Hosoi Skateboards

Overview

Hosoi Skateboards is a skateboard deck brand led by professional skateboarder Christian Hosoi, focusing on original 1980s shapes like the Hammerhead alongside modern interpretations and guest artist graphics.²³ It targets skate enthusiasts interested in old-school vert and pool skating styles, with products including re-issues, mini boards, and completes manufactured in Costa Mesa, California.²⁶

History

Christian Hosoi, a professional skateboarder who turned pro at age 14 with Sims Skateboards, launched his own company, Christian Hosoi Enterprises Inc., in 1985 after planning it through Alva Skates.¹⁴ He developed the signature Hammerhead double-kick deck in the 1980s, featuring cutaways for vert grabs that influenced deck design trends.¹ The brand continues under Hosoi's direction, producing re-issue and modern decks based on classic shapes.²

Product Lines

Manufacturing

All boards are manufactured in Costa Mesa, California.²³

Notable Products

• Hammerhead - 1980s double-kick deck with cutaways for vert grabs, Hosoi's signature model.¹
• Wings - Old-school deck with distinctive wing shapes.⁵
• Gonz 93 - Re-issue of 1993 Mark Gonzalez collaboration deck.⁶
• El Gato - Pro model deck associated with Eddie Elguera.⁵
• Cadillac - Classic shape re-issue for old-school skating.⁶

Reputation

Hosoi Skateboards is regarded by skate enthusiasts for its authentic re-issues of 1980s shapes tied to Christian Hosoi's vert legacy, including the influential Hammerhead.¹² Professionals and collectors value the in-house Costa Mesa production and collaborations like John Lucero graphics.²³ It appeals to old-school and pool skaters rather than mainstream street skating.⁶