Deckadence Launches Our First Fucking Awesome Drop – Featuring Mark Gonzales’ Class Photo
New brand. Special drop. Skate history in your hands.
Deckadence Board Shoppe is proud to announce our very first drop from Fucking Awesome Skateboards, featuring the rare Mark Gonzales Class Photo Deck — a Fucking Awesome Skateboards Mark Gonzales Deck release for the books.
Who is FA, Who is Jason Dill and who is mark Gonzales?
Fucking Awesome (FA) is a brand born from raw creativity, street-level grit, and high art. Founded by Jason Dill and Anthony Van Engelen in 2014, FA quickly made its mark with bold graphics, unconventional ads, and a true-to-skateboarding spirit.
Jason Dill is a name every real skateboarder knows. Growing up in Huntington Beach, turning pro by 17, and becoming a legend through Alien Workshop classics like Photosynthesis and Mind Field, Dill’s story is skateboarding itself: fast, messy, brilliant, and unforgettable. Today, he brings that same chaotic beauty to FA, making it one of the most respected names in skateboarding and streetwear worldwide.
About Mark Gonzales Widely considered the godfather of modern street skateboarding, Mark Gonzales — aka “The Gonz” — revolutionized skateboarding in the late ’80s and early ’90s. His fearless style, inventive tricks, and creative spirit inspired generations of skaters to think outside the lines. From Video Days to his ongoing art and influence, Gonz’s legacy lives on both in skateboarding and the broader world of art and culture.
Why This Drop is Special: Mark Gonzales’ Class Photo
This isn’t just any FA drop. This Fucking Awesome Skateboards Mark Gonzales Deck release features a special graphic — a real class photo of Mark Gonzales, “The Gonz,” one of the most influential skateboarders of all time. Gonz changed the way people thought about skateboarding — with style, humor, and a fearless spirit.
Mark Gonzales, immortalized: The actual class photo used for the new Fucking Awesome Gonz Deck, available now at Deckadence.
“And now, a word from Dill…
When I was 9 my family moved into a house across the street from where Ed Templeton lived, on Alabama Street in Huntington Beach. On that one small block lived so many skateboarders, all these teenage skate dudes, they were all so good, I was a little kid, I sucked, they were mean to me, but I got better at skating and it seemed that the better I got the less they would pick on me. I listened intently to everything they said, I mimicked what they did and they would get mad at me and tell me to stop mimicking them. The one person they talked about the most and who they also mimicked the most was Mark Gonzales, I heard them talk about him so much before I ever even knew what he looked like. Gonz. They talked about this person they called Gonz. I finally saw a picture of him in a magazine and that year as I got more and more into skating, I started putting pictures of Mark on my bedroom wall that I shared with my older brother Chris. His side had pictures of The Style Council, The Who, The Clash and pictures from the movie Quadrophenia. I am now 11 years old, fully submerged in skateboarding, fuck G.I. Joe, fuck Transformers, I didn’t like the kids at my school, I skated and hung out with this teenage group of skateboarders and I would bash my face into the ground, get knocked out and break bones and it was all so epic. I still watched cartoons but other than that, I felt as though I was no longer a child, more like a feral animal.
One evening, I went with my Mother to the grocery store, my poor Ma worked such long hours, my Dad was in jail…I knew she was upset by this feral animal that had replaced her little boy who now only hung out with teenagers. I loved my Ma, but I know the way I now looked and behaved freaked her out, even without her saying much of anything about it…We turned down one of the aisles and for some reason I looked back as we were turning and walking not more than a few feet behind us was Mark Gonzales. I can’t really articulate what I felt when I saw him, I suppose I was just dumbfounded, it was him, the guy all the teenage skate dudes idolized and I now did as well, that’s Gonz, that’s my idol. I saw him one more time in another part of the store, I saw him, he saw me. I’m pretty sure he knew I knew who he was, and that was it. I saw Gonz.
