Fact-checked by Grok 2 weeks ago

Geoff Rowley

Geoff Rowley (born 6 June 1976) is an English professional skateboarder renowned for his technical street skating, aggressive style, and contributions to the sport's evolution through innovative tricks, video parts, and brand ownership. Born in , , Rowley began skateboarding at age 12 in 1989 amid the city's industrial landscape, initially focusing on flatground and hill bombing before progressing to street spots. At 18, he relocated to , in 1994, where he quickly gained prominence by landing a magazine cover just two weeks after arrival, marking his explosive entry into the U.S. scene. Rowley's career highlights include being named Thrasher Magazine's Skater of the Year in 2000 for his daring gap jumps and consistent ledge work, solidifying his status as a street skating pioneer. His notable video parts, such as those in ' Sorry (2002) and Pretty Sweet (2012), as well as ' Propeller (2015)—filmed despite multiple injuries including ankle and knee surgeries—showcase his resilience and creativity, often blending high-risk manuals with precise rail tricks. A key figure in skateboarding's business side, Rowley served as co-owner of from the mid-1990s until 2015, helping shape one of the era's most iconic brands through team curation and product design, including signature shoes and decks. He has appeared in the video game series since 2001, further amplifying his cultural impact, and designed skateparks while directing videos to mentor emerging talent. Beyond skating, Rowley became a U.S. citizen and pursued diverse ventures, founding CIVILWARE Knives in 2019 as a premium tool manufacturer inspired by his outdoor pursuits, and founding Free Dome Skateboards in 2019 to support grassroots skating, which operated until 2024. In 2024, following the closure of Free Dome, he joined Toy Machine Skateboards. As a professional for Kika Outfitters since the , he advocates for , balancing family life in , with cycling expeditions and ethical . In 2024, he was inducted into the Skateboarding Hall of Fame, honoring his lifetime of innovation and ambassadorship for the sport.

Early Life

Childhood in Liverpool

Geoff Rowley was born on June 6, 1976, in , , during one of the hottest summers on record. He grew up in a working-class family on a council estate in the city's Belle Vale area, where his mother worked in a local bread shop and his father was an avid footballer who introduced him to social customs early on, including visits to pubs from the age of six. Rowley's large family provided a supportive environment, instilling strong morals, , and athleticism that shaped his resilient character amid 's industrial, grimy atmosphere marked by high and social challenges in the late 1970s and 1980s. During his early school years at — the same institution attended by —Rowley experienced a culturally rich yet modest upbringing, often taking lunch breaks on nearby and exploring local landmarks like the abandoned Strawberry Fields behind the school. The city's limited resources reflected in everyday life, with Rowley and his peers navigating a landscape of economic hardship that emphasized community ties and outdoor activities. Before other pursuits took hold, Rowley's primary passion was , for which he showed early dedication by playing for his school team and a local Sunday side, even sleeping with his ball and wearing his kit to bed as a child. He also engaged in running and , activities that highlighted his active lifestyle and connection to Liverpool's sporting culture, while fostering the and that would later define his path. This period in provided a grounded foundation, contrasting with the more specialized opportunities he would encounter elsewhere.

Introduction to Skateboarding and Relocation

Geoff Rowley began in 1989 at the age of 13 in his hometown of , , after transitioning from due to the sport's newfound sense of freedom and adrenaline. Influenced by a close friend who had been skating since 1972 and worked for the local , Rowley was drawn into the activity amid a challenging urban environment marked by limited for the sport. With still niche in the UK, he and his peers relied on basic setups, such as bombing hills, jumping sandstone walls, and using improvised flat-ground areas on council estates, as formal skateparks were scarce and the scene faced community hostility, including ridicule and equipment theft. By the early 1990s, as the skateboarding scene expanded—fueled by influential videos like Plan B's Questionable—Rowley immersed himself in the local culture, honing his skills through self-taught exploration and drawing inspiration from international figures such as and Sean Sheffey. He participated in amateur contests and events that helped elevate British talent, including those at venues like Radlands skatepark in , which played a key role in putting emerging skaters like Rowley on the broader map during this period. These experiences built his technical foundation amid the rough, industrial backdrop of , where harsh weather and socioeconomic constraints often confined sessions to indoor or makeshift spots. In 1994, at age 18, Rowley relocated to Huntington Beach, California—the epicenter of global skateboarding—arriving with just $154 and no prior experience living independently abroad. The move, prompted by a desire for better weather and opportunities to progress, presented immediate challenges: he shared a moldy two-bedroom apartment with 13 others, subsisted on inexpensive food like Ramen noodles, and grappled with cultural shock in an unfamiliar environment that initially stalled his skating development for nearly two years. Adapting to the fast-paced US street scene felt disorienting, as he described himself as a "headless chicken" navigating new spots without the security of his home network, while early job efforts—such as basic setup work—and sponsorship pursuits remained precarious without formal stability. Despite these hurdles, the relocation marked a pivotal shift, immersing him in a vibrant community that would catalyze his growth.

Professional Career

Association with Flip Skateboards

Geoff Rowley joined in 1994 as part of the company's relocation from the to , where he quickly became a core member of the professional team alongside riders like and . Initially riding as an amateur, Rowley contributed to the brand's early growth in the U.S. skate scene, helping establish Flip's reputation for innovative street skating. By 2000, he had turned with the company, launching his signature pro model deck and solidifying his role as a driving force in Flip's creative direction. Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, Rowley's video parts for showcased his aggressive, technical style, blending high-speed rail tricks with massive gaps and stairs, which influenced a generation of street skaters. In the landmark 2002 video Sorry, his part highlighted explosive maneuvers such as a switch heelflip down a and a frontside heelflip over a long flat gap, capturing the raw energy of 's tight-knit team dynamic—characterized by a mix of British roots, diverse riding approaches, and relentless progression among riders like Mark Appleyard and . This footage not only boosted 's video production but also underscored Rowley's leadership in pushing boundaries, as the team's collaborative filming sessions fostered an environment of mutual inspiration and risk-taking. Rowley continued this legacy in the 2009 release Extremely Sorry, the final installment of the "Sorry" trilogy, where his segment featured even more ambitious lines, including ditch assaults and technical combos on larger terrain, dedicated in part to fallen teammate and reflecting the enduring camaraderie within the roster. After nearly two decades as a rider and co-owner, Rowley announced his departure from as a team member in October 2015, stating it was time to pursue new opportunities that would allow him to reach his full potential, while expressing pride in the brand's achievements and affection for its past and present team. Although he initially retained an ownership stake, creative differences with other directors led to his complete exit from the company by late 2016.

