About Crailtap

Exploring Crailtap: A Skateboarding Legacy

When it comes to skateboarding culture, few names resonate as deeply as Crailtap. This iconic brand has not only shaped the skateboarding industry but also cultivated a community that thrives on creativity, innovation, and camaraderie. Let’s dive into the story of Crailtap, its origins, its team, and what makes it a standout in the skateboarding world.

The Birth of Crailtap

Crailtap emerged in 1993 in Torrance, California, as a distribution company that would go on to house some of the most influential skateboarding brands. It was founded by skateboarding legends Mike Carroll and Rick Howard, who sought to create a space where professional skateboarders could have a sustainable future. The inaugural brand under Crailtap was Girl Skateboards, which quickly became a cornerstone of the skateboarding community.

The Crailtap Family

Over the years, Crailtap has expanded its portfolio to include several renowned brands, such as Chocolate Skateboards, Royal Trucks, and Lakai Limited Footwear. Each brand brings its unique flair to the table, but they all share a common ethos: a commitment to quality, innovation, and the skateboarding lifestyle.

The team behind Crailtap is a who’s who of skateboarding talent. From the original Girl Skateboards lineup, which included legends like Eric Koston, Guy Mariano, and Rudy Johnson, to the current roster featuring names like Stevie Perez, Griffin Gass, and Breana Geering, Crailtap has always been a hub for top-tier talent. Notably, Breana Geering made history as the first female skater to have her name on a Girl Skateboards deck, a milestone that underscores Crailtap's progressive and inclusive approach.

Specializations and Achievements

Crailtap is celebrated for its high-quality skateboarding gear, from decks and trucks to apparel and footwear. The brands under its umbrella are known for their sleek designs, outstanding performance, and a deep understanding of what skateboarders need. Lakai Limited Footwear, for instance, has revolutionized skate shoes with its focus on comfort and durability, making it a favorite among skaters worldwide.

Beyond products, Crailtap has made significant contributions to skateboarding culture through its creative projects and media. The company has produced iconic skate videos like "Yeah Right!" and "Pretty Sweet," which are considered masterpieces in skateboarding cinematography. These projects not only showcase the skills of their team riders but also capture the essence of skateboarding as an art form.

Notable Highlights

One of the most endearing aspects of Crailtap is its sense of humor and community spirit. The brand's website and social media channels are filled with quirky content, inside jokes, and a genuine love for skateboarding. This approach has endeared Crailtap to fans and made it a cultural touchstone in the skateboarding world.

Another interesting tidbit is the origin of the Chocolate Skateboards brand. It was created shortly after Girl Skateboards, inspired by an incident where a close friend, Chico Brenes, was left behind on a tour due to lack of space in the van. This story reflects the camaraderie and inclusivity that Crailtap stands for.

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