Erick Winkowski is a skater who simply defies categorization. Known to many on Instagram as @8ballr, he stands out in the world of modern skateboarding with a style that’s as fluid as it is unpredictable. It’s hard to label him as strictly a street skater or a transition skater, because he thrives in both worlds.
Watch any of his video parts, and you’ll be struck by the range of his skating. One minute he’s grinding massive handrails or flipping over huge gaps, and the next he’s flying through the air with an invert in the deep end of a pool.
This seamless blend of street and transition skating makes him one of the most exciting skateboarders to watch today.
What makes Winkowski even more unique is his choice of board. While many skaters prefer the slim, symmetrical shapes common in modern street skating, Erick often opts for classic board shapes straight out of the 1980s. These wider, more old-school decks aren’t just for nostalgia—they’re a reflection of his commitment to honoring skateboarding’s heritage while pushing its boundaries. Watching him shred on these boards is like seeing the past and the present collide, and the result is nothing short of electric.
Originating from San Diego, a city with a rich skateboarding history, Winkowski’s roots are evident in his style. He rides for some of the most iconic brands in the industry, including Santa Cruz Skateboards, Independent Trucks, OJ Wheels, Mob Grip, Bronson Speed Co., and Emerica. These affiliations underscore his connection to the core of skateboarding, but Winkowski’s skating speaks for itself.
His ability to perform technical tricks on gnarly terrain, combined with his fearless approach to big transitions, sets him apart from anyone else in the game.
There’s something almost indescribable about Erick Winkowski. He’s not just a skater with a retro board or someone who dabbles in different styles. He’s not one thing, and he’s not a bunch of things—he’s something else entirely. His skating feels timeless, pulling from the past while driving forward into new territory.
Whether he’s bombing down a hill or launching out of a deep pool, Winkowski’s ability to push the boundaries of what skateboarding can be is what makes him a standout figure in the sport. His unique approach reflects both a respect for where skateboarding has been and an eye for where it’s going, making him one of the most dynamic and innovative skaters of his generation.
In a world where skateboarding can sometimes feel segmented by style and technique, Winkowski breaks down those barriers effortlessly. Watching him is a reminder that skateboarding doesn’t have to be defined by rules or categories—it’s about freedom, creativity, and pushing the limits of what’s possible. And in that sense, Erick Winkowski is leading the way, one massive handrail and deep pool carve at a time. SHOP OUR WINKOSKI SECTION HERE!