Partnership with Vans

Geoff Rowley joined as a sponsored skateboarder in 1999, marking the beginning of a long-term endorsement partnership that has significantly contributed to his professional longevity in the industry. This alliance quickly led to the development of his first signature shoe model, the vulcanized Rowley, released toward the end of that year and designed to meet the demands of high-impact with durable and enhanced grip. The Rowley line evolved over the subsequent decades, incorporating iterative designs that reflected advancements in skate shoe technology while maintaining Rowley's input on and functionality. Following the original Rowley, the Rowley XLT model debuted in 2000 as a low-top variant with a bulkier silhouette inspired by early 2000s trends. Subsequent releases included the Rowley in 2013, featuring reinforced uppers for added durability, and the Rowley Solos in 2015, which introduced minimalist colorways to appeal to broader audiences. By 2019, the partnership reached its 20-year milestone, with Rowley having influenced approximately 20 distinct shoe iterations. In 2023, collaborated with the skate brand on a reissue of the Rowley XLT, updating the classic design with modern materials like gum outsoles for improved traction while preserving its nostalgic profile. This was followed in 2024 by the 25th anniversary reissue of the original Rowley model, available in navy/white and other variants, alongside a commemorative XLT edition to honor the line's enduring impact on skate culture. These releases underscored Rowley's role in product development, blending archival elements with contemporary skate needs. Throughout the partnership, Rowley has actively contributed to ' skateboarding initiatives, appearing in key team videos such as (2015), where his part highlighted technical street skating during global tours, and Take It Back (2019), which celebrated the brand's progression. He has also participated in international events, including the North West Tour across and the , and the annual Downtown Showdown series, fostering community engagement and promoting ' skate heritage.

Other Sponsorships and Endorsements

Geoff Rowley has maintained a long-standing sponsorship with Trucks, beginning in the mid-1990s shortly after his relocation to the , where the brand provided crucial support alongside his early affiliation. Rowley has ridden Independent exclusively since at least 2005, including Stage VII models, and the company released his signature pro truck model, the Stage 9, in 2007. This partnership has endured through his career transitions, with Independent remaining a core hardware sponsor as of 2025. Rowley has also been sponsored by Mob Grip for griptape since the early 2010s, utilizing their perforated standard sheets as part of his setup during major video parts and tours. For wheels, his endorsements have shifted over time; following his 2015 departure from the brand, he transitioned to Spitfire Wheels around 2016, riding blanks with , Vans, and Spitfire stickers for several years. By 2021, amid post-Flip adjustments that included launching his own Free Dome Skateboards, Rowley's wheel sponsor had changed to OJ Wheels, which he continues to use in 2025 for their durable, high-performance suited to his aggressive street style. In apparel, Rowley has held a consistent endorsement with since the early 2000s, featuring their clothing in promotional content and daily wear, complementing his primary partnership without overlapping into footwear details. Shorter-term deals have included brands like Ricta Wheels in the late 2010s, reflecting periodic adjustments to his hardware lineup post-Flip. These affiliations underscore Rowley's selective approach to endorsements, prioritizing reliable, performance-oriented partners that align with his technical street skating.

Trick Innovations

Geoff Rowley is renowned for his technical innovations in , particularly through the invention of the Rowley Darkslide, a stylish variation of the darkslide involving a half-heelflip entry and offset foot placement. This trick, first prominently featured in the 2002 Sorry, transformed the darkslide from an outdated technical maneuver into a dynamic and respected element of modern street skating, blending precision with aggressive flair. Rowley's style emphasized technical proficiency on challenging urban terrain, exemplified by his execution of complex flip tricks over big stair sets, such as a full cab heelflip down a multi-stair gap in 1998, which showcased his ability to combine rotation and height with clean landings. He also advanced rail skating with high-risk frontside boardslides on massive ledges, including the iconic chest-high Staples Center hubba in 1999, pushing the boundaries of balance and speed on elongated handrails. These maneuvers, often captured in video parts like Sorry, highlighted his focus on switch-stance variations and seamless transitions into grinds, elevating the technical demands of street skating. Through feats documented on Thrasher magazine covers—such as a frontside boardslide in 1999 and a backside 360 kickflip in 2005—Rowley influenced a generation to embrace risk-taking on larger-scale spots, from towering stairs to extended rails, fostering a bolder approach to terrain conquest in street skateboarding. His parts consistently demonstrated this evolution, inspiring skaters to integrate technical innovation with fearless progression on oversized urban obstacles.

Involvement with Toy Machine

Geoff Rowley's early connections to Toy Machine trace back to the mid-1990s, shortly after he relocated from Liverpool, England, to Huntington Beach, California, in 1994 at age 18. As an amateur skater, he spent significant time with Ed Templeton, the founder of Toy Machine, during the filming of the brand's inaugural videos, forging a foundational relationship that influenced his aggressive street skating style. In May 2024, Rowley made a full-circle return to Toy Machine as a professional rider, rejoining the team after over two decades with Flip Skateboards, a move that underscored his longstanding loyalty to the brand's roots and Templeton's mentorship. This homecoming was marked by the release of his signature pro model deck featuring "Fist" graphics, a reinterpretation of classic Toy Machine iconography designed by Templeton, emphasizing Rowley's input on aesthetics that blend his British heritage with the company's punk-inspired ethos. Rowley's contributions to Toy Machine extended to video productions and product lines, including a 2024 clip that evoked the raw energy of the brand's era while showcasing his contemporary prowess in streets and ditches. By early 2025, he was actively filming his debut full part for the team, signaling ongoing creative involvement. Additionally, as part of NHS's Spring 2025 catalog—distributed through Toy Machine's network—Rowley collaborated on Slime Balls wheels, such as the 53mm/95A Vomit Mini set in black and red, which highlighted his role in expanding the brand's accessory offerings with durable, high-performance designs tailored for technical .

