Who Founded Baker? 🛹 The Untold Story of Skateboarding’s Rebel Brand

man in black polo shirt leaning with skateboard

Ever wondered who’s behind the legendary Baker Skateboards, the brand that redefined street skating with its raw attitude and fearless style? Spoiler alert: it’s not just a name—it’s a whole empire built by one of skateboarding’s most iconic figures. But who exactly founded Baker, and how did it grow from a scrappy startup into a cultural powerhouse? Stick around, because we’re about to unravel the full story, from the visionary behind the decks to the crew that turned a brand into a movement.

Here’s a teaser: the founder’s nickname is “The Boss,” and his vision wasn’t just about making skateboards—it was about creating a family and a fearless lifestyle. Curious? We’ll also bust some common myths, spotlight the pro team, and reveal how Bakerboys Distribution expanded the brand’s reach far beyond what anyone expected.

Key Takeaways

  • Andrew Reynolds is the mastermind and founder of Baker Skateboards, launching the brand in 2000 with a vision for raw, authentic street skating.
  • Bakerboys Distribution, co-founded by Reynolds, Jim Greco, and Erik Ellington, manages Baker and several influential skate brands like Deathwish and Shake Junt.
  • The brand’s ethos, “Baker Has a Deathwish,” symbolizes fearless skating and a rebellious spirit that resonates deeply within skate culture.
  • Baker’s pro team includes legends like Jim Greco, Erik Ellington, and Riley Hawk, pushing the limits of street skating worldwide.
  • Baker’s iconic videos, such as Baker 3 and Baker Has a Deathwish, have shaped skateboarding’s visual and cultural landscape.

Ready to explore Baker’s gear or snag a deck?
👉 Shop Baker Skateboards on:
Amazon | Baker Official Website

Table of Contents

⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts

Welcome to the ultimate deep dive into the question: Who founded Baker? If you’re a skateboard enthusiast, you probably know Baker as one of the most iconic skate brands out there. But did you know it’s also a name tied to a legendary pro skater and a whole skateboarding empire? Let’s kickflip right into some quick facts before we shred the details:

  • Founder: Andrew Reynolds, pro skateboarder extraordinaire, launched Baker Skateboards in 2000.
  • Co-founder & Logo Designer: J Strickland, who crafted the iconic Baker logo representing a “motley company” of talented skaters.
  • Distribution: Bakerboys Distribution, founded by Reynolds, Jim Greco, and Erik Ellington, handles Baker and a slew of other influential skate brands.
  • Notable Team Members: Leo Romero (former), Riley Hawk (Tony Hawk’s son), Jim Greco, Erik Ellington, and more.
  • Videos: Baker 3, Baker Has a Deathwish, Baker 4 — some of the most influential skate videos ever.
  • Baker’s Ethos: “Baker Has a Deathwish” isn’t just a slogan; it’s a lifestyle embracing raw, fearless skating.

For a deeper look at Baker’s legendary team, check out our article on Was Leo Romero on Baker? Uncovering the Truth Behind the Legend! 🛹.

Ready to roll? Let’s dive into the story behind the brand and the man who started it all.

🛹 The Genesis of Greatness: Unveiling Baker Skateboards’ Origins

Baker Skateboards didn’t just pop out of nowhere—it was born from the passion and vision of one of skateboarding’s most influential figures: Andrew Reynolds. Before Baker, Reynolds was already a household name in the skate world, known for his smooth style and fearless tricks.

How It All Started

  • In 1999, Reynolds connected with skate legends Tony Hawk and Per Welinder, who helped him launch Baker Skateboards the following year.
  • The brand was created to represent a raw, rebellious skate culture, a “motley company” of skaters who didn’t fit the polished mold.
  • The original logo, designed by J Strickland, perfectly captured this ethos with its gritty, hand-drawn vibe.

This origin story is more than just dates and names—it’s about a movement that changed skateboarding forever. For more on the brand’s roots, visit Baker Skateboards on Wikipedia.

👑 Andrew Reynolds: The Visionary Behind Baker’s Empire

If Baker Skateboards is the kingdom, Andrew Reynolds is the undisputed king. His influence goes beyond just founding the brand; he’s the heart and soul of its identity.

Andrew Reynolds’ Skate Legacy

  • Known as “The Boss,” Reynolds’ style is legendary for its smoothness and technical precision.
  • He’s been a pro since the early 1990s, skating for brands like Birdhouse before launching Baker.
  • Reynolds’ vision was to create a brand that felt authentic and unfiltered, a place where skaters could be themselves without compromise.

Beyond the Board

  • Reynolds co-founded Bakerboys Distribution with Jim Greco and Erik Ellington, expanding the brand’s reach.
  • He’s also involved in creative direction, video production, and mentoring younger skaters.
  • His influence helped Baker become a powerhouse, distributing brands like Deathwish, Shake Junt, and Heroin.

Want to see Andrew in action? Check out the legendary Baker 3 video on YouTube.

