Lakai Footwear Limited was born in 1999 in Torrance, California, and founded by two legendary professional skateboarders: Mike Carroll and Rick Howard. These two friends were no strangers to the skateboarding scene; they had previously co-founded Girl Skateboards, another iconic brand. But Mike and Rick wanted to make a unique contribution to skate footwear by creating their own shoe company rather than relying on sponsorships.

Lakai’s sole purpose was to design shoes specifically for skateboarders. Their footwear is not only functional but also inspired by skateboarding itself.

In the late '90s, Carroll and Howard partnered with Podium Distribution to launch Lakai Footwear. The brand’s first official team rider was Cairo Foster, who joined after Carroll personally invited him. The lakai team quickly expanded, with talents like Anthony Pappalardo, Rob Welsh, Jeff Lenoce, and Scott Johnston. By May 2000, Lakai’s inaugural shoe lineup, including models like “Howard,” “Carroll,” “Cohort,” “Clay,” and “Worthy,” hit skate shops worldwide.

Lakai continued to grow over the years, attracting top-tier skateboarders. Here are some key moments:

Brandon Biebel: After filming together for Transworld’s “Modus Operandi,” Carroll invited Biebel to join Lakai.
Scott Johnston’s Pro Model: In April 2001, Johnston’s debut pro model was released.
Marc Johnson: After patiently waiting for his existing shoe contract to expire, Johnson joined Lakai in March 2002.
Cairo Foster’s Pro Model: Foster’s first pro model dropped in December 2003.
The French Connection: Lucas Puig and JB Gillet joined, forming the stylish “French Connection” subgroup.
Collaborations: Lakai collaborated with Girl Skateboards and other brands, resulting in unique co-branded shoes.

Lakai’s team expanded globally, welcoming skaters like Guy Mariano, Jesus Fernandez, Nick Jensen, and Danny Brady.

Lakai’s impact extends beyond footwear. They’ve left their mark on skateboarding culture through collaborations, creative designs, and a commitment to authenticity. Whether it’s the iconic “Flare” logo or their memorable co-branded releases, Lakai remains a beloved footwear brand among skaters.

Lakai Skateboard Videos:

Lakai Skateboard Video: The Final Flare

"fully flared was the first skate video I ever saw and still is one of my favorites to this day"

"This video got me so much into Lakai. I would say for the next 5 to 6 years after Fully Flared was released that's all I would buy to skate or to chill in."

 Lakai Skateboard Video: Fully Flared 07

"Best filmed skate video, maybe of all time, no unnecessary zooms, no weird face shots before the trick, just raw skating, you can really tell when Ty is filming, he has a unique way of capturing the spot, best filmer ever, people take them for granted but it’s an art just as much as the skating, and the editing as well is way ahead of it’s time, pretty sure everyone just copied this type after that, this and Baker 3 really set the standard for skate videos in this time frame."

Lakai Skateboard Videos: Beware Of The Flare 02

"It never ceases to amaze me the contrast between how insanely good Rick Howard was and how you never hear people talk about him"

"Beware of the Flare and Harsh Euro Barge are my favourite tour-videos. Love this era of skateboarding and the vibe in these videos makes me so psyched to skate. Major props to Ty Evans and the crew for making these gems."

"Scott Johnston has the sickest style! This brings back so many memories, thanks for uploading this Thrasher!"