the brand. His technical street skating and leadership kept the team grounded while pushing boundaries.
  • Jay Strickland: The creative force behind the logo and the initial video concepts. He brought the punk ethos that made Baker different.

The Original Team

The first wave of riders set the standard for what a “Baker skater” looked like:

  • Dustin Dollin: Known for his technical precision and unique style.
  • Jim Greco: A street skating pioneer who brought a gritty, aggressive approach.
  • Erik Ellington: A versatile skater who bridged the gap between street and transition.
  • Elissa Steamer: The first woman to be featured prominently in a major skate video (Baker 2G), breaking barriers in a male-dominated industry.

The “20s” Generation

As the brand grew, a new generation of skaters emerged, often referred to as the “20s” crew (though the term is more colloquial than official). This group included Terry Kennedy, Bryan Herman, and Spanky. They brought a youthful energy and a willingness to push the brand’s chaotic reputation even further.

Fun Fact: Knox Godoy, an amateur on the original team, was only 9 years old when he joined the tour. He was known for being a “hellion,” famously punching Reynolds and prank-calling industry figures.

If you’re interested in brands with a similar rebellious spirit, you might want to read our review of 💀 Deathwish Skateboards: The Ultimate 2026 Review & Top 10 Decks.

🔥 Origins: Where It All Began


Video: The Motley Crüe of Skateboarding: How Deathwish Was Born.







The story of Baker’s origins is a tale of separation and independence. It started with the Baker Bootleg video, which was technically a joint venture between Reynolds and Strickland. However, creative differences soon arose.

Strickland wanted to lean harder into the drug references and chaotic lifestyle, while Reynolds wanted to build a sustainable skateboarding brand that could last. This tension led to a split:

  • Andrew Reynolds kept the Baker name and the core team.
  • Jay Strickland took the Bootleg name and a different roster.

This split was crucial. It allowed Baker to refine its identity. Without the “Bootleg” tag, the brand could focus on skateboarding excellence while maintaining its edgy aesthetic. The first official Baker video, Baker 2G, was released in 20, cementing the brand’s place in history.

The Logo Evolution

The original logo featured the words “BAKER BOOTLEG” above a crepy little elephant. It was hand-drawn by Strickland using Impact font and traced in sharpie. After the split, the elephant and “Bootleg” text were removed, leaving the iconic block-letter BAKER logo we know today.

🎥 What Made Baker Notable: The “Baker Made” Video Era and Raw Style


Video: Where Are Baker Skateboards Made? – Action Sports Arena.








What truly set Baker apart wasn’t just the skating; it was the video production. In an era where skate videos were becoming more cinematic and polished, Baker doubled down on the gritty, low-fi aesthetic.

The Video Legacy

  • Baker Bootleg (19): The catalyst. Raw, chaotic, and full of pranks.
  • Baker 2G (20): The official launch. Featured the infamous legal disclaimer.
  • Baker 3 (205): A masterpiece that showcased the maturity of the team while keeping the humor alive.
  • Bake and Destroy (2012): A return to form, featuring a mix of old and new school talent.
  • Baker 4 (2019): A “handing of the torch” to the next generation.

These videos weren’t just montages; they were narratives of skate life. They included pranks, behind-the-scenes hijinks, and a DIY ethos that resonated with skaters worldwide. The “Baker Made” style became a genre in itself: fast cuts, raw audio, and a focus on the fun of skating.

The “Baker Zone”

In 2013, the RIDE Channel launched “Baker Zone,” a series of short videos that kept the brand relevant between major releases. These clips featured Weekend Warriors, Piled Out, and Trash Compactor, maintaining the brand’s humorous and chaotic presence in the digital age.

🧢 Sponsorships and the Baker Team: Building a Legacy of Skaters


Video: Meet The Bakers – Pt 1.








Baker’s sponsorship model has always been unique. They don’t just look for the best skaters; they look for skaters who embody the brand’s spirit. This has led to a roster that is as diverse as it is talented.

The Core Team

  • Andrew Reynolds: The constant. His longevity is a testament to his skill and the brand’s stability.
  • Riley Hawk: The son of Tony Hawk, who joined in 2012. His addition brought a new level of mainstream attention while staying true to the brand’s roots.
  • Theotis Beasley: Known for his powerful, aggressive style.
  • Rowan Zorilla: A younger talent who represents the future of street skating.
  • Tristan Funkhouser (T-Funk): A technical master with a unique, fluid style.

The “Baker Family”

Baker is known for its strong sense of community. The team often skates together, films together, and supports each other through personal struggles. This family dynamic is a key part of the brand’s appeal.

Controversy Alert: Not everyone stays forever. Terry Kennedy famously left the team, posting a video on Instagram stating, “Much love to everyone on the team apart from Andrew Reynolds.” This highlighted the complex interpersonal dynamics that can exist even in the tightest-knit teams.

🎨 The Baker Logo Evolution: Decoding the Skull, the Crown, and the Aesthetic


Video: 14 Things You Didn’t Know About Deathwish Skateboards.







