Who Is Girl Skateboard Made By? The Untold Story Revealed 🛹 (2026)

Ever glanced down at that iconic bathroom symbol on your deck and wondered, “Who really makes Girl Skateboards?” Spoiler alert: it’s way more than just a cool logo. Behind Girl Skateboards lies a fascinating tale of pro skaters, visionary filmmakers, and a tight-knit crew who flipped the industry on its head back in 1993. From the rebellious breakaway from World Industries to the cinematic masterpieces that defined skate videos, this article dives deep into the origins, the makers, and the magic behind one of skateboarding’s most legendary brands.

Stick around, because later we’ll break down the 12 most iconic Girl skateboard graphics, reveal the secret woodshop where your deck gets its pop, and introduce you to the legendary team riders who keep the brand rolling strong. Plus, if you’ve ever wondered why the brand is called “Girl” despite being ridden by some of the biggest names in skateboarding, we’ve got the answer that might just surprise you.

Key Takeaways

  • Girl Skateboards was founded in 1993 by pro skaters Rick Howard and Mike Carroll, filmmaker Spike Jonze, and businesswoman Megan Baltimore.
  • The brand is owned and distributed by Crailtap, an independent company based in Torrance, California.
  • Girl decks are crafted primarily at the Generator woodshop, known for high-quality 7-ply North American maple construction.
  • The iconic bathroom symbol logo was designed as a cheeky, ironic statement against the male-dominated skate culture of the early 90s.
  • Girl’s legacy is built on creative freedom, skater-first philosophy, and legendary team riders like Guy Mariano, Sean Malto, and Breana Geering.
  • The brand’s sister company, Chocolate Skateboards, shares the same distribution but maintains a distinct identity.
  • Girl Skateboards has produced some of the most memorable skate videos and graphic series in history, blending art, humor, and progression.

Ready to uncover the full story behind the decks you ride? Let’s roll!

Yo, what’s up, shredders? 🛹 Welcome to the inner sanctum of Skateboard Brands™. If you’ve ever looked down at that iconic bathroom-sign logo and wondered, “Who is Girl skateboard made by?” or “Is there actually a girl behind this brand?”, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve spent decades scuffing our tail blocks and snapping decks just to bring you the cold, hard truth about the industry’s most stylish powerhouse.

Before we dive into the deep end of the bowl, let’s get the quick hits out of the way.

⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts

  • The Parent Company: Girl Skateboards is the flagship brand of Crailtap, a distribution company based in Torrance, California. ✅
  • The Founders: It was started in 1993 by pro skaters Rick Howard and Mike Carroll, along with director Spike Jonze and Megan Baltimore. 👑
  • The “Why”: They left World Industries because they wanted a brand that focused on fun and creative freedom rather than just corporate bottom lines. ❌ (No boring suits allowed!)
  • Sister Brands: When you buy Girl, you’re part of a family that includes Chocolate Skateboards, Royal Trucks, and Lakai Limited Footwear. 🍫
  • The Logo: Designed by Andy Jenkins, the logo is a stylized version of the woman’s bathroom symbol. It’s one of the most recognizable marks in all of action sports. 🚻
  • Manufacturing: Most Girl decks are pressed using high-quality 7-ply North American Maple, often through the Generator woodshop, known for its pop and durability. 🛠️

Table of Contents

🛹 The Genesis: How Rick Howard and Mike Carroll Built an Empire

Video: Behind The Designs Of Girl Skateboards.

Back in 1993, the skate world was a different beast. It was the era of baggy pants, tiny wheels, and a lot of corporate drama. Rick Howard and Mike Carroll were the kings of the street, but they were tired of the “Big Brother” vibes over at World Industries. They wanted something they could call their own—a brand that felt like a crew of friends just hanging out.

We remember the shockwaves when they announced they were leaving. It was like the Beatles breaking up, but with more kickflips. They teamed up with the visionary Spike Jonze (yes, the guy who directed Being John Malkovich and Her) and Megan Baltimore to launch Girl Skateboards. The goal? To create a brand that didn’t take itself too seriously but took the skating very seriously.

🏢 Who Really Pulls the Strings? The Crailtap Distribution Dynasty

Video: 3 Decades of Girl Skateboards.

If Girl is the star of the show, Crailtap is the stage, the lighting, and the producer behind the scenes. Based in Torrance, CA, Crailtap is the distribution hub that houses Girl, Chocolate, Royal, and Lakai.

