The Legacy of Santa Cruz Skateboards
Santa Cruz Skateboards, a cornerstone of skateboarding culture since 1973, continues to push the boundaries of innovation and nostalgia. Founded by Richard Novak, Doug Haut, and Jay Shuirman, the brand has spent five decades shaping the evolution of skateboarding. In 2023, NHS Inc. celebrated its 50th anniversary, and what better way to honor this milestone than by revisiting iconic designs with a modern twist?
Enter the Freaks Series—a collection of decks that defy convention, blending retro aesthetics with contemporary performance. Two standout models, the Roskopp Warthog Freaks 11" and the Winkowski Dope Planet Micro Freaks 8.75", embody this spirit, offering skaters a chance to ride a piece of history while enjoying cutting-edge construction.
The Roskopp Warthog Freaks 11": A Freakish Revival
Shape and Artwork
The Roskopp Warthog Freaks 11" is a bold reimagining of Rob Roskopp’s legendary 1980s Rob Face pro model. This deck is not for the faint of heart—its super-wide 11" profile demands attention, and its fully dipped neon green finish ensures you’ll stand out at the skatepark. The 15" wheelbase and front wheel wells add to its unique, old-school charm, making it perfect for carving bowls or cruising the streets.
Construction
Built to last, the Warthog features 7-ply North American Maple, pressed individually with epoxy. This construction delivers long-lasting pop, consistent concave, and responsive kicks, ensuring durability without sacrificing performance.
Concave
The Old School concave is a throwback to the golden era of skateboarding. With a comfortable side-to-side concave and a continuous tail kick, it offers easy foot placement—ideal for cruisers, shaped decks, and old-school boards with a longer tail than nose.
The Winkowski Dope Planet Micro Freaks 8.75": Compact and Fun
Shape and Artwork
For those who prefer something more compact, the Winkowski Dope Planet Micro Freaks 8.75" is a micro version of the original Dope Planet shape. This deck is all about fun-first riding, with a 12.5" wheelbase and ATV-S concave that brings the nose and tail kicks closer together. The assorted veneer colors add a touch of individuality, ensuring no two decks are exactly alike.
Construction
Like the Warthog, the Dope Planet Micro Freaks is crafted from 7-ply North American Maple with epoxy pressing. This guarantees a strong, responsive deck with consistent concave and kick, perfect for skaters who value both style and performance.
Concave
The ATV-S concave is designed for smaller skaters and decks with shorter wheelbases. It enhances control and responsiveness, making it ideal for quick turns and technical tricks.
Why the Freaks Series Matters
The Freaks Series is more than just a collection of decks—it’s a celebration of skateboarding’s roots and its endless potential for reinvention. Whether you’re drawn to the oversized, neon-dipped Warthog or the compact, colorful Dope Planet, these decks offer something for every skater who appreciates bold designs, quality construction, and a touch of nostalgia.
Santa Cruz Skateboards continues to prove that innovation and tradition can coexist, and the Freaks Series is a testament to that philosophy. So, grab your 11" Mob Grip for the Warthog, or pick your favorite veneer for the Dope Planet—either way, you’re in for a ride that’s as unique as you are.
Final Thoughts
The Roskopp Warthog Freaks 11" and Winkowski Dope Planet Micro Freaks 8.75" are more than just skateboards—they’re statements. They honor the past while embracing the future, offering skaters a chance to experience the best of both worlds. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a newcomer to the scene, these decks are sure to turn heads and inspire sessions.
Ready to join the Freaks and secure your deck with preorder? Please drop an email to contact@skatetilldeath.com
Guillaume, SkateTillDeath.Com