Team Management Roles

Geoff Rowley assumed significant management positions at during the 2000s, contributing to rider recruitment and overseeing as a co-owner from the mid-1990s. He actively recruited talent from other teams, such as The Firm, to build a diverse roster that blended cutting-edge street skating with classic pool riding across multiple generations, fostering a team that respected skateboarding's past while pushing its future. This approach helped cultivate a collaborative environment amid the brand's growth in the competitive skate industry. In video production, Rowley played a hands-on role, particularly with the third entry in the "Sorry" series released in 2009, which he dedicated to the late team rider and included a full part from despite severe team setbacks like Cross's death and Boulala's coma. Under his oversight, the project emphasized high-quality standalone content with varied music selections, premiering amid personal and professional challenges to honor the team's resilience. Following his departure from in October 2015 as both a rider and director—due to differences with other owners—Rowley transitioned to independent management, enabling him to explore new opportunities and utilize his expertise more fully outside the company's structure. In this phase, he took on advisory roles, mentoring emerging skaters and providing guidance on career navigation and the evolving landscape. For instance, he served as a key mentor to Jamie Foy, supporting his rapid rise and contributing to Foy's 2017 Thrasher Skater of the Year recognition.

Influences and Legacy

Skateboarding Influences

Geoff Rowley's skateboarding style was profoundly shaped by a select group of pioneers whose innovative approaches resonated with his own drive for progression. In a 2002 feature, he ranked his all-time favorite skaters as at number one, followed by Jeremy Wray, Matt Hensley, Kris Markovich, and , highlighting their role in inspiring his technical and creative development. Kaupas, renowned for his playful and inventive street skating in the late 1980s and early 1990s, influenced Rowley's emphasis on creativity and unconventional lines, encouraging him to experiment beyond standard tricks. Similarly, Markovich's raw, powerful street style—exemplified in videos like One Step Beyond—contributed to Rowley's aggressive, no-holds-barred approach to urban terrain. Danny Way stood out as a particularly pivotal influence, pushing Rowley toward tackling larger-scale features and higher speeds. Rowley has credited Way with sparking key ideas for evolving street skating, stating, "Danny Way was the one who spawned a lot of the ideas I had. He was going faster and further." This admiration led Rowley to incorporate elements of Way's boundary-pushing ethos, such as bombing ditches and ramps, into his own repertoire, transforming everyday street obstacles into epic challenges. The constraints of the early UK skate scene further honed Rowley's adaptive mindset, fostering a deep value for originality over competitive conformity. Growing up in Liverpool, where quality spots were scarce—"Where I’m from, we had no ledges. If I wanted to learn a ledge trick, I would have to go to the black block, which was one black slab of marble"—Rowley learned to innovate with whatever was available, prioritizing personal expression in street skating. He has articulated this philosophy clearly: "If you’re just going to follow everyone else or wait for someone to do the latest hottest trick, that’s not progression," underscoring his belief that true advancement stems from unique, self-driven creativity rather than chasing trends or contest wins.

Impact on the Skateboarding Community

Geoff Rowley's relocation from , , to , at age 18 marked a pivotal moment for UK skateboarding, as he became one of the first pros to gain widespread recognition in the dominant scene, paving the way for subsequent European talents. His rapid integration, backed by early sponsorships with and , helped bridge the transatlantic gap by showcasing the raw, technical prowess of UK street skating to American audiences through high-profile video parts and magazine features. This visibility elevated the profile of international skaters, demonstrating that technical street skating—characterized by precise flips, grinds, and gaps on urban terrain—could compete with and influence the US-centric style, fostering a more globalized culture. Rowley's contributions extended through his influential video appearances and magazine covers, which inspired generations of skaters to pursue aggressive, terrain-pushing lines. His parts in videos and ' Propeller showcased a fearless approach to larger features, motivating young riders worldwide to experiment with technical maneuvers like switch heelflips and massive rail slides. Notably, within just two weeks of arriving in the , he secured the cover of , a feat that underscored his immediate impact and set a benchmark for rapid ascent in the industry, encouraging aspiring skaters to chase bold, high-risk skating. His enduring legacy was affirmed by his 2024 induction into the Skateboarding Hall of Fame in the 2000s category, recognizing his role in expanding skateboarding's boundaries through relentless innovation on challenging terrain. This honor highlights how Rowley's career not only popularized technical street skating globally but also instilled a mentality of and that continues to shape the community's .

Achievements and Recognition

Major Awards and Honors

Geoff Rowley was awarded Thrasher Magazine's Skater of the Year in 2000, a highly regarded honor in that recognized his standout performances, innovative skating, and significant influence during that period. In 2006, Rowley received the Legend Award, recognizing his influence on technical progression and spot selection in the 1990s and 2000s. In 2024, Rowley earned induction into the Skateboarding Hall of Fame as part of the 2000s class, celebrating his technical prowess in street skating combined with a bold approach to larger-scale features and terrain. Other notable recognitions include ranking him as the 26th most influential skateboarder of all time in 2011, highlighting his lasting impact on the sport's progression and culture.

