Year-end lists might be a bit overdone, but when they’re all about poking fun, they’re definitely more entertaining than that awkward family get-together you’re trying to avoid during the holidays. And let’s be real, 2018 was a wild year for skateboarding, so just like last year, we’re diving into the best and worst of it before we’re all forced to move on and pretend it didn’t happen.
In 2018, we witnessed some truly memorable moments. Ugly skate shoes became the must-have “rave” boots, while actual boots somehow made their way onto skateboards. We saw blunt rolling reach new extremes, both in length and… elevation. El Toro got more action than most millennials, and Tyshawn cemented his place as the undisputed trash king. Even scooters tried to make a comeback, and well, some cheeks got tapped (don’t ask).
To celebrate all this ridiculousness and more, here’s Jenkem’s second annual list of skateboarding superlatives. Buckle up and enjoy, or just scroll to the comments to tell us how wrong we are.
Cinematographer’s Award
The Tampa Filmer
This award goes to the dedicated filmer in Tampa who captures all the raw and unfiltered skateboarding action. They’re always there, camera in hand, to document the slams, makes, and everything in between.
Best Reissue
Andy Roy’s Teeth
Who needs a new graphic when you can bring back something truly iconic? Andy Roy’s teeth made a comeback in 2018, proving some things are timeless.
Biggest Pants, Tiniest Hat
Gilbert Crockett
Gilbert Crockett took the fashion game to a new level in 2018. He proved that you can rock the biggest pants and the tiniest hat and still be one of the most stylish guys in skateboarding.
photo: thomas goldman
Most Concussed
Whiplash Baby
This award goes to the poor soul who took the hardest slam of the year. We hope they’re okay, but also, it made for a pretty memorable video.
video: @sloppy_pippen
Oldest Man Yelling At Cloud
Bobby Puleo vs. Steve Brandi
This category is a tie between two legends, Bobby Puleo and Steve Brandi, who are always ready to share their opinions about the state of skateboarding. It’s a classic battle between old-school wisdom and the new guard.
Hottest Collab
P. Rod X Uber Eats
The most unexpected and probably most lucrative collaboration of the year goes to P. Rod and Uber Eats. Who knew skateboarding and food delivery could be such a good match?
Who Pays For This Shit?
ETN
This award goes to the mysterious entity that funds all the wild and wonderful projects in skateboarding. Whoever they are, we’re grateful for their contributions, no matter how ridiculous.
Most Canceled Legend
Jason Jessee
This award recognizes a legend who found themselves in hot water in 2018. Despite his contributions to skateboarding, Jason Jessee became a reminder that even the most iconic figures can make mistakes.
Don’t Mind If I Don’t Award
Thank You Skateboards
This award goes to Thank You Skateboards, who probably didn’t need another award, but we’re giving it to them anyway. Their skateboarding and brand are just that good.
Worst Trend
Jenkem Tattoos
The worst trend award goes to the people who decided to get Jenkem tattoos. We love the dedication, but seriously, maybe not.
Ain’t Nobody Got Time For That
Torey Pudwill’s 80-foot Back Tail
Torey Pudwill’s 80-foot back tail was insane, and maybe a bit too much for most of us to comprehend. This trick is a reminder that some people are just on a different level.
Words: Jake “Dingus” Dawson
This wraps up our look back at the weird and wonderful year of skateboarding that was 2018. From questionable fashion choices to mind-blowing tricks, it was a year to remember. Share this with trophy wives on Facebook. Report this as voter fraud on Instagram or Twitter.
