Who Left Girl Skateboards? 🛹 The Top 5 Departures Explained (2025)

If you’ve ever wondered who left Girl Skateboards and why some of the biggest names in skateboarding suddenly vanished from the roster, you’re not alone. From co-founders Mike Carroll and Rick Howard stepping back to Brandon Biebel’s controversial exit, the story behind these departures is as layered and gripping as a perfectly executed kickflip. But what really drove these skaters away? And how has Girl Skateboards managed to stay relevant amid all the changes?

Stick around, because later we’ll dive into the real reasons behind these exits, reveal how they shook up the skateboarding community, and spotlight the fresh talent stepping up to carry the torch. Plus, if you’re curious about where to find authentic Girl gear post-roster shakeup, we’ve got you covered with insider tips and shopping links. Ready to roll?

Key Takeaways

  • Several iconic riders have left Girl Skateboards, including co-founders Mike Carroll and Rick Howard shifting roles, and Brandon Biebel’s exit amid social media controversy.
  • Departures stem from a mix of personal choices, industry trends, and brand dynamics, such as creative freedom, burnout, and evolving brand images.
  • Girl Skateboards continues to thrive by embracing new talent and innovative collaborations, maintaining its place as a skateboarding powerhouse.
  • Fans can still find authentic Girl decks, apparel, and Lakai footwear through official stores and trusted retailers.
  • Staying updated on team changes is easier by following official social media, skate media outlets, and community forums.

👉 Shop Girl Skateboards Gear:

Table of Contents

⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts About Who Left Girl Skateboards

If you’re wondering who left Girl Skateboards and why, you’re in the right place! At Skateboard Brands™, we’ve been tracking the comings and goings of this iconic team for years. Here are some quick facts to get you started:

  • ✅ Mike Carroll and Rick Howard — co-founders — eventually stepped back from active riding but remain influential behind the scenes.
  • ✅ Brandon Biebel left under controversial circumstances, reportedly related to social media conflicts and brand dynamics.
  • ✅ Alex Olson departed due to creative differences and a desire to start his own company.
  • ✅ The brand has seen a natural evolution with riders leaving to pursue new projects or personal growth.
  • ✅ Departures often impact Girl’s video parts and team chemistry but also open doors for fresh talent.

Curious about the full story and the real reasons behind these exits? Stick with us as we unpack the history, drama, and future of Girl Skateboards. And if you want a visual deep dive, check out the featured video for “14 Things You Didn’t Know About Girl (2020)” by Shredz Shop — it’s packed with insider info!

For more on the brand itself, check out our detailed Girl Skateboards guide.

🛹 The Evolution of Girl Skateboards: A Brief History and Key Departures

a group of young people walking down a street

Girl Skateboards has been a pillar of skate culture since 1993, founded by Mike Carroll and Rick Howard. The brand quickly became synonymous with style, technical skill, and a tight-knit team vibe. But like any long-standing crew, the roster has evolved — and some riders have left for various reasons.

The Early Days and Founding Vision

  • Founded to create a team-focused brand emphasizing fun, creativity, and authenticity.
  • Early riders included Carroll, Howard, and legends like Eric Koston and Guy Mariano.
  • The brand’s video parts, like Yeah Right! and Pretty Sweet, set new standards.

Key Departures Over Time

  • Carroll and Howard transitioned from active pro status to more managerial and creative roles.
  • Riders like Brian Anderson and Alex Olson left to start or join new ventures.
  • More recent departures, such as Brandon Biebel, sparked community debates.

The Brand’s Resilience

Despite changes, Girl Skateboards remains a top-tier brand with a loyal fanbase and a commitment to pushing skateboarding forward.

Want to dive deeper into the brand’s history and team changes? Our Skateboard Brand Guides have you covered.

1. Who Left Girl Skateboards? The Most Notable Exits Explained


Video: RE-UP at Girl Skateboards + AMFD Giveaway! | Brandon Biebel.








Let’s break down the most talked-about departures from Girl Skateboards — the who, the why, and what it meant for the brand and skateboarding culture.