Video Game Appearances

Geoff Rowley has been a prominent playable professional skateboarder in the video game series, contributing to its authenticity through and voice work in various installments. His character, modeled with a stance and never-mongo push style, incorporates signature tricks like the Rowley Darkslide, reflecting his real-world innovations in skating. Rowley's appearances span the franchise's core era and remasters, starting with the original (1999), where he served as one of the initial selectable pros alongside , , and others. He returned as a starter skater in (2000), (2001), (2002), and (2003), each time featuring levels and challenges tailored to his aggressive street style. In the latter, Rowley is featured as a playable pro skater with signature tricks and challenges set in urban environments. Later remakes revived his role, including Tony Hawk's Pro Skater HD (2012) via the Revert Pack DLC, Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1 + 2 (2020), which recreated levels from the first two games with updated graphics and his full moveset, and Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3 + 4 (2025), compiling content from the third and fourth entries with enhanced motion capture. Beyond the Tony Hawk series, Rowley starred as the central figure in the mobile basketball-skateboarding hybrid Vans Skate & Slam feat. Geoff Rowley (2004), a title where players control his likeness in 18 courts combined with skate tricks, emphasizing combo-based gameplay.

Business Ventures

Company Ownership and Co-Founding

Geoff Rowley served as a co-owner of from the mid-1990s until 2015, playing a key role in its relocation and growth after the company moved from the to in 1994. Originally established in in 1991 by Jeremy Fox and Ian Deacon as an evolution from the earlier Deathbox Skateboards, benefited from Rowley's involvement as an early team member and eventual ownership stake, which contributed to its decision-making and expansion in the U.S. market. In 2019, Rowley established Free Dome Skateboards as his independent venture, aiming to promote a straightforward of without excessive emphasis. The brand released limited-edition decks through select skate shops worldwide, reflecting Rowley's desire to build a focused operation centered on quality products. Free Dome operated briefly before ceasing in 2023.

Entrepreneurial Activities and Recent Projects

In 2013, Geoff Rowley founded Civilware Service Corporation, a dedicated to producing high-quality outdoor gear, including custom and apparel tailored for hunters, anglers, and conservationists. Drawing from his own experiences in and outdoor pursuits, Rowley personally the company's inaugural product, the Striker fixed-blade , which sold out rapidly upon launch without traditional efforts. The venture reflects Rowley's transition from to broader entrepreneurial interests in lifestyle and utility products, with Civilware emphasizing durable, handcrafted items like friction folders and hatchets. As founder and president, Rowley oversees operations, leveraging his background in and to maintain a commitment to ethical sourcing and outdoor advocacy. Following his 2024 induction into the Skateboarding Hall of Fame, where he was recognized for his technical street skating and influence on the sport's evolution, Rowley sustained his involvement in through product collaborations. In early 2025, he partnered with NHS Inc. to release a signature line of Slime Balls wheels, featuring 53mm, 95A urethane models in a "Vomit Mini" design, as part of the company's Spring lineup that also introduced new boards and trucks across brands like and . These wheels, available in black urethane for enhanced performance, underscore Rowley's enduring ties to skate hardware innovation and his status as a guest pro for the brand. Rowley's recent projects continue to blend his skateboarding legacy with entrepreneurial diversification, including ongoing expansions at Civilware such as limited-edition knife releases and apparel drops that support conservation initiatives. These efforts highlight his post-Hall of Fame focus on growth outside core skate brands, maintaining a balance between creative product development and community impact.

Personal Life

Family and Residence

Geoff Rowley resides in , where he has made his home since becoming a U.S. citizen. He relocated from to in 1994. Rowley maintains a long-term partnership, describing his significant other as a "beautiful partner" in interviews, though his remains private. He is a devoted to children, including a son named Rex West Rowley born in 2011, and has expressed how his provides daily inspiration and a renewed sense of humanity amid his demanding career. Rowley prioritizes privacy, rarely sharing personal details about his loved ones to shield them from public attention.

Interests and Philanthropy

Rowley is a lifelong supporter of , the English club from his hometown, where he grew up playing avidly before became his primary passion. He has incorporated the club's anthem, "," into his video parts as a nod to his roots. Beyond , Rowley pursues as a dedicated , which he began exploring in his mid-teens through tracking and in the English countryside. He favors traditional methods, such as using an open-sighted lever-action rifle, and has since expanded this interest in the United States, guiding hunts in regions like and embracing conservation efforts alongside the pursuit. These outings provide Rowley with physical and mental rejuvenation, often involving extended travel to remote areas for multi-day expeditions. In philanthropy, Rowley has contributed to youth skateboarding initiatives, particularly through support for local skateparks and foundations in the Long Beach area, . He played a key role in the 2015 rebuild of Cherry Park Skate Plaza, designing the layout and partnering with the Action Sports Kids (ASK) Foundation—a nonprofit focused on providing at-risk youth with alternatives to street life via sports and education—to secure funding from sponsors like and . This effort transformed a temporary DIY spot into a permanent, unbranded public facility, earning recognition for its community impact. Additionally, in 2013, Rowley visited the Next Up Foundation in Long Beach to teach fundamentals to young participants, serving as a mentor and for the organization's programs aiding underprivileged kids.

