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mark gonzales boards are more than just pieces of wood; they represent a revolution in skateboarding. kizworld dives into the history, design, and cultural impact of these iconic boards, exploring why they continue to captivate skaters and collectors alike.
Feature | Description |
|---|---|
History | Pioneered by skateboarding legend Mark Gonzales in the 1980s, known for their innovative shapes and graphics. |
Designs | Often feature bold colors, abstract art, and Gonzales's signature hand-drawn graphics. |
Types | Range from classic popsicle shapes to more experimental designs, catering to various skating styles. |
Impact | Influenced generations of skateboarders and artists, blurring the lines between skateboarding and art. |
Collecting | Highly sought after by collectors, with rare and vintage boards fetching high prices. |
The History of Mark Gonzales Boards
The story of Mark Gonzales boards begins in the 1980s, a time when skateboarding was undergoing a major transformation. Mark Gonzales, known for his innovative street skating style, teamed up with Vision Skateboards to create boards that reflected his unique vision. These weren't your average boards; they featured unusual shapes and eye-catching graphics that challenged the norms of skateboarding aesthetics. Imagine a skateboard that looked like it belonged in an art gallery – that's the kind of vibe Mark Gonzales was going for. His boards quickly became highly sought after, not just for their performance but also for their artistic merit.
- Vision Skateboards
Gonzales's influence on how to get started with skateboarding extended beyond just the design of the boards. He brought a new level of creativity and self-expression to skateboarding, encouraging skaters to see their boards as blank canvases. It was like he was saying, "Hey, you can skate AND be an artist at the same time!" This fusion of skateboarding and art became a defining characteristic of Mark Gonzales boards and continues to inspire skaters today.
Feature | Description |
|---|---|
Style | Known for their bold colors, abstract art, and Gonzales's signature hand-drawn graphics. |
Iconic Mark Gonzales Board Designs
Mark Gonzales's board designs are like snowflakes—no two are exactly alike! He's known for his wild and wacky style, using bright colors, scribbly drawings, and even his own handwriting. Think about it like this: If your skateboard could talk, a Mark Gonzales board would be the one telling funny jokes and making everyone laugh!
The "Shmoo"
One of his most famous designs is called the "Shmoo." It's got this goofy-looking creature on it with big eyes and a mischievous grin. It's like something you'd draw in your notebook when you're supposed to be paying attention in class! But that's what makes it so cool—it's different and fun, just like Mark Gonzales's skating.
Board | Released | Brand |
|---|---|---|
The "Shmoo" | 1991 | Blind Skateboards |
Iconic Mark Gonzales Board Designs
Choosing the Right Mark Gonzales Board for You
Picking the right Mark Gonzales board is like choosing a sidekick for your skateboarding adventures! First off, think about your skating style. Are you all about how to get started with skateboarding street tricks and cruising around town? Or do you dream of shredding ramps and catching air like a flying superhero? Different boards have different shapes and sizes that work best for certain styles.
Next, let's talk about size. You wouldn't want a board that's too big or too small—it's like trying to wear shoes that don't fit! The width of the deck is super important. A wider deck gives you more stability, which is awesome for beginners or if you like doing tricks that need good balance. A narrower deck gives you more control for flipping your board and doing quick turns, but it takes more practice to master.
Board Width | Suitable For |
|---|---|
7.5" - 8" | Beginners, street skating, cruising |
8" - 8.5" | All-around skating, street, park, ramps |
8.5" and up | Advanced skaters, ramps, pools, big tricks |
Choosing the Right Mark Gonzales Board for You
Collecting and Appreciating Mark Gonzales Boards
Collecting Mark Gonzales boards is like holding a piece of skateboarding history! Some people collect stamps or coins, but imagine having a collection of boards designed by a skateboarding legend – that's way cooler, right? It's not just about the boards themselves; it's about the stories they tell and the creativity they represent. You can find vintage Mark Gonzales boards online or at specialty skateboard shops. Just like finding a rare comic book or a first edition of your favorite book, discovering a rare Mark Gonzales board is like finding a treasure!
- Vision Skateboards
- Blind Skateboards
- Krooked Skateboards
Some collectors hang their boards on the wall like artwork, while others keep them safely stored away. Either way, owning a Mark Gonzales board is like owning a piece of skateboarding art that you can appreciate for years to come.
Brand | Founded | Founder |
|---|---|---|
Vision Skateboards | 1976 | Brad Dorfman |
Blind Skateboards | 1989 | Mark Gonzales |
Krooked Skateboards | 2002 | Mark Gonzales |
Collecting and Appreciating Mark Gonzales Boards
Final Thought
Mark Gonzales boards are a testament to the enduring spirit of skateboarding and creative expression. They represent a fusion of art, athleticism, and individuality. Whether you're a seasoned skater or simply appreciate the craftsmanship and cultural significance, Mark Gonzales boards hold a unique place in skateboarding history.