Cory Kennedy: The Skateboarding Legend Who Redefined Street Culture

Introduction

Cory Kennedy is a distinguished American professional skateboarder who has left an indelible mark on the skateboarding world. Known for his impeccable street style and contributions to the sport, Kennedy’s journey from a young, passionate skater to an internationally recognized figure has inspired countless enthusiasts. With his smooth, technical skateboarding style, Cory has secured a reputation as one of the most influential riders in skateboarding history.

Background

Born on August 21, 1991, in the skateboarding hotbed of Upland, California, Cory Kennedy’s early exposure to the culture around him made skateboarding almost a natural progression. Growing up in the heart of California, Kennedy’s fascination with skating began at a young age, learning the ropes from local parks and skating with friends. He was drawn to the rebellious and creative nature of the sport, which perfectly aligned with his personality.

Kennedy’s early career was characterized by relentless practice and a deep love for the streets. It wasn’t long before he was noticed by industry leaders and started to turn heads with his unique ability to blend technical tricks with raw street flair.

Career Highlights

Kennedy’s professional career took off after he caught the attention of major skateboarding brands. His breakthrough moment came when he joined the famous skateboarding collective Chocolate Skateboards, a brand known for launching the careers of some of the best street skateboarders in the world. Since then, his career has been filled with memorable moments, including:

• X Games Achievements: Kennedy made his mark at the X Games, consistently showing his prowess in various street skateboarding competitions.
• Street League Skateboarding (SLS): A familiar face in SLS events, Kennedy has been part of several high-profile contests where he displayed his high-flying tricks and consistency.
• International Competitions: Cory has represented the United States on the global skateboarding stage, competing in major events worldwide, from Europe to Asia.

Signature Moves and Skating Style

Cory Kennedy is known for his technical yet fluid skating style, seamlessly blending intricate tricks with a relaxed, effortless flow. His ability to link tricks with speed and precision has set him apart in the street skateboarding community. Some of his signature moves, including high-tech flip tricks and his mastery of ledges and rails, have solidified his reputation as a street legend. Kennedy’s approach to skateboarding is often described as natural and dynamic, with a focus on innovation rather than simply executing a sequence of tricks.

Notable Sponsorships and Partnerships

Kennedy’s talent and marketability have attracted numerous top-tier sponsorships, making him one of the most recognizable faces in the skateboarding industry. Some of the notable brands he has been associated with include:

• Chocolate Skateboards: As one of the key riders, Kennedy helped elevate the brand’s status as a leader in the skateboarding world.
• Nike SB: As a prominent figure in the skate scene, Kennedy’s collaborations with Nike have produced limited-edition shoes and signature gear.
• Vans: As part of the Vans family, Kennedy has become a key ambassador, representing the brand in skateboarding events and promotions.
• Santa Cruz Skateboards: More recently, Cory joined Santa Cruz Skateboards, further solidifying his influence in the sport.

Social Media Presence

Cory Kennedy stays closely connected with his global fanbase through social media, where he shares his skateboarding journey, personal insights, and behind-the-scenes looks at his life. Fans can find him on:

• Instagram: @corykennedy
• Twitter: @corykenney
• YouTube: Cory Kennedy, where he posts skating clips, tricks, and collaborations.

Personal Life

Beyond the board, Cory Kennedy has kept a relatively low profile but is known for his love of music, art, and his close-knit relationships with fellow skateboarders. He maintains a balance between his professional career and personal interests, often taking time to travel, skate, and enjoy life outside of competitions.

Kennedy is also a passionate advocate for the skateboarding community, often participating in charity events and skate park openings to support youth programs and help spread the love of the sport.

Impact on Skateboarding

Cory Kennedy’s influence on skateboarding extends far beyond his competition success. His style, innovative tricks, and ability to push the boundaries of street skating have inspired a new generation of skateboarders worldwide. Kennedy’s laid-back yet powerful approach to the sport has changed the way people view street skateboarding, moving away from just flashy tricks and focusing more on style, flow, and creativity.

As skateboarding continues to evolve, Cory’s contributions remain an essential part of the sport’s history, cementing his place as a true legend of the skateboarding world.