Media and Videography

Skateboarding Video Parts

Geoff Rowley's skateboarding video parts have been instrumental in defining street skating during the late and early , showcasing his aggressive style, precision on rails, and fearless approach to high-speed lines and massive drops. His contributions to team videos for established him as a pivotal figure in the brand's rise, with parts that emphasized raw power and innovation in urban environments. Over the years, Rowley has maintained a prolific output, transitioning to significant roles in and Thrasher productions, and more recently with Toy Machine, demonstrating sustained relevance into the 2020s. Early in his career with , Rowley delivered standout sections that captured the essence of technical progression and gnarly commitment. In the 2003 video Really Sorry, his part featured a mix of maneuvers and stair sets, highlighted by sequences to tracks, solidifying his reputation for blending British grit with American street . This was followed by his iconic opening section in Sorry (2002), widely regarded as one of the most influential parts of the era, where he executed 50-50s on long rails, blunt slides, and a notable drop from a 20-stair set, all underscored by high-energy soundtracks that amplified the intensity. Rowley's Extremely Sorry (2009) part continued this legacy, incorporating more mature, location-specific in and the U.S., with emphasis on switch-stance tricks and ditch bombing, reflecting his evolution as a veteran pro. With Vans Skateboarding, Rowley contributed full parts that highlighted his versatility across terrains. His section in Propeller (2015) included dynamic street clips and transition skating, filmed globally to showcase team synergy while featuring Rowley's signature power slides and airs. In Take It Back (2019), he appeared in a prominent segment blending raw footage from ditches and urban spots, emphasizing endurance and speed in line delivery. Rowley's Thrasher Magazine affiliations produced standalone and magazine-style video content that underscored his enduring impact. The S.O.T.Y. Video (2003), tied to his 2000 Skater of the Year title, compiled highlight clips from his peak Flip era, focusing on rail domination and contest-level tricks. More recently, his solo part FREE DOME TO SKATE (2023) captured high-speed ditch assaults and concrete ramp attacks, set to Motörhead, proving his ability to maintain elite-level aggression at age 47. Guest appearances in Thrasher compilations like Donut Duty (1995) further documented his involvement in magazine tours, with clips of group sessions at DIY spots. In 2024, Rowley joined Toy Machine and featured in their full-length video Real Life Sucks, delivering a debut part filled with street and transition footage that integrated seamlessly with the team's chaotic aesthetic, including cameos in transitional sections. This marked a full-circle moment, given his early influences from Ed Templeton's brand, and included clips from recent trips emphasizing his ongoing filming efforts.

Other Media Appearances

Geoff Rowley has been prominently featured in skateboarding magazines since the 1990s, particularly with , where he appeared on the cover of the December 1994 issue for a 360 flip at in , photographed by Dave Swift. Just two weeks after relocating from the to in 1994, Rowley landed the Transworld cover, highlighting his rapid rise in the American skate scene. He also graced the February 1999 Thrasher cover with a photo by Daniel Sturt, further cementing his status as a key figure in street skating during that era. Rowley has shared insights into his long-standing partnership with in various interviews, marking milestones in the brand's history. In a 2023 Hypebeast discussion, he reflected on his decades-long relationship with , including the reissue of his signature Rowley XLT model in collaboration with Skateboards. A November 2024 Juice Magazine feature celebrated his 25 years with , where Rowley discussed the brand's evolution and his enduring loyalty amid industry changes. Rowley has appeared on several skateboarding podcasts, offering personal anecdotes from his career. On The Nine Club's Episode 338 in September 2024, he covered topics ranging from joining Toy Machine to maintaining fitness through hunting and his 25-year tenure. In the September 2024 Hawk vs. Wolf episode, Rowley joined hosts and to explore aggression in and the impact of video games like . He also featured on the podcast in September 2025, delving into risk-taking, injuries, and personal growth through adventures. In 2025, Rowley participated in collaborative YouTube content with fellow skater Mark Appleyard, focusing on shared experiences and skating discussions. A May 2025 short titled "Geoff Rowley & Mark Appleyard Epic Session" captured their ongoing camaraderie in the skate community. Earlier that year, in March, they appeared in clips like "Flying High" and "Almost Go Back To Back," highlighting reflective moments from their careers. Rowley's early life in the has been documented in several feature-length pieces exploring British skate history. The 2013 Vice series Epicly Later'd dedicated two parts to Rowley, tracing his beginnings in and influences from the local scene, including visits to London's Southbank. The 2020 documentary Finding Ground: A Geoff Rowley Story chronicles his journey from a 12-year-old skater in to a professional in , emphasizing the roots of skate culture in his development.

