Zoo York

Zoo York, founded in 1993 by Rodney Smith, Eli Morgan Gesner, and Adam Schatz in New York City, is recognized as the first major skateboarding lifestyle brand to emerge from the East Coast. Inspired by the 1970s “Soul Artists of Zoo York” graffiti and skate crew, the brand merged the raw energy of skateboarding with New York’s hip-hop and graffiti culture. Initially focused on skate decks and apparel, Zoo York quickly gained popularity for its gritty, urban style. After a period of corporate ownership, the original founders returned in 2019 to revive its authentic roots and reconnect with its core audience.