Alva
ActiveOverview
Alva Skates is a skateboard company founded by professional skateboarder Tony Alva, producing skateboards, wheels, surfboards, and apparel. It holds historical significance as the first company owned and run by a skateboarder, pioneering the use of layered Canadian maple plywood in decks. The brand maintains a niche position in skateboarding, emphasizing products made in California.124
History
Tony Alva founded Alva Skates in 1977 at age 19, rejecting major skate companies to create the first skateboarder-owned brand. It introduced layered Canadian maple plywood decks, a key innovation in skateboard construction. The company, led by Alva—a Z-Boys pioneer and vertical skateboarding originator—continues operations from Southern California.234
Product Lines
| Product Line | Positioning | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Alva Skateboards | High-performance skateboard decks | $50 - $100 |
| Alva Wheels | Skateboard wheels for street and vert | $30 - $60 |
| Alva Surfcraft Surfboards | Surfboards by Tony Alva | $600 - $1,200 |
| Alva Apparel | Skate-inspired clothing | $20 - $80 |
Manufacturing
Products are made in California. The company produces skateboards in-house, upholding its commitment to domestic manufacturing since 1977.4
Notable Products
- Alva Skateboard Decks - Decks using layered Canadian maple plywood, first introduced by the brand in 1977.
- Alva Wheels - Wheels designed for high-performance skating.
- Alva Surfcraft Surfboards - Surfboards crafted under Tony Alva's direction.
Reputation
Alva is respected among skateboarders for its pioneering role and Tony Alva's Z-Boys legacy. Enthusiasts value its authentic heritage and California-made quality. It maintains a cult following in vertical skating circles without widespread mainstream dominance.234