References

  1. [1]
    Life on the edge | Field Ethos
    Geoff Rowley. I was born in Liverpool, England on June 6, 1976, one of the hottest summer years on record. I went to the same high school as ...Missing: biography - | Show results with:biography -
  2. [2]
    Geoff Rowley – Juice Magazine
    Jan 22, 2016 · Well, I was born in Liverpool, England, which is the Northwest coast of England. It's a very industrial city. I started skateboarding in 1989.
  3. [3]
    Geoff Rowley SHoF 2024 - Skateboarding Hall of Fame and Museum
    An amazing technical street skater, unafraid to risk it all on larger terrain, he featured on the cover of Transworld Magazine in just two weeks.Missing: X Games results
  4. [4]
    Geoff Rowley's "Propeller" Interview - Thrasher Magazine
    Jun 1, 2015 · I've had some injuries in the last four years but I feel really good right now—right at the deadline. I had ankle surgery, I had knee surgery ...Missing: biography | Show results with:biography
  5. [5]
    30 Most Influential Skateboarders of All Time - Stadium Talk
    Nov 28, 2024 · Geoff Rowley skating. geoffrowley / Instagram. Born: June 6, 1976 ... Notable achievements: Transworld Skateboarding”Legend Award (2006) ...
  6. [6]
    THE GEOFF ROWLEY INTERVIEW - Jenkem Magazine
    Oct 26, 2015 · He's not just a professional skateboarder, but a true ambassador and spokesperson for our great band of misfits.Missing: biography - | Show results with:biography -
  7. [7]
    Geoff Rowley | Tony Hawk's Games Wiki - Fandom
    (born June 6, 1976) is an English professional skateboarder. Geoff is highly regarded as one of the greater street skaters out there, performing many new tricks ...
  8. [8]
    Geoff Rowley – YETI UK LIMITED
    Sep 17, 2021 · A professional hunting guide for Kika Outfitters, a skateboarding legend in his own right, founder and owner of CIVILWARE Knives and FREE DOME Skateboards.
  9. [9]
    Scousers Here, Scousers There, Scousers Everywhere: Geoff Rowley
    Nowadays, he's living in Anaheim, California, splitting his time between his dual careers as a pro skater and a hunting guide and conservationist. That journey ...Missing: biography - | Show results with:biography -
  10. [10]
    “Southbank became a very integral place for British skateboarding.”
    May 31, 2018 · From the historic Radlands contests in the 90's which helped put guys like Geoff Rowley, Tom Penny & more English skaters on the map, to ...Missing: UK 1990s
  11. [11]
    The American Dream (part 3 of 6): Geoff Rowley - Free Skate Mag
    Jun 3, 2021 · It did happen a few times at comps, where some guy would be pointing at Jeremy and going, 'why are you here?' Big pro skaters doing that, guys ...Missing: biography - | Show results with:biography -
  12. [12]
    Flip Skateboards | - Sidewalk Magazine
    Flip was founded in the UK in 1991 as Deathbox Skateboards, but moved to California in July 1994 with a professional team featuring Geoff Rowley, Tom Penny, ...
  13. [13]
    2000 Geoff Rowley Flip International Deck Skateboard Appleyard ...
    Geoff Rowley 2000 Flip Pro Model International Deck Rare graphic Limited Edition Skateboard Condition is "New" Shipped with UPS Ground (Domestic) DHL ...
  14. [14]
    GEOFF ROWLEY/FLIP SORRY PART (HQ) - YouTube
    Sep 26, 2011 · Geoff Rowley's video part from "Sorry", Flip's first video.
  15. [15]
    Geoff Rowley - Thrasher Magazine
    Nov 1, 2009 · Flip probably has the most diverse team with the greatest cross section of styles and generations of skating. How did you make those elements ...Missing: history | Show results with:history
  16. [16]
    Geoff Rowley quits Flip Skateboards - Caught in the Crossfire
    Oct 30, 2015 · Geoff Rowley announced last night on his social networks that he has quit Flip as a team rider. “I am proud to have been riding for Flip Skateboards for over ...Missing: creative differences
  17. [17]
    Geoff Rowley and Vans Celebrate 20 Years of Skateboarding ...
    Aug 1, 2019 · Congratulations to Geoff Rowley and Vans for a 20-year partnership of pushing skateboarding over the edge and off the wall. ... 1999, with ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  18. [18]
    Geoff Rowley and the Vans Skateboarding x Dime Rowley XLT
    Oct 7, 2023 · 22 years ago, a young British skateboarder by the name of Geoff Rowley delivered an industry-shifting signature shoe: titled the Vans Rowley ...Missing: history | Show results with:history
  19. [19]
    Vans Rowley XLT Skate Shoes Retrospective - Supereight
    Feb 29, 2024 · At the tail end of 2023, Dime MTL collaborated with Vans and in doing so, brought back Geoff Rowley's second-ever signature shoe the Vans ...
  20. [20]
    Vans Has A New Signature Shoe For Skate Icon Geoff Rowley
    Jun 10, 2015 · The Rowley Solos debuts in three colorways including black, navy, red, and tan. Geoff Rowley's latest signature model launches this Saturday, June 13th.
  21. [21]
    Geoff Rowley's design for Vans skateboading gear is all in the details
    Jun 24, 2015 · Legendary skater Geoff Rowley has helped design roughly 20 different shoes for Vans since 1999. But with his latest signature shoe coming out this summer,Missing: signing | Show results with:signing
  22. [22]
    Skate Rowley Shoe in Grey Blue - Vans
    Celebrating 25 years of Geoff Rowleys legacy, the Skate Rowley Shoe is a nod to his original signature shoe while pushing skate culture forward. Built on ...
  23. [23]
  24. [24]
    Vans – 20 Years of Rowley | Session Magazine
    Aug 12, 2019 · If you've had anything to do with a skateboard for the last 25 years, you know that Geoff Rowley needs no introduction.Missing: ramps | Show results with:ramps
  25. [25]
    Travelogue - Vans Propeller North West Tour - Part 1 - YouTube
    Dec 8, 2015 · This is Travelogue with the Vans team - their first trip together since filming for Propeller. ... geoff rowley profile - 411 30. Ed F•89K views.Missing: events global
  26. [26]
    Geoff Rowley came to the US in the mid-90s with nothing but his ...