1.1. Mike Carroll: From Girl to New Horizons

Mike Carroll is not just a co-founder; he’s a skateboarding legend. While he hasn’t “left” Girl in the traditional sense, Carroll stepped back from full-time pro skating to focus on other projects.

  • Why did Carroll step back?
    After decades of skating at the highest level, Carroll shifted his focus to mentoring, designing decks, and running Lakai Footwear.
  • Impact on Girl:
    Carroll’s presence remains strong behind the scenes, influencing the brand’s direction and rider development.

Fun fact: Carroll’s iconic style and video parts helped define Girl’s identity in the late 90s and early 2000s.

1.2. Rick Howard: The OG’s Departure and Legacy

Rick Howard, co-founder and original pro, also transitioned away from active riding but stayed involved creatively.

  • Howard’s departure from pro skating was gradual, focusing on art and design projects.
  • He remains a respected figure in the skate community and occasionally collaborates with Girl.

1.3. Brandon Biebel: Why He Stepped Away from Girl and Skateboarding

Brandon Biebel’s exit is one of the most talked-about in recent years. Here’s what we know:

  • Biebel was reportedly dropped from Girl Skateboards after posting a controversial video involving a fight, which sparked backlash within the community.
  • Some fans speculate that “woke culture” and brand image concerns influenced the decision.
  • After leaving Girl, Biebel shifted focus to bodybuilding and personal fitness, leaving the skate industry behind.

Community reactions were mixed — some mourned the loss of a “Sac Town legend,” while others debated the fairness of the brand’s response.

Insider tip: This departure highlights how social media and brand values now heavily influence skateboarding careers.

1.4. Other Key Riders Who Left Girl Skateboards

  • Alex Olson: Left due to creative differences and a desire to start his own company, 3D Skateboards, before moving on to his own brand. Olson’s story is a classic example of a rider wanting to break free from corporate constraints and pursue artistic freedom.
  • Brian Anderson: Left Girl to co-found 3D Skateboards with Olson, seeking a fresh vision.
  • Other riders: Various team members have left over the years for personal reasons, new sponsorships, or to pursue other interests.

For more on these riders’ stories, check out our Skateboard Culture section.


Video: GIRL SKATEBOARDS: OUT FOR A RIP.








Why do riders leave a brand as iconic as Girl Skateboards? It’s rarely just one reason. Here’s a breakdown:

  • Changing skateboarding culture: The industry has shifted towards social media presence, brand image, and marketability.
  • New company formations: Riders often leave to start their own brands for creative control (e.g., Alex Olson).
  • “Cancel culture” and social media: As seen with Brandon Biebel, online controversies can impact sponsorships.

Personal Choices

  • Desire for creative freedom or new challenges.
  • Life changes, such as family, health, or shifting priorities.
  • Burnout or loss of motivation after years of professional skating.

Brand Dynamics

  • Team chemistry and management decisions play a big role.
  • Sometimes, riders feel their vision no longer aligns with the brand’s direction.
  • Sponsorship contracts and financial considerations also factor in.

Pro tip: If you want to keep up with these shifts, follow industry news and rider interviews on platforms like Jenkem Magazine and Thrasher Magazine.

🎥 Impact of Departures on Girl Skateboards’ Video Parts and Brand Identity


Video: Who Was Left Out On The Original Girl Skateboards Team?! – Tim Gavin.








Girl Skateboards is famous for its innovative video parts that showcase the team’s skills and style. When key riders leave, it affects:

  • Video production: New parts must spotlight fresh talent, shifting the brand’s visual narrative.
  • Brand identity: The departure of iconic riders can change the vibe and public perception.
  • Fan engagement: Loyal fans may feel nostalgic or skeptical about the new lineup.

For example, after Carroll and Howard stepped back, videos like Pretty Sweet featured rising stars, keeping the brand relevant but evolving.

Insider anecdote: We remember watching Brandon Biebel’s smooth style in Yeah Right! and feeling the void when he left — it’s like losing a chapter in the brand’s story.

