Phil Shao: 15 Hard Years
8/23/2013
On August 23, 1998 skateboard legend Phil Shao passed onto the next state of existence. He was here for 24 years and in that time he scorched the Earth. Only the good die young. Teeth, hair, and more miles to go—the angels are still trying to figure out this dude. Tranny, vert, rails, nollieflips, pools, 2 covers—he crossed all lines and smudged the focus on our skateboard reality. Top bar Miley; I'll say it till the day I die—go there, look at that grind! Not a day goes by when I don't look at the sky and ask why. Miss you blood. —Jake Phelps
Photo: Luke Ogden
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2/06/2026
THE LEGEND OF PHIL SHAO Documentary
It's impossible to put into words what Phil Shao meant to Thrasher and the entire world of skateboarding. We hope this documentary shines a light on the enormous impact he made in just 24 years on this earth. We love you, Phil. -
2/03/2026
THE LEGEND OF PHIL SHAO Trailer
A conversation about the all-time greats would not be complete without a salute to Phil Shao. Despite a life tragically cut short, his impact on skateboarding inspires and endures. Our full-length documentary premieres soon. Stay tuned… -
7/17/2025
This Old Ledge: Fort Miley
Gophers, war plans and the pioneers of street skating all play a part in the mind-blowing history of San Francisco’s oldest and most important concrete banks. Watch Ted and learn. -
12/14/2023
Thrasher’s DIY: UN Plaza Part 1
Kanfoush levels up beyond the quick DIY jobs with the brand new UN Plaza off Market. From famous inspirations like Shao and Stranger to current figures like Gibbs and Finley, Austin walks you through how this place connects the generations. -
7/15/2022
The Story of China Banks
In a city full of iconic terrain, the bricks of China Banks represent hallowed ground. From Julien to Duffy to Shao and T-Funk, this is our humble homage to a legendary spot.