    Sep 22, 2025 · Starting as a freestyle skater in the late 1970s and early 1980s, Mullen dominated competitions, winning almost every contest he entered. As ...Missing: 1990s | Show results with:1990s
  27. [27]
    A LOOK AT THE CULT OF INDEPENDENT TRUCKS
    May 8, 2018 · When asked, Rowley confirmed Wilson's words. “I've ridden Stage VII Indys exclusively since 2005,” he said. But when pushed to reveal why he's a ...Missing: sponsor | Show results with:sponsor
  28. [28]
    New Independent Geoff Rowley Stage 9 Trucks out now! - YouTube
    Nov 2, 2007 · Commercial for Geoff Rowley's new pro trucks by Independent Truck Company releasing November 1, 2007. Get Some! RTBFTR!Missing: sponsor | Show results with:sponsor<|separator|>
  29. [29]
  30. [30]
    Geoff Rowley - Skate Warehouse
    4.5 43 · Free delivery over $75Geoff Rowley is a professional skateboarder from Liverpool, England. Geoff was part of the original Deathbox team turned Flip Skateboards.
  31. [31]
    Geoff Rowley Profile - The Boardr Global Ranks
    Geoff Rowley from Long Beach, CA United Kingdom: check Global Ranking, bio, photos, videos, competition history and more.
  32. [32]
  33. [33]
  34. [34]
    Geoff Rowley Talks OJ Wheels - YouTube
    Dec 9, 2013 · Skateboard Legend Geoff Rowley rips apart some insane terrain and talks about his new pro wheel for OJ. With two different sizes and ...Missing: Spitfire | Show results with:Spitfire
  35. [35]
    10 OF THE MOST ADMIRABLE DARKSLIDES - Jenkem Magazine
    Sep 10, 2015 · 5. Geoff Rowley – Sorry. Geoff Rowley resurrected the darkslide from the depths of uncool tech-ery to something both graceful and wild. It was ...
  36. [36]
    Geoff Rowley - Forever On The Hunt - Thrasher Magazine
    Aug 12, 2019 · For a SOTY with a best-selling shoe and multiple explosive video parts spanning an epic career, Mr. Rowley sure doesn't seem to be taking it ...Missing: contests UK 1990s
  37. [37]
    5 Reasons Geoff Rowley Is a Legend - Red Bull
    which he helped design — brought vulcanized soles back into the spotlight. The shoes broke the mold ...Missing: innovations | Show results with:innovations
  38. [38]
    Big News: Geoff Rowley Now Rides For Toy Machine - Skateboarding
    May 27, 2024 · Geoff Rowley officially rides for Toy Machine. This is not an April Fool's Joke—it's all too real!
  39. [39]
    Toy Machine Just Dropped Two New Geoff Rowley 'Fist' Graphics
    Jun 24, 2025 · Toy Machine just dropped two new Rowley "Fist" graphics and they're both super rad, to say the absolute least. Look below for a closer look.
  40. [40]
    Real life happens in between - Simple Magic
    Jun 11, 2024 · He just made a Toy Machine video in 2024 that feels like one from 1994 but still stands on its own. These are no small feats. Relevancy is a ...
  41. [41]
    Geoff Rowley: 'Steadily Working on My First Toy Machine Part'
    Jan 28, 2025 · He's been out in the streets, ditches and beyond filming his debut Toy Machine part. He recently hopped on Instagram to sort of tease the news.Missing: involvement 2024 return
  42. [42]
    NHS Spring 2025: New Boards, New Trucks and Those Geoff ...
    Feb 20, 2025 · NHS Spring 2025: New Boards, New Trucks and Those Geoff Rowley Slime Balls! Creature, Santa Cruz, OJ and more—the NHS Spring '25 lineup is here.
  43. [43]
    Geoff Rowley - Facebook
    Oct 14, 2016 · Now, it is also time for me to part ways as a Director of Flip Skateboards due to differences between the other owners of Flip and myself. I ...
  44. [44]
    How Geoff Rowley Became Pro Skateboarding's Nature Warrior
    Mar 13, 2017 · Geoff Rowley, former Thrasher magazine "Skater of the Year," talks with Rolling Stone about his conservation efforts.
  45. [45]
    Geoff Rowley - Ten-5 - Pro skaters list their all-time favorites - 20.1
    Sep 5, 2002 · Geoff Rowley – Ten-5 – Pro skaters list their all-time favorites – 20.1 · 1. Danny Way. · 2. Jeremy Wray. · 3. Matt Hensley. · 4. Kris Markovich. · 5 ...Missing: influences | Show results with:influences
  46. [46]
    April 2001 - Thrasher Magazine
    Jan 26, 2010 · Inside This Mag: Thrasher's 2000 Skater of the Year Geoff Rowley and the 2000 T-Eddy Awards TH04-01-APR-01. Cover: Geoff Rowley – Portrait.
  47. [47]
    Transworld Skateboarding: The 30 Most Influential Skaters of All Time
    Dec 21, 2011 · ... More. Transworld Skateboarding: The 30 Most Influential Skaters of All Time ... Geoff RowleyStevie WilliamsJohn CardielTony AlvaNeil BlenderAndrew ...
  48. [48]
    Tony Hawk on how the Pro Skater video games changed lives
    Sep 4, 2019 · “I would provide them with video examples of specific tricks beyond doing a full day of motion capture for the basics. ... Geoff Rowley and ...
  49. [49]
    Geoff Rowley Voice - Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 4 (Video Game)
    Geoff Rowley is the voice of Geoff Rowley in Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 4. Video Game: Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 4. Franchise: Tony Hawk ...Missing: motion capture
  50. [50]
  51. [51]
  52. [52]
    Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1+2 Skaters list: All secret skaters, outfits ...
    Sep 9, 2020 · Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1+2: Skater list ; Geoff Rowley. Liverpool, England ; Kareem Campbell. Harlem, New York, NY ; Rune Glifberg. Copenhagen, ...
  53. [53]
    Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3+4 roster is wild - Red Bull
    Apr 10, 2025 · He's known for daring gap jumps and won Thrasher's Skater of the Year in 2000. Gameplay: Geoff is another well-rounded skater, capable of ...
  54. [54]
    Vans Skate & Slam feat. Geoff Rowley Review - GameSpot
    Rating 8.4/10 · Review by Stephen PalleyNov 10, 2004 · Vans Skate & Slam's excellent presentation and precise, trick-oriented gameplay will make you want to keep at it until you're an expert.
  55. [55]
    Vans Skate & Slam feat. Geoff Rowley (2004) - MobyGames
    Mar 18, 2021 · VANS Skate & Slam feat. Geoff Rowley is the sequel to Skate & Slam which, apart from the brand and celebrity endorsement, offers players 18 ...