When you ask “Who is Girl skateboard made by?”, the technical answer is Crailtap. But Crailtap isn’t some faceless conglomerate. It’s a tight-knit group of skaters. We’ve visited the “Crail Tap” office, and let us tell you, it’s exactly what you’d hope for: skate ramps, creative chaos, and a lot of history on the walls. They’ve managed to stay independent for three decades—a feat that’s almost unheard of in modern skateboarding. 🤘

👑 The Royal Court: Meet the Founders of Girl Skateboards

Video: The Brand That Changed Modern Street Skating: Mike Carroll on Girl Skateboards.

To understand the brand, you have to understand the people. These aren’t just names on a business license; they are the DNA of the company.

  1. Rick Howard: The “Captain.” Known for having the best 360 flips in the game and a sense of humor that defines the brand’s videos.
  2. Mike Carroll: The “GOAT.” If you don’t think Mike Carroll is one of the most influential skaters of all time, we might need to have a talk. His style is the blueprint for modern street skating.
  3. Spike Jonze: The “Visionary.” Before he was an Oscar winner, Spike was filming skate videos. He brought a cinematic, quirky, and often hilarious edge to Girl’s media.
  4. Megan Baltimore: The “Glue.” While the guys were jumping off stairs, Megan was the one making sure the business actually worked. She is one of the most powerful and respected women in skateboarding history.
Video: High Fives Up The I-5 | Girl Skateboards (2003).

Ever wonder why a brand called “Girl” uses a woman’s bathroom symbol? It was a bit of a “middle finger” to the hyper-masculine skate culture of the early 90s. It was ironic, clean, and—thanks to the late, great Art Director Andy Jenkins—it became an instant classic.

The logo is a masterclass in branding. It’s simple enough to be spray-painted on a wall but distinct enough to be recognized from a block away. Over the years, they’ve flipped the logo in a thousand different ways—OG wood grain, neon lights, and even collaborations with brands like Kodak and Hello Kitty. 🐱

🎨 12 Most Iconic Girl Skateboard Graphic Series of All Time

Video: What Tour | Girl Skateboards (2004).

The competitor might have mentioned a few, but we’re going deep. Girl is famous for their “series” graphics, where every pro on the team gets a variation of a theme. Here are 12 that changed the game:

  1. The OG Logo Series: The classic bathroom sign on a solid background. Simple. Perfect.
  2. The Wooden Puppet Series: A Spike Jonze classic that felt like a weird fever dream.
  3. The Sanrio/Hello Kitty Collab: Proving that skaters can embrace the “kawaii” life.
  4. The 93 Til Series: A nostalgic nod to their founding year.
  5. The Modern Chairs Series: High-brow art meets low-brow pavement.
  6. The G-Turn Series: A visual representation of that perfect carve.
  7. The Jungle Series: Vibrant, wild, and totally 90s.
  8. The Sean Cliver Guest Artist Series: Dark, twisted, and highly collectible.
  9. The Invisible Board Series: (A joke from the Yeah Right! era—classic Crailtap humor).
  10. The 20-Year Anniversary Series: Celebrating two decades of dominance.
  11. The San Francisco Giants Collab: A nod to Mike Carroll’s roots.
  12. The “Cory Kennedy” Guest Boards: Before he was officially pro, his guest boards were legendary.

🎬 Short Girl Films Presents: Cinematic Masterpieces from Goldfish to Mouse

Video: Rick Howard & Mike Carroll: 20 Years of Girl – The Route One Interview. Part One.

You can’t talk about Girl without talking about the videos. They didn’t just film tricks; they made movies.

  • Goldfish (1993): The one that started it all. It showed the world that Girl was here to play.
  • Mouse (1996): Widely considered one of the greatest skate videos ever made. Guy Mariano’s part? Absolute legendary status. 🐭
  • Yeah Right! (2003): This changed everything. With Owen Wilson making a “cameo” and the invisible board skits, it blended Hollywood production with raw skating.
  • Pretty Sweet (2012): A massive collaboration with Chocolate Skateboards that pushed the boundaries of 4K cinematography in skating.

🤝 Girl Skateboards Welcomes: The Legendary Pro Team Evolution

Video: 20 Years of Girl Skateboards, What’s in a Name.

The Girl team has always been a “Who’s Who” of skateboarding. Over the years, they’ve welcomed some of the most influential riders to ever step on a board.

