Anime Skateboard: Riding The Wave Of Japanese Style Boards

Skateboarding has been a beloved sport and form of self-expression for decades, with its roots in California in the 1950s. Over the years, skateboarding has evolved and branched out into various styles, one of which is the anime skateboard. Anime skateboards have become increasingly popular among skateboard enthusiasts, particularly those who are fans of Japanese culture and anime.

For those who may be unfamiliar, anime refers to Japanese animation, which has gained worldwide recognition and acclaim. Anime skateboards are a unique fusion of Japanese art and skateboarding, featuring vibrant graphics and designs inspired by anime and manga. In this article, we will delve into the world of anime skateboards, exploring their history, design, and cultural significance.

The Rise of Anime Skateboards

The rise of anime skateboards can be attributed to the growing popularity of anime and manga worldwide. As Japanese culture continues to gain recognition and appreciation, anime-inspired skateboards have become a sought-after commodity among skateboard enthusiasts. Skateboard manufacturers have taken notice of this trend, collaborating with anime artists and studios to create limited-edition anime skateboards.

One of the pioneering companies in the anime skateboard scene is Japan's own, Tokyu Hands. Founded in 1976, Tokyu Hands is a renowned retailer of skateboarding equipment and apparel. In the early 2000s, the company began collaborating with anime artists and studios to produce limited-edition anime skateboards. These collaborations helped pave the way for other manufacturers to follow suit, leading to the proliferation of anime skateboards in the market.

Design and Graphics

Anime skateboards are known for their vibrant and eye-catching graphics, which are often inspired by popular anime shows and manga series. The designs can range from simple logos and characters to intricate, hand-drawn illustrations. Some anime skateboards feature graphics inspired by classic anime shows like Dragon Ball and Sailor Moon, while others showcase more modern series like Attack on Titan and One Piece.

The graphics on anime skateboards are often created in collaboration with anime artists and studios. This ensures that the designs are authentic and faithful to the original anime series. The use of bold colors, dynamic lines, and intricate details is characteristic of anime art, and these elements are often incorporated into the design of anime skateboards.

Cultural Significance

Anime skateboards have become a cultural phenomenon, transcending the skateboarding community to appeal to fans of Japanese culture and anime. The boards have become a symbol of self-expression and individuality, allowing riders to showcase their love for anime and Japanese culture.

In Japan, anime skateboards have become a staple in the skateboarding scene. Many Japanese skateboarders incorporate anime-inspired elements into their riding style, incorporating manga-inspired graphics into their tricks and maneuvers.

Types of Anime Skateboards

There are several types of anime skateboards available in the market, catering to different riding styles and preferences. Some popular types of anime skateboards include:

Standard Anime Skateboards: These are the most common type of anime skateboard, featuring a standard shape and size.
Limited-Edition Anime Skateboards: These are special-edition boards produced in collaboration with anime artists and studios. They often feature unique graphics and are highly sought after by collectors.
Custom Anime Skateboards: These are one-of-a-kind boards created by individual artists or skateboarders. They can feature unique graphics and designs, making each board a true work of art.

Where to Buy Anime Skateboards

Anime skateboards can be found in various skateboarding shops and online retailers. Some popular places to buy anime skateboards include:

Tokyu Hands: As mentioned earlier, Tokyu Hands is a pioneering company in the anime skateboard scene. They offer a wide range of anime skateboards, including limited-edition collaborations.
Zumiez: Zumiez is a popular skateboarding retailer that carries a selection of anime skateboards from various manufacturers.
Online Retailers: Online retailers like Amazon and eBay often carry a wide selection of anime skateboards from various manufacturers.

Conclusion

Anime skateboards have become a beloved part of the skateboarding community, offering a unique fusion of Japanese art and skateboarding culture. With their vibrant graphics and designs inspired by anime and manga, these boards have become a symbol of self-expression and individuality. Whether you're a seasoned skateboarder or just starting out, anime skateboards are a great way to showcase your love for Japanese culture and anime.