🌟 How Departures Influence the Skateboarding Community and Fanbase


Video: 3 Decades of Girl Skateboards.








When riders leave Girl Skateboards, the community reacts strongly. Here’s how:

  • Emotional impact: Fans develop deep attachments to riders and feel their loss personally.
  • Debates and discussions: Social media buzzes with opinions, sometimes heated, about the reasons and fairness of departures.
  • Support for new talent: Departures create space for up-and-coming skaters to shine and gain fans.

Example: Brandon Biebel’s exit sparked conversations about “cancel culture” in skateboarding, reflecting broader societal debates.

For a deeper dive into skateboarding culture shifts, visit our Skateboard Culture articles.

💡 What’s Next for Girl Skateboards? New Talent and Future Prospects


Video: Brandon Biebel: The Route One Interview.








Girl Skateboards isn’t just about the past — it’s about what’s next. Here’s what we’re watching:

Rising Stars on the Team

  • New riders bring fresh styles and perspectives, ensuring Girl stays cutting-edge.
  • The brand continues to scout talent globally, embracing diversity and innovation.

Brand Collaborations and Product Lines

  • Collaborations like the Modernica Vol. 2 collection show Girl’s commitment to quality and design innovation.
  • New deck graphics and gear keep the brand visually exciting.

Community Engagement

  • Girl is investing in skate events and supporting grassroots skating to maintain authenticity.
  • They’re also navigating the social media landscape carefully to avoid past pitfalls.

Our prediction: Girl Skateboards will continue to evolve, balancing respect for its legendary past with a bold vision for the future.

🛒 Where to Find Authentic Girl Skateboards Decks and Gear After the Roster Changes


Video: ‘Yeah Right’ 20-year Reunion with Koston, P-Rod, BA and the rest of the Girl Skateboards Team.








If you want to ride with the legacy or support the new team, here’s how to get authentic Girl Skateboards gear:

Product Type Where to Buy Online Notes
Decks Amazon Girl Skateboards Search Wide selection, check seller ratings
Apparel Girl Skateboards Official Store Authentic and latest collections
Shoes (Lakai) Lakai Footwear Official Co-founded by Mike Carroll, linked brand
Accessories Skateboard Gear Category Bearings, wheels, and more

Tips for Buying Girl Skateboards Gear

  • Always verify authenticity to avoid fakes.
  • Support local skate shops when possible — they often stock Girl decks and gear.
  • Follow Girl’s official social media for limited releases and collabs.

👉 CHECK PRICE on:

🧠 Insider Tips: How to Keep Up with Skateboard Team Changes and Industry News


Video: I think my therapist is trying to dump me.







Staying updated on who’s riding where can be tricky. Here’s how we do it at Skateboard Brands™:

Follow Official Channels

  • Brand websites and social media: Girl Skateboards’ Instagram and Facebook often announce team changes.
  • Rider personal accounts: Many pros share news directly on Instagram or YouTube.

Skate Media and Magazines

  • Jenkem Magazine and Thrasher Magazine regularly cover team updates and interviews.
  • YouTube channels like Shredz Shop provide video content and insider info (like the featured video).

Community Forums and Groups

  • Skateboard forums and Reddit threads can offer early rumors and fan perspectives.
  • Be cautious with unverified info — always cross-check with official sources.

Attend Local Skate Events

  • Events and demos often reveal new team members and brand ambassadors.
  • Great way to meet riders and get the scoop firsthand.

For more tips on skateboarding culture and gear, explore our Skateboard Brand Guides and Skateboard Gear categories.

Video: “GIRL SKATEBOARDS: 14 Things You Didn’t Know About Girl (2020)” by Shredz Shop
This video is a goldmine for fans wanting to understand Girl Skateboards’ legacy, including insights into team changes and brand culture. It’s a must-watch to complement what you’ve read here!
Watch it on YouTube | Subscribe for more skate content!