Over the next few years I would see Mark skating at Huntington Beach High School, Mesa View, at that same Ralph’s but in the parking lot skating the curbs, I was there skating too, I got to witness him do things that were never on film, I was so lucky to be alive and understand that I was in the presence of greatness. A greatness that would have a tremendous effect on me and the one person with the biggest impact and influence on my career in skateboarding. When I first saw him he was only a teenager, trip out. If an 11 year old me knew that one day I would be making a skateboard put out by my very own company with a teenage Mark on it, Haaaaa, my tiny mind would have exploded…I’m very appreciative of Mark and I am so very happy to make this board available to people that have also been influenced by the man that I now call my friend. Mark Gonzales.”
To have Gonz’s class photo printed across a full line of decks is a rare tribute — a true collector’s item for riders and fans alike.
Full Size Run — Limited Quantities Available
We have the Fucking Awesome Skateboards Mark Gonzales Deck available in a full size range. Whether you skate them or hang them on your wall, you’ll want to act fast. FA decks always move quickly — and this drop is extra special.
Available now in-store and online. Once they’re gone, they’re gone.
“At Deckadence, every new brand we bring in is chosen with heart. FA isn’t just a new name on the wall — it’s a celebration of skateboarding’s past, present, and future. We’re proud to make this connection with our local scene.” -DB
Ready to Roll?
Get your hands on the Fucking Awesome Skateboards Mark Gonzales Deck — and own a piece of skateboarding history. See you soon at Deckadence.
The Push Behind The Park: Our Radio Interview with BYU-Idaho Radio
This week, I had the opportunity to speak with BYU-Idaho Radio about something close to my heart—Pocatello’s new skatepark at Optimist Park.
We talked about how it all began. Since around 2012, I’ve been advocating for a real, permanent skatepark. Not just for myself—but for every skater in this community who deserves a safe, fun place to ride.
Skateboarding shaped my life. I’ve been skating since middle school, and over the years, it became much more than a hobby. It taught me resilience, creativity, and the power of community. That same spirit drives everything we do at Deckadence Board Shoppe.
During the interview, we discussed the decade-long push for this project. From community meetings to city conversations, I never stopped showing up. I kept going because I knew how much this park would mean to local skaters—young and old.
The new skatepark isn’t just a collection of ramps. It’s a space for growth, connection, and self-expression. Kids need that. Skaters of all ages need that. Pocatello needs that.
We also touched on the role of local shops. Deckadence was born because I saw a need. Big-box stores can’t build culture. But a true local shop? It supports the scene, invests in the future, and makes sure the next generation feels seen and supported.
If you’ve ever wondered why we care so much about the scene—or how something like a skatepark gets built from the ground up—this interview pulls back the curtain.
Lakai, once a symbol of skateboarding rebellion, is shifting gears. The brand known for its “Lakai or Die” mantra is moving towards a “Lakai or direct-to-consumer” shift. This type of business model, moving away from traditional retail channels, threatens to change the very fabric of skateboarding culture.
In a shocking turn, Lakai’s new corporate ownership has dismissed the brand’s skate team, management, sales reps, and office staff, signaling a complete shift to a direct-to-consumer model. As the news spreads, it raises questions about what this means for the brand’s identity and its connection to skate culture.
From Core Skate Brand to Corporate Machine?
Founded in 1999 by pro skateboarders Mike Carroll and Rick Howard, Lakai was born out of skateboarding culture. Leaving DC Shoes, Carroll and Howard partnered with Tim Gavin at Podium Distribution to create a brand built by skaters, for skaters. Named after a friend’s child, Malakai, Lakai quickly became known for its attention to design, functionality, and quality—qualities that resonated with skateboarders worldwide.
This recent decision marks a sharp turn from Lakai’s roots. By shifting focus from skate shops to direct-to-consumer sales, the new owners are bypassing the very community that helped build the brand. This isn’t just a business decision; it’s a redefinition of the company’s values.
The Decline of the Local Skate Shop
Lakai’s move is part of a growing trend in retail. Brands increasingly sidestep traditional retail partners to sell directly to consumers, potentially improving profit margins but at a steep cost to local shops. Skate shops aren’t just retailers—they’re the beating heart of the skate community. They provide spaces for skaters to meet, share stories, and connect. They also bolster local economies by creating jobs and supporting other businesses.
As brands like Lakai go direct, local skate shops face fierce competition from lower online prices and wider selections. This shift threatens to decrease foot traffic, reduce sales, and ultimately close down these crucial community spaces.
