Are you new to the exhilarating world of downhill skateboarding? Or maybe you’re a seasoned rider looking for inspiration? This curated list of must-watch downhill skateboarding films, movies, and videos will immerse you in the culture, showcasing some of the most incredible DH skating ever captured on film. Get ready to be inspired!
Essential Downhill Skateboarding Films
Here are some of the most influential and captivating downhill skateboarding films, presented in no particular order:
Valhalla Skateboards: Kings of the Mud
Kings of the Mud: A classic downhill skateboarding filmFor many, including myself, “Kings of the Mud” is the downhill skateboarding film. It’s more than just a skate movie; it evokes a powerful emotional response, drawing you into the world of downhill in a way that few other films manage. If you’re looking for a film that captures the heart of the sport, this is it. I watched this religiously when I started, and still go back to it.
Sector 9: Second Nature
“Second Nature” brilliantly captures the raw emotion and sheer intensity of downhill skateboarding. This film feels like a fever dream, showcasing some of the most breathtaking mountain passes and roads California has to offer. It’s a unique viewing experience that every downhill enthusiast should witness.
Red Dirt Motion: Recollections
From Red Dirt Motion’s impressive catalog, “Recollections” stands out. This video achieves a perfect balance between polished cinematography and the raw, untamed essence of downhill skating. The segments featuring Lars Troutwine skating in the French Alps are particularly captivating.
Caliber Truck Co: Grade
Directed by Jack Boston, “Grade” is widely regarded as one of the best downhill skateboarding films ever produced. Filmed across the globe, from the USA to Australia and Switzerland, it features top riders like James Kelly and Liam Morgan tearing up the world’s most challenging mountain passes. The incredible soundtrack and visuals make it a must-watch.
Fellowship of the Bearing
If you’re curious about the downhill skateboarding scene in the late 2000s and early 2010s, “Fellowship of the Bearing” is an essential watch. It’s a highly entertaining and insightful look into the sport’s recent history and evolution.
Downhill Skateboarding Exposed
Downhill Skateboarding Exposed: A Youtube series showcasing the raw side of DH skatingThis five-part YouTube series by Kabob Kabob offers an unadulterated look into the world of downhill skateboarding. “Downhill Skateboarding Exposed” showcases the shenanigans, the camaraderie, and everything in between, making you feel like you’re right there with the skaters. Episode 3 is a particular standout.
Venom: Eat Shit
“Eat Shit” by Venom Skate from Colorado is a wild ride. It features high-altitude downhill skateboarding by some of the best in the world, combined with glimpses into the party culture surrounding the sport. It’s a unique experience that shows a different side of the DH skateboarding world.
Highway Gospel
If you can track down “Highway Gospel,” it’s definitely worth a watch. This film is a testament to the passion and dedication of downhill skateboarders. The trailer hints at the captivating experience it provides.
Prism Skate Co: Toms Wurld
“Toms Wurld” is a visually stunning and creative skate edit, written, directed, filmed, and edited by Jack Boston. It’s a testament to the artistic potential of skate filmmaking, offering a truly memorable viewing experience.
Thrashin’
This cheesy 80s film starring Josh Brolin is a guilty pleasure for many. Despite its cheesiness, the epic downhill montage towards the end makes it worthwhile. It’s a fun look back at the early days of skateboarding culture.
Gimbal Boys
This three-part (and counting) YouTube series is filmed entirely on a handheld gimbal, offering a unique perspective on downhill skating. “Gimbal Boys” features top skaters shredding some of the best roads in the world. The raw, unfiltered nature of the filming makes it feel like you’re right in the pack. “Gimbal Boys 3” is a standout episode.
Coast Longboarding Evolutions
This six-part YouTube series from 2006 to 2010 provides a great historical perspective on downhill longboarding events. “Coast Longboarding Evolutions” is full of high-energy skating, offering insight into the culture, gear, and style of the era. It’s a fun and stoke-inducing trip down memory lane.
Signal Hill Speed Run
This documentary explores the fastest downhill skateboarding events that took place on Signal Hill in the 70s and 80s. It’s a fascinating look at the history of downhill skating, showcasing the gear, techniques, and style of the era. It’s a must-watch for anyone interested in the roots of the sport.
Drop: My Live Downhill
While I haven’t been able to find “Drop: My Live Downhill” online, its trailer and the recommendations from others make it a must-mention. If you find it, let me know – I’d love to see it!
More Great Downhill Skateboarding Videos
This list wouldn’t be complete without mentioning some exceptional short videos and YouTube channels:
PRGLNGmedia: Tenerife Series
PRGLNGmedia is an underrated YouTube channel with exceptional skate edits. The PIVKANARY series, filmed in Tenerife, is a personal favorite, with “PIVKANARY vol. I” being the best of the bunch.
Prism Skate Co: The Entire Collection
You simply have to watch all the videos from Prism Skate Co. They’re all pretty epic, and the “Faces” series is particularly underrated. Again, most of these are directed by Jack Boston, which is a mark of quality.
Linus Marsh: Endless Summer
“Endless Summer” by Linus Marsh features impressive filming, great skating, and awesome music. It also showcases some of the trucks made by Linus himself.
I’M GONNA DOWNHILL FOREVER
This series from Aleix Gallimo offers a refreshing perspective on the world tour of downhill skateboarding. Films made by riders often capture the vibe and the feels perfectly.
Santa Gnarbara
Santa Gnarbara: A YouTube channel with gnarly skating editsRun by Tom Flinchbaugh, the star of Prism Skate Co.’s “Toms Wurld,” Santa Gnarbara’s YouTube channel is full of incredible skating. Tom is a master videographer who creates some of the best skate edits in the game. “Space Exploration” is a must-see.
2015 Gravity Dogz World Tour
This series provides incredible insight into the IDF tour life. While some background knowledge is helpful, it’s still a very enjoyable watch for any DH enthusiast.
Landyachtz: Skate and Explore
This series from Landyachtz was a key influence in my own journey into downhill skating. It’s all about good vibes and the joy of skateboarding.
Downhill Skateboarding: Tenerife Skatetrip ft. the BROLLBOIS
Another excellent Tenerife skate trip edit, and a true gem within the downhill skateboarding community.
Perropro
Perropro’s YouTube channel is full of great longboarding content, and is definitely worth exploring.
What Did We Miss?
This list is just the starting point, as there is a wealth of amazing downhill skateboarding content out there. What are your favorite films and videos? Share them in the comments below! Maybe this article needs a part two, eh?
A huge thank you to my patrons – Jed, Mowgii, Jan, Jay, Bryan, Owen, Samil, Daniel, Alex, Kasajja, Leah, Helge, DeLacoste, and Justin – for your continued support. Your contributions make articles like this possible.
