Element
ActiveOverview
Element Skateboards is a skateboard company founded in 1992 that produces skateboard decks, trucks, wheels, griptape, apparel, footwear, and related gear. It positions itself at the intersection of skateboarding culture, nature, and streetwear, with headquarters in Huntington Beach, California, and Saint-Jean-de-Luz, France.126
History
Element was founded in 1992 in Atlanta, Georgia, by Johnny Schillereff as Underworld Element, later shortened to Element.25 In 2018, it was acquired by Boardriders, Inc., establishing headquarters in Huntington Beach, U.S., and Saint-Jean-de-Luz, France.2 In 2014, the company created The Branch, a creative space in Costa Mesa, California; in 2025, Liberated Brands, which operated Element retail stores, filed for bankruptcy and closed all stores.12
Product Lines
| Product Line | Positioning | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Skateboard Decks | core skateboarding equipment | $50 - $80 |
| Skate Trucks | high-performance components | $25 - $60 |
| Skate Wheels | durable urethane wheels | $30 - $50 |
| Apparel (T-Shirts, Hoodies) | streetwear for skaters | $25 - $70 |
| Footwear | skate-specific shoes | $60 - $100 |
| Backpacks | functional skate gear | $40 - $80 |
Manufacturing
Manufacturing details are not specified in available sources; products such as decks and apparel are produced through standard industry supply chains, likely outsourced internationally.12
Notable Products
- Element Skateboard Decks - Maple wood decks with pro models and signature series.
- Section Wheels - Urethane skate wheels in various sizes for street and park.
- Element Apparel - T-shirts, hoodies, and jackets featuring tree logo and skate graphics.
- Savoy Shoes - Skate shoes designed for durability and grip.
- Element Backpacks - Backpacks with skate-specific compartments.
Reputation
Element is recognized among skateboarders for its consistent quality in decks and apparel tied to skate culture and environmental themes.23 Professionals note its longevity since 1992 and team sponsorships, though retail challenges arose from the 2025 store closures.12 Criticisms focus on limited innovation compared to competitors in recent years.