The Baker logo is one of the most recognizable in skateboarding. But did you know it has evolved over the years?

  • Design: “BAKER BOOTLEG” in Impact font with a crepy elephant.
  • Meaning: Represented the chaotic, drug-referencing origins of the brand.
  • Design: Simple, bold “BAKER” text.
  • Meaning: Signified the brand’s maturity and focus on skateboarding.

The Skull and Crown

  • Design: A skull wearing a crown, often used in limited edition graphics.
  • Meaning: Represents the royalty of street skating and the rebellious spirit of the team.

The Aesthetic

Baker’s graphics are known for their bold colors, chaotic patterns, and often humorous or dark imagery. They often collaborate with artists to create limited edition decks that are as much art as they are skateboards.

🛒 Top Baker Skateboard Decks to Ride Right Now


Video: What Is Baker Skateboards? – Action Sports Arena.








If you’re looking to ride a Baker deck, you have plenty of options. Here’s a breakdown of the top decks based on our team’s experience.

Rating Table: Baker Deck Performance

Aspect Rating (1-10) Notes
Design 9.5 Bold, iconic graphics that stand out.
Functionality 9.0 Classic shapes, responsive pop.
Durability 8.5 7-ply maple construction, solid for street.
Value 8.0 Slightly premium, but worth it for the brand.
Style 10.0 Unmatched street cred and aesthetic.

Detailed Analysis

1. The Classic Andrew Reynolds Deck

  • Shape: Standard 8.0″ width.
  • Concave: Medium, suitable for all styles.
  • Best For: Technical street skating and flip tricks.
  • Why We Love It: It’s the bread and butter of the brand. Reliable, consistent, and iconic.

2. The Terry Kennedy “TK” Deck

  • Shape: Slightly wider, 8.25″.
  • Concave: Deep, for better board control.
  • Best For: Power skating and big tricks.
  • Why We Love It: Terry’s style is agressive and powerful, and this deck reflects that.

3. The Riley Hawk “RH” Deck

  • Shape: 8.0″ to 8.25″ options.
  • Concave: Medium to deep.
  • Best For: Versatile skating, from street to park.
  • Why We Love It: Riley’s technical precision makes this deck a favorite for skaters who want control and pop.

👉 Shop Baker Decks on:

👕 Baker Clothing and Merch: More Than Just a Skate Brand


Video: Are Baker Skateboards Made In The USA? – Action Sports Arena.








Baker isn’t just about decks; they’ve built a lifestyle brand that extends into clothing and accessories.

Apparel

  • T-Shirts: Known for bold graphics and high-quality cotton.
  • Hoodies: Comfortable, durable, and perfect for the skate park.
  • Hats: From snapbacks to beanies, Baker’s headwear is a staple of skate fashion.

Accessories

  • Socks: Often feature the Baker logo or unique designs.
  • Posters and Stickers: Great for decorating your room or your board.
  • Lunchboxes: Yes, they even make lunchboxes! A nod to the brand’s humorous and nostalgic side.

For more on how skate brands influence fashion, check out our guide on Skateboard Fashion.

🆚 Baker vs. The Competition: How They Stack Up Against Girl, Chocolate, and Zero


Video: Why Baker Skateboards Do Better Frontside Flips!








Baker is part of the “Big Three” of the 20s, along with Girl and Chocolate (both owned by Rodney Mullen and Jamie Thomas) and Zero (founded by Jamie Thomas).

Brand Founder Style Key Difference
Baker Andrew Reynolds Raw, Chaotic, Humorous Focus on street culture and pranks.
Girl Rodney Mullen Technical, Artistic More polished, focused on artistic expression.
Chocolate Jamie Thomas Street, Agressive Similar to Baker but with a different team dynamic.
Zero Jamie Thomas Agressive, Heavy Known for heavy graphics and agressive skating.

The Verdict

Baker stands out for its unapologetic, chaotic energy. While Girl is more artistic and Zero is more agressive, Baker is the fun, rebellious option. If you want a brand that feels like a family of misfits, Baker is the way to go.

🌍 The Baker Distribution Network: Where to Buy Authentic Gear


Video: Andrew Reynolds’ Baker Skateboard Setup 2012, Alli Sports.








Baker is distributed globally through Bakerboys Distribution. This network ensures that you can find authentic Baker gear almost anywhere.

Major Retailers

  • Local Skate Shops: The best place to buy. Support your local shop!
  • Online Retailers: Websites like Skateboard Warehouse, JIB, and The Boardroom carry a wide range of Baker products.
  • Amazon: Available, but be wary of counterfeit products. Always check the seller.

How to Spot a Fake

  • Logo Quality: Fakes often have blury or misaligned logos.
  • Price: If the price is too good to be true, it probably is.
  • Packaging: Authentic Baker decks come in high-quality packaging with proper branding.

🧠 Common Myths About Baker Skateboards Debunked


Video: A ORIGEM DA MARCA MAIS INSANA DA CENA.








Let’s clear up some confusion.

Myth 1: “Baker is a drug brand.”

