Founded out of San Francisco in 1995, Anti Hero Skateboards is one of the legacy brands which resides under the heralded roof of DLX Distribution. The first skateboard company to come out of the DLX camp (after their original in-house brand, Real Skateboards) came into being after DLX bossman Jim Thiebaud provided Julien Stranger with the opportunity to form his own company.
Raw, uncompromising, and authentically skateboarding since 1995, Anti-Hero Skateboards represents everything proper about core skate culture. Founded by Julien Stranger under the Deluxe Distribution umbrella, Anti-Hero emerged during a time when skateboarding felt stale and corporate, providing a much-needed counterbalance with their rebellious spirit and no-nonsense approach. Known for their iconic Eagle logo, controversial graphics by Todd Francis, and a team of gnarly skaters who embody the true spirit of skateboarding, Anti-Hero has never compromised on authenticity. From legendary video parts to graphics that push boundaries, this is skateboarding in its purest, rawest form, built by skaters, for skaters, with zero corporate bullshit.
Anti-Hero Skateboards Brand History
Anti-Hero was born from conversations between Julien Stranger and Thrasher's Jake Phelps about the boring state of skateboarding in the mid-90s. While riding for Real Skateboards under Jim Thiebaud's Deluxe Distribution, Stranger saw an opportunity to shake things up. The original plan was simple—create a counterbalance to the sanitised corporate skateboarding that was taking over. What started as "Rebel Yell Skateboards" quickly became Anti-Hero, with no grand business plan, just a mission to represent skateboarding as it really is. The brand's visual identity came together when Todd Francis joined in 1996, creating the now-legendary graphics that define Anti-Hero. His pigeon logo—a beat-up city bird with oil dumped on its head—perfectly captured the brand's resilient, survivor mentality. The iconic Eagle logo followed, becoming so popular it replaced the pigeon as the main brand symbol. Over nearly three decades, Anti-Hero has produced some of skateboarding's most influential video parts, from John Cardiel's legendary sections to the raw street missions that showcase skateboarding without filter or pretense. They've weathered industry changes by staying true to their core mission: authentic skateboarding, no compromises.
Anti-Hero Skateboards Skate Team
Anti-Hero's team reads like a who's who of skateboarding legends and underground heroes. The current roster includes John Cardiel, Grant Taylor, Tony Trujillo, Brian Anderson, Frank Gerwer, Peter Hewitt, Chris Pfanner, Robbie Russo, and Daan Van Der Linden. What makes this team special isn't just the individual talent—it's how they operate like a proper crew. New riders can only join if everyone votes yes, creating a family-like bond that translates into their skating and video parts. The team has produced four Thrasher Skater of the Year winners: John Cardiel (1992), Brian Anderson (1999), Tony Trujillo (2002), and Grant Taylor (2011). From Cardiel's legendary transition mastery to Grant Taylor's explosive street skating, each rider brings their own flavour while staying true to Anti-Hero's core values of authenticity and raw talent.
Anti-Hero Skateboards Product Categories
Explore the Anti-Hero Skateboards collection at The Vines Supply Co., featuring authentic complete skateboards and graphics that represent core skateboarding culture.
- Classic Eagle Decks: The iconic Anti-Hero Eagle graphic that defined the brand. Available in various sizes from 8.0" to 8.75", these boards feature the legendary logo that's become synonymous with authentic skateboarding. Built with 7-ply Canadian maple construction for durability and performance.
- Pro Model Decks: Signature boards from team riders like Grant Taylor, Tony Trujillo, and Brian Anderson. Each model reflects the rider's style and input, from Grant's technical street setups to TNT's transition-focused shapes. All feature unique graphics and are built to the exact specifications preferred by each rider.
- Todd Francis Graphics: Limited and ongoing graphics by the legendary artist behind Anti-Hero's visual identity. These boards showcase Francis's distinctive style, social commentary, and dark humour, from controversial designs to cult classics that have defined skateboard graphics for decades.
- Shaped Boards: Beyond standard popsicle shapes, Anti-Hero offers unique cuts like the Huffer (designed by John Cardiel) and other experimental shapes. These boards cater to skaters looking for something different while maintaining the construction quality Anti-Hero is known for.
- Team Collection: Standard team boards featuring the classic Anti-Hero branding and various graphic treatments. Perfect for skaters who want to rep the brand while getting proven 7-ply construction that can handle whatever you throw at it.
Anti-Hero Skateboards FAQs
What makes Anti-Hero different from other skateboard brands?
Anti-Hero represents authentic, uncompromising skateboarding culture. Founded to counteract corporate skateboarding, they focus on raw talent, controversial graphics, and a team that operates like a family. No marketing gimmicks, just proper raw skateboarding.
Are Anti-Hero skateboards good quality?
Absolutely. Anti-Hero boards are constructed with premium 7-ply Canadian maple at trusted woodshops like BBS in Mexico. They're built to handle serious skating while maintaining consistent pop and durability. The brand's focus on performance over profit ensures top-notch construction.
Who is Todd Francis and why are his graphics important?
Todd Francis is Anti-Hero's legendary graphic artist who created the iconic Eagle logo and controversial designs that define the brand. His work combines social commentary with dark humour, pushing boundaries while creating some of skateboarding's most memorable graphics.
What size Anti-Hero deck should I choose?
Anti-Hero offers boards from 7.75" to 8.75" and beyond. For street skating and technical tricks, 8.0"-8.25" works well. For transition, bowl riding, or general cruising, 8.375"-8.75" provides more stability. Choose based on your foot size, skating style, and personal preference.
Does Anti-Hero Skateboards make clothing and accessories?
While primarily focused on boards, Anti-Hero also releases skate apparel and accessories. Their main focus remains on skateboard decks and supporting their team riders rather than expanding too much into fashion or lifestyle products.
Why do Anti-Hero Skate deck graphics sometimes cause controversy?
Anti-Hero has never shied away from provocative or political graphics that challenge mainstream culture. Todd Francis's designs often include social commentary, dark humour, or corporate satire, reflecting the brand's anti-establishment roots and authentic voice.
How does someone get on the Anti-Hero team?
Anti-Hero operates democratically, all the current team members have to vote unanimously to accept a new rider. This ensures team cohesion and maintains the family-like atmosphere that defines the brand. It's about authenticity and fitting the crew, not just skating ability.
Shop our complete Anti-Hero Skateboards collection, featuring classic eagle graphics, pro models, and Todd Francis artwork. Enjoy fast, free UK premium delivery on orders over £70, with free next-day delivery available for orders placed before 3pm.