More Than a Shop: The Story of Cowtown and Its Impact on Skateboarding

Originally posted on TransWorld SKATEboarding
By Brian Blakely | Last updated Mar 18, 2025 12:55 PM ET

You've heard it before but it's truly just a fact that never gets old—basically every thriving skate scene in the world of skateboarding has a core shop at its center, serving as a hub for the local community.

Well, for skateboarders in Arizona, that shop is undeniably Cowtown Skateboards. Founded in 1997 by Trent Martin and Ed Cox Jr., Cowtown has always been way more than just a place to buy skateboards. It's been a pillar of the Phoenix skate scene for decades and a place that has genuinely supported local skaters, artists, and the growing scene as a whole.

The Platfrm recently caught up with the folks at Cowtown to learn more about their story, the early days of Phoenix Am and what it's become today, and really to remind us all why Cowtown is a perfect example of everything that matters when it comes to running a shop. It's a clubhouse, indeed. Take a look:

As we learn in the video, before Cowtown, it was fair to argue that Phoenix lacked a true core skate shop. Like many shop owners who have a similar vision, Trent and Ed saw the gap and stepped in. And what they ended up creating was far more than just another shop. It was a place that skaters in the area could truly call their own.

"Before Cowtown’s inception, a coalition of key figures that included Laura [Martin], Damon Alire, and Daniel Shircliff were already pushing for the development of a skatepark for the community—their efforts included engaging with the city, raising money, and hosting contests," The Platfrm mentions.

"In 1997, two events occurred that would forever change the course of skateboarding in Phoenix: the opening of Cowtown and Desert West Skatepark."

With the 2025 PHX AM right around the corner (March 22-23), this video couldn't have come at a better time. If you've ever been out to one of those contests, you know it's the real deal. So fun!

It's hard to argue that Cowtown’s dedication to community, skateboarding, and progression, both on and off the board, helped put Phoenix on the map, but they'd be doing this despite the recognition.

I absolutely love everything Cowtown does—from contests to their non-profit to providing a safe place for kids to hang—and personally, I never miss a chance to stop by whenever I'm in Arizona.

Watch the episode. Get inspired. And support your local shop!

This article first appeared on TransWorld Skateboarding and was syndicated with permission.

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