Tony Hawk and Lizzie Armanto Launch YEPA Helmets—Here's What We Know

Originally posted on TransWorld SKATEboarding
By Brian Blakely | Last updated Sep 17, 2025 2:37 PM ET

Tony Hawk and Lizzie Armanto are two skateboarders who need no introduction. On and off the board, these two have inspired countless skateboarders over the years (decades) and continue to do just that.

But when the news recently hit that they joined forces on a new helmet company, I feel like it sort of came out of nowhere? Anyone else? That said, say hello to YEPA—your new favorite helmet. The Birdman and Lizzie put their heads together (literally) to change the way we think about protective gear, and the first run is looking dope. See for yourself:

In the video above, Tony and Lizzie talk about what inspired them to make skate helmets that feel different from the rest, breaking down the small details, the fit, the look—all the things that might seem subtle but make a big difference when you’re actually skating. If there are two people in skateboarding you can trust to design a helmet you’ll actually want to wear, it’s them. No debate.

About YEPA

Tony Hawk and Lizzie Armanto are more than skateboarders - they represent skateboarding itself in their own ways. Tony - as a pioneer and global icon - embodies mastery and resilience while Lizzie - a fearless trailblazer - represents creativity and inclusivity. Together they personify skateboarding’s dual nature: precision and artistry, individuality and community, risk and discipline. More than athletes, they continue to inspire the next generation, push limits, stay authentic and skate hard. Yepa, a brand of their own, embodies their creative spirit — with a focus on protection.

The helmets are certified, stylish and functional... but not in your traditional way. A lot of thought and planning went into making these helmets what they are, and something tells me they're going to give some of skateboarding's OG dome protectors a run for their money.

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The team is already stacked—Tony, Lizzie, Lilly Erickson, Trey Wood, Heimana Reynolds, Ruby Lilley, Jada Ward, Cocona Hiraki, Reef Orlando, Lincoln Ueda, Asahi Kaihara, Ao Nishikawa and I have to imagine more of skateboarding's finest will be joining soon.

Bottom line: skateboarding protective gear just got a major upgrade, and if this is just the start, we’re hyped to see where YEPA goes.

Learn more about what's under the shell on yepabrand.com.

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

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