Shogo Kubo: A Skateboarding Legend

Shogo Kubo, a name synonymous with style and innovation in the skateboarding world, was born on September 19, 1959, in Kagoshima City, Japan. His journey from a young boy in Japan to a skateboarding icon in the United States is a tale of passion, creativity, and influence.

Shogo's skateboarding story began when he moved to the United States as a child. Initially drawn to surfing, he quickly found his footing in skateboarding, a sport that mirrored the fluidity and freedom of the waves. His introduction to the skateboarding scene came through a serendipitous friendship with Jay Adams, a fellow skateboarding enthusiast. This connection led Shogo to join the legendary Zephyr Skateboarding Team, better known as the Z-Boys, in the mid-1970s. The Z-Boys, based in Venice, California, revolutionized skateboarding with their innovative styles and daring moves, and Shogo was at the heart of this transformation.

Shogo's skateboarding style was a blend of grace and aggression, earning him admiration from peers and fans alike. He was known for his frontside carves and laybacks, moves that showcased his unique approach to the sport. His influence extended beyond his own performances; he inspired future skateboarding stars like Christian Hosoi and left an indelible mark on the skateboarding community.

During his career, Shogo was associated with Z-Flex Skateboards, a brand that became iconic in the skateboarding world. His contributions to the sport were not limited to his performances; he also collaborated with Nike in 2007 to design the Nike SB "Shogo" Blazers, a sneaker that paid homage to his skateboarding legacy.

Shogo's life was not confined to skateboarding. In the 1980s, he stepped away from the competitive scene and moved to Hawaii, where he embraced a quieter life. He married Michiyo and had two children, Shota and Meagan. Despite his departure from the limelight, his story continued to inspire. He was featured in the award-winning documentary "Dogtown and Z-Boys" in 2001 and portrayed in the 2005 film "Lords of Dogtown."

Tragically, Shogo's life was cut short on June 24, 2014, when he passed away at the age of 54 due to a brain aneurysm while paddleboarding in Hawaii. His legacy, however, lives on in the skateboarding world and beyond. Shogo Kubo remains a symbol of innovation, style, and the enduring spirit of skateboarding. His story is a testament to the impact one individual can have on a sport and a community, inspiring generations to come.

MAD MARK BAKER and Shogo kubo ON THE DOGTOWN WORLD TOUR 1978 - Video 3

SHOGO KUBO - SHOF 2017 1970s ERA 2 INDUCTEE

SHOGO KUBO MEMORIAL MOVIE