DGK Skateboards Review: Everything You Need To Know

DGK (Dirty Ghetto Kids) is one of the most popular skateboard brands around, but are their boards any good? In this comprehensive review, we’ll take a look at everything DGK has to offer, from their history and pro team to their different products. By the end, you should have a good idea of whether or not DGK skateboards are the right choice for you.

DGK is a skateboard and clothing business based in Los Angeles, California. The Kayo Corp, a collaboration between Stevie Williams and Troy Morgan of The Kayo Corp, manages distribution of the brand.

Are DGK Skateboards Good?

DGK makes decks that are extremely durable, reliable, and have plenty of pop. In short, yes, DGK makes great skateboards. One thing to note is that their decks have slightly slimmer noses and tails than their competitors. This gives them a more responsive feel and makes them easier to flip.

Another difference in DGK decks is that they do not conform to standard sizing. DGK deck sizes include 7.75, 7.8, 7.9, 8.0, 8.06, 8.1, 8.25, 8.38, and 8.5.

The beauty of this is that there are more sizes to choose from than other skateboard companies. If you need something slightly smaller or larger than an 8.0, you have many options to choose from. They also sell packs of three decks and grip tape on the DGK website for $100.

Best DGK Complete Skateboard

The John Shanahan Bones DGK Skateboard is a great complete skateboard if you’re in the market for a new deck. It is an 8.06 made from 100% North American Maple. It comes with everything you need for a skateboard but does not come pre-assembled.

Every DGK deck is built from 8-ply Maple and cold pressed with Franklin glue. These high-quality skateboards are made with professional freestyle skaters in mind.

Features of the John Shanahan Bones Complete:

• 8.06 deck made from North American Maple
• Core trucks with USA-made bushings and pivot cups
• 52mm, 99A TGM Skateboards wheels
• ABEC 5 Amphetamine bearings
• Black Diamond Grip tape

This complete also includes risers and hardware. Learn more about this DGK complete here.

History of DGK Skateboards

DGK was founded by street skateboarder Stevie Williams in 2002, and his since evolved into a multi-million dollar brand ranging from skateboards to a full apparel collection sold in retailers across the US, including Zumiez and Macy’s. Prior to the birth of DGK, Williams already co-owned the Gold skateboard wheels brand with Eli Sotto, and both companies are now distributed by Kayo Corp.

In 2012, DGK founder Stevie Williams revealed that the concept came out of nowhere, adding that the firm was founded on Gold skateboard wheels, which he co-owned with his good friend Eli Soto. According to Williams, the name Dirty Ghetto Kids was coined rather quickly and that he didn’t hesitate.

The DGK crew was chosen for the “Best Team” award at the 15th Annual Transworld SKATEboarding Awards.

Who is Stevie Williams?

Stevie Williams was born on December 17, 1979, in one of the toughest sections of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He grew up with his single mother and remembers how difficult their finances were.

At the age of 12, Stevie was sponsored by Underworld Element skateboards after meeting and forming friendships with Jeff Pang. He left his home in Philly to go to California to pursue his dreams of being a pro skater, ending up homeless for a time. In 1994, he had a role in the Element video “Fine Artists.” Williams was later signed to Chocolate Skateboards and DC Shoes at the age of 19.

In 1999, Stevie teamed up with his pal Eli Soto to form Gold Wheels under the Kayo umbrella (controlled by Troy Morgan). After the success of Gold Wheels, Troy Morgan invited Stevie to become a business partner and start his own skateboard brand.

In 2002, Stevie shocked the skate world by announcing that he was leaving Chocolate Skateboards. That same year Dirty Ghetto Kids was started and began gaining serious momentum in the skate industry almost instantly.

DGK Pro Team

• Stevie Williams
• Dane Vaughn
• Josh Kalis
• John Shanahan
• Marcus McBride
• Chaz Ortiz
• Boo Johnson
• Kevin Bilyeu

Other DGK Products & Merch

Aside from skateboards, DGK has many other products and apparel. From t-shirts, shirts, jackets, hoodies, shorts, pants, jewelry, and accessories, there is something for everyone to rep DGK All Day.

DGK also makes high-quality skateboard bearings (called Benjamins Bearings), as well as wheels and grip tape. The DGK skateboard wheels are made with a wider surface, flat side profile, and are ultra smooth.

Features of DGK Wheels:

• Increased stability
• More control
• Better lock in
• Longer grinds
• Less flat spot

Conclusion

DGK is a great skateboard brand that has been around for over a decade. They make high-quality products ranging from decks to apparel and have a team of great skaters. If you’re looking for a new skateboard or just want to support a good brand, DGK is the way to go!

If you’re in need of a new skateboard take a look at the John Shanahan Bones complete. Remember, DGK All Day!