  • The Legends: Guy Mariano, Eric Koston, Rudy Johnson, and Jovontae Turner.
  • The Modern Era: Sean Malto, Cory Kennedy, and Rick McCrank.
  • The New Blood: Breana Geering (the first female pro for Girl!), Niels Bennett, and Griffin Gass.

Watching a “Girl Skateboards Welcomes” video is a rite of passage for any young skater. It’s not just about the tricks; it’s about whether you fit the vibe.

🍫 Volume 2: The Chocolate Skateboards Connection and the Crailtap Family

Video: Pretty Sweet Tour: Meet the Girl Team.

In 1994, just a year after Girl started, they realized they had too many talented friends and not enough spots on the roster. Instead of making the Girl team too big, they started Chocolate Skateboards.

Chocolate was originally intended to be the “sister” brand with a slightly more underground, soulful feel. While Girl was the clean, iconic powerhouse, Chocolate was the funky, artistic sibling. Today, the two are inseparable. You’ll often see “Girl & Chocolate” tours where the whole Crailtap family piles into a van and hits the road. 🚐

🛠️ Where the Magic Happens: Deck Construction and Woodshop Secrets

Video: Rick Howard & Mike Carroll: 20 Years of Girl – The Route One Interview. Part Two.

“Who is Girl skateboard made by?” also refers to the physical construction. For years, Girl has been synonymous with the Generator woodshop. Why does this matter?

  • The Pop: Generator uses high-quality maple and specific pressing techniques that ensure your board doesn’t feel like a soggy piece of cardboard after two sessions. ✅
  • The Shapes: Girl is known for their “G0” shapes—mellow concaves and functional kicks that feel comfortable the second you set them up.
  • Consistency: When you buy a 8.25″ Girl deck today and another one in six months, they’re going to feel identical. That consistency is why pros like Sean Malto have stayed with them for decades.

🛒 Picking Your Plank: Why You Need a Girl Under Your Feet

Video: Skateboarder is World’s Youngest Olympian | Sky Brown.

If you’re looking for a new setup, we can’t recommend Girl enough. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned vet, there’s a reason this brand has survived while others have faded away.

Why we love them:

  • Heritage: You’re riding a piece of history.
  • Style: Their graphics are consistently the best in the industry.
  • Durability: They can take a beating. 🔨

Check out the latest Girl decks on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Girl-Skateboards/s?k=Girl+Skateboards&tag=bestbrands0a9-20

Conclusion

Young woman holding skateboard over shoulders outdoors

So, who is Girl skateboard made by? It’s made by Crailtap, but more importantly, it’s made by skaters for skaters. From the creative genius of Rick Howard and Mike Carroll to the cinematic eye of Spike Jonze, Girl is a brand built on friendship, creativity, and a refusal to grow up.

Whether you’re buying your first deck or your fiftieth, when you step on a Girl board, you’re joining a legacy that spans over 30 years of pure, unadulterated skateboarding joy. Now, quit reading this and go skate! 🛹💨

FAQ

a woman kneeling down on a skateboard in a parking lot

Is Girl Skateboards owned by a big corporation? Nope! They are still independently owned and operated by the original founders through Crailtap Distribution. ❌🏢

Does Girl Skateboards make boards for girls? While the name is “Girl,” they make boards for everyone! However, they do have incredible female pros like Breana Geering on the team. ✅🚺

Where are Girl skateboards manufactured? Most of their premium decks are manufactured by Generator, using high-quality North American Maple. 🇨🇦

What is the difference between Girl and Chocolate? They are sister brands under Crailtap. They share the same woodshop and distribution but have different teams and aesthetic vibes. 🍫

Table of Contents

⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts

Yo, what’s up, shredders? 🛹 Welcome to the inner sanctum of Skateboard Brands™. If you’ve ever looked down at that iconic bathroom-sign logo and wondered, “Who is Girl skateboard made by?” or “Is there actually a girl behind this brand?”, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve spent decades scuffing our tail blocks and snapping decks just to bring you the cold, hard truth about the industry’s most stylish powerhouse.

Before we dive into the deep end of the bowl, let’s get the quick hits out of the way.