Next up: 🔚 Conclusion: The Legacy of Those Who Left and the Future of Girl Skateboards

🔚 Conclusion: The Legacy of Those Who Left and the Future of Girl Skateboards

a man walking down a street holding a skateboard

So, who left Girl Skateboards? From co-founders Mike Carroll and Rick Howard stepping back from pro skating to Brandon Biebel’s controversial exit, and Alex Olson’s quest for creative freedom, the roster changes tell a story of evolution, personal growth, and the shifting tides of skateboarding culture.

What’s clear? These departures don’t signal the end of Girl Skateboards — they mark new chapters. The brand has shown remarkable resilience, adapting by welcoming fresh talent and embracing new creative directions. The legacy of those who left remains deeply embedded in Girl’s DNA, influencing the brand’s style, ethos, and community impact.

If you were wondering whether these changes dilute Girl’s identity, the answer is a confident no. Instead, they fuel its reinvention. The brand’s commitment to quality decks, innovative collaborations (like the Modernica collection), and authentic skate culture keeps it relevant and respected.

Our recommendation: Whether you’re a fan of the old guard or excited about the new wave, Girl Skateboards offers something for every enthusiast. Keep an eye on their evolving team and gear — the best is yet to come!

Ready to ride with the legends and the new crew? Here’s where to find authentic Girl Skateboards gear and related products:

❓ FAQ: Everything You Wanted to Know About Girl Skateboards Departures

A woman riding a skateboard down a street next to the ocean

Which professional skateboarders have left Girl Skateboards?

Several notable pros have left Girl Skateboards over the years:

  • Mike Carroll and Rick Howard: Co-founders who transitioned away from full-time pro skating to focus on brand management and creative projects.
  • Brandon Biebel: Left under controversial circumstances reportedly related to social media conflicts and brand image concerns.
  • Alex Olson: Departed due to creative differences and a desire to start his own company, seeking more artistic freedom.
  • Brian Anderson: Left to co-found 3D Skateboards with Olson.

These departures reflect both personal choices and industry dynamics.

Read more about “Baker Skateboards: 9 Must-Have Decks & Gear to Ride in 2025 🛹”

Why do pro skaters leave established brands like Girl?

Pro skaters leave for a variety of reasons, including:

  • Creative freedom: Some want to start their own brands or pursue projects that align better with their vision.
  • Personal growth: Life changes, burnout, or shifting priorities can lead to stepping away.
  • Industry pressures: Social media controversies, brand image concerns, or “cancel culture” can influence sponsorship decisions.
  • Team dynamics: Changes in management or team chemistry sometimes prompt riders to move on.

It’s a complex mix of personal and professional factors.

What are some other top skateboard brands known for their pro teams?

Besides Girl Skateboards, several brands are renowned for their strong pro teams:

  • Plan B Skateboards: Known for legends like Danny Way and Paul Rodriguez.
  • Baker Skateboards: Famous for its raw style and riders like Andrew Reynolds.
  • Element Skateboards: A global brand with a diverse pro roster.
  • Polar Skate Co.: A newer brand with a creative and experimental approach, admired by riders like Alex Olson.

These brands, like Girl, balance heritage with innovation.

Who founded Girl Skateboards and what is its history?

Girl Skateboards was founded in 1993 by Mike Carroll and Rick Howard. The brand was created to emphasize a team-focused, authentic skateboarding culture with a fun and creative vibe. Over the years, Girl became known for its influential video parts, iconic riders, and quality products. Despite roster changes, it remains a cornerstone of skateboarding culture.

What impact have departures had on Girl Skateboards’ video parts?

Departures of key riders have shifted the focus of Girl’s video productions, introducing new talent and evolving the brand’s visual narrative. While some fans miss the old guard, the brand’s videos continue to showcase high-level skating and fresh styles, maintaining Girl’s reputation for innovation.

Read more about “What Skateboard Did Tony Hawk First Use? 🛹 The Untold Story (2025)”

Thanks for skating through this deep dive with us! Whether you’re a longtime Girl fan or just curious about the team’s evolution, we hope you found the answers and insights you were looking for. Keep shredding and stay tuned for more from Skateboard 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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