For skateboarders, this could mean the loss of something irreplaceable: fewer places to gather, fewer spots to swap stories, and fewer resources for the next generation of skaters. Once local shops start closing, those connections won’t easily be rebuilt.
What Do Skateboarders Really Want?
This move challenges skateboarders to think about the future they want to support. Will they embrace a Lakai without the team, the reps, and the community roots that once defined it? Or will they push back on direct-to-consumer models and continue to support their local shops, choosing to buy from spaces that foster the skate culture they love?
As consumers, we hold the power to shape the future of skateboarding. By supporting local shops and smaller, community-focused brands, we can help preserve the core of skate culture. The question is, are we willing to make that choice, or will we continue to be wooed by multi-million dollar marketing campaigns and the convenience of online shopping?
Let’s not let “Lakai or Die” lead to the death of our local skate shops. The future of skateboarding is up to us—where will you click next?
Leave a comment and let me know how you feel about this latest trend in retail.
Grab the last of our Lakai Footwear collection before it’s gone! Use CODE: fattytoflatty for $5 flat-rate shipping on orders over $50.
Godzilla Stomps Onto Skateboards: A Kaiju Collaboration for the Ages
In a historic crossover, Godzilla and Santa Cruz Skateboards have teamed up to create a mind-blowing collection. This limited-edition collaboration merges two iconic brands, resulting in a powerful and stylish series of skate decks.
A Brief History of Godzilla
Since its 1954 cinematic debut, Godzilla has captivated audiences worldwide. Initially a poignant allegory for nuclear war, Godzilla has evolved into a symbol of both destruction and renewal. From the classic Showa era to the modern MonsterVerse, Godzilla remains a cultural icon, inspiring countless films, video games, and merchandise.
The Modern Era of Godzilla
In recent years, Godzilla has experienced a resurgence in popularity. Critically acclaimed films have reimagined the iconic monster for a new generation. The MonsterVerse, featuring films like “Godzilla” (2014), “Kong: Skull Island,” “Godzilla: King of the Monsters,” and “Godzilla vs. Kong,” has brought Godzilla back to the big screen, showcasing epic battles with other legendary monsters.
Godzilla x Santa Cruz Skateboards: A Kaiju Collaboration
The Godzilla x Santa Cruz Skateboards collection offers a range of decks, each showcasing iconic Godzilla characters and designs. From the menacing Godzilla Destroyer to the playful Godzilla Jr., there’s something for every Godzilla fan and skateboarder.
The Lineup:
Godzilla Destroyer: A 11.0in x 32.0in deck with striking spot gloss and silver mirror foil graphics, capturing Godzilla’s raw power.
Godzilla Jr. Natas: A 9.89in x 29.82in deck showcasing Godzilla’s playful side with metallic foil graphics and Cruz Missile II concave.
Godzilla Mothra Natas: A 10.538in x 30.14in deck featuring spot matte graphics with silver rainbow prismatic foil, celebrating the iconic duo.
Godzilla Mecha Hand: An 8.00in x 31.60in deck with prismatic and spot gloss graphics, capturing Mechagodzilla’s mechanical might.
Godzilla Shin Knox Firepit: An 8.5in x 32.2in deck with spot gloss and prismatic silver foil graphics, showcasing Godzilla’s fiery power.
Godzilla Kaiju Roskopp: A 10.125in x 30.2in deck featuring spot gloss and silver mirror foil graphics, capturing epic Godzilla battles.
Godzilla O’Brien Reaper: An 8.25in x 31.80in deck with reimagined kaiju graphics, showcasing Godzilla’s destructive power.
Ride Like a Kaiju
Each deck in the collection is crafted from high-quality North American maple, offering various shapes and concaves to suit different riding styles. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, there’s a Godzilla x Santa Cruz Skateboard deck that’s perfect for you.
Don’t Miss Out
This limited-edition collection is sure to sell out fast, so be sure to grab your favorite deck before it’s too late. Head over HERE to shop the full collection and ride like a kaiju!
Vans Sticks the Landing at Deckadence: Your Skateboard Shoe Plug
We’re stoked to announce the arrival of Vans at Deckadence Board Shoppe! This iconic brand, synonymous with skateboarding culture for over 50 years, joins our lineup of performance footwear, offering skaters of all levels the perfect blend of style and performance.
