Matt Militano’s skateboarding journey is a winding road of unexpected twists and turns. From early appearances in iconic skate videos to viral ledge clips and now joining the Sci-Fi Fantasy team, Matt’s career reflects a unique path marked by dedication and a deep love for skateboarding. He’s a skater’s skater, with a wealth of stories and experiences that resonate with both seasoned pros and casual observers. This article explores his experiences, influences, and the evolution of his career.
Matt’s skateboarding journey began long before his viral fame, with an early cameo in SLAP’s “One In a Million.” Over the years, he’s honed his skills, developing a style that combines technical prowess with an undeniable street sensibility. His recent addition to Sci-Fi Fantasy signifies a new chapter, one where his unique style is set to shine alongside a talented crew.
Matt Militano Photo
From Philly to LA and Back Again
Many have noted a resemblance between Matt and Stefan Janoski, a comparison he takes as a compliment, given his admiration for the legendary skater. Matt’s career has had its share of ups and downs. He mentions periods where he stepped back from skating to focus on other interests, like vintage clothing. This pursuit of vintage items has become a way for Matt to balance his passion for skateboarding with a practical means of making a living. He frequents farmers markets and other venues to sell his finds, providing him with a flexible schedule that allows him to skate and film when the opportunity arises. This freedom is something he values greatly.
Matt’s journey took him to Los Angeles, where he worked at the Huf warehouse. This period provided a raw, authentic skate house experience. However, he also realized how competitive the skateboarding industry could be, which ultimately led him back to the East Coast. Settling in NYC, he found a community that better suited his desire to focus on his skating without the pressures he felt in LA.
Navigating the Skate Sponsorship Maze
Matt’s sponsorship history is as diverse as his skating style. He started with Think, followed by Skate Mental, Stacks, and Enjoi. He was also briefly involved with a new company that never materialized, which led to an opportunity with Foundation, though he admits their high-stakes approach to skating didn’t match his style. He then spent five years, never officially on the team, riding for Habitat. From there, he joined 5BORO for several years. Finally, he’s found a home with Sci-Fi Fantasy. He also admits to a short-lived sponsorship with RipnDip that he now regrets. One highlight during this time was a three-week road trip with Heath Kirchart, a figure he found surprisingly approachable and kind.
His experiences with various sponsors have given him a unique perspective on the industry. He’s witnessed firsthand how different companies operate and the pressures that can come with being a sponsored skater. This knowledge informs his current approach to skateboarding, allowing him to focus on what truly matters to him: enjoying the process and creating meaningful content.
The Prank Show and Viral Fame
Matt’s life took an unexpected turn when he unknowingly participated in a prank show while delivering pizzas in Hollywood. The bizarre scenario involved a woman answering the door in a towel that she dropped, followed by other girls in lingerie and a pillow fight. The show ended with the big reveal and millions of views. The absurdity of the situation still elicits surprise when people recognize him from the clip.
This experience highlights the unpredictable nature of Matt’s journey. It’s a reminder that not all opportunities come from skateboarding, but that all experiences can shape one’s perspective and add to their overall story.
ABDs, VX Love, and the Current Scene
Matt is aware of the unwritten rules of skateboarding, particularly the concept of “Already Been Done” (ABD) tricks. While he tries to avoid repeating existing tricks, he’s also not afraid to put his own spin on things. He admits to having unintentionally done some ABDs and faced the consequences online.
Matt’s preference for filming with a VX-1000 camera has become part of his signature style. While he’s recently started filming in HD, he maintains a fondness for the raw, gritty aesthetic of the VX footage. He believes that his dedication to VX might have held him back in some ways, but his love for the format remains unwavering. This affection for the VX is a testament to his commitment to his style and the raw essence of skateboarding.
Matt Militano BS Noseblunt
Matt’s talent hasn’t gone unnoticed. He’s recognized as a “cult figure” on SLAP, a testament to his impact on the skating community, and has had numerous viral clips. One memorable trick that gained attention is his back 180 switch 5-0 big heel out, which he developed through experimentation and persistence. He is also known for throwing tricks in the middle of parts, rather than saving them for the end, adding to his unique style.
The Future
From his early days in SLAP’s “One In a Million” to his current position with Sci-Fi Fantasy, Matt Militano has remained true to his passion for skateboarding. His story is one of perseverance, adaptability, and a deep-seated love for the culture. It will be interesting to watch the direction he takes and the impact he has on the skate scene going forward.
Matt’s journey is a testament to the fact that there are many paths in skateboarding. His unique blend of technical skill, creative expression, and a deep appreciation for the history of the sport make him a compelling figure in the skate world today, with his own journey just beginning. He’s learned to balance his passions with his work, and he is clearly more driven and inspired than ever.
