zegras

Zegras: More Than Just a Trick

When Adrian Zegras landed the first-ever 1080 triple kickflip in competition at the 2021 X Games, he didn’t just add another trick to skateboarding’s lexicon. He redefined what’s possible on four wheels. The son of professional vert skater Tony Hawk’s former teammate, Zegras brought a technical precision and creativity that has since inspired a generation of skaters worldwide. But his influence extends far beyond competition results. It’s a cultural shift—one that’s reshaping how skateboarding is taught, filmed, and celebrated.

Born in Orange County, California, Zegras grew up in a skateboarding family. His father, Chris Zegras, was a vert skater in the 1990s, competing in contests alongside legends like Tony Hawk. The younger Zegras honed his skills at local skate parks, quickly standing out for his ability to blend technical difficulty with stylish execution. Unlike the raw aggression of street skating, Zegras’ approach favors technical flair and consistency, making his style both accessible and aspirational for up-and-coming skaters.

The Technical Mastery Behind the Tricks

Zegras’ signature tricks—like the 1080 kickflip, the switch 360 ollie, and the laser flip—aren’t just about height or speed. They’re about control, timing, and the ability to manipulate the board in ways that defy gravity. His skating is a blend of vert fundamentals and street-style creativity, a fusion that has become his trademark. This technical mastery has earned him comparisons to skateboarding’s most innovative athletes, from Rodney Mullen to Nyjah Huston.

One of Zegras’ most groundbreaking moments came during the 2022 Street League Skateboarding (SLS) event in Chicago. He landed a trick so rare that even seasoned pros hadn’t fully grasped its difficulty: the 1080 kickflip. The trick involves flipping the skateboard three full rotations while airborne, a feat that requires near-perfect timing and board control. The trick’s success wasn’t just a personal milestone; it was a statement. It proved that skateboarding’s limits were still being written, and Zegras was the one holding the pen.

• 1080 Kickflip: Three full board rotations while flipping the skate. Zegras’ version is executed with unmatched precision.
• Switch 360 Ollie: An ollie performed while riding switch stance (feet reversed) and spinning 360 degrees.
• Laser Flip: A hardflip combined with a 360-degree spin, named for its smooth, gliding motion.

A Global Movement Fueled by Social Media

Zegras’ rise coincides with the explosion of skateboarding’s digital presence. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok have turned skaters into influencers, and Zegras is no exception. His Instagram account, @adrianzegras, boasts over 1.2 million followers, where he shares clips of his latest tricks, behind-the-scenes footage, and even casual vlogs. This digital footprint has helped him connect with fans worldwide, from Tokyo to Berlin, creating a community around his unique style.

But Zegras’ impact isn’t limited to his own social media. He’s part of a larger movement that’s democratizing skateboarding. Younger skaters, inspired by his videos, are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible on a board. In cities like São Paulo, where street skating is a cultural cornerstone, Zegras’ tricks have become a benchmark for aspiring skaters. Similarly, in Europe, where skate parks are often the heart of urban youth culture, his style is being adopted and adapted by local talent.

The global skateboarding scene has always been diverse, but Zegras’ influence has accelerated the blending of styles. In Japan, where technical skateboarding has deep roots, skaters are incorporating Zegras’ tricks into their own repertoires. In Australia, a hotbed for vert skating, his approach has inspired a new wave of athletes to experiment with hybrid styles. This cross-cultural exchange is a testament to skateboarding’s universal language—one that Zegras is helping to refine.

The Business of Zegras: Sponsorships and Beyond

Zegras’ success has also made him a valuable asset for brands. He’s a global ambassador for sports brands like Nike SB and Independent Trucks, as well as tech companies like GoPro, which has capitalized on his high-flying content. His partnerships extend beyond skating; he’s collaborated with fashion brands, musicians, and even video game developers, proving that his appeal transcends the skateboarding community.

One of his most notable collaborations was with Nike SB on the “Adrian Zegras” signature shoe line. Released in 2023, the shoe combines performance features with a sleek, modern design. It’s a reflection of Zegras’ own skating philosophy: technical yet stylish, functional yet fashionable. The line has been a commercial success, selling out quickly and earning praise from both skaters and sneakerheads alike.

Beyond shoes, Zegras has ventured into content creation. His YouTube channel features vlogs, trick breakdowns, and even short films that explore the culture of skateboarding. This multimedia approach has helped him build a brand that’s as much about personality as it is about performance. It’s a strategy that mirrors the evolution of skateboarding itself—from a counterculture activity to a mainstream phenomenon with its own economy.

What’s Next for Zegras and Skateboarding

As Zegras continues to push the limits of skateboarding, the question on everyone’s mind is: What’s next? He’s hinted at exploring more vert skating, a discipline he’s only recently begun to dominate. There’s also the possibility of a full vert competition comeback, where he could face off against legends like Tony Hawk and Bucky Lasek. But Zegras’ ambitions extend beyond skating. He’s expressed interest in filmmaking, music, and even coaching, suggesting that his influence will continue to grow in unexpected ways.

For the skateboarding community, Zegras represents a bridge between tradition and innovation. He honors the roots of the sport while constantly redefining its future. His legacy isn’t just in the tricks he’s landed but in the culture he’s helped create—a culture that values creativity, persistence, and the courage to try something new.

As skateboarding prepares for its Olympic debut in Los Angeles 2028, athletes like Zegras will be at the forefront, showcasing the sport’s evolution. They’ll bring a level of technical skill and global appeal that could redefine how the world views skateboarding. And if Zegras has anything to say about it, the sport will continue to surprise, delight, and inspire for years to come.

Explore more about skateboarding’s evolving culture and its global stars on Dave’s Locker.