If you’re a fan of skating or just love anything with wheels, you’ve probably heard of Hockey Skateboards. These unique skateboards have taken the world by storm, capturing the hearts of skaters and non-skaters alike. But have you ever wondered who owns Hockey Skateboards?
Well, buckle up because we’re about to take you on a journey through the fascinating history and ownership of this iconic skateboard brand.
The Origins of Hockey Skateboards
Hockey Skateboards was founded in the early 1990s by two friends, Brad Warnick and Jon Retschi. These two skateboarding enthusiasts were passionate about creating a unique and innovative product that would stand out in the crowded skateboard market.
In those days, most skateboards were designed for street skating or vert (halfpipe) riding. Warnick and Retschi had a different vision – they wanted to create a skateboard that could handle all terrains, from smooth pavement to rough, uneven surfaces.
Their idea was to combine the durability and versatility of a hockey puck with the sleek design of a traditional skateboard. And so, Hockey Skateboards was born.
The Early Years and Growth
In the beginning, Hockey Skateboards was just a small start-up operating out of a garage in San Diego, California. Warnick and Retschi poured their hearts and souls into the company, designing and manufacturing each skateboard by hand.
Despite the challenges of being a new brand in a saturated market, Hockey Skateboards quickly gained a cult following among skaters who appreciated the unique design and all-terrain capabilities of these boards.
As word spread about their innovative product, demand for Hockey Skateboards grew rapidly. The company soon outgrew its humble garage roots and moved into a larger facility to keep up with orders.
The Acquisition by Globe International
In the late 1990s, Hockey Skateboards caught the attention of Globe International, a well-established skateboard company based in Australia. Globe International recognized the potential of Hockey Skateboards and saw an opportunity to expand their product line and reach a new segment of the skateboarding market.
In 1998, Globe International acquired Hockey Skateboards, making it a subsidiary of the larger company. This acquisition provided Hockey Skateboards with the resources and infrastructure needed to take the brand to the next level.
Under Globe International’s ownership, Hockey Skateboards continued to grow and innovate, introducing new designs and technologies to their line of skateboards. The brand’s unique selling proposition – its ability to handle any terrain – remained a key focus, and Hockey Skateboards became known for its rugged, high-performance boards.
Current Ownership and Future Prospects
Today, Hockey Skateboards is still owned by Globe International, which is itself a subsidiary of the larger Globe International Limited conglomerate. Globe International Limited is a publicly-traded company listed on the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX).
Under this ownership structure, Hockey Skateboards has access to significant resources and a global distribution network, allowing the brand to reach skaters and enthusiasts around the world.
Despite being part of a larger corporation, Hockey Skateboards has maintained its unique identity and commitment to innovation. The brand continues to push the boundaries of skateboard design, experimenting with new materials and technologies to create boards that are even more durable, versatile, and high-performing.
Looking to the future, Hockey Skateboards shows no signs of slowing down. With a dedicated following of skaters and a reputation for quality and innovation, the brand is well-positioned to continue its growth and success in the years to come.
The Hockey Skateboards Team
While Hockey Skateboards may be owned by a larger corporation, the brand’s success is driven by the passionate individuals who make up its team. From designers and engineers to professional skaters and ambassadors, the Hockey Skateboards crew is a tight-knit group of skating enthusiasts dedicated to creating the best products and experiences for their customers.
One of the key members of the Hockey Skateboards team is Mike Vallely, a legendary professional skater and entrepreneur. Vallely has been a part of the brand since its early days and has played a crucial role in shaping its direction and identity.
As a team rider and ambassador for Hockey Skateboards, Vallely has helped to promote the brand and showcase its capabilities through his own skating exploits. His input and feedback have also been invaluable in the design and development of new skateboard models.
In addition to Vallely, Hockey Skateboards has a roster of talented skaters and ambassadors from around the world who represent the brand and help to build its community. These individuals are not just athletes or influencers – they are passionate advocates for the sport of skateboarding and the unique values and culture that Hockey Skateboards represents.
The Unique Design and Features of Hockey Skateboards
So, what sets Hockey Skateboards apart from the competition? It all comes down to the brand’s unique design and features, which are the result of years of innovation and a commitment to creating high-performance, all-terrain skateboards.
At the heart of every Hockey Skateboard is the iconic “hockey puck” wheel. These wheels are made from a special blend of materials that provides superior grip and durability, allowing skaters to tackle any surface with confidence.
But the innovation doesn’t stop there. Hockey Skateboards also incorporates a range of other cutting-edge features into their designs, such as:
- Reinforced Deck Construction: The decks of Hockey Skateboards are made from high-quality maple and reinforced with fiberglass or carbon fiber, making them incredibly strong and resistant to impact and wear.
- Concave Profile: The unique concave shape of Hockey Skateboards decks provides optimal foot placement and control, allowing skaters to perform tricks and maneuvers with precision and stability.
- Ergonomic Truck Design: The trucks (the components that attach the wheels to the deck) on Hockey Skateboards are specially designed to provide a smooth, responsive ride and excellent turning capabilities.