🤝 From Zero to Hero: The Early Days and Core Crew

Baker’s early days were all about building a tight-knit crew of skaters who embodied the brand’s raw energy. Here’s how the core team shaped the company’s DNA:

The Original Lineup

Skater Role Notable Contributions
Andrew Reynolds Founder / Pro Visionary, team leader
Jim Greco Co-founder / Pro Co-founder of Bakerboys Distribution
Erik Ellington Co-founder / Pro Co-founder, creative force
Leo Romero Pro Known for technical street skating
Bryan Herman Pro Early team member, style innovator

Building the Brand

  • The team’s chemistry was electric, fueling some of the most memorable skate videos ever.
  • Their rebellious attitude attracted a loyal fanbase hungry for authenticity.
  • The crew’s camaraderie was a key factor in Baker’s rapid rise.

For a detailed look at the pro team’s evolution, explore our Skateboard Brand Guides.

🏢 The Bakerboys Empire: Beyond Just Boards

Bakerboys Distribution is the powerhouse behind Baker Skateboards and a constellation of other influential skate brands. Founded by Reynolds, Greco, and Ellington, it’s a skate empire that’s reshaped the industry.

What Bakerboys Distribution Handles

Brand Description
Baker Skateboards The flagship brand, raw street skating ethos
Deathwish Skateboards Darker, edgier sibling brand
Shake Junt Skate hardware and accessories with attitude
Heroin Skateboards Underground, art-driven decks
Palace UK-based brand with a cult following
Hammers Newer brand focusing on quality and style

Why It Matters

  • Bakerboys gives skaters access to a diverse range of products and styles.
  • It’s a hub for innovation, creativity, and community-building.
  • The distribution model supports independent skate shops and keeps the culture alive.

Want to explore their gear? Browse the latest at Skateboard Gear.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 A Family Affair: The Brands Under Bakerboys Distribution

Bakerboys Distribution isn’t just about Baker Skateboards—it’s a family of brands that represent the full spectrum of skate culture.

Spotlight on Key Brands

  • Deathwish Skateboards: Founded by Erik Ellington and Jim Greco, Deathwish is known for its dark graphics and hardcore skating.
  • Shake Junt: The go-to for skate hardware, wheels, and apparel with a wild, fun vibe.
  • Heroin Skateboards: A cult favorite for its artistic decks and DIY spirit.
  • Palace: Though UK-based, Palace’s distribution through Bakerboys helped it break into the US market.
  • Hammers: A newer brand focusing on craftsmanship and style, adding fresh energy to the lineup.

What This Means for Skaters

  • Access to a broad range of products under one roof.
  • Consistent quality and brand authenticity.
  • A community that supports skaters at every level.

Check out the full lineup and find your next deck at Bakerboys Distribution Official Site.

🌟 The Baker Pro Team: Legends and Innovators

The Baker pro team is a who’s who of skateboarding legends and rising stars. Their video parts and street sessions have inspired generations.

Notable Team Members (Past and Present)

Name Role Highlights
Andrew Reynolds Founder / Pro The Boss, iconic video parts
Jim Greco Co-founder / Pro Creative visionary, Deathwish co-founder
Erik Ellington Co-founder / Pro Innovative style, Deathwish co-founder
Leo Romero Former Pro Technical wizard, left in 2009
Riley Hawk Pro Tony Hawk’s son, joined in 2012
Rowan Zorilla Pro New generation powerhouse

Why the Team Matters

  • They embody Baker’s fearless, raw skating style.
  • Their video parts push the boundaries of street skating.
  • They mentor younger skaters and keep the culture vibrant.

Want to see their latest moves? Check out the Skateboard Culture section for updates.

🎬 Iconic Videography: Baker’s Visual Legacy

Baker’s video projects are legendary, capturing the raw energy and fearless spirit of the brand.

Must-Watch Baker Videos

Video Title Year Why It’s Iconic
Baker Bootleg 1999 First glimpse of Baker’s raw style
Baker 3 2005 Classic, defining video for the brand
Baker Has a Deathwish 2008 Darker tone, hardcore skating
Bake And Destroy 2012 Showcased new talent and evolution
Baker 4 2019 Latest installment, high energy

What Makes Baker Videos Stand Out

  • Authentic street skating with minimal fluff.
  • Raw, gritty filming style that matches the skating.
  • Soundtracks that perfectly capture skate culture vibes.

For a full list and where to watch, visit Baker Skateboards Videos.

💀 The “Baker Has a Deathwish” Ethos: More Than Just a Slogan

“Baker Has a Deathwish” is a phrase that resonates deeply within the skate community. It’s not just a tagline—it’s a mindset.

What It Means

  • Fearlessness: Skaters push themselves to the limit, embracing risk and rawness.
  • Rebellion: Rejecting polished, corporate skate culture in favor of authenticity.
  • Brotherhood: A tight-knit community that supports each other through thick and thin.

Impact on Skate Culture

  • Inspired countless skaters to embrace a more aggressive, authentic style.
  • Helped Baker carve out a unique identity in a crowded market.
  • Influenced other brands and crews to adopt a similar ethos.