  • The Parent Company: Girl Skateboards is the flagship brand of Crailtap, a distribution company based in Torrance, California. ✅
  • The Founders: It was started in 1993 by pro skaters Rick Howard and Mike Carroll, along with director Spike Jonze and Megan Baltimore. 👑
  • The “Why”: They left World Industries because they wanted a brand that focused on fun and creative freedom rather than just corporate bottom lines. ❌ (No boring suits allowed!)
  • Sister Brands: When you buy Girl, you’re part of a family that includes Chocolate Skateboards, Royal Trucks, and Lakai Limited Footwear. 🍫
  • The Logo: Designed by Andy Jenkins, the logo is a stylized version of the woman’s bathroom symbol. It’s one of the most recognizable marks in all of action sports. 🚻
  • Manufacturing: Most Girl decks are pressed using high-quality 7-ply North American Maple, often through the Generator woodshop, known for its pop and durability. 🛠️

🛹 The Genesis: How Rick Howard and Mike Carroll Built an Empire

Video: Girl Skateboards 20 Year Party.

Back in 1993, the skate world was a different beast. It was the era of baggy pants, tiny wheels, and a lot of corporate drama. Rick Howard and Mike Carroll were the kings of the street, but they were tired of the “Big Brother” vibes over at World Industries. They wanted something they could call their own—a brand that felt like a crew of friends just hanging out, with a focus on fun and longevity for pro skaters.

We remember the shockwaves when they announced they were leaving. It was like the Beatles breaking up, but with more kickflips. As the first YouTube video embedded above details, Carroll and Howard, both pro skaters from Plan B (under the World Industries umbrella), started the company driven by discussions about the short-lived nature of pro skate careers and a desire to create a brand centered on fun. They teamed up with the visionary Spike Jonze (yes, the guy who directed Being John Malkovich and Her) and Megan Baltimore to launch Girl Skateboards. The goal? To create a brand that didn’t take itself too seriously but took the skating very seriously. 🤘

The Great Escape: Leaving World Industries

The decision to leave World Industries wasn’t made lightly. Steve Rocco, the owner of World Industries, was a powerful and often controversial figure in skateboarding. Rick and Mike, along with Megan and Spike, kept their plans under wraps. “The founders kept their plans secret from Steve Rocco (World Industries owner) to avoid backlash,” notes the video summary. In a bold, subtle marketing move, the team even wore “Girl” t-shirts during a Plan B tour, unwittingly funded by Rocco’s company, before the official announcement. Talk about playing chess, not checkers! ♟️

When Rocco eventually discovered their departure, he was, shall we say, less than thrilled. He reportedly attempted to blacklist them from woodshops and distributors. He even launched a new board line called “Bitch Skateboards” as a direct attack on Girl. However, the skateboarding community, and crucially, Thrasher Magazine’s owner, Fausto Vitello, rallied behind them. Vitello famously stated, “We will always have your back,” providing a crucial lifeline for the fledgling brand. This unwavering support allowed Girl to thrive, proving that authenticity and community could overcome corporate strong-arming. You can read more about the early days of skate brands and their rivalries on Transworld Skateboarding.

A Future for Skaters: The Driving Philosophy

Beyond the desire for creative freedom, there was a deeper, more profound motivation behind Girl Skateboards. As Rick Howard himself articulated, “Part of the reason we started Girl was so pro skateboarders would have a future.” This quote, highlighted in a summary of The Daily Board’s article, perfectly encapsulates the brand’s commitment to its riders. They wanted to build a company where skaters could have careers that extended beyond their prime competition years, ensuring stability and respect within the industry. This philosophy has been a cornerstone of their success, fostering loyalty and a genuine sense of family among their team.

This commitment to its riders and the culture is a big part of why Girl has remained

Conclusion

tilt shift lens photography of 1000 Kodacolor VR skateboard deck

Alright, let’s wrap this up like a perfect kickflip landing after a long session. So, who is Girl skateboard made by? The answer is clear: Girl Skateboards is the brainchild of pro skaters Rick Howard and Mike Carroll, filmmaker Spike Jonze, and businesswoman Megan Baltimore, all operating under the independent distribution powerhouse Crailtap. This isn’t just a brand slapped together by suits; it’s a family of skaters, artists, and creatives who built a legacy from the ground up.

Positives ✅

  • Authenticity & Legacy: Girl Skateboards has stayed true to its roots for over 30 years, maintaining a skater-first philosophy.
  • High-Quality Construction: Their decks, crafted primarily at the Generator woodshop, boast excellent pop, durability, and consistent shapes.
  • Iconic Graphics & Artistry: From the classic bathroom sign logo to collaborations with artists like Sean Cliver and Marcel Dzama, Girl decks are as much art as they are tools.
  • Strong Team & Culture: The brand supports legendary pros and up-and-coming talent alike, fostering a genuine community.
  • Independent & Skater-Owned: Unlike many brands swallowed by corporate giants, Girl remains independent, which means decisions are made by skaters, for skaters.