A Legacy Rooted in Skateboarding: Classic Vans
Vans’ story began in 1966 when the Van Doren brothers opened their first shoe store in Anaheim, California. Catering to the local skateboarding scene, they quickly realized the need for a durable and comfortable shoe that could withstand the demands of skateboarding. Thus, the legend of Vans was born.
As skateboarding evolved, so did Vans. The now-iconic Vans Era, introduced in 1978, offered improved padding and a lower profile, perfect for the emerging freestyle movement.
Shortly after, the Sk8-Hi, also known as “Style 38,” debuted in 1978, revolutionizing skateboarding by providing crucial ankle support for those pushing boundaries. This high-top design became a staple in skate parks worldwide. ([Link to Vans Sk8-Hi Skate Shoes on Deckadence Board Shoppe])
Vans Skate Classics: Redesigned for Modern Performance
Today, Vans continues to innovate with the Skate Classics collection. This line takes the iconic silhouettes you know and love, like the Old Skool, Sk8-Hi’s and Slip-On and upgrades them for modern skateboarding.
What sets the Vans Skate Classics apart?
Increased Durability: DuraCap™ reinforced materials, deeper knurl texture on toe bumpers, and higher sidewalls provide a longer lifespan and added protection.
Fully Redesigned Uppers: Molded heel counters and internal tongue straps ensure a locked-in fit for maximum board control.
Legendary Grip: Vans’ proprietary SickStick™ gum rubber compound offers unmatched traction on your board and any terrain.
PopCush™ Cushioning: Energy return footbeds absorb impact and reduce fatigue for longer skate sessions.
Iconic Styling: A timeless aesthetic that maintains the classic charm of Vans, while delivering performance-enhancing features.
Shop Vans Skate Shoes at Deckadence Board Shoppe:
Whether you’re a seasoned skater or just starting out, Vans Skate Classics have something for everyone. Visit our shop or browse our online selection to find the perfect pair for your next shred session.
Vans is more than just footwear; it’s a culture. From their commitment to supporting professional skaters to their dedication to grassroots events, Vans embodies the spirit of skateboarding. Scope out the inspirational story about Team rider Zion Wright:
Still want to learn more about the history of Vans?
At Deckadence Board Shoppe, we’re passionate about skateboarding and providing our customers with the best possible gear. With the addition of Vans Skate Classics, we’re confident that you’ll find everything you need to elevate your skateboarding experience.
Level Up Your Skateboarding Game: Lurpiv Hollow Polished Skateboard Trucks.
Lurpiv Hollow Polished Skateboard Trucks are the latest and greatest in skateboard truck technology. These trucks are designed to provide skateboarders with the ultimate in performance, durability, and style.
Key Lurpiv Features:
The Lurpiv Hollow Polished Trucks feature a hollow kingpin and axle, which reduces weight and enhances responsiveness. The trucks also have a polished hanger and baseplate, which gives them a sleek and stylish look. Lurpiv makes their trucks from AA357 Aluminum which is a cast aluminum alloy. This alloy is typically heat treated to improve its strength characteristics.
Get a perfect truck for your setup
Lurpiv Hollow Polished Trucks come in various sizes to fit all skateboard decks. Choose sizes to match your personal setup. Ensure your trucks match your deck’s width for optimal balance and control. Trucks too wide or too narrow can affect your board’s handling and balance. Perfectly matched trucks allow for proper turning, carving, and popping, making primo tricks easier to land.
D’Beau’s Recommended Setup
For the ultimate skateboarding experience, D’Beau recommends pairing the Lurpiv Trucks with one of the Polar skateboard decks. To explore the available options and find the perfect match for your style, click HERE. Once you have selected your preferred size board click HERE to match up the perfect fitting Lurpiv trucks!
If you are looking for a way to upgrade your skateboard, the Lurpiv Hollow Polished Skateboard Trucks are the perfect choice. These trucks will help you ride smoother, faster, and with more control.
Learn More
To discover more about Lurpiv Trucks and see the entire Lurpiv line, click HERE.
Check out EJ Lopez as he take his Lurpiv’s out for first grinds!