- Customization Options: Hockey Skateboards offers a range of customization options, allowing skaters to choose their preferred deck shape, size, and graphics, as well as wheel and grip tape colors.
These innovative features, combined with the brand’s commitment to quality and performance, have made Hockey Skateboards a favorite among skaters of all skill levels and riding styles.
The Hockey Skateboards Community
Beyond the physical products, Hockey Skateboards has also cultivated a strong and vibrant community of skaters, fans, and enthusiasts. This community is centered around a shared passion for skateboarding and a appreciation for the unique values and culture that Hockey Skateboards represents.
Through social media platforms, sponsored events, and grassroots initiatives, Hockey Skateboards has built a global network of skaters and supporters who connect, share their experiences, and inspire one another.
One of the core values of the Hockey Skateboards community is inclusivity. The brand welcomes skaters of all ages, skill levels, and backgrounds, fostering an environment where everyone can feel accepted and supported in their pursuit of skating.
Additionally, Hockey Skateboards has a strong focus on sustainability and environmental responsibility. The brand has implemented various initiatives to reduce its carbon footprint and promote eco-friendly practices, such as using recycled materials in their products and supporting local skate park clean-up efforts.
By fostering this community and promoting positive values, Hockey Skateboards has become more than just a skateboard brand – it’s a lifestyle and a movement that resonates with skaters and skating enthusiasts around the world.
The Future of Hockey Skateboards
As Hockey Skateboards continues to grow and evolve under the ownership of Globe International, the future looks bright for this innovative and unique skateboard brand.
One of the key areas of focus for Hockey Skateboards in the coming years is likely to be technology and innovation. The brand has always been at the forefront of skateboard design and performance, and it’s expected to continue pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with new materials, manufacturing processes, and cutting-edge features.
Additionally, Hockey Skateboards may explore new product categories beyond traditional skateboards. With its expertise in creating high-performance, all-terrain products, the brand could potentially venture into markets like electric skateboards, off-road skateboards, or even skate-inspired apparel and accessories.
Furthermore, Hockey Skateboards may look to expand its global reach and establish a stronger presence in emerging markets. With the rise of skateboarding culture in regions like Asia and South America, the brand has an opportunity to tap into new consumer bases and introduce its unique products to a wider audience.
Regardless of the specific directions it takes, one thing is certain: Hockey Skateboards will continue to stay true to its core values of innovation, performance, and cultivating a passionate community of skaters and enthusiasts.
Conclusion
The story of Hockey Skateboards is a true underdog tale that has captured the hearts and imaginations of skaters worldwide. What began as a garage startup by two friends with a dream has blossomed into an iconic brand renowned for its innovative designs, rugged performance, and vibrant community.
From its humble beginnings in the early 90s to its acquisition by the larger Globe International corporation, Hockey Skateboards has maintained an unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible on a skateboard. The brand’s signature “hockey puck” wheels, reinforced deck construction, and ergonomic truck designs are a testament to the pioneering spirit that drives the brand forward.
But Hockey Skateboards is more than just cutting-edge products – it’s a lifestyle that promotes inclusivity, sustainability, and a shared passion for the sport of skateboarding. The brand has cultivated a global community of dedicated fans, fostering connections and inspiring skaters of all ages and skill levels to pursue their skating dreams.
As Hockey Skateboards continues to evolve under Globe International’s ownership, the future looks brighter than ever. With plans to explore new technologies, product categories, and markets, the brand is poised to reach even greater heights while staying true to its core values of innovation and performance.
In many ways, the story of Hockey Skateboards mirrors the journey of skateboarding itself – a counterculture pursuit that has grown into a mainstream phenomenon while never losing its rebellious spirit. And as long as there are skaters pushing the limits and seeking new thrills, Hockey Skateboards will be there, crafting the tools to help them conquer any terrain.
FAQs
1: Who founded Hockey Skateboards?
Hockey Skateboards was founded in the early 1990s by two friends, Brad Warnick and Jon Retschi. These skateboarding enthusiasts had a vision to create a unique and innovative skateboard that could handle all terrains.
2: What company currently owns Hockey Skateboards?
Hockey Skateboards is currently owned by Globe International, a well-established skateboard company based in Australia. Globe International acquired Hockey Skateboards in 1998, making it a subsidiary of the larger company.
3: Is Hockey Skateboards an independent brand or part of a larger corporation?
While Hockey Skateboards maintains its unique brand identity, it is ultimately part of a larger corporation. Globe International, which owns Hockey Skateboards, is itself a subsidiary of the publicly-traded Globe International Limited conglomerate listed on the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX).
4: What makes Hockey Skateboards unique compared to other skateboard brands?
Hockey Skateboards are known for their innovative design features, such as the iconic “hockey puck” wheels that provide superior grip and durability on any surface. The brand also incorporates reinforced deck construction, concave profiles, and ergonomic truck designs for optimal performance and control.
5: Does Hockey Skateboards have a strong community following?
Yes, Hockey Skateboards has cultivated a vibrant and passionate community of skaters, fans, and enthusiasts around the world. The brand fosters an inclusive environment and promotes positive values like sustainability and environmental responsibility, resonating with skaters from all backgrounds.