Brand Profile: Indiana Skateboards: Swiss Quality Built from the Ground Up
Indiana Skateboards started as a school project with just some wood, fibreglass, and a big dream. Since then, it’s grown into a brand known in the boardsports scene for making high-quality boards with a unique style. In this interview, we spoke with the founder about how Indiana began, the challenges they’ve faced and what’s coming next.
Can you share the story behind Indiana? How did it all begin?
I had a dream to one day create my own skateboard brand. The real start came in 1989, after building a snowboard for a school project — it was my first time working with wood, fibreglass, and epoxy. That experimentation laid the foundation for Indiana. Our first slalom skateboards were built using a unique sandwich construction of veneer layers and fibreglass — something ahead of its time. Since then, Indiana has grown into a respected name with international reach, known for its distinctive style and focus on high-quality board sports products.
How did your early experiences with woodworking influence Indiana Boards?
My background in woodworking laid the foundation for Indiana’s DNA. We started by sourcing veneer and fibreglass locally in Switzerland and quickly transitioned to ski and snowboard construction techniques with vertically laminated wood cores. Collaborating with leading European suppliers, we were one of the first to build flexible boards in this way. The result? Long-lasting products that are still in use after 20+ years — some have even become collectibles. That commitment to quality and innovation continues to drive us today.
The fire in 2021 resulted in the loss of 30 years of your work. Can you share your journey during this period and the steps you took to rebuild your business?
Losing three decades of work in a fire was one of the hardest moments in my life, and it happened during the already difficult pandemic year. But giving up wasn’t an option. We rebuilt step by step, first partnering with Swiss wood-core specialists until their closure in 2023. Thanks to our long-standing global network, we shifted production: our balance boards are now made in Europe by one of the best plywood manufacturers, and our skateboards are produced by a top-tier factory in China. A turning point was our collaboration with Micro, led by Wim Ouboter. With their global distribution power and shared values, Indiana is now better positioned than ever to scale internationally. Together, we offer a unique mix of premium design, proven mobility know-how, and access to new markets.
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What challenges do you face as a smaller brand in an industry dominated by larger, global skateboard manufacturers?
Visibility and reach are key challenges. But we’ve turned our size into a strength: Indiana is agile, focused, and authentic. We don’t chase trends — we build meaningful, high-quality products that last. With Micro as our strategic distribution partner, we’ve gained a global platform without losing our independence.
We’re actively looking to expand our retail and distribution network worldwide. For partners looking to offer something with real character, heritage, and performance, Indiana is a fresh and proven alternative to mass brands.
How is the Swiss market today?
Retail in Switzerland — like elsewhere — is under pressure. Many independent skate shops are gone, but there remains strong demand for well-made, story-driven products. We see real opportunity in niches like balance boards and in channels that value quality and service. For the right partners, there’s room to grow with a brand like Indiana.
How has Swiss quality helped the brand in the market?
Being a Swiss company brings credibility — especially in terms of design standards, product reliability, and attention to detail. While our products aren’t labeled “Swiss made,” they reflect a Swiss mindset: thoughtful engineering, clean aesthetics, and durability. Our reputation has been earned over decades, and it’s a key reason why we’re trusted by both end customers and partners.
Indiana Cork Hemisphere- Indiana Balance Board Ash
You’ve expanded beyond skateboards to balance boards, stand-up paddles and other products. What’s next for Indiana Skateboards?
Our balance boards have become a core product line — used in fitness, physiotherapy, and action sports training. They reflect what Indiana stands for: movement, balance, and purpose-driven design.
Next up, we’re launching a sustainable skateboard line and continuously refining our materials and manufacturing processes. We’re also expanding into accessories with our in-house line “Wings,” which includes premium trucks, wheels, and custom components. We’re ready to take the next step globally and we’re actively seeking motivated distribution and retail partners to grow with us. If you’re looking to add a premium, authentic brand with a strong story to your portfolio, Indiana is ready to ride with you.