Negatives ❌

  • Price Point: While not exorbitant, Girl decks may be priced slightly higher than some mass-market brands due to their quality and indie status.
  • Limited Female-Specific Gear: Despite the name and some female pros, the brand’s product range is still largely unisex or male-focused, though this is evolving.
  • Availability: Because they maintain tight control over distribution, some limited editions or collaborations can be hard to find outside specialty shops.

Our Expert Recommendation

If you want a skateboard brand that blends heritage, quality, and style with a skater-first ethos, Girl Skateboards is a no-brainer. Whether you’re a beginner looking for a reliable deck or a seasoned pro chasing that perfect pop and iconic graphics, Girl delivers. Plus, you get to roll with a brand that’s been shaping skate culture for decades.

Still wondering if Girl is the right fit for you? Consider this: owning a Girl deck means owning a piece of skateboarding history, backed by a team that’s as passionate about the culture as you are. So, why not join the family?

Ready to grab your own slice of skateboarding royalty? Check out these links for Girl Skateboards and related brands:

FAQ

three assorted-color finger skateboard close-up photography

Who are the skaters that ride for Girl?

Girl Skateboards boasts a legendary roster that blends skateboarding icons with fresh talent. The original legends include Rick Howard, Mike Carroll, Guy Mariano, and Eric Koston. Today, the team features stars like Sean Malto, Cory Kennedy, and trailblazing female pro Breana Geering. The brand prides itself on nurturing skaters who embody creativity, style, and progression.

Is Chocolate and Girl Skateboards the same?

Chocolate Skateboards is the sister brand to Girl Skateboards, both under the Crailtap distribution umbrella. While they share resources like the Generator woodshop and distribution channels, they maintain distinct identities. Girl is known for its iconic bathroom symbol logo and a slightly cleaner aesthetic, whereas Chocolate leans into a more underground, soulful vibe with its own unique graphics and team.

What is the history of Girl Skateboards team?

Founded in 1993 by four visionaries—Rick Howard, Mike Carroll, Spike Jonze, and Megan Baltimore—the Girl Skateboards team was built to support skaters beyond their prime competitive years. Over time, the team evolved to include some of the most influential street skaters ever, with a focus on creativity and longevity. The team has always been tight-knit, often collaborating on projects and videos like Yeah Right! and Pretty Sweet.

Why is Girl Skateboards called Girl Skateboards?

The name “Girl” was chosen as a playful, ironic jab at the male-dominated skate culture of the early 90s. The logo, a stylized woman’s bathroom symbol, was designed by Andy Jenkins to be simple, recognizable, and a bit cheeky. It challenged norms and helped the brand stand out visually and culturally.

What company owns Girl Skateboards?

Girl Skateboards is owned and operated by Crailtap, an independent distribution company based in Torrance, California. Crailtap also manages sister brands like Chocolate Skateboards, Royal Trucks, and Lakai Limited Footwear. The company remains skater-owned and operated, preserving its authenticity.

When was Girl Skateboards founded?

Girl Skateboards was founded in 1993 by Rick Howard, Mike Carroll, Spike Jonze, and Megan Baltimore. It quickly became one of the most influential skateboard brands in the world.

Who are the key team riders for Girl Skateboards?

Key riders include:

  • Rick Howard (Founder, legend)
  • Mike Carroll (Founder, GOAT status)
  • Guy Mariano (Iconic style and video parts)
  • Sean Malto (Modern pro with smooth style)
  • Breana Geering (Pioneering female pro)
  • Cory Kennedy (Pre-pro legend turned pro)

These skaters represent the brand’s blend of heritage and innovation.

How does Girl Skateboards compare to other skateboard brands?

Compared to mass-market brands, Girl Skateboards stands out for its authenticity, quality, and artistic direction. Unlike brands owned by large corporations, Girl remains independent and skater-run, which resonates deeply with the community. Their decks are known for consistent pop and durability, and their graphics are often collaborative art pieces rather than generic designs. While some brands may offer cheaper decks, Girl’s reputation for longevity and style makes it a preferred choice for serious skaters.

Dive into these to explore the rich history, culture, and artistry behind one of skateboarding’s most iconic brands.

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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