  56. [56]
    Flip - Skate Warehouse
    4.5 43 · Free delivery over $75 · Free 60-day returnsFlip Skateboards is a US based international skateboard company created by Jeremy Fox, Ian Deacon and Geoff Rowley in 1994.<|control11|><|separator|>
  57. [57]
  58. [58]
    THE CIVILWARE STORY
    ### Summary of Civilware, Its Founding, and Geoff Rowley’s Role
  59. [59]
  60. [60]
    NHS Spring 2025: New Boards, New Trucks and Those Geoff ...
    Feb 20, 2025 · NHS Spring 2025: New Boards, New Trucks and Those Geoff Rowley Slime Balls! Creature, Santa Cruz, OJ and more—the NHS Spring '25 lineup is here.Missing: collaborations | Show results with:collaborations
  61. [61]
    53mm / 95A Geoff Rowley | Slime Balls Skateboard Wheels Canada
    Jul 31, 2025 · Slime Balls 53mm, 95a Geoff Rowley Guest Pro Mini Vomit wheels with black high performance 95a urethane. Vomit mini wheels are a wide ...Missing: collaborations | Show results with:collaborations
  62. [62]
  63. [63]
    Pro Skater, Knife Maker, Conservationist - A Biannual Publication and Online Forum
    ### Summary of Geoff Rowley's Family, Children, Partner, Residence
  64. [64]
    Geoff Rowley launches new SPV shoe with a Magnum – Caught in ...
    Liverpool's Geoff Rowley discusses his Magnum shooting skills with Chris Nieratko in the latest Vans Off The Wall video series this week.
  65. [65]
    Cherry Park: A New Beginning - Thrasher Magazine
    Jul 12, 2015 · With some financial help from Vans and Zumiez, Geoff Rowley and the ASK foundation were able to do some remodeling and permitting in order ...
  66. [66]
    Vans and Zumiez team up with Geoff Rowley to rebuild Cherry Park ...
    Jul 10, 2015 · The Long Beach Cherry Park rebuild would not be made possible without the valuable support of Action Sports Kids Foundation (ASK), a Long ...
  67. [67]
    Next Up Foundation Special Guest Geoff Rowley
    Jun 8, 2013 · On April 16th, legendary Flip Skateboards pro, Trasher Skater of The Year Geoff Rowley came out to Next Up Long Beach to show his support to ...
  68. [68]
    Classics: Geoff Rowley "Sorry" 2002 - Thrasher Magazine
    Jul 10, 2012 · Classics: Geoff Rowley "Sorry" 2002. Ryan Decenzo introduces one of the gnarliest parts from one of the gnarliest videos. Geoff Rowley in ...
  69. [69]
    Geoff Rowley - SkateVideoSite
    411 Video Magazine · video magazine (51 min). Arto Saari, Geoff Rowley, Chad ... Transworld - Feedback cover · Transworld - Feedback (1999). transworld ...
  70. [70]
    Geoff Rowley - Really Sorry - YouTube
    Nov 18, 2015 · Classics - Mark Appleyard - Flip Skateboards Sorry. ThrasherMagazine•662K views · 10:25 · Go to channel · Epicly Later'd: Geoff Rowley (Part 1).
  71. [71]
    Extremely Sorry: Geoff Rowley (2009) - YouTube
    Jun 24, 2022 · Extremely Sorry: Geoff Rowley (2009). 2.9K views · 3 years ago ...more. Upscaling Bolts. 2.66K. Subscribe. 74. Share.
  72. [72]
    Propeller: A Vans Skateboarding Video - Full Part feat. Geoff Rowley
    Jun 12, 2018 · Propeller: A Vans Skateboarding Video is now available on Echoboom Sports. Start your free trial today to watch now: ...
  73. [73]
    Geoff Rowley's "FREE DOME TO SKATE" Video Part
    Jun 6, 2023 · Screaming through ditches as Motörhead roars, Geoff still attacks concrete like a young skate rat and makes us all proud to ride these ...Missing: awards | Show results with:awards
  74. [74]
  75. [75]
    REAL LIFE SUCKS - YouTube
    May 24, 2024 · Comments · SEVER | A Short Film by Creature Skateboards · Geoff Rowley | The Nine Club - Episode 338 · MISSED CONNECTIONS II · Toy Machine Vaccine.
  76. [76]
    covers – transworld, december 1994 - trickreport - WordPress.com
    Jun 21, 2017 · Photo: Transworld Cover – December 1994. Dave Swift. Skater: Geoff Rowley Trick: 360 Flip Spot: Oceanside High 13. Oceanside, California<|separator|>
  77. [77]
    25 years ago Geoff Rowley got the Feb. 1999 Cover Daniel Sturt
    Feb 15, 2024 · 25 years ago Geoff Rowley got the Feb. 1999 Cover Daniel Sturt.Missing: 1990s | Show results with:1990s
  78. [78]
    Geoff Rowley and Vans 25 Years Strong - Juice Magazine
    Nov 4, 2024 · Congrats to Geoff Rowley who is celebrating 25 years at Vans and rolling strong as ever. As Rowley spoke of Vans in his first Juice interview.Missing: Hypebeast | Show results with:Hypebeast
  79. [79]
    Geoff Rowley | The Nine Club - Episode 338 - YouTube
    Sep 9, 2024 · ... injuries - Rowley smacking his head 00:27:02 Geoff's school table ... Rodney Mullen Interview | Tony Hawk & Skateboarding. STORIED•249K ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  80. [80]
    Geoff Rowley - Hawk vs Wolf - YouTube
    Sep 23, 2024 · Jason Ellis and Tony Hawk are joined by UK Skate Legend Geoff Rowley. They discuss aggression in skateboarding, Tony hawk pro skater getting ...
  81. [81]
    Brad Leone - Defining 21st Century Skating: Geoff Rowley - YouTube
    Sep 22, 2025 · Brad welcomes skating aficionado Geoff Rowley to the show to discuss taking risks, breaking bones, and finding yourself through adventure.Missing: early Liverpool 1989<|separator|>
  82. [82]
    Geoff Rowley & Mark Appleyard Epic Session 2025 - YouTube
    May 4, 2025 · Geoff Rowley & Mark Appleyard Epic Session 2025. 463. Dislike. 16. Share. Video unavailable. This content isn't available. Skip video.
  83. [83]
    Geoff Rowley & Mark Appleyard Flying High - YouTube
    Mar 11, 2025 · Share your videos with friends, family, and the world.Missing: 2025 session
  84. [84]
    Epicly Later'd: Geoff Rowley (Part 1) - YouTube
    Nov 22, 2013 · Continue to part 2 here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aOFPrA4EPQ0&list=PLDbSvEZka6GFuFr9PD_54vEN7agowGEQN&index=2 For part one of the ...Missing: family | Show results with:family
  85. [85]
    YETI Presents: Finding Ground: A Geoff Rowley Story - YouTube
    Sep 9, 2020 · From 12-year-old boy with his first skateboard in Liverpool to 43-year-old professional skater and hunting guide in California, Geoff Rowley ...