Antonio Durao’s skateboarding journey is a captivating story of talent, evolution, and staying true to oneself. His unique ability to inject seemingly impossible switch pop and unorthodox tricks into his skating has garnered him a cult following over the years. Despite bouncing around board brands, his affiliation with talented filmmakers and niche brands has only added to his allure. Recently, the skateboarding world rejoiced as Antonio turned pro for the newly established board company, Hardbody, alongside his friend Hjalte Halberg. This move sparks curiosity about the future of Hardbody and the next chapter for this elusive skateboarding icon.
Antonio Durao performing a switch backside flip in Houston Park, NY
The Hardbody Era
The decision to join Hardbody came after a period of filming for their video while riding for another board company. Antonio, initially hoping Hardbody would become a clothing brand, found himself intrigued by the potential of a board company with a unique vision. He was particularly drawn to the brand’s authentic approach, feeling that things were not forced and that the owner, Emilio Cuilan, was not driven by the wrong motives. The addition of Hjalte Halberg to the team further solidified his decision, giving him assurance in the brand’s direction.
Some have criticized Hardbody’s art direction as lazy. However, Antonio sees the simplicity of the graphics as a strategic move, allowing for future evolution to be more noticeable. He believes that the brand is establishing a classic foundation that it can build upon. He also emphasizes the owner’s love for music and the arts, suggesting that these elements will contribute to a dope skate video and brand.
Shifting Perspectives and Personal Growth
Antonio’s journey has not been without its detours. He openly admits to taking a break from skateboarding, indulging in his passion for cars. He also candidly discusses his past struggles with alcohol and how he overcame them with the help of psilocybin mushrooms. This period of introspection and personal growth significantly impacted his skateboarding, leading him to explore new tricks and rediscover his love for the sport. He explains that using psilocybin helped him see his insecurities and how much he was relying on getting wasted, helping him get sober.
Animated gif of Antonio Durao performing a cancel flip
The influence of mushrooms extended to his approach to skateboarding. He realized he didn’t have to do the same tricks as everyone else, allowing him to experiment with cancel flips and late one-foots, moves that are now becoming synonymous with his name. He credits Louie Barletta as an inspiration, highlighting his ability to make skateboarding look fun. This focus on enjoyment is a core element of Antonio’s “rebrand,” a shift away from the pressure to always perform the hardest tricks and towards skating as a form of self-expression.
The Pro Board Surprise and Family
Turning pro for Hardbody was a surprise. Surrounded by his friends, playing checkers and chess, and listening to music, Antonio was caught off guard when they brought him outside to reveal his pro board. The moment was pure joy, devoid of any pressure to play a role. It was a chance to be himself and appreciate the moment with his loved ones.
Antonio Durao and friends celebrating his pro board
He also shares his perspective on the meaning of Hardbody, likening it to the expression “That’s hard,” synonymous with something “tuff” or “dope.” This simple explanation further reflects the brand’s laid-back, authentic ethos.
A Look Back and Lessons Learned
Reflecting on his career, Antonio discusses his experiences with various board brands and how they helped him grow and learn from the ground up. He acknowledges that while stability can be beneficial, he valued the opportunity to meet different people and see the process of starting a brand firsthand. He expresses a desire for a brand to feel like a family, lamenting how many modern teams appear disconnected from each other.
Antonio Durao drifting in a car
Growing up in Portugal, and moving to the US at a young age, had a profound impact on Antonio. He recounts discovering skateboarding through Rodney Mullen videos on YouTube and his first experience of his Walmart board breaking after attempting an ollie. He shares how his mom, with her immigrant mindset, pushed him to perform well in school. However, after seeing his success with skateboarding, she has since become very supportive.
He also touches on his early influences, such as PJ Williams, who shaped his taste in skateboarding, introducing him to skaters like Gino Iannucci. This mentorship helped him understand that skateboarding is about more than just mainstream tricks, encouraging him to pursue his unique style.
Individuality and the Future of Skateboarding
Antonio expresses his belief that street skateboarding is not meant to be a competitive sport. He laments the pressures skaters face to conform to societal expectations, emphasizing the importance of individuality and rebellion within skate culture. He challenges the notion that the dream job is a means of making money, it should be about pursuing something you love and brings joy.
He shares that he was once too focused on how people viewed him, and has since learned to focus on himself. He states that his psilocybin mushroom journeys helped him realize he wasn’t living in the moment. He urges other skaters to do the same and embrace their true selves.
Antonio Durao smiling
Finally, in a humorous anecdote, Antonio recalls using Gatorade as bearing lube and how he’s always trying to find solutions to problems with what’s available. This anecdote speaks to his resourceful and unconventional approach, reinforcing his unique character.
Conclusion
Antonio Durao’s journey is a testament to the power of self-discovery, personal growth, and staying true to oneself. His decision to join Hardbody signifies a new chapter in his career, one that promises to be as unique and captivating as his skating. As he continues to evolve, he encourages everyone to approach skateboarding with the same sense of fun and individuality that defines his own path.
Interview by: Ian Michna
Intro by: Ben Komins
Photos Courtesy of: Jared Sherbert and Victor Beltran
