Best Skateboarding Books

Discover the dramatic and inspiring story of a world-champion freestyle skateboarder who revolutionized the sport with his groundbreaking trick, the ollie. After winning 35 world titles in under five years, his father pressured him to quit the sport he loved. But Rodney Mullen refused to give up and went on to become the most famous skateboarder of his era, ushering in a new era of street skating. His videos and video games are still beloved by fans worldwide.

"Locals Only" captures the essence of the legendary Dogtown and Z-Boys skateboarders in Southern California during the mid-1970s. With over 120 beautiful color images, follow the journey of a young photographer enamored by the athleticism and grace of the skaters surfing the streets of LA, San Fernando Valley, Venice Beach, San Francisco, and Baja California, Mexico. Discover how the empty swimming pools of suburbs became the perfect training grounds and witness the classic look of this group through its requisite bleached blonde hair, tanned bodies, tube socks, and Vans. The book also includes an insightful Q+A with the artist, allowing you to experience the memories and inspirations that went into creating this masterpiece.