History
Words by Stephen Serrano
The definition of “History” is the study of the past. In skateboarding we study photos, the spot, the trick, the style. These photos below are beyond iconic, they have inspired generations, they are history. We wouldn’t be the skateboarders we are without these photos and the people behind them.
Stevie Williams, Switch Frontside Noseslide
Photo: Mike Blabac
Before this photo a Switch Front Nose was cool, and after this photo we as urban skateboarders were constantly aspiring to achieve this moment on the Switch Front Nose. This was the “Jumpman” photo of ledge skateboarding. You can’t even do a Switch Frontside Noseslide on a tall ledge without thinking of this Stevie Williams photo.
Karl Watson, Switch Backside Tailslide
Photo: Mike Blabac
When you think of style in combination with trick selection Karl Watson’s name definitely comes up. Karl doesn’t just do technically good tricks, he does them with a style and finesse that makes you forget how hard the trick he’s doing really is.
Kareem Campbell, Kickflip
Photo: Atiba Jefferson
Kareem was larger than life, he was a rockstar. This photo told that story in one image, out of all the iconic Kareem kickflip photos this was the one. The reason being that Kareem and Atiba were able to turn some shitty wooden ramps in a parking lot into something dope. 
Clyde Singleton, Fakie Frontside Crooked Grind
Photo: Bailard
The original king of Fakie, Clyde had his own patented style and approach to technical street skating. Along with his charismatic personality, Clyde has a unique energy that’s dope. It could be said that this Fakie Front Crooked Grind photo is the definition of the “pinch” on Crooked Grinds.
Sal Barbier, 180 Nosegrind
Photo: Miki Vuckovich
There have been many eras of skateboarding, and many eras of Sal Barbier’s skateboarding. This 180 Nosegrind photo is a symbol of an important time of progression and style in street skateboarding. It captures Sal’s vision of what street skateboarding meant. Just check Sal Barbier’s part in Plan B Questionable for the receipts.
Marcus Mcbride, Ollie
Photo: Luke Ogden
Marcus was and is a beast. Power on a skateboard, San Francisco legend. So it was only fair to have him on the cover skating something in SF that showed his ability to power through shit with finesse and ease. Marcus was a pioneer in what powerful and “gnarly” moves were considered “fresh” in skateboarding. Marcus is a true legend.