Hard Luck
Founded by skateboarding legend Jason Jessee, Hard Luck Manufacturing is a raw, independent brand born from the fusion of skate culture, custom motorcycles, and Californian hot rods. Driven by its straightforward motto — "Team Go Fast" —, the brand is worldwide famous for its two core staples: ultra-fast precision bearings (such as the iconic Hard Six or Great Times) and high-performance skate grip tape. Built for riders who love speed, grease, and a rock 'n' roll attitude, Hard Luck is the ultimate choice for a reliable, fast, and stylish setup. Discover our precision bearings and grip tape to boost your skateboard's performance.
Hard Luck Manufacturing: the "Go Fast" ethos and chopper spirit
When you talk about Hard Luck, you're talking about authenticity and raw speed. Brainchild of Jason Jessee, one of the most charismatic and legendary underground figures in old-school skateboarding, the brand stands out from afar thanks to its iconic logo: a skull set above a crossed wrench and screwdriver. Far from polished, commercial skate brands, Hard Luck brings together an elite crew of heavy, fast, and gnarly skaters, combining street legends with modern technical wizards (Mark Gonzales, Julien Stranger, Dustin Dollin, Figgy, and Louie Lopez). Riding Hard Luck means refusing to lag behind.
Shielded bearings and high-performance grip tape: the ultimate combo
Hard Luck's reputation is built on delivering essential technical hardware engineered to withstand the worst abuse without ever giving out.
Here is what you'll find in the Hard Luck line available on our webshop:
- Hard Luck Bearings (Explosive speed): Whether you pick the Hard Six (crafted with high-grade stainless steel) or the famous Great Times, the brand's bearings feature ultra-polished precision balls to eliminate friction. Pre-lubricated with a light synthetic oil that repels dust, they deliver instant acceleration and incredible impact resistance against heavy gaps, stairs, and copings. Check out our skateboard bearings.
- Hard Luck Skate Grip Tape: Designed to stick flawlessly to your deck, Hard Luck grip tape offers a medium/strong grit that securely locks your feet in during high-speed tricks. It cuts cleanly, resists wear and tear, and frequently features subtle designs or graphic collabs that give your board a unique custom touch. Explore our grip tape.
- Uncompromised durability: Originally designed for skaters grinding pool concrete and street asphalt from dawn to dusk, Hard Luck hardware is known for its longevity, reducing the need to replace your gear every few sessions.
- Bolts and Hardware: To round out its "Core" hardware lineup, the brand also offers heavy-duty mounting hardware kits to keep your trucks locked tight to your deck, always stamped with the skull logo seal.
Why buy your Hard Luck gear at Independent Skateshop?
At Independent Skateshop, we love gear with genuine character that stays true to skateboarding's underground roots. Offering Hard Luck means guaranteeing you an ultra-fast setup and total foot control thanks to grip tape and bearings battle-tested by some of the most committed skaters in history. If you're looking to maximize wheel speed and keep your feet locked on your deck, Hard Luck is the trusted choice you need. Order your Hard Luck products on our site, enjoy fast shipping, and join Team Go Fast!