Santa Cruz Skateboards, the world’s oldest continuous skateboard brand, was founded by Richard Novak, Doug Haut, and Jay Shuirman. Originally a surfboard company, they faced challenges with low profit margins. In 1973, a Hawaiian company requested 500 skateboards, and using surplus fiberglass, Santa Cruz produced their first batch, which quickly sold out. This success marked their shift into skateboarding, cementing their iconic status.
In 1978, artist Jim Phillips designed the now-famous logo: a red circle with bold, angular letters spelling “Santa Cruz” diagonally across it. The logo became a symbol of the brand’s lasting impact. Another defining graphic is the “Screaming Hand,” created by Phillips in 1985. This image became a skateboarding icon and remains deeply embedded in skate culture. Today, Santa Cruz continues to honor its legacy with quarterly Reissue drops, blending respect for the past with a dedication to keeping skateboarding raw and authentic. Want one? CLICK HERE!
