Yowsurf

Overview

YOW (Your Own Wave) is a surfskate manufacturer founded in 2014 that designs skateboards engineered to replicate surfing movements on land. The company has established itself as one of the leading surfskate brands alongside Carver, known for its patented Meraki truck system that enables deep carving and pumping motions. YOW boards serve dual purposes as both surf trainers for flat days and versatile street cruisers, appealing to both surfers seeking off-water practice and landlocked enthusiasts.

History

YOW was founded in 2014 by Andalusian engineer Juanjo Almansa, who initially designed a surf-training skateboard for his daughter to practice surfing techniques away from the ocean. His prototype attracted the attention of the Iraola brothers, pioneers of European skateboard manufacturing, and together they developed the YOW system. Within seven years, YOW established itself as one of the leading surfskate brands in the market through continuous refinement of its articulated truck technology and diverse board offerings.

Product Lines

Manufacturing

YOW products are manufactured in the Basque Country, Spain, leveraging the region's established skateboard manufacturing expertise through partnerships with local producers like the Iraola brothers' operation. The company maintains quality control over its proprietary Meraki truck system while utilizing regional manufacturing capabilities.

Notable Products

• Meraki Surfskate Truck - Patented spring-based articulated truck system enabling deep carving, wide turning radius, and responsive snap-back with strong pumping power
• YOW Teahupoo 34" Complete Surfskate - Full-setup board designed for versatile street riding and surf training with the Meraki system
• YOW Aritz Aranburu 32.5" Surfskate - Collaboration board with professional surfer reflecting specific surf style and technique

Reputation

YOW is recognized as one of the highest-performing surfskate brands with the Meraki truck generating more forward momentum than competing systems like Smoothstar, making it suitable for longer-distance riding. The brand benefits from strong connections to professional surfers and shapers who collaborate on board designs. Enthusiasts appreciate YOW's versatility as both a dedicated surf trainer and general street cruiser, though some note it is positioned at a premium price point compared to entry-level alternatives.