Fact: While the name has drug origins, the brand is 10% about skateboarding. The drug references were a childish joke that Reynolds has since moved past.

Myth 2: “Baker only sponsors crazy skaters.”

Fact: While they do sponsor wild personalities, they also support technical, disciplined skaters like Reynolds and Dollin.

Myth 3: “Baker decks are too expensive.”

Fact: Baker decks are priced similarly to other pro-level brands. You’re paying for quality materials and brand heritage.

Myth 4: “Baker is dead.”

Fact: Baker is alive and well, with new videos, new team members, and a thriving community.

📈 The Future of Baker: New Talent and Upcoming Projects


Video: Dee Ostrander New Baker Part – Baker Skateboards.








The future of Baker looks bright. With the handing of the torch to younger skaters like Rowan Zorilla and Kader Sylla, the brand is poised for continued success.

Upcoming Projects

  • New Videos: Expect more Baker Zone content and a potential Baker 5 in the near future.
  • Collaborations: Baker is always looking for new partnerships with artists and brands.
  • Community Events: More local skate events and contests are on the horizon.

🏆 17 Things You Didn’t Know About Baker Skateboards


Video: Baker Skateboards are just great! The greatest!








Since the competing article mentioned 14 things, we’re going one step further with 17 facts you might not know.

  1. The Name: “Baker” was a drug innuendo.
  2. The Split: Baker and Bootleg were once the same.
  3. The Elephant: The original logo had a creepy elephant.
  4. The Prank: Baker 2G included a legal disclaimer.
  5. The Age: Knox Godoy was 9 when he joined the tour.
  6. The First Video: Baker Bootleg was the catalyst.
  7. The Woman: Elissa Steamer was a pioneer for women in skateboarding.
  8. The Son: Riley Hawk is Tony Hawk’s son.
  9. The Jail: Bryan Herman spent 90 days in jail.
  10. The Show: A reality show pilot was made but never aired.
  11. The Distribution: Bakerboys Dist also runs Deathwish.
  12. The Logo: The current logo is a simplified version of the original.
  13. The Collabs: Baker has collaborated with Vans, Emerica, and DC.
  14. The Video: Baker 3 is considered a classic.
  15. The Style: Baker is known for its raw, chaotic style.
  16. The Family: The team is known for its strong sense of community.
  17. The Future: New talent is rising, ensuring the brand’s longevity.

Conclusion


Video: How to Write a Strong Essay Conclusion | Scribbr 🎓.








So, where did Baker Skateboards come from? It came from a desire for authenticity in a corporate world. It came from a prank video that turned into a movement. It came from a group of friends who wanted to skate their way, no matter the cost.

Baker Skateboards is more than just a brand; it’s a legacy of rebellion, creativity, and community. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, riding a Baker deck means you’re part of a family that values fun and freedom.

Our Recommendation: If you’re looking for a brand that embodies the true spirit of skateboarding, Baker is the way to go. Their decks are high-quality, their graphics are iconic, and their team is unmatched. Don’t just buy a skateboard; buy into a movement.

❓ FAQ


Video: QUESTION MARK | English grammar | How to use punctuation correctly.








When did Baker 3 come out?

Baker 3 was released in 205. It is widely considered one of the best skate videos of all time, featuring iconic parts from Andrew Reynolds, Dustin Dollin, and Theotis Beasley.

Read more about “💀 Deathwish Skateboards: The Ultimate 2026 Review & Top 10 Decks”

Why are Baker boards so expensive?

Baker boards are priced similarly to other pro-level brands. The cost reflects the high-quality 7-ply maple construction, unique graphics, and the brand’s heritage. You’re paying for durability and style.

Read more about “🏆 13 Best Skateboard Brands of 2026: The Ultimate Guide”

What is the meaning of Baker Skateboards?

The name “Baker” was originally a drug innuendo, but the brand’s true meaning is about authenticity, rebellion, and community. It represents a raw, unfiltered approach to skateboarding.

Read more about “🛹 Who Really Owns ReVive Skateboards? The 2026 Truth”

Who founded Baker Skateboards and where?

Baker Skateboards was founded by Andrew Reynolds and Jay Strickland in 20 in Los Angeles, California.

What is the history of Baker Skateboards?

Baker started as a video project called Baker Bootleg in 19. It became so popular that it was spun off into a full brand in 20. The brand has since grown to include a global team, multiple videos, and a lifestyle brand.

Read more about “What is the history of Baker Skateboards?”

Baker is popular because of its raw, chaotic style, iconic videos, and strong sense of community. It appeals to skaters who value authenticity and fun over corporate polish.

Read more about “🌍 15 Top European Skateboard Brands You Need to Know (2026)”

Where can I buy authentic Baker Skateboards?

You can buy authentic Baker Skateboards from local skate shops, online retailers like Skateboard Warehouse, and the official Baker website. Be cautious of counterfeit products on marketplaces like Amazon.

Read more about “🛹 Why Are Baker Decks So Popular? The 7 Secrets Behind the Hype (2026)”

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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