Want to live the deathwish lifestyle? Check out the latest gear at Shop Baker Skateboards.

🌍 Baker’s Enduring Influence on Skate Culture

Baker Skateboards has left an indelible mark on skate culture worldwide.

Key Contributions

  • Style: Defined a gritty, streetwise aesthetic that’s still influential.
  • Community: Built a loyal fanbase and supportive skate family.
  • Innovation: Pushed the boundaries of street skating through video and team development.

Cultural Reach

  • Baker’s influence extends beyond skateboarding into fashion, music, and art.
  • Collaborations with brands like Palace and Deathwish show its versatility.
  • The brand’s ethos continues to inspire new generations of skaters globally.

Explore more about skate culture and Baker’s role at Skateboard Fashion.

🤔 Common Misconceptions and Clarifications

Let’s clear up some confusion that often pops up around Baker:

  • Is Baker named after a person?
    ❌ No, Baker Skateboards is named after Andrew Reynolds’ nickname and the brand’s rebellious spirit, not a family name.
  • Is Baker related to Baker’s Drive-Thru?
    ❌ Nope! Baker’s Drive-Thru is a Southern California fast-food chain founded by Neal T. Baker, totally unrelated to skateboarding.
  • Did Leo Romero found Baker?
    ❌ No, Leo Romero was a key team member but not a founder.
  • Is Baker only about decks?
    ❌ Far from it! Bakerboys Distribution handles apparel, wheels, accessories, and multiple brands.

Got more questions? Our FAQ section has you covered!

✅ Conclusion: The Reign of the Boss

So, who founded Baker? It all boils down to Andrew Reynolds, the legendary pro skateboarder who turned his vision into one of the most iconic skate brands in history. Alongside co-founders Jim Greco, Erik Ellington, and J Strickland (who designed the logo), Reynolds built Baker Skateboards into a powerhouse that’s much more than just decks—it’s a culture, a family, and a fearless way of life.

What makes Baker stand out? Its raw authenticity, fearless skating ethos (“Baker Has a Deathwish”), and a killer pro team that keeps pushing the limits. The brand’s influence extends beyond skateboards into apparel, accessories, and a whole distribution empire under Bakerboys Distribution.

If you’re looking for a brand that embodies street skating’s rebellious spirit with unmatched style and community, Baker is a no-brainer. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, Baker’s decks and gear deliver that perfect blend of durability, style, and attitude.

Final verdict:
✅ Pros: Legendary team, authentic style, diverse product range, strong cultural impact
❌ Cons: Not for those seeking polished, corporate vibes — Baker is raw and unapologetic

Ready to join the Baker family? Your next deck awaits.

Looking to gear up with Baker and its family of brands? Here’s where you can find the best selection online:

❓ FAQ: Your Burning Questions Answered!

What is Baker Skateboards known for in the skateboarding community?

Baker Skateboards is renowned for its raw, fearless street skating style and its authentic representation of skate culture. Founded by Andrew Reynolds, Baker quickly became synonymous with rebellious, no-holds-barred skating that rejects corporate polish in favor of gritty, real-world vibes. The brand’s iconic videos, such as Baker 3 and Baker Has a Deathwish, showcase some of the most influential skate parts ever filmed, inspiring generations of skaters worldwide.

Who are some notable team riders for Baker Skateboards?

Baker’s roster has included some of the biggest names in skateboarding:

  • Andrew Reynolds (founder and “The Boss”)
  • Jim Greco and Erik Ellington (co-founders and pro skaters)
  • Leo Romero (former team member known for technical prowess)
  • Riley Hawk (Tony Hawk’s son, joined in 2012)
  • Rowan Zorilla (rising star with explosive style)

These skaters embody Baker’s ethos of fearless, authentic skating and have contributed heavily to its cultural impact.

Baker offers a variety of deck models catering to different styles and preferences. Some popular models include:

  • Andrew Reynolds Pro Model: Known for its durability and perfect width for street skating.
  • Jim Greco Signature Decks: Featuring bold graphics and a slightly wider shape for stability.
  • Team Decks: Featuring designs from various team riders, offering a range of sizes and shapes.

All Baker decks are made with high-quality Canadian maple and designed to withstand the rigors of street skating. For a full lineup, check out the Baker Skateboards collection.

How does Baker Skateboards contribute to the culture and growth of skateboarding?

Baker Skateboards has been a cultural catalyst in skateboarding by:

  • Promoting raw, authentic street skating that inspires skaters to push boundaries.
  • Producing influential skate videos that document and shape skate culture.
  • Supporting a tight-knit community through Bakerboys Distribution and collaborations with brands like Deathwish and Shake Junt.
  • Mentoring new talent and providing a platform for emerging skaters to shine.

Their ethos encourages skaters to embrace individuality, risk-taking, and camaraderie, fueling skateboarding’s evolution globally.

Ready to ride with the legends? Grab your Baker deck and join the fearless family today! 🛹🔥

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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