As 2023 fades into the past, it’s time to reflect on the year’s most memorable moments in skateboarding. From viral sensations like the Nick Matthews’ back smith to the unexpected challenge of the LES light pole, 2023 was a year of highs and lows, and at Jenkem, we’re dedicated to shining a light on those moments that might otherwise be lost. So, here’s our take on the 7th Annual Skateboarding Superlatives, where we celebrate the nutty cash grabs and the soft beefs that defined the year.
Previous winners: 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022.
A digital collage featuring various skate-related images and the text "Welp, it seems 2023 is about to go get milk from the store or whatever dads say before running off with a stripper."
Cash Grab of the Year
Polo Ralph Lauren x Element Skateboards
The collaboration between Polo Ralph Lauren and Element Skateboards takes the “Cash Grab” award this year, blending high fashion with skate culture. This unexpected partnership was certainly a talking point in the skate community and beyond, raising questions about authenticity and commercialism.
Softest Beef of the Year
Huf vs. American Pie Guy
The “Softest Beef” award goes to the minor conflict between Huf and the “American Pie Guy.” This seemingly trivial dispute became a funny moment in the skate world, highlighting how easily things can be blown out of proportion, then quickly deflated.
A GIF of a cartoonish pie being thrown, symbolizing the "soft" beef between Huf and American Pie Guy.
Most Fertile Skater
Tom Knox
Tom Knox earns the “Most Fertile” award, in a light-hearted nod to his growing family. This wasn’t about a skateboarding achievement, but about something much more personal.
A photograph of Tom Knox, smiling, with his family.
Priciest Pop
Tyshawn Jones’ Ferrari Ollie
Tyshawn Jones’s “Ferrari Ollie” is recognized with the “Priciest Pop” award. The sheer audacity and expense of this stunt made it a highlight of 2023, further cementing Tyshawn’s reputation for pushing boundaries.
A GIF of Tyshawn Jones performing a high ollie, with a focus on the pop.
The Spike Jonze Award
Grant Yansura
Grant Yansura is honored with “The Spike Jonze Award,” recognizing his unique creative vision and contribution to skateboarding. This award celebrates the artistic and innovative spirit in skate filmmaking.
A photograph of Grant Yansura, capturing his creative and unique personality.
Biggest Bluff
Nollie Tre The Hydrant
The “Biggest Bluff” award goes to the Nollie Tre the Hydrant, highlighting an ambitious attempt at a tricky maneuver. This award celebrates the audacity and humor in pushing limits.
A photograph of the Nollie Tre The Hydrant, showcasing the bold attempt.
Bomboclaat Moment
Dashawn Jordan’s “Too Many”
Dashawn Jordan’s “Too Many” video clip is recognized with the “Bomboclaat” award. This selection celebrates a moment of pure, unadulterated skateboarding madness.
A GIF from Dashawn Jordan's "Too Many" video clip, capturing the energy and intensity.
We’re Gonna Need Some ID
This superlative is awarded to an unnamed skater who was mistaken for being underage, showcasing the youthful energy of the skateboarding scene.
A photograph of a group of skaters, with one seemingly younger than the others, highlighting the "We're Gonna Need Some ID" award.
Most Marketable Skater
Beatrice Domond
Beatrice Domond takes home the “Most Marketable” award for her style and influence both on and off the board. This award highlights her potential for wider appeal and brand partnerships.
A photograph of Beatrice Domond, capturing her fashionable and influential persona.
Hopefully Just a Phase
Ginwoo Onodera
Ginwoo Onodera’s style is playfully recognized with “Hopefully Just a Phase.” This award highlights the evolving nature of skaters’ personal expressions and styles.
A GIF featuring Ginwoo Onodera, highlighting his style with the "Hopefully Just a Phase" award.
It’s Not a Phase
Burberry Erry
Burberry Erry receives the “It’s Not a Phase” award, acknowledging his commitment to a particular style and persona within the skateboarding community.
A photograph of Burberry Erry, showcasing his distinctive and consistent personal style.
Conclusion
And there you have it, Jenkem’s 7th Annual Skateboarding Superlatives. These awards are a humorous reflection on the year, celebrating both the notable and the absurd moments that make the skateboarding world unique. As we look ahead to 2024, we can only wonder what new and exciting moments it will bring. Share this with your friends and let us know what you think on social media.
Words: James Lee
Illustration: Michael Giurato
