John Cardiel Skateboard Setup (2026)
John Cardiel is an iconic skateboarder born in 1973 and raised in Half Moon Bay, California, known for his unmatched speed, power, and all-terrain approach to skating everything in his path.
Current setup: Anti-Hero Skateboards Libertad 9.18 deck · Independent Trucks Stage 11 159 trucks · Spitfire Wheels Formula Four Charro 54mm wheels
Quick Facts
Discipline
- Stance
- Goofy
- Hometown
- San Jose, California / Half Moon Bay, California / Grass Valley, California / Sacramento, California
- Nationality
- American
- Born
- 1973-12-14
- Turned Pro
- 1990
Sponsors
John Cardiel's Complete Setup
Every piece of gear John Cardiel rides, from deck to shoes.
Deck
Anti-Hero SkateboardsLibertad 9.18
Free retailer search · opens in new tab
Trucks
Independent TrucksStage 11 159
Free retailer search · opens in new tab
Wheels
Spitfire WheelsFormula Four Charro 54mm
Free retailer search · opens in new tab
Grip Tape
Shake Junt Griptape
Free retailer search · opens in new tab
John Cardiel Setup FAQ
What deck does John Cardiel ride?
John Cardiel rides a Anti-Hero Skateboards Libertad 9.18 deck in a 9.18" width as of 2026. Deck choice is the single biggest factor in a pro's setup — width affects stance and stability, while concave and construction drive pop and flick. You can shop the same Anti-Hero Skateboards Libertad 9.18 deck through the buy links in the setup above.
What trucks does John Cardiel use?
John Cardiel uses Independent Trucks Stage 11 159 trucks in size 159. Trucks determine how a skateboard turns and how it lands grinds, and pros typically match hanger width to deck width for proper alignment. Most pro skaters stick with one truck brand for years once they have the feel dialed in.
What wheels does John Cardiel ride?
John Cardiel rides Spitfire Wheels Formula Four Charro 54mm wheels in 54mm. Wheel size and hardness drive speed and grip — smaller, harder wheels favor technical street skating, while larger, softer wheels suit transition, park, and rougher terrain.
What shoes does John Cardiel skate in?
John Cardiel skates in Vans. Skate shoes are built with reinforced toe caps, vulcanized or cupsole construction, and grippy gum rubber outsoles for board feel and durability. Pros often go through several pairs a month from heavy daily skating.
About John Cardiel
John Cardiel is an iconic skateboarder born in 1973 and raised in Half Moon Bay, California, known for his unmatched speed, power, and all-terrain approach to skating everything in his path. He won Thrasher Skater of the Year in 1992 and is a cornerstone of Anti-Hero Skateboards, also riding for Vans, Spitfire, Independent Trucks, and Chrome Industries. After a devastating spinal cord injury in 2003 that temporarily left him unable to walk, he made a remarkable recovery and remains one of the most revered figures in skateboarding history.
Similar Skateboard Setups
Pro skaters with similar gear to John Cardiel.
Enjoyed this setup?
Get new pro setups in your inbox when riders change their gear.